Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

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

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

Types

upvc replacement window handles window glass is a complex process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency, safety, and appearance. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. This blog post will explore six different types window glass in order to help you determine which one is suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is commonly found in older homes and structures. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it doesn't have the enhanced insulating properties of modern double-pane windows. It can also be dangerous if it breaks as it can easily become shards.

This type of glass can 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 is not very efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

A popular option for modern-day homeowners, this type of window comprises two panes glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer which is filled with air for insulation. This type of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window replacements and reduce noise transmission and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step up from double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass that have an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes to create an even higher level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce energy costs by capturing heat in winter and keeping it out during summer.

The two other options are decorative and enhance the look of your exterior home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that may be damaged by weather or debris conditions. For added privacy tinted or glazed glass can be used in place of traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or designed to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a key aspect to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. No matter if it's single strength double strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact several aspects including security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also essential to think about local building codes and installed the requirements of the manufacturer.

The simplest type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32 inches thick and used in residential applications. If you reside in a high-rise building or live close to an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glasses are made by fusing two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses high heat and pressure to create an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This kind of glass is recommended if you want your windows to resist damage from flying debris like rocks or balls.

Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and security. It is created by fusing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to form a strong, layered panel that is difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, and reducing the noise level in your home.

Insulated glass is made by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety of insulation gases to enhance the window performance. This can decrease the amount of air that enters or leaves the home. This glass is available in various sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can be tinted to provide an element of privacy or style. However, it is important to keep in mind that tinting does not void any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can range from 7-10 business days based on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

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

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy bills by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray shielding and enhance the durability. You can pick tinted or frosty glasses to add a splash of color.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no practical use however it can be an excellent option to make your home more unique. You can pick from various patterns and finishes for an appearance that matches your style. You can choose to have a door or window with a custom-designed shape.

You can pick between single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane windows, with different levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is well-insulated.

Your contractor will be able to provide you with a thorough explanation of the different types of glass available and their costs. They will also be able to recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You can also ask them to upgrade your windows to energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows come 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 help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

You can pick from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This can give a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, installed it is important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also specialty windows with features that enhance security and ease of use including spring tensioners to prevent slams and sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

If you're looking to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and then scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end, and a single hole in the middle along the sill and up through 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 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 before you begin the replacement process. Be sure to include the width and thickness. Subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract in response to the weather. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass could be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of your initial phone call, and they'll be ready for installation in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, clean out any blinds or curtains from near your windows and make sure that you have a clean area to work from. You should also place a plastic sheet or a cloth on the floor in case any broken glass does fall during the process.

When you're ready to begin removing the old window pane, start by using a paint scraper or an old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding that are fixed to the frame. If there are any metal glazing points, use a heat gun to soften them prior to trying to pull them off. Once the old window is removed and discarded, use a paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves in which it was previously installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the windows that are replaced.