Why Windows Fog - Window Seal Failure

Inevitably, all double paned window will fail due to the deterioration and breakdown of the seal. This seal failure then allows warm and cold air to infiltrate the air space between the sealed layers of glass.

The seal can be compromised during manufacturing process, movement of product in warehouse or in shipping, or during the installation process.

If the window actually survives this process from manufacturing to installation, it now has to face the elements such as sun, rain, wind, barometric pressure changes, etc. Not to mention power washing and use of harsh chemicals to clean windows.

Planned Obsolescence in Window Manufacturing

The window manufacturers are well aware of this. As a result of these problems, the window manufacturers place crystal or desiccants within the frame to absorb moisture.

These desiccants would be similar to the bag of crystals you might find in the box when you purchase a pair of shoes, a camera, computer equipment or just about any product that may be susceptible to moisture damage. These desiccants, depending on how badly the seal has failed, will last 5 to 15 years.

Once the desiccants are saturated, they will no longer be able to absorb the moisture and condensation will begin to form between the window panes.

The Damaging Effects of Window Seal Failure

Now you see moisture in between the panes. This is the time you want to fix or vent your windows -- all of them.

If you have one failure and all your windows are the same age, by the same manufacturer, chances are they are all failed. If you do not address this problem, solar pumping occurs. We call this process the "Bellows Effect".

When the air space between your window panes is heated or barometric pressure change occurs, the volume of air expands. When it cools or barometric pressure lowers, it contracts creating this Bellows Effect.

When the pressure is reducing, it is actually pumping or sucking, so if the seal is failed, it will actually suck moisture from around the frame right into the window.

Now the problem compounds, moisture in the window is pushed up and down the window all day long. The desiccants are comprised of magnesium and calcium and once they are dissolved in the moisture, the residue from these desiccants will stain the window white.

White streaks and blotches occur. The white stains are pitted into the glass and cannot be removed. This takes 1 to 2 years after window seal failure. Ideally, all sealed units should be vented after 10 years and they will virtually last forever.

Save Money on Your Window Condensation Repair

We have developed a system to repair your foggy windows for a fraction of the cost of window replacement. We can defog most residential and commercial windows. All our work is covered by a 20 year limited warranty. Find a Dr. Defog-It dealer in your area, and book your free inspection today!