Your door frame is likely leaking because the weather-tight seal has failed, allowing water to penetrate. This could be happening either around the sill or the trim.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Failed Sill Seal: The sill is the bottom part of the door frame. Over time, the sealant between the sill and the threshold (the floor underneath) can deteriorate, creating a gap. When it rains, water can flow around the sill and into the structure beneath the door, potentially leading to rot and other damage.
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Compromised Trim Seal: The trim around the door frame provides a decorative and protective function. The caulk or sealant that creates a weathertight barrier between the trim and the exterior wall can crack, peel, or otherwise fail. This allows water to seep in, either rotting the frame itself or channeling water towards the substructure of your house. This water intrusion can be gradual and hard to detect until significant damage has occurred.
In summary, door frame leaks are typically due to problems with the weather seals around the sill or trim, allowing water to enter your home's structure.
