If water is getting into your meter box, it’s important to find out where it is entering and whether the box or door has been damaged. Rain, wind and freezing temperatures can make existing problems worse, particularly with external meter boxes.
The good news is that water ingress doesn’t always mean you need to replace the entire meter box. Depending on the damage, there may be a simple repair solution.
Why Is Water Getting Into My Meter Box?
Common causes of water ingress include:
- Cracked or damaged meter box doors
- Broken or worn hinges
- A damaged or missing latch
- Gaps around the meter box frame
- Damaged sealant
- A door that no longer closes correctly
- Damage to the surrounding brickwork or installation
Even a small gap can allow rainwater to enter, especially during heavy rain and strong winds.
What Are the Signs of Water Ingress?
You may notice:
- Water or dampness inside the meter box
- Rust or corrosion on metal components
- A door that doesn’t close properly
- Loose or damaged hinges
- Cracks in the meter box door
- Water staining around the frame
- Deterioration of fixings or other components
If you notice water inside your meter box, it’s worth investigating the cause rather than simply drying it out.
How Can You Repair a Meter Box With Water Ingress?
The correct repair depends on where the water is getting in.
Replace a Damaged Latch
If the door isn’t closing securely because the meter box latch is broken or worn, replacing the latch may be all that’s needed.
Replace Broken Hinges
Damaged hinges can prevent the door from sitting correctly against the frame. Replacement meter box hinges or hinge pins can often provide a straightforward repair.
Replace the Meter Box Door
If the door is cracked, badly damaged or no longer seals correctly, replacing the meter box door can be a much simpler option than replacing the complete box.
Always check the size, hinge type and latch arrangement of your existing door before ordering a replacement.
Consider an Overbox
If the existing meter box is badly damaged, an overbox can provide an alternative repair solution.
An overbox fits over the existing meter box and can be secured to the surrounding brickwork. This can be particularly useful where removing a recessed or built-in meter box would be difficult or expensive.
Should You Use Sealant Around a Meter Box?
Where there are suitable gaps around the external frame, applying an appropriate external sealant may help reduce water entering around the edges.
However, sealant should not be used to simply cover up a damaged door, broken hinge or faulty latch. If the door isn’t closing correctly, fixing the underlying problem is usually the better solution.
Don’t Ignore Water Ingress
Water ingress can become more problematic during winter. Water can freeze and expand, potentially making existing cracks and damage worse.
If you have noticed water inside your meter box, check the door, hinges, latch and surrounding frame for damage before the problem gets worse.
Need to Repair Your Meter Box?
At RepairMyMeterBox, we offer a range of repair solutions including replacement meter box doors, latches, hinges, repair kits and overboxes.
The right repair will depend on the condition and type of your existing meter box, so always check your measurements and compatibility before purchasing.
You can also find our products on eBay!