Foggy and cloudy windows aren’t what people desire. This condition happens when warm, moist air condenses on a cold surface inside your window.
In this guide, we’ll discuss why cloudy windows happen and provide solutions to help get rid of this undesirable condition.
Repair cloudy windows using solutions we offer here is more affordable than other window repairs and can even be done at home by yourself.
What Causes Window Condensation?
Cloudy windows occur when the temperature outside is lower than the temperature inside your home. Therefore, when cold air cools the windowpane, the warm and moist air inside will condense on the pane, causing window fogging and calcium deposits to appear.
When your windows become foggy, first determine whether the fog is formed on the exterior of the glass or between the panes. A simple but temporary solution is to wipe the fog away.
There are a few options for window defogging. Modern IGU windows (windows consisting of insulated gas, air, krypton, or argon) can prevent the warm, moist air from reaching the exterior cooler panes, thus preventing windows fogging.
However, when the seal around the panes starts to deteriorate, the gas between the panes will escape, and warm air will find its own way in. When this happens, not only will you notice cloudy windows, but your IGU windows will also lose their energy efficiency.
Repair Cloudy Windows
There are a few options for homeowners for foggy glass window repair. Here are those solutions:
1. Replacing Window Sashes
The easiest way for cloudy window repair is to replace the window sash (the sash is IGU and the frame around it) itself. Most windows have two sashes, and replacing them will provide you with the feel of a brand-new, energy-efficient window that effectively prevents fogging.
To accurately replace the sash, homeowners should take precise measurements of their old, existing window sash and order a replacement from the manufacturer or a suitable supplier. This solution is significantly more affordable than replacing the entire window and can help homeowners save considerable money.
How Precisely to Measure a Window Sash?
- First, unlock the window and slide the bottom sash upward a few inches.
- Simultaneously, pull the two window latches (located on the top of the sash) inward to release the sash and tip it into the room.
- Once the widow is horizontal, carefully lift one corner out of the window track to successfully remove the sash.
- Accurately measure the window’s width by following these steps:
- Using a tape measure, start by measuring the width of the window.
- Ensure precise calculations by taking measurements at three different spots: across the top, bottom, and middle of the sash.
- Record each measurement, then identify and circle the smallest number, marking it with a "W.
- Proceed to measure the sash's height by following these steps:
- Take measurements at three points—the left, middle, and right sides of the sash.
- Record each measurement and identify the smallest value among them.
- Circle the smallest measurement and label it with an "H."
- Contact the manufacturer and provide them with the circled measurements labeled as "W by H" to guarantee that the sash will have the correct orientation.
Upon receiving the new sash, perform the following steps in reverse order (steps 1 to 3) to install the window and secure it in position.
2. Replace the windows
Another option for defogging windows is to replace the window entirely. Although it’s a more costly option, it ensures better energy efficiency. Moreover, there might be rebates available when replacing the old, less efficient window with the new one.
When it comes to window replacement, proper window installation is crucial. To ensure the job is done smoothly, we recommend contacting a reputable, experienced contractor, such as EsnaGlass.
3. Replace the IGU
Another available option is to replace the old IGU with the new one. This method ensures better energy efficiency while allowing you to keep the old sash frame.
However, this option requires a more involved process compared to replacing the sash, and DIYers may not be able to do it on their own.
To replace an IGU, you need to remove the retaining clips or strips holding the glass into the sash and cut through the old sealant to successfully remove the IGU.
It's advisable to contact an experienced contractor for this task. They’ll use a special sealant to seal the newly ordered IGU in place, ensuring a tight seal that prevents air or water transfer. They’ll then reinstall the strips or clips.
Note: When it comes to replacing the IGU, there are many nuances involved that make the project difficult for inexperienced DIYers.
4. Window Defogging
Window defogging is the final option ahead of you. Although this method won’t address the energy efficiency loss of your window, it will help you defog your window and restore its former transparent glory.
Window defogging involves drilling holes in the glass and injecting a cleaning solution between the glass panes to clean the window of fog and dirt buildup. Afterward, a drying solution is injected between the panes to restore the window’s transparency and clarity. Once the interior glass is completely dry, the hole is sealed, leaving your window completely fog-free.
As mentioned above, the primary limitation of window defogging is that it can’t restore the lost energy efficiency, but it also won't cause any further energy efficiency loss.
We don’t recommend window defogging for inexperienced DIYers, as they’re more likely to break or chip the glass while drilling, which might lead to the need for a new IGU or sash.
Our Last Remark
Regardless of your options—the replacement of sash, IGU, or the entire window—foggy window repair not only causes the fog to go away but also restores the window’s energy efficiency.
Need to repair cloudy windows? Go no further; contact us at +1 647-219-6390; we’ll be in your location less within a half hour.
FAQ
- Replacing Window Sashes
- Replacing the Entire Window
- Replacing the IGU
- Window Defogging
Some experts have expressed criticism towards window defogging, while some homeowners appreciate the cosmetic improvements it provides. Defogging is less expensive than replacing an entire IGU. Although it effectively removes fog and enhances the appearance of your window, it does not replace the inert gas found between the glass panes.
Defrost:
- Defrost refers to removing ice or frost buildup from a surface, typically on car windshields or windows in cold environments.
- It involves melting the ice to restore visibility.
Defog:
- Defoh refers to removing condensation (fog) on surfaces like windows, mirrors, or windshields.
- It involves eliminating the moisture or humidity on the surface to improve visibility.
- It may occur in various temperature conditions.
Maintain your daytime temperature throughout the night to prevent morning window fogging. Enhance warm air circulation around windows by keeping curtains open and using ceiling fans, aiding in faster condensation evaporation. Use a vapor barrier to cover exposed soil in basements or crawl spaces, reducing moisture contributing to fogging.
Cloudiness in double-paned windows may be caused by a broken seal, which can be repaired. For single-pane windows, if cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, consider replacing the clouded section without changing the entire window. If you need help, please contact us at +1 647-219-6390.
