For many of us, how to fix your cloudy window is a problem that comes up at least once a year. This can be an eyesore, especially if they are in your living room. While windows are a beautiful addition to any home, they can also be fragile.
The glass is susceptible to scratching, staining and clouding over time if you fail to take proper care of it. You may have noticed that your windows have become cloudy and most homeowners usually don’t know how to handle it. They are not quite dirty enough to be cleaned, and you can’t see through them, but the good news is this is a condition that can be easily fixed.
Luckily, fixing them isn’t as hard as you might think, and you don’t need to go out and buy any fancy products or equipment or you can simply seek professional advice to get it repaired. In this article, you will get insights into a few ways that will help you to fix your cloudy window.
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What causes cloudy windows?
Cloudy windows are a result of moisture seeping between the layers of glass in your window panes. This moisture can come from all sorts of places. The most common cause of cloudy windows is condensation. The result is a windowpane that looks dirty or cloudy or even has water droplets on it. This is especially common in locations with high levels of humidity.
When your indoor air is humid in the summer, or if you live near the ocean; rainwater or melting snow on the outside of your window; water that gets in through poorly sealed edges around your windows or in bathrooms and kitchens where there is a lot of moisture.
Regardless of where it comes from, this trapped moisture has nowhere to go and creates that cloudy effect. It also separates the two panes of glass on either side of it, which can lead to a cloudy window in winter or an uncomfortable amount of sunlight coming through during the summer months.
How to fix a cloudy window?
The windows in your home are a luxury. They let in beautiful natural light, and they give you the option to view the world around you from the comfort of your couch. But sometimes, that view is a bit compromised when your windows get foggy.
Step 1: First, remove all window treatments and hardware. Take any screens and tape off any areas of the window trim that you want to protect from prying tools or cleaning solutions.
Step 2: Next, go over the entire window with a razor blade scraper. This will scrape away the excess condensation and help you start working on some of those stubborn stains.
Step 3: After scraping the glass, use a glass cleaner to wipe away any remaining grime or dirt. A microfiber cloth works best, just make sure it’s clean first. Then buff dry using newspaper or paper towels before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Now it’s time for primer. Apply one coat of primer that’s meant for use on glass surfaces that you can find at most hardware stores with an angled brush, making sure not to skip any sections where there may still be some moisture left behind.
Step 5: To fix a foggy window that’s merely stained from condensation, try opening it up and using a squeegee to remove the moisture build-up. If this doesn’t work or if there’s persistent condensation between the panes, you may need to replace the glass pane itself. But before you call in a professional to do this expensive work.
If your window has some visible cracks or surface damage, cover them with transparent tape before cleaning or replacing anything else. This will help prevent further damage while you clean out any debris that might be causing the damage.
Precautions to prevent cloudy windows
Keeping your windows clean and clear can be a tricky affair, especially when the weather turns colder. Here are some tips to keep your windows from fogging up when the air is cold
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Wipe down your glass
Don’t forget to wipe down the inside of your windows as well. Cleaning both sides of your window will help you notice streaks and smudges, making it easier to keep your glass clear.
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Use a dehumidifier
A dehumidifier will take moisture out of the air, which could help stop condensation on your windows. Try turning it on before going to bed and keeping it on throughout the night.
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Get an air exchanger
If you have a whole-house air exchanger, you will be able to filter out some of the moisture in the air. This can help prevent condensation on your windows as well.
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Skip window treatments
While window treatments may look nice, they can also trap moisture against your windows, making them more likely to fog up.
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Check for caulks
You should ensure that all of your windows are caulked properly. Caulking is a process where they seal the window with a compound so that there’s no way for moisture or air to get through. If your caulk isn’t up to par, then you are probably going to get some fogging on your windows.
The Bottom-line
Cloudy windows can lower the value of the home, and make it look old, run-down, and shabby. Even more than that, cloudy windows can limit the amount of light that gets into your house, which makes it harder and less enjoyable to see things in your own home.
When it comes to fixing foggy windows, you have two basic options: repair the window seal or replace the glass pane. Which option is best for your space depends on the severity of the damage and how much you can spend on repairs. Follow these tips for fixing cloudy windows and making your home more comfortable and enjoyable once again.
