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Why Are My Windows Fogging Up? Your Guide to Window Condensation

Foggy windows are a common problem in homes. In addition to being unsightly, a foggy window can cause significant problems. It can cause moisture buildup on the inside of your windows, which will eventually ruin the wood parts of the window or lead to rotting on window sills. Fogged windows also act as a path for mold to accumulate and negatively affect the air quality of your home. Below, we’ll discuss the leading causes of fog in windows and how to fix them.

What Causes Windows To Fog Up

So, what causes glasses to steam indoors? And why does this seem to happen most in the morning? The answer lies in your window seals. Fog is created when the temperature of a surface is lower than that of water vapor present in the surrounding air. When warm, moist air meets a cold surface (which causes heat to be lost), condensation occurs on that surface. Compromised or broken window seals allow moisture to accumulate between the glass panes of windows.

Common Fixes for Fogging Windows

Windows are an essential part of every home, but they can also be problematic without maintenance. If you notice condensation in your windows, use some of the tips below.

Get New, Energy-Efficient Glass Windows

Contact a professional window company to consult with you about new energy-efficient glass that blocks out moisture before it detrimentally affects your indoor air quality.

Use a Dehumidifier

Sometimes, windows fog when it’s humid outside but cool indoors. Using a dehumidifier indoors during the warmer months can reduce humidity and, as a result, window fog.

Open a Window or Door

If humidity isn’t the culprit, perhaps it’s a lack of airflow. Opening a window and door on opposite ends of the home will allow air to flow through naturally. Besides, fresh air isn’t such a terrible idea.

Use a Ceiling Fan

Similar to the point above, poor airflow may be the problem. If you don’t have a dehumidifier, turn on your ceiling fan. During the summer, the outside air will be significantly warmer than the air in your home, resulting in fog accumulation. Circulating the air in your home may help resolve this problem.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foggy Windows

Do I need to replace my window, or can I replace the fogging portion?

Consulting a professional window installer is the first step for answering this question. They can assess if replacing the window or the glass will give you the best value.

What causes the insulated glass in my window to fog?

Moisture can seep in between the glass panes when the seal is compromised. This moisture condenses on the interior surface between the panes, evaporates, and leaves behind mineral deposits.

What puts my windows at risk of fogging?

Actions that can affect the life span and performance of your windows include:

  • Frequent exposure to UV and infrared light
  • Pressure washing with solvents that contain bleach
  • Window tints or films
  • Window designs that don’t lock out moisture or that don’t have the proper weep holes
  • Not caulking windows regularly
  • Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals when cleaning

Get Started With a Consultation

Unfortunately, the number one cause of fogged windows is a broken seal, which requires an expert. Quality Window & Door supplies the Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia area with quality window insulation and replacement services you can count on! Contact us at 800-370-8751 to receive a free quote and get started on your home improvement project!

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I have been working with this company for many years, trusting that if problems were to arise with a product, Quality Window would find a happy outcome for the customer. This has been the case!! Mike Hudson is a thorough and profesional sales representative, always willing to patiently take a call and mitigate doubts and concerns. John Poulos offers amazing customer service. Always prompt and communicative. The liaison between company and client could not be in better hands!! Thank you.
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Great company that backs their product. We built a new house and Quality Window & Doors was the subcontractor for our Weathershield windows and doors. Wayne and Noe came out to service a broken handle on our 16' Weathershield sliding door. We were technically beyond the warranty period but they repaired the handle for free. They also took the time to go around and adjust our other exterior doors to make sure they were well aligned now that the house had settled a bit. Wayne was a real expert and got all the doors adjusted and working perfectly!
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Excellent products and service. The install went well too! Would definitely order from them again.
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Great service. I highly recommend Quality Window and Door for information, purchasing and service. I have used this firm for a number of years both as an architect and as a client. I've always been very satisfied with their products and service.
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We are thrilled with our new windows and door! Excellent job from estimate to completion! The install team was fantastic and I loved that the lead installer was also present during the initial measurement phase. It took a few months for the windows to arrive so it was really nice to see a familiar face for the install and he knew exactly what to do! Highly recommend!!
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Quality Door and Window did a fantastic job at a reasonable price.in installing 23 replacement windows, including the combination of two windows into one larger picture window. Highly recommended.
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QWD is a first rate company. The staff from product selection, estimate, showroom, measurement and installation were professional and highly competent. The installation crew paid attention to detail and went through great lengths to ensure our satisfaction. I love the new windows and I recommend them without reservation.
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Have relied on QW&D for all my window and door needs for over 25 years. I know I can count on their expertise and responsiveness.
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