Foggy or Moisture-Trapped Windows? What It Means and What to Do

Foggy Home Windows Explained: Signs of a Failed Window Seal

If you’ve noticed your home windows looking cloudy, hazy, or foggy — even after cleaning — you’re likely dealing with moisture between the glass panes. This isn’t just an eyesore. It’s often a sign that the seal has failed on your insulated windows, and it could mean reduced energy efficiency, higher utility bills, and even long-term window damage.

At Steel Horse Glass, we help homeowners across Oregon City and the surrounding areas diagnose and repair foggy window problems quickly and professionally. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes windows to fog, how to tell if your glass is compromised, and what to do next.

What Are Foggy or Moisture-Trapped Windows?

Foggy windows occur when moisture or condensation forms between the panes of double- or triple-pane glass. These are often referred to as IG units (insulated glass units), and they’re designed to provide better thermal performance than single-pane windows.

Each IG unit is made of two or more glass panes sealed around the edges with an air or gas-filled space in between. This space is meant to be dry and sealed tight. When the seal breaks or fails, moisture can enter and cause:

• Cloudiness or haziness between panes
  
  
• Condensation droplets or fog-like appearance
  
  
• Streaks or film that can’t be cleaned from the inside or outside
  

What Causes Window Seal Failure?

Window seals degrade over time due to a variety of natural and environmental factors. Some of the most common causes include:

Age

Most insulated glass windows have a lifespan of 10–20 years, depending on quality and exposure. Older windows are simply more prone to failure.

Temperature Fluctuations

In Oregon, the shift from cold winters to warm summers causes your windows to expand and contract, which places stress on the seal.

UV Exposure

Direct sunlight degrades the sealant over time and breaks down the materials between the panes.

Poor Installation

If your windows weren’t installed correctly, they may have incomplete sealing, allowing moisture to sneak in.

Water Intrusion or Humidity

Excess moisture in the home or around the window frame can speed up seal failure, especially if water collects at the sill or leaks behind trim.

Why It Matters: More Than Just Looks

Foggy windows do more than affect your view. Once the seal is compromised, the insulating properties of the glass are gone.

Here’s what that means for your home:

• Increased energy costs due to lost thermal insulation
  
  
• Reduced indoor comfort (drafts, uneven temperatures)
  
  
• Mold or mildew risk if moisture spreads into wood frames
  
  
• Lower property value due to cosmetic and efficiency concerns
  
  

If your goal is a more energy-efficient and comfortable home, foggy windows are a sign you can’t afford to ignore.

Repair or Replace: What Are Your Options?

Whether you need to repair the existing glass or replace the IG unit entirely depends on the severity of the damage and the condition of the window.

Most insulated glass windows have a lifespan of 10–20 years, depending on quality and exposure. Older windows are simply more prone to failure.

Option 1: Glass-Only Replacement

If the frame is still in good shape and the issue is confined to the glass, Steel Horse Glass can replace just the insulated glass unit — without replacing the entire window. This is often:

• More affordable than full-frame replacement
  
  
• Faster, with less disruption to your home
  
  

A way to restore appearance and energy efficiency without new construction

Option 2: Full Window Replacement

If the window frame is also rotting, warped, or damaged, or if you’re looking to upgrade to newer, more efficient windows, a full window replacement may be the better long-term investment.

When to Call a Professional

You should schedule a glass inspection if you notice any of the following:

• Persistent condensation or fog between panes
  
  
• Streaking or haze that can’t be wiped away
  
  
• Signs of mold or water damage around the frame
  
  
• Drafts or cold spots near the window
  
  
• Windows that are hard to open or seal properly
  
  

The earlier you catch the issue, the easier and more affordable it is to resolve.

You may have seen services online that offer “defogging” of double-pane windows. These typically involve drilling a small hole, cleaning between the panes, and installing a vent.

However, this is usually a temporary fix and does not restore the window’s insulating ability. At Steel Horse Glass, we recommend replacing the failed IG unit so you get full thermal protection and a long-lasting result.

How Steel Horse Glass Can Help

We offer residential glass repair and replacement for foggy or failed insulated windows throughout Oregon City and nearby areas. Our services include:

• On-site evaluation of your existing windows
  
  
• Accurate glass measurement and sizing
  
  
• Custom fabrication of new insulated glass units
  
  
• Installation of new IG panels without replacing the frame
  
  
• Removal and disposal of fogged or broken glass
  
  

As a family-owned company with over 40 years of experience, we deliver honest recommendations and dependable results — always at competitive pricing.

FAQs About Foggy Windows

Can I just clean the inside of the window to fix the fog?
No. If the fog is between panes, the seal has failed, and moisture is trapped. Cleaning won’t help.

Do I need to replace the entire window?
Not always. If the frame is in good condition, we can often replace just the glass (IG unit) and leave the frame in place.

How long does it take to fix a foggy window?
Most insulated glass replacements take 1–2 hours per window, depending on accessibility and size.

Is this covered by insurance or warranties?
In some cases, fogged glass may be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Homeowners' insurance usually does not cover normal wear and tear.

Don’t Let Foggy Windows Ruin Your View — or Your Energy Bill

If you’re dealing with cloudy, foggy, or moisture-trapped windows, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Let Steel Horse Glass help restore the clarity, efficiency, and comfort of your home with professional, on-site service.

Call or text (503) 502‑2928
Email: steelhorseglass@gmail.com

We’re available Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Serving Oregon City and surrounding communities