What Causes Foggy Windows in Your House?

If your windows look foggy every day, it’s not the weather – it’s the windows. One of the most common questions we hear is “what causes foggy windows?”. The answer is almost certainly that the seal on your window has failed. Keep reading because we’re breaking down what causes this, what it means and what to do about it.

At Choice Home Remodeling, we’re a full-service home improvement company that handles everything. From interior work like kitchen and bathroom remodels to exterior renovations – we do it all. Since window replacement was the first service we offered the Lancaster County public, it is still what we’re known best for. We’re more than happy to answer all of your questions and even fix your foggy windows!

 

The Primary Cause of Cloudy Windows

what causes foggy windows

Those cloudy windows that have showed up on your home aren’t going away on their own. This phenomenon occurs when the seal that connects the main panes of glass cracks. This allows moisture to infiltrate between these panes, creating that uniquely unpleasant cloudy or milky look.

One of the main causes behind foggy windows is that the windows were never a high-quality product, and the seals were very weak. This often occurs as the homebuilder used what experts call “builder grade windows” – that simply aren’t meant to last.

One of the factors that exacerbates this is if the windows sit in direct sunlight. This causes the frames to expand and contract over the course of day, putting stress on the seal. Over time, the seal breaks and the window fogs. While generally, cloudy windows in your home generally appear after the five-year mark, in some cases, we’ve seen them show up even earlier.

Oftentimes cloudy windows are leaking as well – learn more about windows leaking cold air right here!

 

What to Know about Defogging Windows

First and foremost, it’s important to know that cloudy windows aren’t dangerous – even if they are extremely unsightly. However, you have options to resolve this problem. Our teams are experienced in both defogging windows and replacing them.

cloudy window solutions

 

Window Replacement – Many homeowners take these foggy windows as a sign they should just replace the whole thing. Newer, top-quality windows will look better, be more energy efficient and come backed with a lifetime warranty. At Choice Home Remodeling, we primarily recommend OKNA Vinyl windows for all new replacements we perform. This high-end vinyl brand earns our endorsement as the best window for home renovation.

Price: Between $700 and $800 to replace the old window with a top-of-the-line new model.

 

defogging windows

 

As always, deciding between replacement and repair is a matter of considering your budget and if you’re ready to make a long-term investment. Sometimes homeowners will wait until it makes sense to replace all of their windows at once to get the best possible price. The Choice Home Remodeling team is here to back you up, regardless of what you decide.

 

Get Quotes to Repair or Repair Your Foggy Windows

Whether you want to schedule your window defogging or get quotes to upgrade to top-quality replacement windows, the first step is a conversation. The Choice Home Remodeling experts are more than happy to meet you in our convenient New Holland inspiration center or visit your home. When you’re ready to deal with your foggy windows, we’re the team to trust.

Contact us right now to get started!

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My wife and I just had our front door replaced by Choice. The process of determining the door style, color, material, etc. was made simple and effective by Tim. His communication and follow up through the entire process was excellent. Install took only part of the day and couldn't have been handled any better. Our installer, Doug, was personable, hard working and clearly skilled in every aspect of removing our old door and installing the new one. We are thrilled with our new door and our experience with Choice. High Recommend!
Response from the owner:Thank you John for the review. We are happy to hear you had such a positive experience from start to finish!
We picked Choice over Window Nation for a couple of reasons. There was no pressure , was cheaper , and we already knew the quality of work they do, having used them before. Very Happy with the work done again. Awesome job, and even got my wife's approval on the clean up!! Which is saying something!!
Response from the owner:Thank for Brian for the review and choosing to work with us once again. We are very glad to hear we have met the high approval of your wife!
Just had 7 windows replaced in our sunroom. They did great work and got the job done quickly. The windows look great. Despite the rainy weather the last day, they kept everything neat and tidy and cleaned up thoroughly before leaving. Will definitely consider using them for future projects.
Response from the owner:Thank you James for the review. Weather can be unpredictable, but our team works to keep things clean and efficient not matter what. We look forward to working with you again.
A lovely showroom, I was greeted quickly and able to wander at my leisure. I have only heard good things about this company and followed the recommendation to check it out.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We're glad to hear you had a positive experience in our showroom and felt comfortable exploring at your own pace. It means a lot to us that you followed a recommendation, and we’re pleased we lived up to it.