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How to Fix Foggy Windows: Causes, Solutions & When to Replace

Posted on by ali

Foggy windows are one of the most common issues for homeowners and strata buildings across Greater Vancouver — especially in our damp coastal climate. If your windows look cloudy, hazy, or permanently “fogged up,” you’re likely dealing with a failing seal or moisture trapped between the glass panes.

This guide explains why foggy windows happen, whether they can be repaired, and the only permanent fix property managers and homeowners can rely on.

What Causes Foggy Windows?

Most foggy windows are caused by failed thermal seals on double-pane or triple-pane units. Over time, the airtight seal breaks down, allowing moisture to seep inside the insulated glass unit (IGU).

Common causes include:

  • Aging windows (10–20+ years old)
  • Vancouver’s high humidity and frequent rainfall
  • Quick temperature changes
  • Poor installation
  • Building movement and settling
  • Sun exposure that expands and contracts the seal daily

When the seal fails, moisture gets trapped between the panes — creating a foggy, cloudy, or streaked appearance that can’t be wiped off.

Is a Foggy Window Dangerous?

A foggy window isn’t usually dangerous, but it is a warning sign.

Foggy windows often lead to:

  • Reduced energy efficiency
  • Heat loss and higher utility bills
  • Mold growth around the frame
  • Poor visibility and reduced natural light
  • Decreased property value
  • Condensation spreading to neighbouring units in strata buildings

Left unaddressed, a simple foggy window can become a full replacement project.

Can You Fix a Foggy Window Yourself?

Short answer: No.

Many homeowners try temporary fixes:

  • Blow dryer
  • Defogging sprays
  • Drilling “vent holes”
  • Running a dehumidifier

These won’t repair the broken seal, and in some cases can make the problem worse.

Once moisture is inside the insulated glass unit, DIY isn’t effective. The damage is structural.

The Only Permanent Fix: Sealed Unit Replacement

The good news? You don’t always need a full window replacement.

At Crown Glass Vancouver, we typically fix foggy windows with a sealed unit replacement, which means:

  • We keep your existing frame and window system
  • Only the insulated glass panel is replaced
  • The result looks brand-new and restores full visibility and insulation

Benefits of sealed unit replacement:

  • More affordable than replacing the entire window
  • Fast turnaround (often same-week service)
  • Great for strata and multi-unit projects
  • Restores clarity and energy efficiency
  • No damage to interior finishes

For badly warped or failing frames, a full replacement may be recommended — but this is less common.

When Should Foggy Windows Be Replaced Immediately?
You should consider fast replacement if you notice:

  • Water droplets pooling between panes
  • Visible mold or black spots
  • Warped or rotting wooden frames
  • Crack spreading within the glass
  • Fogging across multiple windows in the same unit
  • Cold drafts or heat loss

If you manage a strata property, multiple fogged windows can indicate a building-wide seal failure issue.

How Crown Glass Vancouver Can Help

We specialize in foggy window repair and replacement for:

  • Residential homes
  • Strata buildings
  • Townhouses
  • Condos (including rope-access replacements)
  • Commercial storefronts

What we offer:

  • Free on-site assessments
  • Fast sealed unit replacement
  • Rope-access service for high-rise units
  • Same-week scheduling
  • Competitive pricing
  • Clean, professional installation
  • 30+ years local experience

Book a Foggy Window Assessment Today

If your windows are foggy, cloudy, or permanently hazy, the earlier you address the issue, the less expensive the fix will be.

Contact Crown Glass Vancouver today for a free assessment.
We’ll restore your view, improve insulation, and help your home or strata look its best again.

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How Long Does It Take to Replace a Broken Window in Vancouver?

Posted on by ali

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Broken Window-Crown Glass Vancouver

A broken window never happens at a convenient time — and if it’s in the middle of the night or during a storm, the first question most homeowners and property managers ask is:
“How long will this take to fix?”

At Crown Glass Vancouver, we specialize in 24/7 emergency glass services, from board-ups to full replacements. Here’s what to expect at every step of the process.

🚨 Step 1: Emergency Board-Up (Within Hours)

If your window has shattered or cracked and you need to secure the property right away, our technicians provide same-day and after-hours emergency board-ups across the Greater Vancouver Area.

Board-ups prevent:

  • Weather damage

  • Unauthorized entry

  • Further cracking or safety hazards

Once your window is safely covered, our team measures the opening precisely and submits an order for the replacement glass.

💡 Tip: Our 24-hour dispatch ensures your property is protected, day or night — whether it’s a storefront, strata building, or residential home.

emergency board up crown glass vancouver

🧾 Step 2: Ordering the Replacement Glass (1–5 Business Days)

Replacement timelines depend on glass type and availability.
Most standard residential windows can be sourced within 1–3 business days, while custom or tempered units can take up to a week depending on supplier stock.

However, our relationships with trusted local suppliers mean we may be able to expedite orders when safety or weather exposure is a concern.

Common Turnaround Times:

Type of GlassAverage Lead Time
Standard single pane2–3 business days
Double-pane sealed unit3–5 business days
Tempered or laminated safety glass5–7 business days
Specialty / tinted / patterned glass7-10 business days

🔧 Step 3: Installation Day — Usually Same-Day Once Glass Arrives

Once the glass is ready, we schedule an installation time that works for the homeowner, tenant, or property manager.


If availability aligns, depending on the scope of work, we can complete the replacement the same day the glass arrives.

During installation, our glaziers:

  1. Remove any remaining damaged glass

  2. Clean and prepare the frame

  3. Install and seal the new pane

  4. Verify fit, weatherproofing, and alignment

  5. Dispose of all debris safely

crown glass high rise rope access glazing

🏙️ Why Vancouver Properties Need Quick Glass Response

Vancouver’s wet coastal climate makes fast turnaround essential. Even a short delay can lead to moisture intrusion, mold, or heat loss.

Our services include:

💬 Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to replace a broken window in Vancouver?
Usually anywhere from 1 to 5 business days, depending on glass type — but your property is secure within hours thanks to our 24/7 emergency service.

Whether it’s a single residential window, a commercial storefront, or strata glass damage, Crown Glass Vancouver delivers quick, professional, and reliable service every step of the way.

Need emergency board-up or window replacement in Vancouver?

 

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Can Broken Window Glass Be Recycled?

Posted on by ali

When a window or storefront panel breaks, many people wonder if the glass can simply be recycled like bottles or jars. It’s a good question — and the answer is a bit more complex than most realize.

Shattered Window Crown Glass

Why Window Glass Isn’t Recycled Like Regular Glass

While household glass bottles are easily recyclable, window glass, tempered glass, and laminated safety glass are made with special coatings and treatments. These materials have higher melting points and often include multiple layers — sometimes even plastic interlayers, as in laminated or Low-E glass.
Because of this, recycling facilities can’t process window glass in the same way as standard container glass, and mixing them can actually contaminate an entire batch of recyclable material.

What Happens to Broken Glass at Crown Glass Vancouver

At Crown Glass Vancouver, environmental responsibility is part of our process. Whenever we replace a residential, commercial, or strata glass unit, our team:

  1. Safely removes and contains all broken shards to prevent injury or debris.

  2. Sorts the material by type — float, tempered, laminated, or mirror glass — since each must be handled differently.

  3. Works with an approved recycling and recovery facility in the Lower Mainland that specializes in glass aggregate repurposing or environmentally safe disposal.

Some types of architectural glass can be crushed and reused in construction aggregate or insulation products, helping reduce landfill waste and support a more sustainable building cycle.

A Safer, Greener Approach to Glass Replacement

So while broken window glass usually can’t go into your blue bin, it doesn’t have to go to waste. At Crown Glass Ltd., we ensure every piece of removed glass is handled, transported, and disposed of safely and responsibly — protecting both our clients and the environment.

If your window, storefront, or balcony glass needs replacement, contact our Vancouver team for fast service and eco-conscious glass handling.

Learn more about Crown Glass Vancouver

About Us

24-Hour Glass Repair Solutions

Posted on by admin

Discover Round-the-Clock Glass Repair Services for Emergencies in Vancouver

In the bustling city of Vancouver, the need for immediate solutions to unexpected problems is a constant. This is especially true when it comes to glass repairs, which can range from a shattered storefront window to a broken home window pane. The availability of 24-hour glass repair services in Vancouver is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for safety, security, and peace of mind. Let’s delve into why these round-the-clock services are crucial.

Why 24/7 Service Matters

Immediate Safety and Security Concerns: The primary reason for the importance of 24/7 glass repair services is safety and security. A broken window or glass door can leave your property vulnerable to weather elements, animals, and even intruders. Timely repair is essential to maintain the integrity of your space.

Preventing Further Damage: Glass damage can quickly escalate if not addressed promptly. For instance, a small crack in a window can expand, leading to more significant issues. Immediate repairs can prevent such escalations, saving property owners both time and money in the long run.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that help is just a call away at any hour provides immense peace of mind to property owners. Whether it’s late at night or early in the morning, the assurance that you can swiftly address glass-related emergencies is invaluable.

Types of Emergency Repairs

Residential Glass Repairs: This includes repairing or replacing windows, glass doors, and other glass components in homes. Such repairs are crucial for maintaining the comfort and safety of residents.

Commercial Glass Services: Businesses cannot afford to have a broken window or door for extended periods. Quick repairs are essential for maintaining the professional appearance and security of a business premise.

Automotive Glass Repairs: For vehicles, glass damage can mean the difference between being roadworthy or not. Quick repairs are essential, especially for windshield cracks, which can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Fast Response Times

Swift Assessments and Action: 24-hour glass repair services in Vancouver are designed for rapid response. Professionals can quickly assess the damage and take the necessary action to fix the issue, whether it’s a temporary patch-up or a full replacement.

Equipped for All Situations: These services are well-equipped with the tools and materials needed for most types of glass damage, ensuring that repairs can be carried out immediately.

Professional Expertise Around the Clock: The teams involved in 24-hour glass repair are skilled professionals. They have the expertise to handle different types of glass damage and offer solutions that ensure the durability and safety of the repair work.

In conclusion, 24-hour glass repair services in Vancouver are an essential component of the city’s service landscape. They provide vital support in emergencies, ensuring safety, preventing further damage, and offering peace of mind to residents and business owners alike. Whether it’s a broken window at home, a damaged storefront, or a cracked windshield, knowing that professional help is available at any time can make all the difference. For 24/7 emergency glass solutions, Crown Glass Vancouver’s got you covered.

CALL US (604) 803-6006