Throughout the year during different weather patterns, condensation or fog may appear on your windows or glass doors. Unfortunately, this occurs when even a little warm moist air touches a cold glass surface. This may be annoying, but it is also a cause for concern. When this happens your window is not functioning properly. This is especially troublesome when it happens in-between the glass window panes. If this is not properly fixed, your glass will eventually stay foggy. Something must be done to fix your foggy windows. Here we will discuss why this happens, and what can be done to clear your foggy windows.
The Causes of Condensation
Older houses with single-paned windows may experience condensation problems. This can happen on the inside or outside of their glass. This likely happens as a result of the seal or frame deteriorating. Because of their low-efficiency rating, most recommend replacing these older windows. This increases the efficiency of the windows in your home. If you like your old windows, you will still want to fix this problem. As a result, you will notice a decrease in your energy bill. In turn, condensation inside or outside the window also occurs with double-paned windows. This could happen because of an improperly installed window or deteriorated frame.
If you see condensation in-between glass panes, then you have double-paned windows. A double-paned window includes two panes of glass separated with a spacer. The space between the glass holds vacuumed-sealed air or a non-toxic gas. This air pocket provides thermal insulation. By maintaining a consistent temperature of the glass this air pocket increases the efficiency of your window. Most newer double-paned windows fill the space with argon or krypton. This gas improves the efficiency of the window by reducing the speed air can flow into the home from the outside. Most modern windows come with two seals. The inner seal protects against corrosion and moisture. It also holds the spacer in place. This seal holds water-absorbing chemicals known as a desiccant. The outer seal strengthens the window.
The Danger of Moisture
If moisture gets between these two panes of glass, the system no longer works. This might happen because of a worn-out seal or a crack or hole in the glass. Seals deteriorate from exposure to direct sunlight. They also deteriorate when water is retained in or around the window. Another possibility includes the frame itself wearing out. When this happens, your window loses the protection of the insulated cavity.
Repair or Replace
Many do-it-yourself videos online show you a way to fix your foggy windows by replacing the seal, or a pane of glass. It is not a fast and simple process. You will have to remove the window from its frame. And before replacing the glass, you will want to be sure it is clean. The process is complicated. It isn’t as quick and easy as it looks and can be tricky. If trim pieces break, you may find it difficult to replace. However, if you are handy, you may wish to try fixing it yourself. If you choose this path, be sure to look at more than one video to learn how to do it right. A few hours of work and the cost of some replacement parts could solve the problem.
Many windows include a warranty against the failure of the seal. A window unit with a warranty will include a printed date on the glass or spacer. You will also find the name or ID of the manufacturer here. If your windows have a warranty, simply contact the manufacturer. Common manufacturers who offer warranties include Pella and Milgard
Being able to fix your foggy windows by yourself takes time and you may not get the result you are hoping for. We recommend contacting a professional first. A professional, such as ourselves, will evaluate your window and identify what caused the problem. We can replace broken glass or a failed seal without replacing the entire window. Replacing the glass or seal will come at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window. However, if the window frame shows signs of damage and deterioration, you will likely need to replace the whole window. We have many different window replacement options available. Contact Specialty Home Products. We will be happy to come to your home and identify the problem. We will then recommend whether we can fix the problem or if you will need a new window. Call us today for an appointment.