Why Are Your Vinyl Windows Foggy?
Foggy windows are a huge drag, and not a pleasant sight to see at all. We see it all the time, and it’s one of those frustrating things that keep nagging at you to handle.
A QUICK HISTORY
The Seattle Metro area experienced an explosive housing boom during the last 25 years, accompanied by an equally rocketing rise in home prices. That rising cost created a demand for cheaper windows—which usually average 5-10% of the cost of a new home. Window Manufacturers responded by offering cheap, “builder grade” vinyl windows utilizing a new “Intercept” spacer. Every mass-built development in the Seattle area built since 1998 has these vinyl windows. Visit any big box Home Improvement store and you can see them on the shelves.
“BUILDER GRADE” AND WHY THAT’S BAD
While vinyl isn't the best window frame material from the get-go because it expands and contracts five times more than other material, the main reason for these vinyl window failures is really just cheap quality - in short, they’re "builder grade" which means they save the builder money. Foggy vinyl window failures can be avoided by buying higher quality vinyl windows, or replacing the failed unit with high quality double pane glass units.
THE SUN’S ROLE
Ultimately, direct exposure is the biggest cause of any window failure, and it's especially hard on vinyl windows. The first windows to fail will be the one's that get the most sun. Constant daily thermal expansion and contraction puts enormous stress on window glass and eventually leads to seal failure of the double paned unit. Whenever possible, choose a high quality sun-blocking Low-e like Cardinal 366 and upgrade to a higher quality unit to increase the lifespan of your windows. Standard or SuperSpacer spacers are far superior to Intercept spacers.
THE RED FLAGS
There are some immediate red flags to look for in your windows.
Thin glass: 3/32 instead of the standard 1/8th
U-shaped channel of low-grade steel that rusts when the inner window seal fails (Intercept Spacer)
“Desiccant” caulk lining that melts or cracks in summer heat
Average lifespan of 5-10 years
If you have Intercept spacers, your window glass will begin failing (fogging) in five to eight years. If you are the original homeowner your warranty may still be in effect. If not, we can at least replace the glass units in your “builder grade” windows with high quality units that will last for many years. Ask us for a free quote!
A Better Option
Replacing just the foggy window glass in vinyl framed windows is quick, easy and cheaper than full window replacement, with no construction noise, debris or mess.
WE GET IT
No one gets excited about their windows failing after warranty, that said, we’re here to help make the transition seamless and to solve this problem for you.
BENEFITS
Efficiency - less heat and glare in the summer, and lower heating costs in winter
Lower Noise - reduced noise from thicker glass
Superior UV Protection
Aesthetic Update
Warranty
Your Home Value Goes Up!
Let’s Fix Your Vinyl Windows!
You’ll get a free, no obligation window repair quote, and we won’t ever sell you anything you don’t benefit from - it’s how we like to serve our customers!
We will assess your windows, explain what the issues and options are, and then we'll help you find the solution that works best for you!