by Nowadays, double-glazed windows are mostly used for new construction or as a replacement as they offer a much better heat barrier in comparison with single-pane windows. The core of this double-glazing is the IGU (insulated glass unit). The basic IGU has air filling the space between the sealed panes while the more sophisticated IGU comes with inert gas filling the space. The inert gas provides improved insulation, thereby reducing heat loss, as a result of which these windows have a much higher energy efficiency than the basic IGU windows.
What Causes Glass Windows to Fog Up?
Sometimes fog builds up within the panes of double glazing which not only reduces visibility but also makes the window look unsightly. The fogginess may come and go, and it is a clear sign of failing seals. Over time, seals around the edges of the glass unit begin to deteriorate due to a host of factors including sunlight, exposure to water, wind loads, working loads, etc. All these cause the inert gas from within the space between the panes to escape while the outside moisture fills up space. The infiltrated moisture condenses and forms fog whenever temperatures inside and outside of the home are extremes. The fog so formed in between the glass panes impairs the energy efficiency of the window, leading to increased heating bills.
Solutions for Foggy Glass
Until recently, you either lived with your foggy glasses or went for a complete replacement of the double glazing. The replacement involves changing the Insulated Glass Unit along with the frame around the glass or replacing just the IGU panel within the sash frame. The process however is cheaper in comparison with having to repair the whole window as less labour and fewer parts are involved in the job. These IGU panels are available with a warranty for a limited period.
The Defogging Procedure
There is a cheaper technique to repair foggy glass windows called the defogging procedure. This low-cost solution involves drilling a hole in the glass to remove moisture from between the glass panes, then seal it up perfectly to prevent outside moisture from infiltrating the IGU. The cost of defogging is about half the cost involved in replacing a whole IGU. This is a cosmetic improvement and the window looks better without the fog within panes. However, no inert gas is replaced within the panes nor the thermal efficiency of the window is restored.
Although DIY tutorials are available to get rid of fogginess in double glazing, these tutorials are not that helpful, and there are good chances of the work being botched up. It will be a wise decision to hire the services of professional companies as they have the right tools and equipment required to work safely. The experienced glaziers can not only complete the job faster, but the result will improve the beauty of the property.