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Should I Replace or Repair a Fogged Window?

This time of year we get calls to our office because people are experiencing issues with their windows.  Of course, with the cold we’ve been having here in the Twin Cities it’s not surprising.  People are spending more time indoors, the furnaces are running on high, and chances are you’ve got a humidifier going to counteract the dryness inside.  So we get reports of excessive condensation as well as window fogging.  While they might look like similar problems, the causes are different, and so is the solution.  We have a number of posts that discuss window and door glass condensation, so in this article we’d like to talk about fogged up windows.

The main difference between the two?  Condensation is moisture appearing on the glass, and it can be wiped off. Fogging is between the panes of glass and not on the surface inside your home.  You can’t wipe it off because it is trapped underneath the glass. 

Why Do Windows in a Home Fog Up?

Fogging on windows occurs not because there is too much moisture in the air (generally the case with excessive condensation on the glass), but rather, an issue with the window itself. You don’t have to be overly concerned about something like this, but it does mean that the seal in the window is broken and you should consider the many options you have for repairing the issue. At times replacing the window might be required. Understanding the problem can help you choose the best method to fix it with.

While a broken seal isn’t an emergency, you shouldn’t ignore it. A broken seal indicates that there is an air leak, which means you’re wasting energy. Yes, it’s only a small amount, but over time it will add up. 

If you’re wondering whether you should replace or repair the window in your home that keeps fogging up, then here are the options you have to go with.

These Are Your Options If a Window Seal Is Broken

Replace the Window Entirely: This is the most expensive option to go with but the best method overall. When you replace and upgrade the window, you get the added benefits for the long haul. You are better able to have the best comfort inside with the lowest issues. It’s also the option we would recommend if your windows are older anyway. They are going to need to be replaced soon, so it just makes sense to replace them now rather than spend money to repair something that doesn’t have much expected life left in it.

Replace Just the Window Sash: The sash on the window can be replaced; this is less expensive and is recommended if the window is newer.

Replace the Glass of the Window

You can replace the glass in a window that fogs.  The reason this can take care of the issue is that a new seal is put in when the glass is replaced.  This might be a good option if you’ve got an older window where the glass may be scratched.

The best solution for a fogged window depends on your budget and needs. You can go with one of the above options, but if the window is older, replacing it is ultimately the best choice. Get the best for your home. Call us today if you have questions or are ready to repair or replace that foggy window. We can come out and evaluate the window and let you know what we recommend.

Window Outfitters, Inc. is a Minnesota licensed window replacement and repair contractor serving the greater Twin Cities metro area. 

 

 

 

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Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.

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