Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window is an issue that could cause energy loss and higher utility bills. Window glass replacement can be an easy fix to lessen these problems.

But when is it sense to replace just the glass? This is a less expensive alternative to a complete replacement windows prices and you can keep your window frames.

Types

Window replacement is a complex procedure that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. In this blog post, we explore six different kinds of glass for windows to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and structures. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however it doesn't offer the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It could also be a risk in the event of a break because it is prone to becoming fragments.

This kind of glass is often required for historical replication, as the glass must match the original style in order to protect the original property. It is not energy efficient and should be changed by a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

A popular choice for modern homeowners, this type of window consists of two panes of glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer that is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass could be more energy efficient than a single-pane window and reduce noise transmission and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This is an upgrade to double-paned glass that is insulated. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill in between for a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases aid in reducing the cost of energy by capturing heat in winter and letting it out in summer.

The two other choices are decorative and enhance the look of your exterior of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used in place of traditional glass. It is available in a range of colors, and can be etched, frosted or designed to enhance the window's look.

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 double strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated the thickness of the glass will affect several aspects including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are important to keep in mind.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is used in residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or live close to an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process utilizes extreme heat and pressure to create a strong, durable pane of glass that is about five times stronger than standard window glass. This type of glass is recommended if you wish to protect your windows from damage by flying debris, such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength, but it has other advantages such as noise reduction and safety. It is created by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with interlocking resin or plastic to create a sturdy, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass should be used if you are concerned about safeguarding your children and pets from falling, and also reducing noise levels within your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window's performance. This will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass is available in various shapes and sizes and shapes, from square to rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of elegance or privacy. It is important to note that tinting can void any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass can vary between 7 and 10 days, based on the size and customization.

Customization

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

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy consumption by cutting down on the transfer of heat between indoors and outside. Some of these options can also lower noise, provide UV protection, and increase durability. You can choose tinted or frosted glasses to give a splash of color.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and does not have any practical use, but it can be an excellent option to make your home unique. You can choose from a variety of designs and finishes to create a style that matches your personal style. You can also opt to create a door or window with a custom shape.

Choose between single-paned, double-paned, or triple-paned windows with different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you can have the more the insulation of your window.

Your contractor can give you an in-depth explanation of types of glass and their prices. They can also suggest the best glass for your needs. You can also ask them if they can upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows are often fitted with a warm-edge spacer to create a barrier between the frame meets the glass, and an argon gas layer to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's normal to pick a clear, standard glass, you can opt for patterns, frosted, Window glass replacement or tinted windows. This type of window can provide distinct appearance and provide more privacy, however it's important to think about how this might impact the lighting and style of your home. There are also special windows that have features that increase security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to avoid collisions and sensors to detect the possibility of damage.

Installation

If you're looking to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the procedure is fairly straightforward. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter, one near each end, and one hole in the center and down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. Then, they inject expanding foam into the sash-weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Take measurements of your window openings prior to when you begin the replacement process. Make sure to include the thickness and width. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame when the weather changes. 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 appointment for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready for installation within one week. Before you begin the removal process, take out any curtains or blinds from the windows in front of them and ensure that you have a clear area to work from. You should also place a piece or cloth or plastic on the floor to stop any broken glass that might fall.

When you're ready to begin removal of the old window, start with a paint scraper or an old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding attached to the frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you attempt to pull them out. After removing the old window and hammer, use a paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was initially installed. Then, re-caulk the area with an elastic caulk that matches the windows you are replacing.