Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher energy costs. Window glass replacement is a an easy fix to eliminate the risk of these issues.

But when does it make sense to replace only the glass? This is typically less expensive than a full replacement and you can keep the window frames.

Types

Window replacement is a complex process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must consider numerous aspects. This includes energy efficiency, Window glass replacement safety and appearance. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customizing. This blog post explores six types of window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is common in older buildings and homes. While it provides clarity and is easy to clean, window glass replacement it doesn't have the enhanced insulating properties of the modern double-pane windows. It can also be dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily turn into fragments.

This kind of glass could be used to replicate historical designs, where the glass must be a replica of the original property to keep it in good condition. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a very popular choice for homeowners who are more modern. It consists of two panes of tempered glass separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window and can reduce the transmission of noise and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This is an upgrade to double-paned glass with insulated coating. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by capturing heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.

The other two options are decorative and can enhance the look of your exterior of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to damage due to debris or weather conditions. For added privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used in place of traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a key aspect to be considered when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. No matter if it's single strength or double strength, laminated or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact several aspects such as security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. It is also important to take into consideration local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a simple sheet made of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in a majority of residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or live near an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to produce a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This kind of glass is recommended if you wish to protect your windows from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and safety. It is made by combining two or more sheets of transparent interlocking glass using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a sheet that is durable and hard to break. This kind of glass is recommended in cases of protecting your pets and children from falls, and also making it easier to reduce noise within your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with various gasses that are insulating to improve the performance of windows. This will reduce the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass comes in various shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of elegance or privacy. It is important to remember that tinting does void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass for windows glass can vary from 7-10 days based on size and customization.

Customization

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

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy bills by reducing heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Certain types of glass can also lower noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to bring a splash of color.

Decorative glass has no functional purpose and is used only for aesthetic purposes. However, it can give your home a unique look. You can pick from different patterns and finishes for the perfect look that suits your style. You can even have a door or window with a unique shape.

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

Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of types of glass and their costs. They can also suggest the best glass for your requirements. You may also ask them whether they are able to change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows include gas spacers with warm edges that insulates the area between the frame and the glass. It also includes a layer of that is filled with argon. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's typical to select a standard clear glass, you can select patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This option offers a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it's important to think about the impact on your home's style and lighting. You can also find specialty windows that have features that improve security and ease of operation, such as spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window or all of them, the procedure is quite simple. First professionals will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end, and a single hole in the middle and down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Finally, they will apply a layer of caulk made of elastomeric along the frame's outer edges to protect against moisture and close the gaps around the new glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, measure the width and height of the window openings making sure to account for the width and thickness of the frame. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount the new glass could be damaged during the installation process.

Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact measurements of your replacement windows. They should be delivered within some days of your initial phone call and they will be ready to install in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, you must take off the blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, ensure that you have a clean work area. It is also recommended to put a sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass does fall during the process.

Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you attempt to pry them out. After the old window has been removed using a paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Re-caulk with an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the new windows.