A facade and its elements must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also waterproof. One of the weakest points in any facade are the joints and connections: around windows, sills, lintels, and canopies. If these areas are not properly sealed, moisture problems will arise quickly — especially in rainy climates or under temperature fluctuations.
Below is how to avoid common mistakes and properly seal these areas.
Why Joints and Connections Require Special Attention
Joints are places where different materials meet. Here:
facade elements connect
transitions occur from one plane to another
there is often high stress from water and mechanical forces
Mistakes in these areas result in water penetrating the structure, leading to problems over time such as:
moisture inside the walls
mold
mildew
damage to insulation
1) Mistake: Lack of Sealing at Joints
One of the most frequent issues is insufficient sealing. This can be due to a lack of necessary materials or improper installation. This is particularly critical in areas such as:
connections to window frames and doors
joints between different parts of the facade
sills, lintels, canopies
If sealing is poorly done, water easily gets inside, leading to material deformation and damage to insulation.
2) Mistake: Incorrect Material Choice for Sealing
Not all sealants are equally good. It is important to choose the right compound that can withstand:
temperature fluctuations
humidity
mechanical stress
It’s especially important to use sealants that are specifically designed for facade work. These not only withstand external conditions but also have strong adhesive properties to effectively bond materials together.
3) Mistake: Improper Flashings and Lintels
Flashings and lintels play a crucial role in diverting water from the facade. They must be properly installed to prevent water pooling at the bottom. Keep in mind several rules:
the flashing should be installed with a slight slope to allow water to flow down easily
the lintel should be wide enough to prevent water from getting under the facade
If these elements are improperly installed, water will remain on the facade, leading to leaks and stains.
How to Properly Seal Joints and Connections
Proper Surface Preparation: Before applying the sealant, ensure that the surface is clean and dry. This is crucial for good adhesion.
Use Quality Sealant: Choose compounds designed for exterior use that are resistant to UV rays and weather conditions.
Apply Flashings and Lintels: Install them with a slight slope to direct water away from the facade and reduce strain on the joints.
Seal All Joints: Don’t forget smaller areas such as corners and places where window frames meet the facade. All these spots require special attention.
How Flexible Tiles Help Solve These Problems
KORDEKO Flexible Tile (PletaFlex) is not only a decorative material but also a solution to improve sealing and protect the facade from water. Thanks to the flexibility of the tiles:
it’s easier to handle micro-movements of the base
the tile adapts to temperature fluctuations and moisture without losing its shape
cracks and delaminations are less likely at complex junctions (windows, doors, corners)
Additionally, the tile helps maintain the appearance of the facade for many years, reducing the need for repairs and maintenance.
Conclusion
For a facade, it’s important not only to have beautiful walls but also to properly execute joints and connections. Sealing, quality flashings, and lintels help avoid leaks and long-term moisture issues. Using KORDEKO Flexible Tile (PletaFlex) on complex facade areas will make your finish not only beautiful but durable, protecting the wall from external elements.