If there is any condensation inside a sealed unit (in between the two panes) the seals are shot and the only option is replacement. You can not 'fix' this. You can replace just the glazing (glass), They pop right out of a pvc window, but it is usually not worth it. The frames are probably out of shape, weather seals shot, mechanisms worn, etc. If they are in wood frames, they can still be replaced but it is messier.
Your cheapest option is new glazing, my guess 4-6K
New PVC windows ~ 10K
New Wood or metal > 20K
If you are selling, don't do anything unless you get a wicked deal. Really not worth the hassle. You can make the house sell quick and get better money out of a fresh coat of paint.
If you are staying go with PVC, triple pane, low E, argon. This will cost a bit more and while you won't recoup the cost in your bills or future sale, you will enjoy silence, less fading on your furniture, less drafts, and less heat from the sun.
I know you will see some gains in your houses energy efficiency, but you never really recoup the costs unless your windows were bleeding air like a screen door.
Oh ya, if you have ice on the inside you need to get some air axchange going. plain and simple. Even new windows will ice up in winter if you aren't getting the moist air out of your house.
Last edited by speede5; 09-07-2011 at 10:43 PM.
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