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Dealing with foggy windows that never get clean
There are several windows in my basement that I’ve tried to clean – inside and out. Yet they remain foggy with a film that does not seem to go away due to a broken seal with several windows. There are many ways this issue is described: a failed window seal, blown seal, lost vacuum seal or moisture between the panes. All these have a sound of a catastrophic failure that is likely to lead to major issues later. But the issue is no catastrophe. Let me put this into context and give you some helpful information.
First, virtually all modern windows have two panes with a seal, usually filled with an insulating gas like Argon to reduce heat loss. The older, pre-1980s windows were generally single panes and known for their condensation on cold days. Nowadays they install double and in some cases triple glass pane which help to retain heat. Put your hand on a window on a cold day and you will notice the cool feel. Single pane windows feel really cold. This tells us that while insulated windows retain heat better, windows are incredible sources of heat loss. The first apartment my wife and I lived in was built in the 1960s and the drafty windows were particularly cold. We ended up installing plastic heat-shrinking covers in the winter to help regulate the temperature (we jokingly referenced these as a preventative reproductive device for windows!).
Second, double pane windows have a reputation of leaking the gas seal as the windows age. In my experience, south-facing and often west or east facing windows are most susceptible to failure. High sun exposure seems to promote the issue. When we describe a “failure” we are simply describing the seal which contains the insulating-gas. Sometimes the failure is inconsequential but more often there is the tell-tale fogginess, haziness, or spottiness between the panes. Occasionally you can actually see the moisture between the panes. This is more of a cosmetic issue than a functional issue with the windows. While there is a loss in the insulating capabilities there is an unappealing appearance to the windows.
It is not necessary to replace a window with a broken vacuum seal. Humorously I tell clients that they can always consider this “privacy” glass. With less extreme distortion it is usually noticed only on bright days when the sun is shining at a particular angle. However, windows with a scenic view or serving as a central feature in a main living space or primary bedroom will benefit from a replacement.
Third, replacement is very possible. This rarely requires removal of a frame and complete window replacement. Most windows can be removed similarly to a car windshield with a chip or crack. A qualified window contractor will measure the window, order a replacement matching the dimensions (height, width and depth) and usually return in a few weeks to replace the pane. The cost is usually $300 to $700 per window depending on the size. And when the new pane is installed, get ready for a breath-taking view. The reason this is a major issue for most home buyers is that if there are multiple windows, the replacement cost adds up quickly, and in more extreme situations the window can be very unsightly.
I recently had a window pane replaced at my house. It took the contractor about three weeks between measurement, ordering and final installation. The cost including tax was just under $400 for a window pane 3′ wide by 5′ tall. A quote for a glass door slider was about $700. I decided to settle for the “privacy” glass look with that one!
