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Moisture Between Window Panes: Causes and Solutions for Foggy Windows
If you’ve noticed a foggy or hazy appearance on your window glass surface that won’t go away after cleaning, chances are you’re dealing with moisture trapped between the glass panels. This common issue can affect double pane windows. The issue not only blocks your view but also signals a failure in your window’s insulation.
Join our Raleigh window repair team at Glass Solutions as we explain what causes interior condensation between window panes, how to fix it, and when it’s time to consider a professional repair service to get rid of the trapped moisture.
The Importance of Your Home’s Window Panes
Double or triple pane windows are designed to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer between the indoors and outdoors. The space between the two panes of glass is often filled with an insulating gas such as krypton or argon gas. This slows down the movement of heat and helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
When working properly, this sealed unit prevents moist air from entering and keeps the inside of your home comfortable year-round. However, problems arise when the seals fail. Once the window seal is compromised, humid air can seep into the space between the two panes, where moisture condenses and becomes trapped.
This leads to the look of foggy windows that will not go away from cleaning, since the issue is with the inside surface of the window.
What Causes Condensation Between Window Panes?
Moisture between window panes can result from several underlying issues. Let’s look closer at the specific causes of condensation issues.
Broken Seal
Over time, window seals naturally wear down due to exposure to the elements. UV rays, rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures can break down the sealant, allowing moisture to enter and get trapped inside the glass unit. This can lead to the need for a window seal repair.
Temperature Fluctuations
Heat causes materials to expand, and cold makes them contract. Constant cycles of hot and cold weather can put stress on window seals. Eventually, this stress leads to small gaps where moisture can seep in and collect between the panes.
Excess Indoor Humidity
If the seal is already weak, high humidity inside your home can accelerate moisture intrusion. Everyday activities like cooking, showering, and using humidifiers contribute to elevated moisture levels that may lead to condensation forming between the glass.
Aging Windows
Older double-pane windows are more likely to experience moisture problems. As window technology improves over time, new window units offer better sealing and insulation, making aging windows especially vulnerable to seal failure.
Poor Installation or Manufacturing Defects
In some cases, improper installation or low-quality manufacturing may be to blame. If the window was not sealed correctly during installation—or if the materials were defective—the likelihood of moisture buildup between panes increases dramatically.
How to Get Rid of Moisture Between Window Panes
While the foggy appearance of your windows may be frustrating, there are several ways to address the issue depending on its severity and the condition of the window itself.
How to Prevent Condensation Between Window Panes
While no window is immune to long-term wear, there are several proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk of moisture developing between panes.
Maintain Proper Indoor Humidity
High humidity levels inside your home increase the likelihood of condensation forming—especially if a seal is already weakening. Use dehumidifiers, run exhaust fans during cooking and showering, and consider installing a hygrometer to monitor indoor moisture.
Ensure Good Air Circulation
Ventilation plays a key role in moisture control. Keep air flowing throughout your home with ceiling fans, open windows during mild weather, and functional HVAC systems. Stale, trapped air tends to hold more moisture, which can affect window performance over time.
Inspect and Seal Window Frames Regularly
Even a small crack in your window frame can let in moisture and air that contributes to condensation between panes. Check your windows periodically for signs of cracking, shrinking caulk, or loose seals, and repair window seals promptly with weatherproof materials.
Invest in Quality Windows
If you’re replacing older windows, consider high-performance triple or double glazed windows with advanced seal technology and durable materials. Energy-efficient windows with strong thermal barriers are better equipped to handle temperature shifts without seal degradation.
Schedule Routine Window Maintenance
Just like your roof or HVAC system, windows benefit from periodic check-ups. Schedule inspections every few years to spot early signs of seal wear, condensation risks, or installation issues before they lead to permanent damage.
Moisture in Window Pane FAQs
Is it possible to get condensation out of windows?
It depends on where the condensation is located. If it’s on the interior or exterior surface of the glass, you can wipe it away or reduce it with ventilation and dehumidifiers. However, if the condensation is between window panes, it’s due to a failed seal—and that moisture cannot be removed without professional repair or replacement.
Can you fix moisture between window panes without replacing the window?
In some cases, yes. Window defogging services can remove moisture by drilling a small hole, drying the area, and resealing it. However, this is often a temporary fix. For long-term results, especially if insulation is compromised, replacing the insulated glass unit (IGU) is typically the best option.
Why does humidity between window panes happen more in winter?
During winter, the temperature difference between the warm indoor air and cold outdoor air causes condensation to form more easily. If your window seals are compromised, that humidity gets trapped between the panes, creating persistent fog or cloudiness inside the glass.
How do I know if I should repair or replace my foggy windows?
If the fogging is light or infrequent, and your window is still insulating well, repair might be a cost-effective solution. However, if you notice persistent condensation, drafts, or a significant drop in energy efficiency, replacing the insulated glass unit—or even the entire window—may be the better long-term investment.
Contact Glass Solutions for Foggy Window Repair in Raleigh
Don’t let moisture between your window panes block your view or reduce your home’s energy efficiency. At Glass Solutions, we specialize in foggy window repair and insulated glass replacement to restore clarity, comfort, and performance—without the cost of full window replacement. Serving Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Garner, Wake Forest, and surrounding areas, our experienced team is ready to help.
Request your free estimate today by calling 919-772-1007 or filling out our online contact form today.