after construction of new home and many attemps to fix problem by builder and contractors, we are unable to stop water leaking through the header and down the inside of the front doors. Stone (cultured) and stucco facade w/ portico over the front entry. Double waterproof doors. This problem only happens with strong wind and rain against the front of house. Manufacturer checked the doors, extensive caulking and water proofing over the portico and window. Could water be penatrating the mortar joints of stone when hit with strong rain. What should we do next? It is hard to find a qualified contractor who can fix the problem. Because we live on the top of the hill other neighbors with different house designs have the same problem.
Answer:
Perhaps all of you have the same people trying to do the corrections. I wonder how many have tried cleaning the old sealants off completely - right down to virgin material. Many sealants are advertised as usable over old caulking compounds. Most cases I've seen used that way I've found them easily compromised and leaking in rather short order. Today's door and window technology dictates that this should not be happening. I am familiar with the manufacturer that you talk about and they put out a good product so when you say that your neighbours have the same problem, I have to go back to questioning the installer and then the follow-up jobbers.
