Top 7 Reasons Your Solarium Is Leaking (And How to Fix It)
By a technician at Alumwave
“It Started With a Drip…”
It usually begins like this: you're relaxing in
your solarium during a rainstorm, enjoying the view—until you hear it. Drip... drip... drip. You look up, and there
it is—a tiny leak creeping down the wall or collecting on the window sill. It
may seem small now, but left alone, it can turn into stained walls, warped
floors, mold, or even structural damage.
As someone who's been up on a lot of ladders and
inside more than a few leaky sunrooms, I can tell you—solarium leaks are common, but they’re never something to ignore.
Let’s break down the top seven reasons they happen and how our team at Alumwave
tackles each one with lasting solutions.
1. Worn-Out
Seals Around Glass Panels
The
problem: Over time, the rubber seals or caulking around the glass
panels start to dry out, crack, or shrink. This creates small gaps where water
can seep through.
What to
watch for: Water running along the inside of the frame, or dripping
during heavy rain.
How we
fix it: We remove old, deteriorated sealant and replace it with
UV-resistant, high-grade exterior caulking—specifically designed for solarium
systems.
2. Cracked
or Shifted Glass Panels
The
problem: Settling foundations, extreme temperature shifts, or even a
hailstorm can cause glass panels to crack or move out of alignment. Once that
happens, the integrity of the system is compromised.
What to
watch for: Visible cracks, fogging between panes, or water coming in
along one section.
How we
fix it: We assess the damage and replace the affected panel with a
properly sealed, tempered safety glass—custom-fit to your solarium structure.
3. Failed
Flashing
The
problem: Flashing is the material that bridges the gap between your
solarium and the house. If it’s installed incorrectly or has corroded over
time, it can direct water into your home instead of away from it.
What to
watch for: Leaks along the wall where the solarium meets the home,
especially after wind-driven rain.
How we
fix it: We remove the old flashing, assess the structural connection,
and install new weatherproof flashing with proper overlaps and water flow
direction—sealed tight to prevent future failure.
4. Improper
Sloping or Drainage
The
problem: If your solarium roof or window tracks aren’t sloped
correctly, water can pool instead of draining off, eventually finding a way
inside.
What to
watch for: Standing water, especially near roof joints or window
sills.
How we
fix it: We realign drainage channels or adjust the slope where
possible. In some cases, we retrofit improved drainage components, like weep
holes or flashing extensions.
5. Old
Gaskets or Structural Components
The
problem: Over time, gaskets (the rubber or foam inserts between glass
and frame) break down, especially with sun exposure and age. Older solariums
may have materials that are no longer effective.
What to
watch for: Persistent leaks during rain, especially in multiple spots.
How we
fix it: We inspect all framing and gasket conditions, then upgrade to
modern, high-durability gaskets designed for long-term water resistance.
6. Loose
or Corroded Fasteners
The
problem: Screws, bolts, and brackets that hold the frame together can
loosen or corrode, leaving gaps for water to sneak through.
What to
watch for: Small drips around frame connections or signs of rust.
How we
fix it: We replace corroded fasteners with rust-proof stainless steel
and apply waterproofing sealant over each joint for extra protection.
7. Improper
Past Repairs
The
problem: Unfortunately, we often find that past repairs were done with
quick fixes—like duct tape, indoor caulking, or poor-quality materials. These
don’t hold up and can even make things worse.
What to
watch for: Leaks in spots that have clearly been patched before.
How we
fix it: We remove all temporary fixes, assess the underlying issue,
and apply permanent solutions using the right materials and installation
techniques. At Alumwave, we always aim for a long-term fix, not a band-aid.
Don’t Wait for the Next Storm
If your solarium is leaking, it’s not just
annoying—it’s a sign something needs attention. The good news is, these problems can be fixed, and often
without needing a full replacement.
At Alumwave, we approach every leaking solarium fix with care and
precision. We use high-quality materials designed for Canadian weather and back
our work with honest, professional service. You deserve to enjoy your space
without worrying about water damage.
If you’re noticing leaks or water stains,
don’t wait for it to get worse. Visit to learn more, or get in touch with our
team for a friendly inspection. We’re here to help you get back to enjoying
your solarium—rain or shine.
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