Window flashing failure vs sealant failure
Both can wet openings, but entry location and wall drainage behavior differ.
☂Failed window flashing
VS⌁Failed exterior sealant
Typical location
Head, jambs and sill of exterior openings
Perimeter joints and material transitions
Timing fingerprint
Wind-driven or prolonged rain
Rain, especially wind-driven
Visible or audible pattern
Water at top or lower corners and staining below opening
Localized entry beside cracked or separated joint
Best separating check
Correlate wind direction and inspect water-management layers
Inspect joint continuity without assuming sealant is the only defense
Evidence that weakens it
Cold-weather droplets without rain
Water starts well above the joint
The rule
Use this comparison in Clue Engine →Do not repair the resemblance. Verify the pathway.
Color and shape can overlap. Timing, location and a repeatable check usually carry more diagnostic weight.
