Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher energy costs. Replacement of windows is a a simple fix to reduce the risk of these issues.

What is the best idea to just replace the glass? This is typically less expensive than a complete replacement and you can retain the window frames.

Types

Window replacement is a complex procedure that general contractors and homeowners alike must consider various factors. This includes energy efficiency, Window replacement safety and aesthetics. Glass comes in a variety designs, thicknesses and options. In this blog post, we look at six different kinds of window glass to help you determine which one may be the most suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is common in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It is also dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily become fragments.

This kind of glass is often required for reproduction of historical significance because the glass has to be a replica of the original design to protect the original design. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a new insulation-free window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a popular choice for homeowners of today. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass, separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window handles replacement and it also helps reduce condensation and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step above a double-pane insulated glass This option comes with three panes of tempered glass, each with an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even greater efficiency in energy usage. The gases hold heat in the winter and keep it out in the summer, helping to reduce energy costs.

The final two options are decorative and enhance the aesthetics of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it an excellent option for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed is often used in place of traditional glass to provide privacy. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the most important factors to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. No matter if it's single strength, double strength, laminated or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact a number of characteristics including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are important to be aware of.

Single strength is the most basic type of glass used for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32" thick and is utilized in most residential applications. If you live in a high-rise building or live close to an airport, your windows may require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is made by fusing two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to withstand damage from flying debris such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and safety. This glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass by using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a glass that is tough and difficult to break. This kind of glass is suggested when your primary concern is protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, and reducing the noise level in your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can then be filled with various gasses for insulation to enhance the performance of windows. This will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. However, it is important to remember that tinting does not invalidate any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days based on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

Depending on your goals for replacing windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to increase the efficiency of your home's energy use and privacy. You can pick from options like Low-E coating, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy consumption by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options also lower noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to add an accent of color.

The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and does not have any functional uses, but it can be a great option to make your home more unique. You can pick from various patterns and finishes for the perfect look that suits your style. You can create a door or window with a custom-designed shape.

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

Your contractor will provide you with a thorough explanation of the different types of glass that are available and the costs associated with them. They will also be able to recommend the glass type that would best suit your requirements. You can also ask them if they can upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows include a warm-edge gas spacer which protects the area where the frame meets with the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

You can choose from tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This can give you distinct appearance and provide additional privacy, but it's important to take into consideration how this might impact the lighting and style of your home. You can also find speciality windows with features that increase security and user-friendliness like spring tensioners to prevent slams or sensors that detect the possibility of damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. A professional will first prepare the opening by removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves in order to remove any dirt. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one near each end, and a single hole in the middle along 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'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and close any gaps around the new glass.

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

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a few weeks. They will be ready for installation within about a week. Before beginning the removal process, take down any curtains or blinds close to your windows. Also, make sure that you have a clean work area. It is also recommended to put a piece of cloth or plastic down on the floor to hold any broken glass that may fall.

When you're ready to begin taking down the old window, start by using a paint scraper or old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding fixed to the frame. The glazing points of the metal should be heated before you try to pry them out. After the old window has been removed and discarded, use the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was originally installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the replacement windows.