I get why caulk might seem like the best long-term solution, but honestly, weather stripping can still be useful depending on the situation. Had a similar issue with one of my windows—rain trickling in during heavy storms. I put in some quality weather stripping as a temporary fix, thinking I'd have to redo it eventually with caulk, but it's held up for nearly two years now. Maybe it's luck, or maybe it depends on how severe the leak is...but don't discount weather stripping entirely just yet.
Interesting point—weather stripping can definitely surprise you sometimes. I'm curious, did you notice any difference in insulation or drafts after installing it compared to caulk? I've heard mixed opinions on thermal efficiency between the two methods...
Good point about weather stripping—I've found it surprisingly effective myself, especially for drafts. In my experience, caulk is great for sealing stationary gaps and preventing water intrusion, but it doesn't handle movement or shifting very well. Windows and doors naturally expand and contract with temperature changes, and that's where weather stripping really shines. It flexes with the frame, maintaining a consistent seal.
When it comes to thermal efficiency, I've noticed weather stripping does a better job at blocking drafts, which directly improves insulation. Caulk can help too, but it's more about sealing small cracks and preventing moisture entry rather than significantly boosting insulation. Ideally, you'd use both methods together—caulk for permanent sealing around the frame, and weather stripping for the moving parts. That's been my go-to approach, and it's worked reliably through several winters now.
"Ideally, you'd use both methods together—caulk for permanent sealing around the frame, and weather stripping for the moving parts."
That's a solid suggestion, but from my recent experience, sometimes weather stripping alone isn't enough if you're dealing with heavy rain. I had a similar issue last spring—water kept sneaking in even after installing new weather stripping. Eventually, I found that adding drip edges or flashing above the window made a huge difference. Might be worth considering if the problem persists despite sealing efforts...
Good call on the drip edges—I see that a lot. Sometimes folks overlook the exterior trim too...if it's not angled right or sealed properly, water can still find its way in no matter how much weather stripping you slap on. Did you check if your window trim has proper slope away from the house? Could save you some headaches later.
Yeah, good point about the trim angle...I've seen water sneak past perfectly good caulk just because the trim wasn't sloped out enough. Ever check if there's flashing behind that trim too? Sometimes builders skip it, and that's another sneaky spot water loves to find.
"Ever check if there's flashing behind that trim too? Sometimes builders skip it, and that's another sneaky spot water loves to find."
That's a solid observation. Flashing is often overlooked, especially on older homes or quick builds. I've even seen situations where flashing was installed incorrectly—like placed behind the house wrap instead of in front—rendering it basically useless. Might be worth gently prying back a small section of trim to see what's actually there...could save you headaches down the road.
Good points all around. I've definitely run into flashing issues myself—once found it installed upside-down, believe it or not.
"Might be worth gently prying back a small section of trim to see what's actually there..."
Agreed, but before pulling trim, maybe try checking from inside first? Sometimes you can spot water stains or dampness around the window framing indoors without disturbing exterior trim. Has anyone here had luck pinpointing leaks from the inside first, or is exterior inspection usually the way to go?
Had a similar issue last spring—noticed a faint water stain on the drywall around the window frame from inside first. Thought it was minor, but when I finally checked outside, the caulking was practically gone in one corner. Interior clues can help, but honestly, exterior inspection usually gave me clearer answers. Maybe start inside, but don't skip checking outside thoroughly...
Good catch on checking outside first—honestly, interior signs can be sneaky and misleading. I've seen plenty of cases where the drywall stain looks minor, but behind it, things are already getting messy. Exterior caulking is usually the culprit, but don't overlook weather stripping either. Had a client once who replaced all the caulk only to find out later that worn-out weather stripping was letting water seep in during heavy storms. Better safe than sorry...check both carefully before deciding your next move.