Transom windows leak

For those self-installers
Post Reply
Message
Author
Armandd
Posts: 1
Joined: Wed Oct 14, 2009 11:08 am

Transom windows leak

#1 Post by Armandd »

We purchased a new home in Plainfield, Illinois in October 2007 with “Visions” vinyl single hung windows with a transom above. We noticed water was collecting on the interior window sill directly below the transom (the ledge between the transom window & the main window) on all 13 of our windows during heavy rains. After testing we found out this was caused because there are gaps in the seals between the glass & frame of the transom windows. The builders’ superintendent and the suppliers’ repairman told me that the windows should be removed, re-sealed & re-glazed. The window company came out, put an exterior “cap bead” of sealant around each window & told me they consider this a permanent fix. My concern is that the windows were defective in the manufacturing process and eventually the seal will deteriorate because of Chicago weather & the problem will re-occur.
My questions is - should I remove the glass, re-seal & re-glaze, or believe their claims that the outside seal will last as long as the inside seal?

TLHWINDOW

Re: Transom windows leak

#2 Post by TLHWINDOW »

It will probably hold up , but it would be better to seal the glass from the other side.

prosteelheader
Posts: 25
Joined: Wed Jan 20, 2010 6:38 pm

Re: Transom windows leak

#3 Post by prosteelheader »

bad from the manufacturer. sounds like the glass has separated from the glazing tape. for whatever reason. i would deglaze, reglaze... no matter what.

TheWindowNerd
Posts: 1893
Joined: Sun Feb 22, 2009 5:52 pm
Location: SE PA & NJ; CT
Contact:

Re: Transom windows leak

#4 Post by TheWindowNerd »

With out seeing the "cap bead", I would reglaze into a wet bed.

Post Reply