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Sill pan
A sill pan is a waterproof tray under a window that directs any leaked water back out.
Why it matters
Windows can leak. A sill pan keeps a small leak from becoming rot in framing.
Where people get this wrong
Tape alone is not always a backup plan. A sill pan needs a path out. Water must be able to drain.
Real-world example
A wind-driven storm pushes water past the window trim. If a sill pan is there, the water exits. If not, the water soaks the rough opening and starts a slow rot story.
Where this hits your build
This affects how your home handles water. Water damage is one of the most expensive problems to fix, and it often starts with details that seem small.
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