Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 2/4/2011

Question
I have discovered that water is leaking through the edge where the ceiling bit of the patio door opening meets the door frame - its coming through between the wood frame and plaster.  Sorry I don't know the correct terms for it! My brother replaced some lead flashing that runs along the top of the patio door frame on the outside (I think that was a couple of years agao) and this seemed to halt it but I noticed it dripping through in the high winds and rain we had last night.  The plaster in that area looks water stianed as if its been happening a while. I don't know who to contact to try and get it fixed - a builder? Also worried about how much it would cost.

Answer
Hi Catherine, it might be something as simple as caulking the area around the door and the flashing.  If your brother is familiar with caulking maybe he can come take a look at it. A visual inspection might show gaps or cracks in the plaster or gaps around the door frame.  This is where I would start looking.  I'm not sure what you have available in your area as far as hardware stores but they will have caulking guns and tubes of caulk.  Something made for around windows and doors will work just fine.  If there is a local "handyman" service they too can handle a simple caulking job for a reasonable cost.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com