Curtain Wall Leaks

Curtain wall leaks can result from defects within the curtain wall system or from interfaces between the curtain wall and the surrounding building.

Identifying the actual source of water penetration is important because water can travel through concealed parts of the system before appearing internally.

Speak to a Façade Remediation Specialist

What Causes Curtain Wall Leaks?

Common causes can include:

Failed seals
Deteriorated gaskets
Blocked drainage
Defective joints
Failed glazing interfaces
Damaged components
Poor installation
Defective flashings
Interface problems
Movement
Water penetration around adjacent façade systems

Why Curtain Wall Leaks Can Be Difficult to Trace

The point where water becomes visible inside the building may not correspond with the point where it entered the curtain wall.

Water can travel through:

Mullions
Transoms
Joints
Cavities
Interfaces
Floor-level connections
Adjacent wall systems

Investigation therefore needs to consider the complete curtain wall assembly.

Investigating Curtain Wall Leaks

A façade investigation can examine:

Frames
Mullions
Transoms
Glazing
Seals
Gaskets
Drainage
Flashings
Interfaces
Surrounding external wall

Where required, targeted opening-up can expose concealed construction.

Trident Facades Surveys →

Curtain Wall Leak Remediation

Depending on the cause, remedial works can include:

Seal replacement
Gasket replacement
Joint repairs
Glazing replacement
Drainage repairs
Flashing replacement
Interface repairs
Component replacement
Partial curtain wall replacement
Complete curtain wall replacement

See our Curtain Wall Remediation Services.

When Does Curtain Walling Need Replacing?

If the existing system has widespread deterioration or cannot be effectively repaired, replacement may form part of the remediation strategy.

See our Curtain Wall Replacement Services.

Curtain Wall Leak Investigation and Remediation

Trident Facades can coordinate the process from identifying the source of the problem through to physical remedial works.

Investigation → Diagnosis → Strategy → Design → Remediation