Why is my VELUX Roof Window Leaking?
4 minute read
VELUX roof windows are a popular choice for many homes in the UK. The roof application and the quality make them ideal when space is at a premium, such as lofts and pitched roof spaces. Allowing natural light to penetrate the room. It goes without saying that VELUX roof windows – like your normal windows – should not leak, however, due to their unique nature they can be more susceptible to the elements and may suffer during heavy or persistent rain.
Spotting the signs of a leak may be easy in a lot of cases, but catching leaks early – especially in older, 20 year+ VELUX windows – is the key to maintaining a dry home.
Here’s a list of areas you should be checking in your older VELUX roof windows…
- Corners of the windows – this is especially prevalent when installed on a pitched roof and exposed to the elements.
- At window bottoms, this is the area that will be hit hardest by the weather as gravity pulls all the water to this area
- On the sides of the frame as they rarely leak directly from the top
If you want to get ahead of the game you can run your fingers up each area of the frame and feel for changes in air temperature – this will highlight any air leaks, which could be a sign of things to come. Water leaks are easiest to spot after we’ve had rain (you won’t have to wait long in the UK), again if there are no signs of water ingress on the walls, you can run your hands along the frame to feel for moisture.
As a VELUX trusted installer, we have been fitting VELUX roof windows for over 20 years and have an in-depth knowledge of what to look out for and how to fix leaking VELUX roof windows.
How To Prevent Your VELUX Roof Window Leaking
Most of this next section is advice for most areas of your home which are exposed to the elements, and sometimes it just simply will not be possible to stop a window from leaking without replacing the whole thing, but following the points below it will give you the best chance at avoiding that hefty repair or reinstallation bill.
Solution 1 – Regular Maintenance
Keeping your VELUX roof window clean and carrying out general repairs or maintenance is essential and can help prevent most of the problems which result in leaks.
This is especially important for timber frames where rot may occur.
Solution 2 – Flashing Replacement
The felt and external flashing are vital for the water-tight seal. If yours is showing signs of wear, it may be time to replace it. While this can be costly, catching it early will enable you to have it rectified as soon as you can.
Solution 3 – Reduce Condensation
If you notice water coming in from the outside around the corners of the window, this is likely the difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your property. Try reducing the humidity levels inside your property.
Solution 4 – Call In The Experts
If you are still unsure of the source of your leak or do not understand how to fix the problem yourself, let us help. With over 20 years of working with VELUX roof windows, we’re uniquely positioned to help.
Free No Obligation Quote
We provide all our customers free no obligation quotes! Yes, you read that right!
Before we take on any new projects, we will always carry out an inspection of your property and provide you with a free no obligation quote; whether your home is in Bournemouth, Dorset, Hampshire or Wiltshire.
We do this, so we can assess what work is required, provide you with a complete and correct quote – the price we quote, is the price you pay. No nasty surprises!
We’re also happy to provide an indication of cost without the need to visit you, but this has to be followed by a visit to confirm the details are correct.
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