Contrary to popular belief, you generally simply "reseal" a foggy window. Once the desiccant (moisture-absorbing material inside the spacer) is saturated and the seal fails, the unit is compromised.
Foggy Window? Cracked Seal? A Homeowner’s Guide to Double Pane Glass Window Repair double pane glass window repair
Check your original window warranty. Many high-quality windows have 20-year seal warranties that transfer with the home. You might get free glass replacement! Contrary to popular belief, you generally simply "reseal"
Double pane windows (also known as insulated glass units or IGUs) are a staple of modern energy-efficient homes. They consist of two panes of glass separated by a spacer and a layer of gas (usually argon or krypton) or dry air. Cracked Seal
Here are your three real-world options:
If you have foggy double pane windows, is almost always the right answer. Defogging is a band-aid. And before you DIY, remember: modern double pane glass is heavy, and a measurement error of 1/8" means your new glass won't seat properly.
| Repair Type | Cost per Window | Lifespan | Energy Efficiency Restored? | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Defogging service | $60–$100 | 1–3 years | No (low) | | DIY IGU replacement | $50–$150 (glass only) | 5–15 years | Yes (if sealed correctly) | | Pro IGU replacement | $150–$400 | 10–20 years | Yes | | Full window replacement | $500–$1,200+ | 20–30 years | Yes (plus new frame) |