Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and a rise in utility costs. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate these problems.

What is the best idea to just replace the glass? This is a less expensive alternative to a complete replacement windows prices and you can keep your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complicated process that general contractors and homeowners alike must take into consideration numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency, security and appearance. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. This blog post explores six types of window glass to help you decide which one is suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is typically used in older buildings and in homes. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not provide the superior insulation properties of double-pane windows that are more modern. It could also be a risk if it breaks as it could easily turn into shards.

This type of glass is often required for historical replication since the glass must be in line with the original design in order to preserve the original property. It is not very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Insulated Double-paned Double-paned Glass

A very popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this option comprises two panes glass that is tempered, separated by a spacer which is filled with air to provide insulation. This type of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window, and can also help reduce noise transmission and condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This option is an upgrade to double-paned glass with insulated coating. It is made up of three panes of tempered glass and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce energy costs by capturing heat in winter and keeping it out in summer.

The two other options are decorative and improve the appearance of your exterior home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be frequently used in place of traditional glass to provide privacy. It is available in a range of colors, and it can be etched, Replacement window glass frosted or designed to improve the look of windows.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the most important factors to take into consideration when buying new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. It doesn't matter if it's single strength or double strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will impact various aspects, including security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also crucial to take into consideration local construction codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is used in residential applications. If you live in a building that is high-rise, or your home is near an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses extreme pressure and heat to create a strong, durable pane of glass that is approximately five times stronger than standard window glass. This type of glass should be used when you want to protect your windows from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glasses, including noise reduction and safety. This glass is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to create a sturdy layer that is hard to break. This type of glass is recommended in cases of protecting your children and pets from falling, and also making it easier to reduce noise in your home.

Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can then be filled with various insulating gasses to improve the performance of windows. This will reduce the amount of air that enters or leaves the home. Glass is available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

The glass insulated can also be tinted to provide an element of privacy or style. However, it is important to keep in mind that the application of tint does void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass may vary from 7-10 days based on the size and personalization.

Customization

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

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy costs by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray shielding and increase the durability. You can pick tinted or frosted glasses to bring some color.

Decorative glass has no functional purpose and is used only for aesthetic reasons. However it can make your home unique. You can pick from various styles and finishes to create the perfect look that suits your style. You can even create a door or window with a unique shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows with varying amounts of airspace between panes. The more airspace you have the more insulation your window will be.

Your contractor will give you a detailed explanation of the various kinds of glass and their costs. They can also recommend the type of glass that would best suit your requirements. You might also ask whether they are able to upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have a warm-edge gas spacer which protects the area between the frame and the glass. It also includes a layer of 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 select frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This can give a unique appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also windows with features that increase security and ease-of-use like spring tensioners that prevent crashes or potential damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the procedure is pretty simple. A professional will first make the opening ready, taking off the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes, one near each end, and one hole in the center, down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. Then, they'll inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant on the edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and seal any gaps around the glass.

Measure your window openings prior to when you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the width and thickness. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount the glass you are installing could be damaged during the installation process.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. They should be delivered within a few days after the initial phone call and they should be ready for installation in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, remove any curtains or blinds close to your windows. Also, be sure that your workspace is clean. You should also place a piece or cloth or plastic down on the floor to stop any broken glass that might fall.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any metal glazing points you can use a heat gun to soften them prior to trying to remove them. After removing the old window, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in the window that it was originally put in. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that matches the windows that are replaced.