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Hello everyone,

We recently baught a relatively newly built flat (2007), and it appears that the winter has done a bit of damage to the isolation around the windows. Seems like the previous owner used a multi purpose polyfiller to fill cracks that had already formed previously but this didn't hold up too well. See the attached pictures. Could you please advise me if the failing filler by the windows is the cause for the damp patch above the window? If so, what would be the best remedial actions? I am thinking of widening all the current gaps and replacing with a new silicone filler.

Thanks for the help!

Damp above window. Cracked polyfiller on both sides of the windows. Previous silicone filling under the windows. Another side. Failing insulation on the outside wall.

Exterior frame sealant looks shot, remove and replace with a good quality sealant.

Internally I'd be looking at applying quadrant beading with a low modulus silicon sealant.

wine~o wrote: ↑Wed Jul 26, 2023 2:05 pm Exterior frame sealant looks shot, remove and replace with a good quality sealant.

Internally I'd be looking at applying quadrant beading with a low modulus silicon sealant.

Thanks for the reply! What would you recommend for treating the already formed damp patch? I imagine just sanding down and giving a new coat of paint is not going to be enough, is it?

elirokas, don't do anything yet. the damp patches are not too bad. leave well alone for say 6 weeks after doing the remedials, keep the room well ventilated whenever possible.

if after 6/8 weeks the internal decoration is still showing as patchy then you may need a stain block.

I have never heard of insulation, as shown, on an external wall.
However, it seems to me the best course would be, on a dry day, to remove all of the material where it has failed, .
Clean/brush away all the dust and use the best quality silicone, 'suitable for all surfaces', to properly seal those areas.