I have been making a living repairing poor workmanship on track housing here in the Pacific Northwest. Recently I was asked to repair a leaking window. Upon inspection it had been cauked at least four times so I decidied to dig in to the matter. removing the siding it was discoved that the original installer had used a power saw and removed the nailing flanges from this vinyl window. The leak source was obvious. The window was not sealed and had no flashing to seal
I plan to use a adhesive backed membrane and wrap up the sides of the window frame and on to the wall surface to compensate for the lack of any flashing. My question is there a better way to seal this window ?
Replies
Yep
Nothing can be worse than what is there.
I would use Eternabond tape (still shingle lap your joints) and be clear (preferrably in writing) with the owner that there is no warranty on the repair. Also provide proper head flashing for exterior trim and seal that to sheathing as well. If you can sell the owner on the benefit of pulling the window and flash taping the framed jambs and sill (sloped), that would be the "better way" to go.
A few thoughts:
How is a vinyl window attached if the flanges have been removed? Did they nail or screw through the sides?
One can purchase pvc in a sheet or strip form. Perhaps a flange could be attached using pvc cement? This would have the advantage of being permanent. I've found that self-stick can come loose if not held by an adjacent material.
If the window isn't too large it would probably be most cost effective to simply replace it with a new one. Vinyl windows don't cost very much in the long term. An upgrade to a better material would be an option.