Cracked glass, fogged panes, failed seals—you don't always need a new window.
Fogged panes, failed seals, and cracked glass don't always mean you need a new window — in most cases, replacing just the insulated glass unit (IGU) inside an existing frame costs significantly less than full replacement. We assess whether the frame is structurally sound and worth retaining, order custom-sized replacement glass units, and install with the same care we apply to full window replacements. You get an honest recommendation — glass replacement when it makes sense, full replacement when it doesn't — and a written quote either way.
Honest scope assessment
Correct glass specification
13+ years experience
Failed insulated glass units are extremely common in Pittsburgh homes that had windows installed in the 1990s and early 2000s. The seal technology from that era had a limited service life, and many of those IGUs are now at or past their useful life. If your windows fog up or stay hazy even after cleaning, the seal has failed—cleaning the outside does nothing for moisture that’s between the panes.
Glass replacement is also the right call after impact damage. A rock from a lawnmower, a fallen branch, an errant baseball—any of these can crack a pane without damaging the frame or hardware. If the frame is intact and the window functions correctly otherwise, replacing just the glass gets you back to full performance quickly and affordably.
When we replace glass, we use the same Low-E coating and argon fill specifications as the original unit where possible. For windows in bathrooms, doors, or sidelights, we use tempered or laminated safety glass as required by code. We match the glass type to the application—not just whatever’s cheapest.
Foggy glass or broken panes? Get a free assessment from Picture Perfect Exteriors—we’ll tell you if glass replacement is the right fix.
Honest scope assessment. We tell you when glass replacement is the right fix vs. full window replacement.
Correct glass specification. Low-E, argon fill, tempered, laminated—we match the glass to the application.
13+ years experience. We’ve replaced glass units in dozens of window styles and configurations.
Written estimate. Scope and pricing in writing before any glass is ordered.
Free estimate. We come out, assess the panes, and give you a real number.
Get In Touch With Us
Ready To Work ?
Step 1 — Assessment & Measurement
We inspect each window, confirm the frame and sash are in good condition, and measure the existing glass unit precisely. We identify the glass specification—coating, fill gas, thickness—needed for the replacement.
Step 2 — IGU Order
Replacement glass units are manufactured to the exact dimensions of your existing sash. Standard sizes ship quickly; odd sizes take slightly longer. We’ll give you an accurate lead time at the estimate.
Step 3 — Glass Removal
The old glass unit is removed from the sash—carefully, especially if the sash is on the upper floor. Glazing tape and stops are removed and cleaned.
Step 4 — New IGU Installation
The new glass unit is set in the sash with fresh glazing tape or silicone and the stops are reinstalled and sealed. The window is tested for correct operation.
Step 5 — Cleanup & Confirmation
Old glass is disposed of safely. We confirm the new unit is clear, sealed, and performing correctly before leaving.
Explore articles that break down the how, why, and what of modern building curated for owners, developers, and curious minds.
When we evaluate windows, the first question is where the moisture is. That one detail tells you whether you're looking at normal physics, a humidity problem inside the house, or a window that has failed.
"How much life does my roof have left?" Sooner or later, every homeowner asks it. Usually something prompts the question: a stain on the ceiling, shingles in the yard after a storm, a note in a home inspection report.
If you've lived through a few Pittsburgh winters, you know the pattern. Snow, a couple of sunny afternoons, a hard freeze overnight. A thick band of ice builds along the eaves, icicles hang off the gutters, and a week later there's a brown ring on the bedroom ceiling.
Most Pittsburgh roof repairs run $150–$1,500 — this guide explains when repair makes sense and when replacement is the smarter call.
Gutters need cleaning twice a year — skipping it leads to fascia rot, ice dams, and foundation damage that costs far more to fix.
Clear answers before you book. If you don't see your question — contact us and we'll help.
ROOF RELIABILITY SCORE
Leak prevention & weather resistance.
Foggy glass between panes means the IGU seal has failed and moisture has entered. The glass itself can't be cleaned or resealed—the unit needs to be replaced. If the frame and sash are in good condition, replacing just the glass unit is the right fix. We assess during the estimate.
Glass unit replacement is significantly less than full window replacement. Cost depends on size, glass specification, and whether special glass (tempered, Low-E) is required. We give you exact pricing in writing after measuring the units that need replacement.
Standard sizes typically arrive within one to two weeks from order. Custom or non-standard dimensions take a bit longer. We'll give you an accurate lead time when we place the order.
Tempered glass is heat-treated so it shatters into small, relatively harmless cubes rather than sharp shards—required by code in hazardous locations (within 18 inches of a door, in bathrooms, etc.). Laminated glass has a plastic interlayer that holds the pane together when broken—better for noise reduction and security applications. We use the correct type for each location.
Condensation between panes is always a seal failure—new glass fixes it. Condensation on the interior surface in winter usually indicates the frame or installation is allowing cold transfer or the room has high humidity. We assess both during the estimate.
The clearest sign is fogging or condensation between panes — the seal has failed and the insulating gas has escaped. You'll also notice the window feels colder in winter compared to others. Cracked glass and scratches that obscure vision are also valid reasons. Scratches in window glass cannot be polished out.
Trusted by 85 Accreditations
Call 412-743-8208 or fill out our form for a free, no-obligation estimate. We serve Pittsburgh and all surrounding areas including Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.
Total Project Value
On-Time Completion
Projects Completed
Years of Experience
Tell us what you need, and our team will get back to you with clear next steps, honest guidance, and fast support.
