As summer temperatures climb across San Antonio and surrounding areas, you may start noticing that your windows are not performing as well as they once did. Whether it’s foggy glass, warm drafts, or fading interiors, these symptoms often point to underlying issues that can affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Understanding what causes these common problems during the summer and what they might mean for your windows can help you make informed decisions about repairs or replacements.
Window issues won’t fix themselves. If your windows are underperforming, now is a good time to explore professional window solutions from Southwest Exteriors that are designed to handle San Antonio’s intense heat.
Why Your Windows Are Fogging Up in the Heat
Window fogging during the summer usually occurs when moisture gets trapped between the panes of a double- or triple-pane window. This fogging is a sign that the insulating seal between the panes has failed. While the outside of the window might look cloudy or streaked, the real concern is the loss of insulation that happens when air and moisture are allowed inside the sealed space.
This seal failure can be caused by a number of factors, including age, fluctuating temperatures, or even poor installation. When the insulating gas (typically argon or krypton) escapes, it reduces the thermal performance of the window. As a result, your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, which can lead to higher energy bills.
In San Antonio’s climate, where windows endure long hours of direct sun and rapid temperature changes between day and night, seal failure is fairly common in older or builder-grade windows.
If fogging is confined to the exterior or interior surface of the window, it could be a temporary result of humidity and temperature differences. However, persistent fog between panes usually means that the window’s seal is no longer intact.
When window seals fail, repair is rarely a long-term solution. Depending on the age and condition of the window frame, replacement of the glass unit or the entire window may be the better option.
Understanding Drafts During the Summer
Drafts are another common concern for homeowners during the hotter months. While we often associate drafts with winter, they can be just as problematic in the summer, particularly when outdoor heat seeps into your home or cool air escapes through small gaps around the window.
Drafts occur when there is a breach in the building envelope, often caused by issues such as:
- Shrinking or warping window frames due to heat exposure
- Cracked or deteriorating weatherstripping
- Gaps in caulking or sealant
- Improper window installation
In older homes, materials may have settled or shifted, creating new openings around window frames. Even small leaks can significantly affect your home's energy efficiency over time.
Drafty windows may cause some rooms to feel hotter than others, increase your cooling costs, and strain your air conditioning system. You might also notice higher humidity levels inside, especially in rooms with large or sun-facing windows.
Addressing drafts can involve resealing, replacing weatherstripping, or, in some cases, upgrading to new windows with better thermal insulation and a tighter fit.
How UV Rays Affect Your Interior
While natural light is beneficial, prolonged sun exposure through windows can lead to interior damage that is not immediately obvious. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are part of the sunlight spectrum, can pass through traditional glass and gradually degrade various surfaces in your home. Over time, UV rays can:
- Fade hardwood floors and carpets
- Discolor furniture and artwork
- Break down the fibers in curtains and upholstery
These effects tend to be more noticeable in rooms that receive several hours of direct sunlight each day. South- and west-facing windows are particularly vulnerable in Texas homes due to the sun's path.
Standard window glass does not offer sufficient UV protection. However, many modern replacement windows are equipped with coatings or laminated glass that help block a significant portion of harmful UV rays. These features reduce interior fading and also contribute to a cooler indoor environment by limiting solar heat gain.
If you have noticed uneven fading on flooring or furniture, especially near older windows, upgrading to energy-efficient windows with UV-resistant coatings may be worth considering.
When Should You Consider Window Replacement?
Not every window issue requires immediate replacement. However, in certain situations, replacement may be the most practical and cost-effective option. Here are five signs that indicate it may be time to replace your windows:
- Persistent fog or condensation between the panes that doesn’t go away with cleaning
- Warm or hot spots near windows, even when they are closed
- Higher than usual energy bills without a clear reason
- Drafts that return even after resealing or weatherproofing
- Windows that are difficult to open, close, or lock due to warping or frame damage
In these cases, repair solutions may only offer short-term relief. When selected carefully, replacement windows can offer improved thermal performance, better UV protection, and enhanced curb appeal.
Southwest Exteriors offers professional window services that include guidance on selecting the right materials and styles based on your home’s needs and your long-term goals.
Speak with a Local Window Specialist You Can Trust
Window performance issues are common in San Antonio, especially during the peak of summer. Fogging, drafts, and UV damage are signs that your windows may no longer be serving your home as effectively as they should. If you’re unsure whether your windows need repair or replacement, the team at Southwest Exteriors is here to help.
Reach out through our online contact form or call us at (210) 625-7865 to schedule a no-obligation consultation. We’ll assess your current windows, explain your options, and help you choose the best for your home and budget.