Foggy windows are a common problem that many homeowners face, especially during the summer months in Central New York. The region’s fluctuating temperatures and high humidity levels can exacerbate the issue, leading to condensation forming between window panes. Not only does this foggy appearance distract from your home’s view and aesthetic appeal, but it can also compromise energy efficiency, making your living space less comfortable and more expensive to maintain.
At Energy Savers, we are a full-service home performance contractor dedicated to helping homeowners like you achieve a more comfortable and energy efficient home. Our team is committed to providing reliable solutions to foggy windows that enhance your home’s performance while saving you money in the long run.
Understanding Foggy Windows
Foggy windows occur when moisture becomes trapped between the panes of double or triple-glazed windows. This phenomenon, known as seal failure, happens when the seal around the edges of the glass breaks down, allowing outside air and moisture to penetrate the space between the panes. In addition to fogging, you may notice condensation, a milky appearance, or streaks on the inside of the glass. There are several things that can contribute to foggy windows, including:
- Window Age – As windows age, the seals naturally deteriorate, making older windows more susceptible to fogging.
- Temperature Fluctuations – Extreme temperature changes can cause the window materials to expand and contract, weakening the seals over time.
- Poor Installation – Improperly installed windows are more likely to develop seal failures.
Solutions for Foggy Windows: Repair vs Replace
When dealing with foggy windows, homeowners often face the decision of whether to repair or replace them. While it’s impossible to know which is the best option without a professional inspection of your current windows, here’s a comparison of the choices:
Window Repairs
To repair foggy windows, there are two main options: professional defogging or glass replacements.
- Professional Defogging – Our technicians drill small holes in the glass, clean the interior, and install microvents. This option is generally quicker and less expensive than full replacement, depending on the type of window, but may not fully restore the window’s insulative properties and is not a permanent solution.
- Glass Replacement – We will replace just the glass unit of the window while keeping the existing frame. This method can be more affordable than full window replacement, but is often similar in price due to the increase in labor.
Window Replacement
Full window replacement provides the best long-term solution, solving foggy windows and significantly improving energy efficiency. While it’s also the most expensive option, it could be the most cost effective in the long run, especially if your windows are showing other signs of inefficiency, such as:
- They are more than 15-20 years old
- You notice a significant increase in energy bills
- There’s visible damage or decay in the frames
- You experience frequent fogging or condensation issues
- Indoor drafts near the windows
- Large amounts of outside noise
Beyond Windows: Addressing Foggy Doors and Sliding Doors
The same principles that apply to foggy doors apply to sliding doors as well. Since they’re larger glass surfaces, they can also have an even more significant impact on your home’s energy efficiency when compromised. At Energy Savers, we install custom sliding glass doors that are unmatched in efficiency and come with a variety of options to match the aesthetics of any home.
High-Performance, Whole-Home Solutions
Energy Savers is a locally-owned and operated business that’s been helping Central New York homeowners and businesses since 2001 with their energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor health needs. Whether you need replacement windows, reliable HVAC services, or insulation upgrades, our team can help you improve your living spaces.
