Why Are Your Glass Windows Foggy?
If the windows in your home have become faded or foggy and you can't clear the window with cleaning supplies, you may be wondering what the cause of this issue is and how to fix it. The three main causes of foggy windows are ultraviolet (UV) damage, water damage, and improper cleaning. Read on to learn more about these issues and how to fix them.
Ultraviolet Damage
UV rays from the sun can actually break down chemical bonds in the glass and cause color fading and fogginess. If the damage is extensive, it may be a good idea to repair the issue with replacement windows that are more durable. For example, you could get laminated glass, which has a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) layer. This layer reduces damage from UV rays as well as reduces outside noise and energy loss within the house.
A glass manufacturer can also apply a tint, film, or silver oxide coating to your window that can help protect the glass from damage and reduce glare. If you don't want to completely replace the glass, but you have uneven fogginess, you may opt for frosted or sandblasted glass. This type of glass helps to diffuse direct sunlight and can even out any fading.
Water Damage
If hard water droplets get on your windows, they can dry and leave trace minerals behind. These minerals can fuse with glass and lead to fogginess. If you try to wipe the droplets away, you could end up scratching the glass. To fix this problem, you should look for insulated glass installations. Insulated glass windows consist of two panes of glass separated by an inert gas. Insulated glass windows improve energy efficiency and maintain the humidity level so that moisture doesn't build up on the glass.
If you already have insulated glass windows and there is moisture building up on the panes, you may want to look for leaks around the window seal. Warmer temperatures can cause the seals to expand and crack, so moisture can easily build up on the panes. Re-caulking the seal around the glass could fix the problem.
Improper Cleaning Damage
You should ask your window manufacturer for recommendations on cleaning products because believe it or not, some cleaning products and tools can damage your windows. Some cleaners may leave behind residue that can attract dust and dirt, which can build up and cause foggy windows. While ammonia-based cleaners may work well for bathroom mirrors, they can cause fading on glass windows—especially tinted ones. Some people may use paper towels to clean their windows, but microscopic wooden fibers in the towels can be abrasive and cause fading. Squeegees and microfiber cloths are usually better options for cleaning windows.
These are just a few ways your glass windows can become faded or foggy. Reach out to a glass window repair service, such as Broadview Glass Window & Door, for more information.
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