Foggy Glass Skylight Repair & IGU Replacement in Orange County, CA
Why Skylight Glass Gets Foggy or Cloudy
Foggy or milky glass inside a skylight is a clear sign of Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) failure.
When the factory-sealed double-pane glass loses its vacuum or argon gas, moisture enters between the panes and creates:
-
fogging
-
white cloudiness
-
streaks between the panes
-
water droplets inside the glass
-
rainbow haze
This issue cannot be cleaned or fixed from inside — the seal is permanently compromised.
What Causes IGU Failure
Common reasons skylight glass fails:
-
Age (10–20 years is the typical lifespan of older units)
-
UV exposure that dries out perimeter seals
-
Heat expansion on the roof that stresses the IGU
-
Condensation inside the frame corroding the seal
-
Poor-quality builder skylights with thin seals
-
Hail or micro-cracks that break the argon seal
Once moisture enters the insulated glass cavity — the skylight is no longer energy efficient and will continue to degrade.
When You Should Replace the IGU
Skylight IGU replacement is recommended if you notice:
-
persistent fog or haze between the panes
-
condensation trapped inside the glass
-
visible streaking or mineral deposits
-
cold or hot drafts around the skylight
-
increased home temperatures
-
reduced daylight transmission
A failed IGU also means the skylight is no longer insulating properly.
Your Options — Glass-Only vs Full Skylight Replacement
Option 1 — Replace Only the Glass (IGU Swap)
We can replace only the insulated glass unit if:
-
your skylight frame is in good condition
-
the model is compatible with VELUX replacement glass
-
flashing is still performing correctly
VELUX sells replacement glass kits for many models.
Pros:
✔ Lower cost
✔ Faster installation
✔ No interior work in most cases
Cons:
✘ Old frame still has no warranty
✘ Older domes or seals may fail next
✘ Not all models support IGU replacement
​
Option 2 — Full Skylight Replacement (Recommended for Older Units)
For skylights 15+ years old, a full replacement is the best option:
-
New Energy Star rated glass
-
Argon-filled insulated glazing
-
Low-E coatings
-
Improved sound reduction
-
Better heat protection
-
Full VELUX warranty
-
New flashing system
Most homeowners choose full replacement because it fixes all problems at once and improves comfort.
Professional IGU Inspection
We provide a full assessment:
-
identify whether the seal failed
-
check for frame corrosion
-
measure the unit for exact IGU matching
-
evaluate existing flashing condition
-
recommend glass-only or full replacement
-
provide exact cost for both options
Why Homeowners Choose Us
-
Certified VELUX Installer
-
Licensed & Insured (#1099068)
-
Over 10 years of skylight experience
-
Precise diagnostics — no guesswork
-
Clean, professional, respectful service
-
Transparent pricing
Service Area
We proudly serve all of Orange County, including:
Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Orange, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach.
