Foggy windows can be an eyesore and a nuisance, obstructing your view and making your home feel dreary. However, there is hope – foggy windows can often be repaired through a process called defogging. While this fledgling niche industry is capable of producing cosmetic results that improve visibility, it’s important to understand both the pros and cons of this approach.
The Defogging Process
The defogging process typically involves three key steps:
Drilling small holes in the glass to allow moisture to escape from between the panes.
Cleaning the interior of the window with a specialized solution to remove any excess moisture or residue.
Installing microvents over the drilled holes to seal them and prevent future moisture buildup.
Benefits of Defogging
The primary benefit of defogging is that it can restore the clarity of your windows at a fraction of the cost of a full window replacement. Defogging is also a relatively quick and convenient process, often taking less than 20 minutes per window. Additionally, by improving the insulative properties of your windows, defogging can lead to lower energy costs for heating and cooling your home.
Drawbacks of Defogging
While defogging can improve the appearance of your windows, it does not restore their original insulating ability (R-value). The drilling process can also compromise the integrity of the window, potentially leading to future issues. Additionally, defogging is a temporary fix, and the windows may become foggy again in a year or two, requiring the process to be repeated.