Condensation Between Thermal Window Panes

[pattie72]

I have double hung insulated windows in my house, I have noticed a purple tint to them lately and one has handprints between one and another looks like it has been scratched in between it also one gets all fogged up. I think that the seal is broken on them. I have a 5 year old house that was new when I purchased it, my warranty says it will replace windows for 20 years but I would have to pay labor, now I have about 16 windows that may need replacing. What is your advice on this and would it be cheaper for us to go elsewhere for replacement windows or have them replace them?
Thank You

[Laurence]

My warranty had expired & only 2 windows were foggy. I went back to the same guy who installed the windows; the installation wasn't the problem. He now installs PPG sealed units & believes they are better made than those of his previous supplier. And if you're in Manitoba I'll gladly supply a reference.

If these are dual pane windows - sealed window units - replacing the window probably means just replacing these. The frame itself doesn't need replacement, which makes the cost considerably less than replacing an old window. I'd get a price on the labour first and get another quote as well. If you're only paying labour, I'd expect it to be lower. But will they install exactly the same windows that seem to only last a few years?

[Macattac]

You have hit on a great issue, most decent window companies will happily perform the minimum they promise to do in the written warranty. I also know from personal experience within the industry that "squeeky wheels" get quite a bit more.

Unfortunately it doesn't sound like you are in a position with alot of leverage on this one. It would be different if you had bought them from a local lumberyard who you could pester, then they nag the rep for the company and eventually somebody throws up their hands and presto! ..labor included at no charge.

The key here is to find out what you will get. Many times the manufacturer will make the replacement (warranty unit) in a new sash. If that is the case, it is of value to you because changing out a sash is pretty easy - even if you can't do it, anyone with a little mechanical aptitude can and once you do one you will fly through the rest.

If on the other hand, they will only make up new glass units and expect you to tackle unglazing old and reglazing the new - it's not much of a value because the labor is more specialized and costly.

So the question is complete sash or just glass? I don't know why some companies do glass only, it causes so many complaints (plus the glass is the expensive part) plus the glass is automatically better protected for transport if it's in the sash. Who's the manufacturer? Maybe someone here can help you.
Ed

[radyn448]

You will save money by just replacing the fogged insulated units and not the whole window. You are right, you will have to pay the labor for a glass company to come and install the units, but at least you will not have to pay for the glass if they are covered under warranty. That purplish tint that you see is because the insulated units that you have are LOW-E units. Unfortunately insulated units have a limited life span, they could 5 years or 50 years. it all depends on what types of elements they are exposed to on a daily basis.

Dave the "Glazier"

[shepelt]

If you decide to replace the insulated units, ask to have them sealed with a "Super Spacer" or a non-metal spacer bar. The spacer bar is the bar that is "separating" the 2 panes of glass. This technology is going to help sustain the life of your sealed units. You can visit Edgetech's website to get more info. Hope this helps!