How to Waterproof a Window?

Hello Shyam. I would like to help you by sharing how to waterproof a window. The window in our kitchen was getting damaged due to water, so I decided to waterproof it and prevent further damage. I used shims, flashing tape, backer rod and sealant to create a waterproof barrier. You can also do so by following the steps I’m sharing below.

How to Waterproof an Existing Window?

Here is how you can waterproof your window:

1. Apply shims on all the window sides. Some windows need 3, while others need 4 shims, depending on the window manufacturer’s guidelines. Shims help in protecting the wood frame when water gets inside.  

2. Apply flashing tape over the window flanges. Flanges are thin strips of material on each window side where nails join the window to the framing. Place tape on the sides and top of the window. Extend the tape about 3 inches on each side.

3. Avoid applying flashing tape to the window’s bottom as when water enters there, the area would get trapped.

4. Take off the shims and place a backer rod to seal the window's interior. Line the backer rod into the joint between the window and framing. Take a wood shim to press the rod well into the space.

5. Take a caulking gun and fill the four sides with sealant along the joints. You should cover the backer rod with the sealant. Also, seal the bottom.

6. Use a caulk finisher tool and run it over the lines of the sealant. Apply it smoothly and wipe away the extra sealant.

This is how to make window waterproof. I hope you find this helpful.

A few days back, my son started complaining that water was leaking through his window whenever it rained. I looked at the window but wasn’t able to diagnose the issue. I shared this with a friend of mine, who told me that it could be solved by waterproofing the window. As I didn’t know about the right process, I asked him how to waterproof a window. 

How to Make Window Waterproof?

Here are the steps my friend told me to follow for waterproofing the window. 

• He told me to search and locate any cracks or gaps around the window frame.

• Next, he asked me to apply it along the edges of the window frame where it meets the wall and make sure that the caulk is applied evenly for a solid seal.

• After that, I had to install Weatherstripping. These come with adhesive strips and are easy to apply.

• Following that, he asked me to apply waterproof sealant on the window panes and the frame for extra protection. 

• Finally, I was suggested to replace the flashing if it was not in good condition. 

And that was what he told me about how to waterproof an existing window. 

I hope this helps.

As the rainy season is approaching fast, my father told me to get the exterior window waterproofing done. I didn't know how and where to get it done and thus I asked a friend of mine about how to do it. He told me the following. 

How to Make Window Waterproof?

• Weather-strips

He told me that weather strips are cheap and quite effective. To use them I just need to install the self-adhesive weather-strip tapes along the seams of the window pane and frame.

• Window snake

According to my friend, when it comes to waterproof window frame, window snakes are a quick solution. They are long cushion-like tubes that are filled with insulating material and can be made with old fabrics like socks, pillow covers, t-shirts, etc. 

• Foam sealants

He said that foam sealants are very similar to caulk but have better insulation. These can be quite easily applied with the help of a foam gun. 

• Caulks

When it comes to how to waterproof a window, window caulking is the best way. You just need to seal the joints of the window frame to the base wall so that an impermeable system is created. 

And that’s all he told me about window waterproofing. I hope this helps.