Window in Shower=leaks??

machinehead · 02-07-2009, 04:21 PM

Just bought an investment prop that I am fixing up. Bathroom has to be completely redone. There is a window in the shower area. Question is - is there anyway to keep the window in the shower and seal it properly to keep water from getting behind the tile? Should I just close it up and install a tub surround over that area? Keep in mind this is a rental but I want it to be a nice one. Thoughts? Thanks!!

Bob Mariani · 02-07-2009, 05:51 PM

Waterproofing the window will be possible, but for a rental it will be safer and cheaper to place the surround.

jaros bros. · 02-07-2009, 06:31 PM

Just so you know, you should have a membrane placed underneath the tile to effectively catch the moisture that does get behind your tile. I don't mean "if," but "when."

Josh Jaros

wrangler · 02-07-2009, 07:20 PM

Is there a vent fan to remove moisture if you remove/cover the window? Also, whether you decide to keep the window or cover it, make sure that it is sealed properly outside as well.

ccarlisle · 02-08-2009, 09:57 AM

A waterproofing membrane is vital; I understand it is a rental but all the more reason to ensure the tub surround or the shower enclosure - including around the window - is watertight. Depends on where you're at now; if you're going to demo anyway, then a membrane is better than the surround. Ditto if it's just the window wall. But the window itself can be waterproofed but it will involves doing the tiles as well so you might just want to look at a complete job.

IMO well worth the time and effort. Nothing like having to redo a shower after a few years -tenant there or not.

machinehead · 02-08-2009, 12:20 PM

Thanks all. So the take away for me is that I can keep the window IF it is waterproofed properly. I understand from reading some of the other threads about waterproofing behind the tile. I get that part. My big concern is the window. It's the kind that has a crank to open it outward (Anderson Window), and the crank mechanism is in the shower. How do you keep water from getting into that mechanism, and ultimately the wall (through the crank assembly)? I can silicone around the base but obviouly not where the crank pivots. Sorry, I know very little about the mechanics of the window. Thanks agian for the replys!

Bob Mariani · 02-08-2009, 01:04 PM

The crank is only surfaced mount and water will not get into the wall through this. but there is no way you can prevent water from getting into this unit.

Ron6519 · 02-08-2009, 05:15 PM

A wood window in the shower area is asking for trouble. You have a few choices. Replace it with a vinyl window in it's current location. Replace it with an awning window, placed higher on the wall. Or remove it completely.
Ron

machinehead · 02-08-2009, 06:52 PM

Thanks again everyone. I'm leaning toward removing/covering the window. I'm sure I'll have some other questions soon.