Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and increase energy costs. Window glass replacement is a simple fix to reduce those problems.

But when does it make sense to replace only the glass? This option is often cheaper than a complete replacement and you can retain your window frames.

Types

When it comes time to replace windows, homeowners and general contractors must take into consideration a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, protection and appearance. Glass is available in a diverse variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. In this blog post, we explore six different types of window glass to help you decide which one is the most suitable for your project.

Single Lite 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 provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It could also be a risk in the event of a break as it could easily turn into fragments.

This kind of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance since the glass must be in line with the original design in order to protect the original design. It is not very energy efficient and should be replaced with a new insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This is an upgrade to double-paned insulated glass. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide greater energy efficiency. The gases trap the heat in the winter months and keep it out in the summer, helping to cut energy costs.

The other two choices are decorative and improve the appearance of your exterior home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to damage due to debris or weather conditions. Tinted or glazed glass is often used in place of traditional glass for added privacy. It is available in a wide variety of colors, and can be etched, frosted or decorated to improve the look of windows.

Thickness

Glass thickness is one of the primary factors to be considered when buying windows for the first time or sash replacing existing glass panes. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, double strength, insulated, or single strength double strength, can affect several aspects, including security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. It is also crucial to think about local construction codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The simplest type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic piece 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 you live near an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glasses are 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 an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is ideal 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 security. It is made by fusing two or more sheets of transparent, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a glass that is durable and hard to break. This kind of glass is suggested if your primary concerns are protecting your pets or children from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise in your home.

Insulated glass is created by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety of insulating gases to enhance the window performance. This can reduce the amount air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of style or privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting can void any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass could vary from 7-10 days depending on the size and customization.

Customization

You can upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can choose between options such as Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount of air space between panes.

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

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and does not have any practical use however it can be an excellent way to make your home more unique. You can choose from a variety of patterns and finishes to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can also opt to have a window or door with a customized shape.

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

Your contractor will provide a comprehensive explanation of the different types of glass available and their prices. They can also recommend the type of glass that would best suit your requirements. You might also ask whether they are able to change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement handles for windows windows have a warm-edge gas spacer that insulates the area where the frame meets the glass. It also includes a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features keep the window warmer in the winter months and cooler in summer.

While it's common to choose the standard clear glass, you may also opt for sash frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This can give you an unique appearance and provide added privacy, but it's important to consider how this might impact the lighting and design of your home. There are also windows with features that increase security and ease of use, such as spring tensioners that stop crashes or possible damage.

Installation

If you're looking to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the process is pretty simple. A professional will first prepare the opening by removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to get rid of any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends, and a single in the middle, across the sill and up through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Finally, they will apply an elastomeric caulk around the frame's 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 thickness and width of the frame. Subtract 1/8 inch both from the width and height measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract in response to the weather. If you don't subtract this amount the new glass could be damaged during the installation process.

Call your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After the initial call you should receive your windows within a few weeks. They'll be ready to install within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, you must take off the blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, make sure to have a clean workspace. Also, you should put a piece of cloth or plastic on the floor to stop any broken glass that could fall.

If you're ready to start removing the old window pane begin by using a paint scraper or an old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood 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 using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was initially installed. Then, seal the area using an elastomeric caulk to match your replacement windows.