Window & Door Leaks
Water intrusion around windows and doors is one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face after new construction or remodeling. What begins as a small damp spot on a window sill or baseboard can eventually lead to rotted framing, mold growth, and damage spreading throughout the wall. In many cases, the problem isn’t the window or door itself—it’s how it was installed.
How Window and Door Leaks Develop
Modern windows and doors are designed to shed water through layers of flashing, sealants, and drainage planes. When installed correctly, these components keep moisture outside the wall cavity. Unfortunately, many builders and subcontractors cut corners—using incomplete flashing, omitting sill pans, or relying on caulking alone to keep water out.
In Colorado’s climate, where wind-driven rain, snow, and rapid temperature swings are common, those shortcuts quickly fail. Water enters behind trim and cladding, soaks insulation, and becomes trapped inside walls. By the time stains appear on interior drywall, significant hidden damage may already exist.
Common Signs of Window and Door Leaks
Water stains or bubbling paint around window or door frames
Swelling, warping, or rotting wood trim
Drafts or musty odors near openings
Cracks in stucco or siding radiating from window corners
Mold growth at the sill or base of patio doors
Fogging or condensation between glass panes (often a symptom of larger moisture problems)
Even small leaks can lead to large-scale damage because the water path is concealed behind finish materials.
Why These Defects Occur
Most window and door leaks result from installation errors, not product defects. Common causes include:
Missing or improperly installed flashing and sill pans
Lack of proper drainage or weep systems
Over-reliance on caulking as the primary barrier
Failure to integrate window flashing with the building wrap
Inconsistent or incomplete sealing around frames and fasteners
Poor alignment or shimming that distorts the frame
These mistakes often trace back to rushed schedules, untrained labor, or inadequate supervision during construction.
Who Is Responsible
Under Colorado’s building codes and the Construction Defect Action Reform Act (CDARA), contractors, developers, and subcontractors are required to install windows and doors in accordance with manufacturer instructions and accepted construction practices. When they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for the resulting damage. Architects and builders may also share liability for specifying or approving improper designs.
How Hollington Law Firm Can Help
At Hollington Law Firm, we represent Colorado homeowners facing water intrusion through windows and doors caused by defective installation or construction. We work with building envelope specialists to identify how water is entering, document the damage, and determine who is at fault. Once the cause is confirmed, we guide homeowners through Colorado’s legal process for pursuing claims and recovery—whether that means repair costs, replacement, or damages for property loss.
Our focus is on restoring your home’s safety and value while holding negligent contractors accountable.
Contact Us
If you’ve noticed leaks, staining, or mold near your windows or doors, contact Hollington Law Firm to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand what’s causing the problem, what your rights are under Colorado law, and how to make sure the builder—not you—pays for the repairs.