Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that can cause energy loss and increased utility bills. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate the risk of these issues.

What is the best idea to just replace the glass? It's a much cheaper option than a full replacement, and you will be able to keep your window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacing windows, homeowners and general contractors need to consider a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a wide range of thicknesses, styles, and options for replacement windows customization. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly found in older buildings and homes. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it doesn't have the enhanced insulating properties of the modern double-pane windows. It's also a risk in the event of a break, as it is prone to turning into pieces.

This kind of glass is usually required for historical replication, as the glass must be in line with the original style in order to preserve the property. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This option is an upgrade from double-paned insulated glass. It is made up of three panes of glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide greater energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce energy costs by trapping heat in winter and letting it out in summer.

The last two choices are decorative and improve the appearance of your home's exterior. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to damage due to debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glasses is an alternative to traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a crucial factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, can affect various aspects that include security and energy efficiency as well as sound reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to keep in mind.

Single strength is the most basic type of glass used for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in a majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required for those who reside in an airport or a high-rise building.

Double-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to produce a tough, durable piece of window replacement cost glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This type of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to resist damage from flying debris such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength, but it has other advantages such as noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is tough and difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, as well as lessening the noise in your home.

Insulated glass is created by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety insulating gases to improve the window's performance. This reduces the amount of air that escapes or enters your home, thereby improving the efficiency of energy. Glass is available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

The insulated glass can be tinted to add an element of privacy or style. However, it is important to remember that tinting does not invalidate any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement window handle glass may vary from 7-10 days based on the size and customization.

Customization

Depending on your objectives for new replacement windows, you might want to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can pick from options like Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy costs by reducing the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray shielding, and improve durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass for a more subdued look.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and has no practical use, but it can be a great option to make your home unique. You can choose between a variety of styles and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personal style. You can also opt to have a window or door with a custom shape.

Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned, or single-paned windows. Each has different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace you have the more insulated your window will be.

Your contractor will be able to provide a comprehensive description of the various types of glass that are available and the costs associated with them. They can also recommend the glass type that best suits your needs. You might also ask if they can upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows often have a warm-edge gas spacer which protects the area where the frame meets the glass, and also a layer of that is filled with argon. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

While it's common to choose a clear, standard glass, you may also opt for colored, frosted or tinted windows. This option offers a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it is important to take into consideration 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 stop slams or sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is straightforward it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass in only one window or all of them. First a professional will clean the opening by removing old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill three holes of 3/8 inch in diameter, one at each end, and a single in the middle, across the sill, and up through the headjamb. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the sash-weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Measure your window openings before you begin the replacement process. Be sure to include the thickness and width. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame when weather changes. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass may be damaged during installation.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an appointment for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of the initial phone call and they will be ready to install in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, remove the blinds or curtains close to your windows. Also, ensure to have a clean workspace. Also, you should place a piece of cloth or plastic down on the floor to hold any broken glass that could fall.

When you're ready to begin taking down the old window, start with a paint scraper or old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood molding that are connected to the frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you try to pry them off. After taking the old window off, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves the window that it was originally put in. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the replacement windows.