CA2240273A1 - Method for preventing water leaking through window frames from wetting a building wall assembly - Google Patents
Method for preventing water leaking through window frames from wetting a building wall assembly Download PDFInfo
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- CA2240273A1 CA2240273A1 CA 2240273 CA2240273A CA2240273A1 CA 2240273 A1 CA2240273 A1 CA 2240273A1 CA 2240273 CA2240273 CA 2240273 CA 2240273 A CA2240273 A CA 2240273A CA 2240273 A1 CA2240273 A1 CA 2240273A1
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- Prior art keywords
- frame
- flashing member
- passage
- flashing
- window
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B7/00—Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows
- E06B7/26—Rain or draught deflectors, e.g. under sliding wings also protection against light for doors
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Building Environments (AREA)
Abstract
A method of preventing water leaking from a window frame from damaging a building includes installing flashing under the window without removing the window. The method includes cutting a passage sloping upwardly from the outside surface of the wall just below the window. A flashing member is inserted into the passage, along the entire length of the window. The interior edge of the flashing extends beyond the interior surface of the window frame. Water leaking from the frame is directed outwardly by the flashing. The interior edge of the flashing preferably has a lip which .may be used to fasten the flashing to the interior surface of the window frame. This secures the flashing member in the passage. The method is much less expensive than the alternative of removing and replacing windows which have leaking frames.
Description
METHOD FOR PREVENTING WATER LEAKING THROUGH
WINDOW FRAMES FROM WETTING A BUILDING WALL
ASSEMBLY
Background of the Invention A. Field of the Invention This invention relates to a method for repairing a building having leaky windows. The invention provides a method for installing a flashing member under a window without removing the window from the building in which it is located.
B. Description of Related Art In recent years there have been tremendous problems caused by leaking buildings. If water enters the envelope of a building then, over a period of time, the water can cause tremendous structural and cosmetic damage to the building. Some building owners have been forced to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair such damage.
A location where water commonly enters the envelopes of buildings is at poorly sealed windows.
In many buildings windows comprise panes of glass mounted in a frame comprising separate portions for each of the top, bottom, right and left sides of the frame. The portions are mitered together at the corners of the frame. Generally the corners of the frame are sealed at the window factory with a sealant. In many cases the sealant is not carefully applied in the first place. In other cases the sealant degrades over time. In either case, the result is that water from rain or melted snow or ice can leak out from the corners of the frame into the wall in which the window is mounted. Once inside the wall the water can promote rotting of wooden structural members, promote rusting of steel members, and may leak into the interior of the building. In areas with wet climates, this leakage problem has become a serious and expensive proposition for owners of many condominiums.
The only currently accepted method for repairing a window having a leaking frame is to remove the window and frame from the wall. After this has been done, the window and frame may be replaced with a new watertight window unit_ In the alternative, a pan flashing may be installed and the old leaking window frame may be reinstalled on top of the pan flashing. Either of these approaches is very expensive because removing a window from a building causes damage to the exterior and interior surface finishes of the building. Typically the exterior finish is stucco and the interior finish is drywall. Not only must the window unit be removed and replaced but the stucco and drywall must be repaired as well. It is often difficult to match the appearance of the new stucco to the appearance of the existing stucco. In a large building, which may have hundreds of windows, effecting a repair as described above is an expensive and time consuming project.
Accordingly, there is a strong need for an inexpensive method for collecting water which may leak through a window frame and diverting that water so that it does not enter the envelope of a building.
WINDOW FRAMES FROM WETTING A BUILDING WALL
ASSEMBLY
Background of the Invention A. Field of the Invention This invention relates to a method for repairing a building having leaky windows. The invention provides a method for installing a flashing member under a window without removing the window from the building in which it is located.
B. Description of Related Art In recent years there have been tremendous problems caused by leaking buildings. If water enters the envelope of a building then, over a period of time, the water can cause tremendous structural and cosmetic damage to the building. Some building owners have been forced to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair such damage.
A location where water commonly enters the envelopes of buildings is at poorly sealed windows.
In many buildings windows comprise panes of glass mounted in a frame comprising separate portions for each of the top, bottom, right and left sides of the frame. The portions are mitered together at the corners of the frame. Generally the corners of the frame are sealed at the window factory with a sealant. In many cases the sealant is not carefully applied in the first place. In other cases the sealant degrades over time. In either case, the result is that water from rain or melted snow or ice can leak out from the corners of the frame into the wall in which the window is mounted. Once inside the wall the water can promote rotting of wooden structural members, promote rusting of steel members, and may leak into the interior of the building. In areas with wet climates, this leakage problem has become a serious and expensive proposition for owners of many condominiums.
The only currently accepted method for repairing a window having a leaking frame is to remove the window and frame from the wall. After this has been done, the window and frame may be replaced with a new watertight window unit_ In the alternative, a pan flashing may be installed and the old leaking window frame may be reinstalled on top of the pan flashing. Either of these approaches is very expensive because removing a window from a building causes damage to the exterior and interior surface finishes of the building. Typically the exterior finish is stucco and the interior finish is drywall. Not only must the window unit be removed and replaced but the stucco and drywall must be repaired as well. It is often difficult to match the appearance of the new stucco to the appearance of the existing stucco. In a large building, which may have hundreds of windows, effecting a repair as described above is an expensive and time consuming project.
Accordingly, there is a strong need for an inexpensive method for collecting water which may leak through a window frame and diverting that water so that it does not enter the envelope of a building.
Summary of the Invention This invention provides a method for preventing water from entering a building envelope through a leaky frame of a window installed in a wall. The method includes the steps of: cutting an upwardly inclined passage into the wall, and inserting a flashing member into the passage. This can be done without removing the window frame from the wall and without repairing leaks in the window frame itself. The passage extends below the window and extends into the wall past an inner side of the window frame. The flashing member has an inner edge and an exterior edge. When the flashing member is inserted into the passage, the interior edge of the flashing member extends into the passage past the inner side of the window frame and the exterior edge of the flashing member extends outwardly from the passage past an exterior surface of the wall. Water dripping from the frame is caught and directed outwardly by the flashing member.
Where the frame is supported on a sill atop one or more setting blocks, the step of cutting the passage preferably comprises removing the one or more setting blocks. Most preferably the method further comprises the step of providing support for the frame by inserting one or more lower wedge shaped members between the sill and an underside of the flashing member and inserting one or more upper wedge shaped members between the frame and an upper side of the flashing member. The wedge shaped members support the frame but the flashing member is unbroken and provides no path for water to leak through it.
Where the frame is supported on a sill atop one or more setting blocks, the step of cutting the passage preferably comprises removing the one or more setting blocks. Most preferably the method further comprises the step of providing support for the frame by inserting one or more lower wedge shaped members between the sill and an underside of the flashing member and inserting one or more upper wedge shaped members between the frame and an upper side of the flashing member. The wedge shaped members support the frame but the flashing member is unbroken and provides no path for water to leak through it.
The passage is preferably inclined outwardly at an angle in the range of 7 degrees to 13 degrees so that water drains outwardly.
Another aspect of the invention provides a window assembly. The window assembly comprises :a window having a frame, the frame inserted in an aperture in a wall; a sill member defining a lower edge of the aperture; an outwardly inclined flashing member between the frame and the sill, the flashing member extending laterally outwardly past laterally outermost edges of the frame; one or more lower wedge members between the sill and the flashing member; and.
one or more upper wedge members between the flashing member and the frame, each upper wedge member located directly above a lower wedge member. The upper and lower wedge members support the frame and the flashing member directs water leaking from the frame outwardly along its upper surface. The flashing member preferably comprises a gasket member affixed to an inner surface of the frame.
Brief Description of the Drawings In drawings which illustrate specific embodiments of the invention, but which should not be construed as restricting the spirit or scope of the invention in any way:
Fig. 1 is a sectional side view through a window mounted in the wall of a building;
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view thereof;
Fig. 3 is a sectional side view through the window and wall of Figure 1 after an intermediate step in the method in which a channel is cut below the window;
Fig. 4 is a sectional side view through the window and wall of Figure 1 after another intermediate step in the method in which a 5 flashing member and lower and upper wedges are inserted below the window;
Fig. 5 is a sectional side view of a wall after the steps of the method of the invention have been completed;
Fig. 6 is a front view thereof; and, Fig. 7 is a flow chart of a sequence of steps for practising the method of the invention.
Detailed Description Prior Art Figures 1 and 2 show a window 12 located in a wall 14 of a building 15. Wall 14 has exterior surface 16 and interior surface 17.
Wall 14 typically comprises a number of upright structural members 24. Depending upon the method of construction used to make building 15, members 24 may be wooden studs or metal studs, for example. Most typically wall 14 is of the construction type generally described as "steel stud and drywall".
Exterior surface 16 of wall 14 is typically faced with a suitable facing material 23, such as a layer of moisture resistant gypsum board. Layer 23 is covered with a sheet 26 of water resistant material such as tar paper or "building paper". A layer of stucco 21 finishes exterior surface 16. Interior surface 17 of wall 14 is covered with a layer 20 of a suitable material such as gypsum board. Insulation (not shown) is provided in the space between layers 20 and 23. Stucco layer 21, building paper sheet 26, and window 12 make up the "enve-S lope" of building 1~. It is desirable to prevent water from compromising the building envelope by entering the wall assembly . If water enters the wall assembly then, over time, it can cause severe and costly damage of various kinds.
Window 12 is received in an opening 28 in wall 14. The lower side of opening 28 is defined by a horizontal sill member 27. Sill member 27 may be, for example, a wooden or metal stud. Window 12 includes a frame 19 which is received in opening 28. It can be appreci-ated that opening 28 penetrates the wall assembly of building 15. If frame 19 leaks then there is a path through which water could enter the wall assembly of building 15.
Frame 19 is supported in opening 28 on top of sill member 25. Typically setting blocks 35 are spaced along sill member 25 and frame 19 sits on top of setting blocks 35. The purpose of setting blocks 35 is to prevent frame 19 from sagging. Setting blocks 35 may be a number of discrete blocks or may comprise a single continuous member extending along the underside of frame 19. Trim 38 covers setting blocks 35 on the interior of building 15. A flange 39 extends outwardly from the outside edge of frame 19.
Flange 39 overlaps sheet 26 around opening 28. Fasteners, typically nails or screws (not shown) hold flange 39 in place. Stucco 21 is applied over top of flange 39 after window 12 has been inserted into opening 28. It can be appreciated that removing window 12 and replacing it with a new window unit will disrupt stucco 21 for some distance around opening 28. More importantly, removing window 12 can result in building paper sheet 26 becoming torn in its portions around opening 28.
This Invention The method of this invention begins with the step 100 (Fig.
7) of removing setting blocks 35. This can typically be done by removing trim 38 and then pulling setting blocks 35 out from the inside. A
suitable jack or other pulley may be used for this purpose. Removing trim 38 also provides access to the underside of frame 19 from inside building 15. This is useful for later steps in the method.
The method continues with the step 110 of cutting a horizontally extending upwardly inclined passage 43 under window 12.
Passage 43 may be made, for example, with a circular abrasive cut off blade in a circular saw. Passage 43 cuts through stucco 21 and the lower part of flange 39 (except in the case of some window assemblies in which flange 39 is not present along the bottom of frame 19). In some cases passage 43 will cut through a portion of sill member 25. Passage 43 preferably has a width of approximately 1/4". In cutting passage 43, a top portion 44 of stucco 21 will be loosened and can also be removed.
Passage 43 preferably extends along bottom portion 47 of frame 19, and preferably extends at least 1/4" past frame 19 on either side of frame 19. Most preferably passage 43 slopes upwardly at an angle of about 7 degrees to about 13 degrees and most preferably about 10 degrees. Preferably, as shown in Figure 6, an upwardly extending g notch 42 is cut through stucco 44 and exterior gypsum board 23 at either end of passage 43.
The method continues, with the step 120 of inserting a flashing member 45 into passage 43 from outside. As best seen in Figure 4, flashing member 45 extends under frame 19 of window 12 so as to catch and direct to the outside any water that might drip from frame 19.
Flashing member 45 has a length L at least equal to the width of frame 19. Preferably flashing member 45 extends at least about 1/4" past frame 19 on either side.
Flashing member 45 is formed so as to prevent water from flowing over its ends. This may be done by providing a bump, such as a bead of sealant, along each end of the upper surface 62 of flashing member 45 or by bending a narrow portion 49 (Figure 6) at each end of flashing member 45 upwardly to form a lip to block the flow of water.
Notches 42 facilitate bending portions 49 upwardly after flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43. The narrow portions 49 may, for example, be about 3/4 inch in width. The narrow portions 49 may be bent upwardly (step 130) before or after flashing member 45 has been positioned in passage 43 under frame 19.
Flashing member 45 is preferably constructed of a durable stiff but flexible metal or plastic. Most preferably, inside portion 46 of flashing member 45 comprises sealing means that enable a seal to be made between flashing member 45 and an inner side portion of frame 19. The sealing means may comprise a flexible edge portion of flashing member 45 which can be bent upwardly from inside building 15 to form a lip 48. Most preferably the sealing means comprises a flexible membrane 47 attached to and extending along flashing member 45.
Flexible membrane 47 preferably has an adhesive on its upper surface.
Flexible membrane 47 is most preferably coated with a "peel and stick"
adhesive on its upper surface. The innermost edge of flexible membrane 47 may be positioned inwardly behind interior surface 41 of frame 19.
Flexible membrane 47 is preferably sealed to flashing member 45 with a water tight seal along inside portion 46 of flashing member 45.
Flexible membrane 47 may be provided already attached to flashing member 45 or may be provided as a separate piece which can be attached to flashing member 45. Flexible membrane 47 may be attached to flashing member 45 before flashing member 45 is inserted through passage 43, or may be attached to flashing member 45 after flashing member 45 has been inserted through passage 43.
If flexible membrane 47 is provided as a separate piece then it preferably comprises a second area covered with a peel and stick adhesive so that a user can easily attach flexible membrane 47 to flashing member 45 so that flexible membrane 47 is well sealed to flashing member 45 before flashing member 45 is installed in passage 43.
After flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43 then the sealing means (for example, flexible membrane 47) may be positioned behind, and preferably adhered to, an inside portion of frame 19 (step 160). This both seals flashing member 45 to frame 19 and secures flashing member 45 in passage 43.
5 An outside portion 52 of flashing member 45 remains projecting from passage 43. Outside portion 52 extends past exterior surface 16 of wall 14 so that any water intercepted by flashing member 45 is directed to the outside of the building envelope. Preferably the outside portion 52 is shaped to form a downwardly sloping projection 51.
10 Preferably, a lower end portion 53 of projection 51 projects horizontally outward from outer surface 16 of wall 14.
Supports should be provided to prevent frame 19 from sagging (step 140). In a preferred embodiment, support is provided by inserting one or more lower wedges 55 between sill member 25 and flashing member 45. Wedges 55 are cut at an angle which generally matches the angle of passage 43 so that the upper faces of lower wedges 55 support the under surface 61 of flashing member 45.
As shown in Figure 5, a plurality of upper wedges 59 are inserted between flashing member 45 and the lower edge 64 of frame 19.
Each upper wedge 59 is inserted above one of lower wedges 55 so that frame 19 is supported by upper wedges 59. Flashing member 45 extends unbroken between upper wedges 59 and lower wedges 55 so that there is no possibility of water leaking onto sill 25. Preferably upper wedges 59 and lower wedges 55 are spaced apart at intervals of about 16 inches to about 24 inches along the length of frame 19.
Instead of providing separate upper wedges 59, upper wedges 59 could be formed as appendages on the upward surface 62 of flashing member 45. Upper wedges 59 may be held in place, if neces-sary, with a dab of caulking, sealant or other suitable adhesive.
Preferably a water-resistant caulking, such as a polysulphide base caulking is used.
After flashing member 45 is secured in passage 43 then an expandable foam 65 may be sprayed into the cavity formed below the underside of flashing member 45 (step 150). This seals out drafts and further secures flashing member 45. Interior trim 67 may be installed (step 170). A spacer block 68 may be provided, if necessary. Caulking 66 may be added to seal any gap between trim 67 and frame 19. An exterior trim strip 63 may also be added between frame 19 and flashing member 45 (step 180).
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. For example, while flexible membrane 47 has been described as being a separate part from flange member 45, flexible membrane 47 could be a flexible portion of flange member 45. While passage 43 and flange member 45 have been described as extending horizontally under window 12 this is only because most windows have horizontal lower edges. The methods of the invention could also be used in windows which have an angled or curved lower edges.
Those skilled in the art will also realize that the precise order in which certain steps in the method of the invention are taken may be varied without departing from the invention's methods. By way of example only, step 160 may be carried out at any time after flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43 and upper wedges 59 have been inserted. Step 150 may be carried out at any time after lower wedges 55 have been inserted. Other possible variations in the sequence of steps which have no significant effect on the practice of the invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who have read the foregoing description.
It will be appreciated that this invention provides a method for preventing water from entering the envelope of a building through a leaky window which offers great cost saving over methods which require removal and/or replacement of window units. Furthermore, the methods of the invention can be implemented very quickly and unobtrusively.
Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.
Another aspect of the invention provides a window assembly. The window assembly comprises :a window having a frame, the frame inserted in an aperture in a wall; a sill member defining a lower edge of the aperture; an outwardly inclined flashing member between the frame and the sill, the flashing member extending laterally outwardly past laterally outermost edges of the frame; one or more lower wedge members between the sill and the flashing member; and.
one or more upper wedge members between the flashing member and the frame, each upper wedge member located directly above a lower wedge member. The upper and lower wedge members support the frame and the flashing member directs water leaking from the frame outwardly along its upper surface. The flashing member preferably comprises a gasket member affixed to an inner surface of the frame.
Brief Description of the Drawings In drawings which illustrate specific embodiments of the invention, but which should not be construed as restricting the spirit or scope of the invention in any way:
Fig. 1 is a sectional side view through a window mounted in the wall of a building;
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view thereof;
Fig. 3 is a sectional side view through the window and wall of Figure 1 after an intermediate step in the method in which a channel is cut below the window;
Fig. 4 is a sectional side view through the window and wall of Figure 1 after another intermediate step in the method in which a 5 flashing member and lower and upper wedges are inserted below the window;
Fig. 5 is a sectional side view of a wall after the steps of the method of the invention have been completed;
Fig. 6 is a front view thereof; and, Fig. 7 is a flow chart of a sequence of steps for practising the method of the invention.
Detailed Description Prior Art Figures 1 and 2 show a window 12 located in a wall 14 of a building 15. Wall 14 has exterior surface 16 and interior surface 17.
Wall 14 typically comprises a number of upright structural members 24. Depending upon the method of construction used to make building 15, members 24 may be wooden studs or metal studs, for example. Most typically wall 14 is of the construction type generally described as "steel stud and drywall".
Exterior surface 16 of wall 14 is typically faced with a suitable facing material 23, such as a layer of moisture resistant gypsum board. Layer 23 is covered with a sheet 26 of water resistant material such as tar paper or "building paper". A layer of stucco 21 finishes exterior surface 16. Interior surface 17 of wall 14 is covered with a layer 20 of a suitable material such as gypsum board. Insulation (not shown) is provided in the space between layers 20 and 23. Stucco layer 21, building paper sheet 26, and window 12 make up the "enve-S lope" of building 1~. It is desirable to prevent water from compromising the building envelope by entering the wall assembly . If water enters the wall assembly then, over time, it can cause severe and costly damage of various kinds.
Window 12 is received in an opening 28 in wall 14. The lower side of opening 28 is defined by a horizontal sill member 27. Sill member 27 may be, for example, a wooden or metal stud. Window 12 includes a frame 19 which is received in opening 28. It can be appreci-ated that opening 28 penetrates the wall assembly of building 15. If frame 19 leaks then there is a path through which water could enter the wall assembly of building 15.
Frame 19 is supported in opening 28 on top of sill member 25. Typically setting blocks 35 are spaced along sill member 25 and frame 19 sits on top of setting blocks 35. The purpose of setting blocks 35 is to prevent frame 19 from sagging. Setting blocks 35 may be a number of discrete blocks or may comprise a single continuous member extending along the underside of frame 19. Trim 38 covers setting blocks 35 on the interior of building 15. A flange 39 extends outwardly from the outside edge of frame 19.
Flange 39 overlaps sheet 26 around opening 28. Fasteners, typically nails or screws (not shown) hold flange 39 in place. Stucco 21 is applied over top of flange 39 after window 12 has been inserted into opening 28. It can be appreciated that removing window 12 and replacing it with a new window unit will disrupt stucco 21 for some distance around opening 28. More importantly, removing window 12 can result in building paper sheet 26 becoming torn in its portions around opening 28.
This Invention The method of this invention begins with the step 100 (Fig.
7) of removing setting blocks 35. This can typically be done by removing trim 38 and then pulling setting blocks 35 out from the inside. A
suitable jack or other pulley may be used for this purpose. Removing trim 38 also provides access to the underside of frame 19 from inside building 15. This is useful for later steps in the method.
The method continues with the step 110 of cutting a horizontally extending upwardly inclined passage 43 under window 12.
Passage 43 may be made, for example, with a circular abrasive cut off blade in a circular saw. Passage 43 cuts through stucco 21 and the lower part of flange 39 (except in the case of some window assemblies in which flange 39 is not present along the bottom of frame 19). In some cases passage 43 will cut through a portion of sill member 25. Passage 43 preferably has a width of approximately 1/4". In cutting passage 43, a top portion 44 of stucco 21 will be loosened and can also be removed.
Passage 43 preferably extends along bottom portion 47 of frame 19, and preferably extends at least 1/4" past frame 19 on either side of frame 19. Most preferably passage 43 slopes upwardly at an angle of about 7 degrees to about 13 degrees and most preferably about 10 degrees. Preferably, as shown in Figure 6, an upwardly extending g notch 42 is cut through stucco 44 and exterior gypsum board 23 at either end of passage 43.
The method continues, with the step 120 of inserting a flashing member 45 into passage 43 from outside. As best seen in Figure 4, flashing member 45 extends under frame 19 of window 12 so as to catch and direct to the outside any water that might drip from frame 19.
Flashing member 45 has a length L at least equal to the width of frame 19. Preferably flashing member 45 extends at least about 1/4" past frame 19 on either side.
Flashing member 45 is formed so as to prevent water from flowing over its ends. This may be done by providing a bump, such as a bead of sealant, along each end of the upper surface 62 of flashing member 45 or by bending a narrow portion 49 (Figure 6) at each end of flashing member 45 upwardly to form a lip to block the flow of water.
Notches 42 facilitate bending portions 49 upwardly after flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43. The narrow portions 49 may, for example, be about 3/4 inch in width. The narrow portions 49 may be bent upwardly (step 130) before or after flashing member 45 has been positioned in passage 43 under frame 19.
Flashing member 45 is preferably constructed of a durable stiff but flexible metal or plastic. Most preferably, inside portion 46 of flashing member 45 comprises sealing means that enable a seal to be made between flashing member 45 and an inner side portion of frame 19. The sealing means may comprise a flexible edge portion of flashing member 45 which can be bent upwardly from inside building 15 to form a lip 48. Most preferably the sealing means comprises a flexible membrane 47 attached to and extending along flashing member 45.
Flexible membrane 47 preferably has an adhesive on its upper surface.
Flexible membrane 47 is most preferably coated with a "peel and stick"
adhesive on its upper surface. The innermost edge of flexible membrane 47 may be positioned inwardly behind interior surface 41 of frame 19.
Flexible membrane 47 is preferably sealed to flashing member 45 with a water tight seal along inside portion 46 of flashing member 45.
Flexible membrane 47 may be provided already attached to flashing member 45 or may be provided as a separate piece which can be attached to flashing member 45. Flexible membrane 47 may be attached to flashing member 45 before flashing member 45 is inserted through passage 43, or may be attached to flashing member 45 after flashing member 45 has been inserted through passage 43.
If flexible membrane 47 is provided as a separate piece then it preferably comprises a second area covered with a peel and stick adhesive so that a user can easily attach flexible membrane 47 to flashing member 45 so that flexible membrane 47 is well sealed to flashing member 45 before flashing member 45 is installed in passage 43.
After flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43 then the sealing means (for example, flexible membrane 47) may be positioned behind, and preferably adhered to, an inside portion of frame 19 (step 160). This both seals flashing member 45 to frame 19 and secures flashing member 45 in passage 43.
5 An outside portion 52 of flashing member 45 remains projecting from passage 43. Outside portion 52 extends past exterior surface 16 of wall 14 so that any water intercepted by flashing member 45 is directed to the outside of the building envelope. Preferably the outside portion 52 is shaped to form a downwardly sloping projection 51.
10 Preferably, a lower end portion 53 of projection 51 projects horizontally outward from outer surface 16 of wall 14.
Supports should be provided to prevent frame 19 from sagging (step 140). In a preferred embodiment, support is provided by inserting one or more lower wedges 55 between sill member 25 and flashing member 45. Wedges 55 are cut at an angle which generally matches the angle of passage 43 so that the upper faces of lower wedges 55 support the under surface 61 of flashing member 45.
As shown in Figure 5, a plurality of upper wedges 59 are inserted between flashing member 45 and the lower edge 64 of frame 19.
Each upper wedge 59 is inserted above one of lower wedges 55 so that frame 19 is supported by upper wedges 59. Flashing member 45 extends unbroken between upper wedges 59 and lower wedges 55 so that there is no possibility of water leaking onto sill 25. Preferably upper wedges 59 and lower wedges 55 are spaced apart at intervals of about 16 inches to about 24 inches along the length of frame 19.
Instead of providing separate upper wedges 59, upper wedges 59 could be formed as appendages on the upward surface 62 of flashing member 45. Upper wedges 59 may be held in place, if neces-sary, with a dab of caulking, sealant or other suitable adhesive.
Preferably a water-resistant caulking, such as a polysulphide base caulking is used.
After flashing member 45 is secured in passage 43 then an expandable foam 65 may be sprayed into the cavity formed below the underside of flashing member 45 (step 150). This seals out drafts and further secures flashing member 45. Interior trim 67 may be installed (step 170). A spacer block 68 may be provided, if necessary. Caulking 66 may be added to seal any gap between trim 67 and frame 19. An exterior trim strip 63 may also be added between frame 19 and flashing member 45 (step 180).
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. For example, while flexible membrane 47 has been described as being a separate part from flange member 45, flexible membrane 47 could be a flexible portion of flange member 45. While passage 43 and flange member 45 have been described as extending horizontally under window 12 this is only because most windows have horizontal lower edges. The methods of the invention could also be used in windows which have an angled or curved lower edges.
Those skilled in the art will also realize that the precise order in which certain steps in the method of the invention are taken may be varied without departing from the invention's methods. By way of example only, step 160 may be carried out at any time after flashing member 45 has been inserted into passage 43 and upper wedges 59 have been inserted. Step 150 may be carried out at any time after lower wedges 55 have been inserted. Other possible variations in the sequence of steps which have no significant effect on the practice of the invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who have read the foregoing description.
It will be appreciated that this invention provides a method for preventing water from entering the envelope of a building through a leaky window which offers great cost saving over methods which require removal and/or replacement of window units. Furthermore, the methods of the invention can be implemented very quickly and unobtrusively.
Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.
Claims (19)
1. A method for preventing water from entering a building through a leaky frame of a window installed in a wall, the method including the steps of:
(a) cutting an upwardly inclined passage into the wall, the passage extending below the window and extending into the wall past an inner side of the window frame;
(b) inserting a flashing member having an inner edge and an exterior edge into the passage with the interior edge of the flashing member extending into the passage past the inner side of the window frame and the exterior edge of the flashing member extending outwardly from the passage past an exterior surface of the wall;
wherein water dripping from the frame is caught and directed outwardly by the flashing member.
(a) cutting an upwardly inclined passage into the wall, the passage extending below the window and extending into the wall past an inner side of the window frame;
(b) inserting a flashing member having an inner edge and an exterior edge into the passage with the interior edge of the flashing member extending into the passage past the inner side of the window frame and the exterior edge of the flashing member extending outwardly from the passage past an exterior surface of the wall;
wherein water dripping from the frame is caught and directed outwardly by the flashing member.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the frame is supported on a sill atop one or more setting blocks wherein the step of cutting the passage comprises removing the one or more setting blocks.
3. The method of claim 2 further comprising the step of providing support for the frame by inserting one or more lower wedge shaped members between the sill and an underside of the flashing member and inserting one or more upper wedge shaped members between the frame and an upper side of the flashing member.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the flashing member has end portions which extend past lateral outward edges of the frame on either side of the frame.
5. The method of claim 4 comprising the step of bending the end portions of the flashing member upwardly after the step of inserting the flashing member into the passage.
6. The method of claim 2, wherein the flashing member comprises a flexible membrane attached to the flashing member and the method includes placing the flexible member inwardly adjacent an inner surface of the frame.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein the flexible member is sealed to the flashing member along an inner edge portion of the flashing member.
8. The method of claim 6 comprising the additional step of adhesively fastening an inner side of the flexible membrane to the inner surface of the frame.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the flashing member extends outwardly from the passage and a portion of the flashing member adjacent the exterior edge is bent downwardly.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the flashing member comprises a flexible membrane attached to the flashing in a water tight manner and the method comprises the step of adhering the flexible membrane to an inner surface of the frame.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein the flexible membrane comprises a peel and stick adhesive and the step of adhering the flexible membrane to an inner surface of the frame comprises applying the peel and stick adhesive to the frame.
12. The method of claim 1 wherein the passage is inclined at an angle in the range of 7 degrees to 13 degrees.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the frame comprises a flange extending outwardly from the frame generally in a plane of the wall and the step of cutting the passage comprises cutting through the flange.
14. The method of claim 1, comprising the step of inserting support means to support a lower edge of the frame wherein: the support means comprises a lower wedge positioned between a downward surface of the flashing member and a sill member, and a plurality of appendages on an upward surface of the flashing member.
15. The method of claim 1 further including the step of filling an area under the flashing member with an expanding foam sealant after the step of inserting the flashing member into the passage.
16. The method of claim 1 comprising the step of affixing a sealing means between the flashing member and the frame after the step of inserting the flashing member into the passage.
17. A window assembly, the window assembly comprising:
(a) a window having a frame, the frame inserted in an aperture in a wall;
(b) a sill member defining a lower edge of the aperture;
(c) an outwardly inclined flashing member between the frame and the sill, the flashing member extending laterally outwardly past laterally outermost edges of the frame;
(d) one or more lower wedge members between the sill and the flashing member; and.
(e) one or more upper wedge members between the flashing member and the frame, each upper wedge member located directly above a lower wedge member;
wherein the upper and lower wedge members support the frame and the flashing member directs water leaking from the frame outwardly along its upper surface.
(a) a window having a frame, the frame inserted in an aperture in a wall;
(b) a sill member defining a lower edge of the aperture;
(c) an outwardly inclined flashing member between the frame and the sill, the flashing member extending laterally outwardly past laterally outermost edges of the frame;
(d) one or more lower wedge members between the sill and the flashing member; and.
(e) one or more upper wedge members between the flashing member and the frame, each upper wedge member located directly above a lower wedge member;
wherein the upper and lower wedge members support the frame and the flashing member directs water leaking from the frame outwardly along its upper surface.
18. The window assembly of claim 17 wherein the flashing member comprises a flexible membrane affixed between the flashing member and an inner surface of the frame.
19. The window assembly of claim 17 wherein end portions of the flashing member are bent upwardly on either side of the frame.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2240273 CA2240273A1 (en) | 1998-06-10 | 1998-06-10 | Method for preventing water leaking through window frames from wetting a building wall assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2240273 CA2240273A1 (en) | 1998-06-10 | 1998-06-10 | Method for preventing water leaking through window frames from wetting a building wall assembly |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2240273A1 true CA2240273A1 (en) | 1999-12-10 |
Family
ID=29275875
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2240273 Abandoned CA2240273A1 (en) | 1998-06-10 | 1998-06-10 | Method for preventing water leaking through window frames from wetting a building wall assembly |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2240273A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN105041119A (en) * | 2015-08-24 | 2015-11-11 | 福建奋安铝业有限公司 | Casement window capable of preventing water seepage |
-
1998
- 1998-06-10 CA CA 2240273 patent/CA2240273A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN105041119A (en) * | 2015-08-24 | 2015-11-11 | 福建奋安铝业有限公司 | Casement window capable of preventing water seepage |
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