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.