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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Choice is our #1 go to for doors and windows. They helped us through a major kitchen remodel as well as adding new front entry/screen doors.Their attention to detail and responsiveness are above and beyond any other company we've ever worked with.Thank you, Choice and Team.
Choice Home Remodeling installed a new Larson storm door and my wife and I are pleased with the results! Rob, our installer, did a professional and thorough job to replace our old door which had seen better days. The contrast in entering and leaving our home is noticeable and the door was exactly what we ordered! Rob also replaced the locks on our regular front door. We will certainly contact CHR for any future needs if warranted.
Choice worked with us and the financing we had available. Our installer was very polite and professional. The job was done quickly and the right way! The new window looks great!
We just had 4 windows replaced and Jay the installer did an A+ job. I’ve had numerous jobs done by Choice and they’ve always been top notch with kind and courteous people from start to finish.