How Insulated Glass Units Fail And What To Do

Condensation on Inside of Dual Pane Glass

Windows are built to last a lifetime, however, environmental and physical stresses on the windows can reduce the useful life of a window in several ways. Of the most common issues is seal failure of the dual pane window glass. Seal failures occur when temperature cycling and extreme weather stress the glass and polyurethane seal between the two glass panes, causing the materials to separate. Moisture and dirt can enter the dual pane unit, causing the window to fog and become discolored. Condensation inside windows can damage plaster, rot wood molding and the excess moisture inside your home could cause damage to the entire home that goes far beyond the areas immediately surrounding the windows.

What Causes Foggy Windows?

There are two factors that cause foggy windows: temperature and, which is typically caused by broken window seals. Window seal failure can allow dirt and moisture between double pane windows, causing fogged glass.

In cold weather when the heater is turned on, an environment favorable to foggy windows is created. Warm moisture from inside that comes in contact with the cold glass will result in condensation inside windows and fogging. If the air outside is hot and the air conditioner is turned on, the opposite will occur. Foggy windows will result from the hot outside air meeting the cooler windows.

When condensation forms between double pane insulated glass, it is an indication that the seals are deteriorating or window seal failure has already occurred, causing outside air to come in. Trapped moisture between double pane windows condenses into droplets or causes foggy windows. This case calls for foggy window repair and you would not have to replace the entire window; the moisture-failed panel could be easily swapped out for a new one.

Foggy Window Repair

Below are some of the measures that can be taken to resolve the issue of fogged glass:

• Try Cleaning Your Windows

If you suspect that you have a case of condensation inside the windows, ensure that your first step is cleaning them. The fogginess could, in fact, be a result of condensation or it could result from an accumulation of something like grease, dirt or a cleaning product.

• Buy Air-to-Air Exchanger

An air-to-air exchanger is a relatively easy, but costly, method of reducing moisture and, in turn, decreasing condensation in your home. This piece of equipment ushers in fresh air from outside and guides indoor air to the outdoors. It acts to remove both moisture and pollutants from your home.

• Purchase a Dehumidifier

Buying and using a dehumidifier is one method of removing moisture from your home. You have the option of purchasing either a full size or a mini dehumidifier. There are some dehumidifiers that require being turned on and off, while there are others that will automatically turn on when the level of humidity in the home gets to a certain point.

• Buy a Window Insulation Kit

This kit can be installed on the outside or the inside of the windows. When installed on the inside, interior condensation can be prevented. When installed outside, energy costs can be lowered.

• Get the Window Panes Replaced

If condensation is actually between the window panes, the glass units will have to be replaced. Depending on the manufacturer, age and type of the original window, replacing the panes may or may not be possible. Glass companies like https://troysglass.com perform window glass replacement by removing the failed unit and installing a new custom double pane glass unit.

• Get the Entire Window Replaced

In a number of cases, replacing the glass units will not be a possibility and swapping out the entire window will become necessary. Typically, this turns out to be a great idea if your windows are single pane. If you do not have the skills or tools to replace the dual pane glass unit on your own, you have the option of getting the dual pane window glass replacement done by a professional glass company. Superior Replacement Windows in Chandler, AZ can perform both window glass replacement or offer full window packages to retrofit existing window openings.