Repair/ Clear Fog or Steam from Insulated Glass Q&A

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Dear NH,

We have insulated glass windows that have fogged up since we moved into our new home 2 years ago. Short of getting them replaced, has anyone ever tried drilling a couple holes on the inside pane and either blowing air through or inserting some sort of heating element to dry out the inside? Thereafter a little caulk could seal the holes.

T from Chalfont, PA

Dear T,

Insulated glass is tempered, and cannot be drilled... it will shatter. So any egress between the panels would have to be through the spacer between the two panes.

There have been companies that have claimed they could "repair" insulated glass, but for the most part this process has been a failure.

The best long-term solution is to replace the glass, plus you'll get a full warranty (from the manufacturer). In the case of most wood-framed windows, the entire window sash may need to be replaced. Sliding windows and doors can usually be disassembled so you can replace just the glass.

Fortunately, most major window brands offer replacement glass for decades-old windows. (Expect to pay unless your windows are warrantied) Check online at the company's website for ordering information.

If you have an "off" brand or your windows are so old that there are no manufacturer replacement available, you may still have hope. Many quality glaziers can order you custom-sized insulated glass! I have personally gotten insulated glass for 12 sliding glass doors and the cost was substantially less than replacing all 6 door sets.

NH