Fogged Window Replacement Portland, Oregon

Most modern homes in today's day and age have windows that are double or triple paned. These different panes offer an extra layer of insulation, being that exterior face of the window is exposed to the elements. Sealed in between each of these layers is a clear, odorless and non-toxic gas typically argon, krypton, or xenon. Double and triple pane windows do a fantastic job keeping the cool air from an air conditioner inside during the summer and keeping brisk air out of the house in the winter. Sounds great right? While it is beneficial, overtime the integrity of the seal on these windows doesn't always remain perfect and don't always last.

There are several variables that can cause a window’s seal to fail. Major fluctuations in temperature, strong winds, and severe rain, for example, can all have a negative impact on the lifespan of a window’s seal. By no means can you expect to protect your windows from exposure to these elements and obviously some regions face more extreme conditions than others. Not to mention, it’s the window’s job to protect the interior of your home from mother nature. With that being said, it’s unavoidable that over time, window seals may eventually break down and succumb to the elements.

Here are a couple of indications that a seal has broken on an insulated glass unit. If moist air has found its way in between the panes and you start to see a buildup of condensation, this causes the glass to fog up and appear hazy. If the problem isn't addressed, you will probably even begin to notice the presence of mineral deposits appearing on the glass, giving the illusion that the glass is dirty. The most frustrating part is that due to the deposit buildup being in between the panes, they are nearly impossible to be cleaned. Over time the rubber seal being exposed to the elements has the tendency to crack especially on the south side of a house the has maximum exposure to the sun.

Now that we have outlined a few signs that your thermal units may have broken seals, we also have a couple of suggestions as to how to address the problem. There are several options for dealing with fogged glass. The first is to replace the entire window. This is the most effective fix because it eliminates the problem entirely. It is also the most expensive option. The cost of replacement windows will obviously vary, depending on the brand, material and style of window. If you find this information useful, but don't have any idea as to what steps to take next. We recommend you let a professional assess the problem and provide the most cost effective and efficient solution. 

The second option you have is to replace the sash. If your windows feature removable sashes, it may be possible for you to leave the existing framework in place and only replace a section of the window itself. This option tends to work for windows with wooden framework, but again isn't always the recommended or best possible solution.  The sash may be referred to as a panel in regard to a vinyl window. With vinyl windows one might recommend replacing the just the thermal unit, without replacing the vinyl frame that came with the original window. For example, if your windows are double-hung, both the frame and the sash can be moved up or down and the sash itself can be taken out and replaced. This option is generally more cost-effective than total window replacement. For the pure fact this is way less labor intensive and oftentimes when replacing the entire window, you'll have material expenses as well. If you’re unsure of whether you have removable sashes, ask My Window Man for an expert's opinion.

The third option is to replace the insulated glass unit, this is a relatively simple process but requires a person who pays attention to detail. Begin with removal of the existing panes, thorough cleaning of the frame, a new application of insulated double sided sticky tape foam, and the placement of new glass into the opening. This process tends to be specific to vinyl windows This option is typically the most practical and feasible solution to glass seal failures, particularly because it does not require any additional painting, staining, or other craftsman detail work.

It's good to note that if you are having just one or two windows repaired, some companies in the industry may charge a higher rate per-window than if you were replacing all the windows in your home. In fact, some companies won't even give an estimate for the project if it's less than three windows. If you have several windows that need repair, it may actually be more cost-effective to make the investment and do the entire replacement window project at once. If you have one outdated window with a broken seal, the chances are, that your other windows aren't far behind. Updating your home's windows can help you avoid having to call in an expert each time a window fails, and updating your home with new windows has one of the best returns on investments in terms of things you can do to update and increase the value of your home.

Some people chose to do nothing at all. But for those of you looking to see clearly out of your windows again, you now have an understanding of the problem at hand as well as some viable options. For some people the problem is too frustrating to ignore, however, you can always trust Portland's Oregon 5 star rated window company My Window Man. If you are looking for a professional to help walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have, connect with us today.