Fogged windows can be a real... nuisance (no bad puns today). Fogged glass makes windows look constantly dirty, and some windows get so cloudy that you can't even see through them. These windows will also have a lower insulating value, but not by much. While replacing the window is usually most people's first instinct, this isn't always the best approach. A couple other options would to replace just the pane or have the window serviced to make it look clean again.
Replace The Pane
Rather than replacing the entire window, you can replace just the defective pane. Most newer double-hung windows have sashes that can be easily removed without any tools. Major manufacturers such as Pella, Anderson, and Marvin all have 20 year warranties on their glass. If a window less than 20 years old develops foggy glass, contact the manufacturer. If the window is older than 20 years, you can still replace the pane for less money than it would cost to rip out and replace the window, but you'll need a window specialist to do the work.
Service The Pane
Some window repair companies, such as Window Medics, will repair alter windows with broken seals to make them look good again. This process consists of drilling a couple tiny holes in the glass, washing out the inside of the window panes to clean up the 'fogginess', and then installing tiny vents in the holes to allow the window to breath. The window will no longer be foggy, and it will stay clean. The downside to this repair is that the window will have a slightly lower insulating value than it had before the glass fogged over, but this will cost much less than replacing the window.
Reuben Saltzman, Structure Tech Home Inspections - Email - Home Inspector Saint Paul
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7 Comments on HOME REPAIR TIPS & ADVICE: Foggy Glass? You May Not Need A New Window!
Great tip. I've replaced lots of panes due to broken seals and it is much less than new windows, frames and all.
"This process consists of drilling a couple tiny holes in the glass, washing out the inside of the window panes to clean up the 'fogginess', and then installing tiny vents in the holes to allow the window to breath. The window will no longer be foggy, and it will stay clean."
The reason a double-pane window fogs is because moisture between the panes condenses when one of the panes cools to or below the dew point of the air in between the panes. On a cold day the outside pane may condense the moisture. On a warm day the inside pane may cause condensation if the house has air conditioning.
My question is: How does venting the gap between the panes of glass prevent future fogging? Venting the space between the panes means that moisture will continue to be introduced to this space. Wouldn't the moisture condense again as soon as one of the panes is cooled to the dew point?
It seems to me you would still have a fogged (albeit "clean") window.
Hi Rita:
Definitely...Replacing the pane is much easier and a lot less costly.
Great suggestion.
Rita, great post...I have a large window in my living room that doesn't open, but has this...I will need to replace it one of these days!
Hi Dan,
Thanks for stopping by & taking time to comment! I appreciate it! I agree, Rueben's repair tips were great! Have a wonderful week!
Rita
Rita,
This is a very common issue here in the San Diego area. I usually suggest that my clients spend about $30 and buy a stained glass window film but I guess I can add this option too.
Of course, that's if your the Seller. If you're the Buyer, you always want a new window -- LOL.
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