Leaking windows installed over T-111
I think most of us know what you are talking about, Ben. The headcasing is not flashed. Why? Because it is difficult to do with a surface mounted window. You may be able to remove the headcasing, cut the T-111, pull it back so flashing can be installed, replace the casing. Caulking down the sides will have to be maintained.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
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This drives me nuts. The related thing I see from time to time is windows nailed to bare sheathing, then housewrap put over the nailing flange. Any moisture that runs down the side of the window, or off the bottom, goes right behind the housewrap.
-Rich
Just think of it as long term Job Security. You may want to seal the cut edge of the T-111 and keep it off the flashing a bit.Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
An approach that works pretty well is to install a piece of quarter round over the top casing. This will help shed water and divert it from behind the casing. It should be bedded in lots of caulk, taking care to get the caulk into the T111 grooves. This setup should be inspected frequently.
Ben
Hammer's got it right. The windows need head flashing. The water is running down the siding and right into the window.
You probably will not be able to get the flashing in with the window in place. You are going to have to cut the t-111 above the window horizontally to get the flashing under it. By the time you get done pulling the t-111 out enough to get the flashing under it, you will probably have loosened the sides - both window sides and side panels, or you might have just split the siding. Long story short, I would figure on taking out the windows and putting them back in properly.
I do not like the idea of using the 1/4 round above the window. It's really just more of the same, trying to divert the water from it's usual path (straight down) - but still relying on the caulk. You will run into the same problem, maybe sooner, maybe later. These are friends, you owe it to them to do it right.
Check the archives. This problem has been gone over before.
Good luck.
Don K.
EJG Homes Renovations - New Construction - Rentals