Foggy window repair
Infinity Glass & Mirror can diagnose whether a fogged IGU window can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. Infinity Glass specialists will diagnoses foggy window IGU. IG units are windows made from two or more pieces of flat pane glass separated by a sealed air space. If your home already has double-pane windows, but there is condensation or a “milky” appearance between the panes of glass, Infinity Glass needs to diagnose whether or not we can repair the foggy windows or recommend replacing the windows. Infinity Glass can upgrade your existing IGU windows with new energy-efficient glass replacements.
Foggy windows cause your home to lose energy efficiency. If you have an older home subject to frequent temperature changes IG units can help balance the indoor climate. In the winter IG units reduce cold transmittance at windows and help maintain a consistent temperature in the home. In the summer IG units reduce heat gain from outside. As a result your home’s air conditioning and heating system should run less, saving energy and money. In general IG units may cost three times more than single pane glass windows. But that cost can be recovered in a few short years through lower energy bills.
Understanding why dual pane windows fail
Wet or foggy windows are not just ugly, condensation reduces the window’s ability to insulate you from outside temperatures, defeating the purpose of having dual pane (insulated) windows!
Given enough time, EVERY dual pane (insulated glass) window will fail. There are many reasons why window seals fail such as improper installation or poor caulking, but the main cause of failure is a process called “solar pumping”.
Foggy Window Repair Services
This causes the unit to expand and push air out through the semi-permeable seals. As the unit cools at night, it contracts and draws in air (and humidity) through the seals. Over time, this constant contraction and expansion further weakens the seals which allows even more moisture inside.
before & after foggy windowMany window manufacturers plan for solar pumping by adding silica desiccant in the spacer bar between the panes of glass to absorb moisture and prolong the life of the glass unit. Silica desiccant is the product inside the little white packages you find packed with electronics, clothing, etc to keep them dry. When the desiccant has absorbed all the moisture it can, a misty fog begins to develop between the panes of glass.
From this point, the unit begins deteriorating quickly. If left untreated, large water droplets occur and then run down the glass. This problem can be permanently repaired with our process.
However, in the next phase of failure, the silica – laden moisture starts to corrode the glass and eventually leaves mineral deposits or a white haze. Once this occurs, the stains may be difficult to completely remove. If the window unit can’t be restored, we can replace it with a new insulated glass unit. In no case does your entire window need to be replaced.
The longer you wait, the less chance we have for a successful repair. Don’t delay. Call us as soon as you see moisture in your windows!