FAQs

Clear insights on window repair for homeowners

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 760-790-4838  - we're ready to help.

  • How do the windows pay for themselves?

    It comes down to energy savings. When we upgrade your glass, your home becomes much more efficient, it stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter without your HVAC system working overtime. That means lower utility bills every month, and over time, those savings really add up.


    Plus, you're not paying for a full window replacement. We use your existing frames, which keeps the cost significantly lower than traditional options. And with available federal tax credits and local utility rebates, your out-of-pocket cost can be reduced even further. Between the energy savings, incentives, and avoiding the high cost of full replacements, this upgrade often pays for itself in just a few years.

  • How is this different from full window replacement?

    At VitroTech Glass, we specialize in replacing just the glass unit inside your existing vinyl window frame - not the entire window. Here's how our glass-only replacement service compares to traditional full window replacement:




    ​VitroTech Glass Replacement                                                    


    ​Replaces Only the Glass                                                                    


    ​Keeps Your Existing Vinyl Frame                                                         


    ​Preserves Existing Stucco, Trim, and Waterproofing                         


    ​Faster, Less Invasive Installation                                                         


    ​Significantly Lower Cost                                                                      


    ​Meets Modern Energy & Fire Codes


                                                        


    Full Window Replacement


    Removes and Replaces Full Frame & Glass


    Requires Demolition of Old Frame


    Requires Demolition of Old Frame


    ​More Construction, Dust, & Disruption


    Higher Material and Labor Cost


    Depends on Product Selected


    Our process is ideal if your home has original vinyl windows 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?

    IteAbsolutely! 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?

    All high-performance glass installed by VitroTech Glass comes with a 20-year warranty 


    What About Installation?

    We back our work with a 2-year workmanship warranty 


    Glass Breakage Protection:

    We include a 5-year accidental breakage warranty:


    Need to File a Claim?

    Just email warranty@vitrotechglass.earth or call 760-388-9645. We’ll inspect it at no cost and take care of it if it’s covered.



  • 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 760.388.9645 or email us at info@vitrotechglass.earth. We’re happy to help!