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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Smart, Sustainable Window Repair – Explained

Got questions about foggy or broken windows? We’ve got answers.


Explore quick answers to common questions about dual-pane glass replacement and window repair across Southern California.

 

Need help now? Call us at 760.904.0935  - we're ready to help.

  • How is this different from full window replacement?
    At VitroTech Glass, we specialize in replacing just the insulated glass unit (IGU) inside your existing vinyl window frame - not the entire window. Here's how our glass-only replacement service compares to traditional full window replacement: Our process is ideal if your frames are still in good shape but the glass has failed (foggy, inefficient, or cracked). You’ll enjoy modern performance and energy savings without the cost, mess, or delay of full replacement.
  • What exactly is high performance glass replacement?
    High-performance glass replacement means upgrading just the insulated glass unit (IGU) in your existing window using advanced, modern materials designed to outperform your original glass in every way. At VitroTech Glass, our high-performance glass packs are custom-built and installed into your existing vinyl frames. This gives you all the benefits of new window technology without the cost or disruption of a full window replacement. WHAT'S INSIDE A HIGH-PERFORMANCE GLASS UNIT? Dual-pane insulated glass with an airtight seal. Low-E³ (low emissivity) coating to block heat, glare, and UV rays. Argon gas fill between the panes for added insulation. Warm-edge spacer technology to reduce condensation and improve efficiency. Tempered or fire-rated glass options for added safety and wildfire zone compliance. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A HIGH-PERFORMANCE GLASS UNIT? Keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Helps cut energy bills. Reduces outside noise. Meets California energy and wildfire codes. Makes your windows look clear and new again. In short: You keep your existing frames, but get the same performance (or better) than most full window replacements - for a fraction of the price.
  • What homes benefit most from dual-pane glass replacement?
    Homes built between 1990 and 2010 are ideal candidates for dual-pane glass replacement, especially if they originally came with vinyl windows and early-generation insulated glass. These homes often have: Failed seals (causing foggy or hazy windows). Outdated Low-E coatings that no longer meet energy. Windows that do not meet fire safety standards. In particular, homes in Southern California benefit greatly due to: High Sun Exposure: modern Low-E coatings block more heat and UV. Wildfire Zones: updated glass meets WUI code (fire-rated). Energy Savings: upgraded glass significantly reduces cooling bills. By replacing just the glass (not the entire window), you preserve your frames, waterproofing, and interior finishes, while gaining the performance of today’s high-efficiency glass. If your windows are more than 15 years old, foggy, or letting in heat, VitroTech’s re-glazing solution could save you thousands.
  • Will the work damage my stucco or waterproofing?
    No. Since we don’t cut into the frame, there’s no impact on stucco, flashing, or waterproofing. Your interior and exterior finishes remain completely intact.
  • How long does the process take from first visit to completed install?
    At VitroTech Glass, we’ve streamlined the process to be fast, efficient, and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect: STEP 1. IN-HOME CONSULTATION: We assess your windows, take measurements, and walk you through your options. Timeframe: Usually scheduled within 2 - 3 days of your inquiry. STEP 2. FINAL MEASURE & ORDER: Once the job is approved, we return for a critical measure to ensure precise fit. Custom glass units are then ordered from our manufacturing partners. Lead time: Typically 10 - 14 business days, depending on glass type and size. STEP 3. INSTALLATION: Our team returns to install your new high-performance glass. Most projects are completed in 1 day, with minimal disruption to your home. No stucco cutting, no drywall mess - just clean, efficient work. TOTAL TIME FROM START TO FINISH: ~2-3 WEEKS We’ll keep you informed at every step and work around your schedule to make the process as smooth as possible.
  • Do you offer financing or help with tax credits?
    Absolutely! We’re here to make upgrading your windows as affordable as possible: FINANCING OPTIONS: Low monthly payment options. Fast, paperless approval process, often right during your in-home appointment. Whether you want to spread the cost out or take advantage of energy savings now, we’ll help you find a plan that fits your budget. TAX CREDITS: Most VitroTech glass upgrades qualify for the federal Energy Star tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act: Up to $600 in tax credit per home for high-efficiency window upgrades. No income limit to qualify. We’ll provide the documentation you need for your tax preparer. If your home is located in a wildfire-prone zone, you may also be eligible for additional rebates or insurance discounts. We’ll walk you through all of your options during your appointment and make sure you get every incentive you qualify for.
  • What kind of warranty comes with the project?
    WHAT DOES YOUR GLASS WARRANTY COVER? All High-Performance Glass Packs installed by VitroTech Glass are backed by a 20-year warranty covering: Seal failure (fogging or moisture between panes). Glass clarity defects (distortion, inclusions, blemishes). Thermal stress cracks due to manufacturing defect. Low-E coating degradation (peeling, spotting). This warranty applies as long as the original purchaser owns the home. WHAT ABOUT WORKMANSHIP? We proudly stand behind our installers. VitroTech offers a 2-year workmanship warranty, which covers: Proper sealing and setting of the glass. Alignment and operation issues caused by installation. Frame preparation and caulking. WHAT IS NOT COVERED? To keep it transparent, here’s what the warranty doesn’t cover: Damage caused by structural movement, impact, vandalism, or severe weather. Scratches or chips after installation. Failure due to improper use or third-party tampering. IS THERE A GLASS BREAKAGE WARRANTY? Yes. We offer a 5-year accidental glass breakage protection, which includes: One-time free glass replacement per unit. Includes standard labor and materials. Excludes extreme weather events or misuse. HOW DO I FILE A WARRANTY CLAIM? Simple. Just contact us at warranty@vitrotechglass.earth or call 760.904.0935. We’ll schedule a no-cost inspection and resolve it quickly if it’s covered. DOES THE WARRANTY TRANSFER IF I SELL THE HOME? Yes - once! You can transfer the warranty to the next homeowner within 60 days of sale, as long as you notify us in writing. A $75 transfer fee applies.
  • Does your glass meet ENERGY STAR® and California wildfire codes?
    Absolutely. Our proprietary high-performance glass pack is designed to exceed current ENERGY STAR® standards and meets California’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fire safety requirements.
  • What causes my windows to fog up or lose insulation?
    Foggy windows or poor insulation are almost always caused by a failed seal in your insulated glass unit. Modern double-pane windows are built with two layers of glass separated by a sealed airspace filled with insulating gas (like argon). That sealed space blocks heat, cold, and moisture. But over time, the seal can weaken due to: Age and UV exposure (most seals begin to degrade after 15–25 years). Poor manufacturing or installation. Thermal expansion and contraction (as windows heat and cool, they expand and contract, stressing the seal). Excess moisture or water drainage issues around the frame. Pressure changes due to altitude or weather. Once the seal fails, moisture seeps into the space between the panes, and that’s when you see fog, haze, or condensation inside the glass. The window also loses its insulating properties, which means higher energy bills and less comfort. The good news? At VitroTech, we replace just the failed glass, restoring performance and clarity without replacing your entire window.
  • How do I schedule a consultation?
    Scheduling your free consultation is easy - just click the link below. You can also reach us by phone at 760.904.0935 or email us at info@vitrotechglass.earth. We’re happy to help!
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