Foggy Insulating Glass? Only One Solution, says Keith Carlson
Posted by Laura Nelson on October 2, 2009
Homes that have insulating glass often have problems with foggy glass, according to Keith Carlson, owner of Carlson’s Glass in downtown Wheaton.
Keith Carlson
“It’s a ‘seal’ situation,” says Carlson. “The hermetic seal has been breached, and moisture gets trapped between the two panes of glass. While it doesn’t greatly affect the performance of a window, cosmetically it certainly is detrimental.”
Homeowners should beware, says Carlson, of claims to repair the problem without replacing the window. The technique used, he says, involves drilling several small holes in the glass–and then affixing a screen over the holes. The theory is that the moisture will evaporate. The problem with the “quick fix” is that sometimes the screen wire comes off the window–and bugs, water, or debris gets in the hole and gets trapped between the glass panes.
“It’s an interesting idea,” says Carlson, “but doesn’t seem to be the right solution.” Carlson says several customers have called to have windows replaced after trying this technique first.
Carlson maintains that insulating glass replacement is still the best solution. It features a ten year factory warranty against moisture. Existing frames and trim can be left in place, requiring no further maintenance.
To learn more about glass and window and screen repair, call Keith Carlson at (630) 668-7234. Carlson’s Glass is at 312 W. Front St., Wheaton.
Tags:Home & Garden
