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smies

04:59AM | 08/16/03
Member Since: 08/15/03
5 lifetime posts
Bvwindows
I have a serious problem with Marvin windows leaking and causing water damage. Is anyone else out there having a problem with their windows? What are you doing to correct it? Please contact me. Clairesmies@yahoo.com

k2

07:48AM | 08/16/03
Member Since: 06/06/03
1250 lifetime posts
I grabbed/modified this from an earlier post; hope it helps:

It's amazing the ways water can find to get into a house. Could be flashing, could be somewhere in the roof (such as where roof meets chimney, or ????) The 'path of least resistance' taken by water can be more circuitous than one might think.

That said, there might be some flashing missing (or improperly installed) above the windows. Maybe when they installed the windows they took a 'short cut' and 'somehow' left off the flashing.

P.S., are the gutters clear? I've seen where flooded gutters overflow and cause water to cascade to areas that don't normally have problems--but if they aren't flashed (or caulked) properly the problem sure can appear in a hurry.

Water in the house is no fun at all. I hope you have an easy time figuring it out, good luck.

-k.


smies

08:43AM | 08/16/03
Member Since: 08/15/03
5 lifetime posts
Thanks...we know exactly where it is coming from....the corner of every window. I am looking for others with the same problem. Something needs to be done. I have substantial damage to the framing from these defective windows.

Fighter

10:24PM | 09/01/03
Member Since: 09/01/03
8 lifetime posts
I know the panic you are feeling. I installed brand new Kolbe & Kolbe windows and doors in my new house (several of them, all flashed correctly) and most of them leaked when exposed to rain. In your case, even if you see where the water is coming through the window, it still could be coming through an improperly flashed area and then into the window frame. The only way to find out is to isolate the window unit by masking the surrounding building area with water resistant tape and plastic as to only spray the window with a hose. If the window does not leak, then isolate the building by masking only the window unit and test again.
If the window is leaking, check the warranty and call the manufacturer. If the house is leaking, call the contractor. Most people will tell you it was installed wrong or flashed improperly, but I have living proof that these large window manufacturers are capable of supplying defective products. I hope this works for you, I had no luck fixing mine with Kolbe & Kolbe. They still leak and we are in a battle 2 years later. The only ones winning are the attorneys. If interested I have more information on my case at www.leakywindows.com
Good luck,
Fighter


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