Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane can be an issue that can result in energy loss and increased utility bills. Window glass replacement is an easy solution to eliminate these issues.

But when does it make sense to only replace the glass? This is a cheaper alternative to a complete replacement and you can keep your window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacement window glass, homeowners and general contractors must consider many factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, security, and appearance. Glass comes in a variety styles, thicknesses and customization options. In this blog post, we will look at six different types of window glass to help you decide which one is the most suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is typically found in older buildings and houses. It is easy to clean and provides clarity, but it does not offer the same insulation as modern double-paned windows. It's also a risk if it breaks, as it can easily turn into pieces.

This kind of glass could be used to replicate historical designs, where the glass must match the design of the original building to keep it in good condition. It isn't very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Double-paned Insulated Glass

This is a popular choice among modern homeowners. It consists of two panes tempered glass, separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window, and reduces noise transmission and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step above a double-pane insulated glass this model has three panes of tempered glass with an gas filled with argon or Krypton between the panes to create an even greater efficiency in energy use. The gases hold heat in winter and keep it out in summer, helping cut energy costs.

The final two options can be decorative and improve the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. For added privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used in place of traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important aspect to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. Whether it is single strength double strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will affect several aspects such as security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. Local requirements for building codes and Replacement Window Glass manufacturer requirements are important to remember.

The most basic kind of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is utilized in the majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required for those who are in an airport or high-rise building.

Double-strength window glass is made by fusing at least two sheets of glass together with PVB, or polyvinyl butyral. The fusion process uses extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely tough, durable piece of glass that is approximately five times stronger than standard window glass. This kind of glass is ideal for those who want to shield your windows from flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and security. This glass is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with interlocking plastic or resin to form a durable, layered panel that is difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended when you are concerned about protecting your pets and children from falls, as well as the reduction of noise levels within your home.

Insulated glass is created by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety of insulation gases to enhance the window performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or gets into the home, thus increasing the energy efficiency. Glass is available in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the glass to give it a touch of class or privacy. It is important to remember that tinting will void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can range from 7-10 business days, depending on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

You may upgrade the glass in your replacement windows to enhance your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can pick from a variety of options, including Low-E coating and thickness of insulated glass and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy costs by cutting down on heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these options can also lower noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for more subtle appearance.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and does not have any practical uses however it can be a great option to make your home distinctive. You can choose between various patterns and finishes for a look that fits your style. You can create a door or window with a customized shape.

You can pick between single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane windows that have different levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it will be insulated.

Your contractor will give you a detailed explanation of the various kinds of glass that are available and their costs. They can also recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You can also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement glass for windows windows often have gas spacers with warm edges that protects the area between the frame and the glass and a layer argon to fill the gaps. These features help the window remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's normal to pick a clear, standard glass, you can also choose frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This type of window has a distinctive appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it's important to think about the impact on the style of your home and lighting. You can also find specialty windows with features that increase security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to avoid the windows from crashing and sensors to identify the possibility of damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window or all of them, the procedure is pretty simple. A professional will first prepare the opening by removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8 inch in diameter one at each of the ends and one in the middle, across the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of the window openings taking into consideration the width and thickness of the framing. Subtract 1/8 inches from the width and height measurements to allow for the frame to expand and contract in response to the weather. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass may be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a few weeks. They will be ready to install in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, take down the blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, ensure to have a clean workspace. You should also put a piece of cloth or plastic on the floor to stop any broken glass that might fall.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. The glazing points of the metal should be heated before you try to pry them out. After taking the old window off using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the windows that are replaced.