Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and higher utility costs. Window glass replacement can be an easy fix to eliminate these issues.

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

Types

Replacement window glass is a complicated process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account numerous aspects. This includes energy efficiency, security and appearance. Glass is available in a broad range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. In this blog post, we will look at six different kinds of glass for windows to help you decide which one is the best choice for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is typically found in older structures and homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity however it doesn't provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It is also dangerous in the event of a break, as it can easily turn into fragments.

This kind of glass could be used for replicas of historical buildings, where the glass must be a replica of the original building to preserve it. It is not very energy efficient and must be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step up from double-pane glass that is insulated, this option has three panes of tempered glass with an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes to create an even higher efficiency in energy usage. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by capturing heat in winter and keeping it out during summer.

The final two options can be decorative and enhance the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it an excellent option for areas that are susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be often used in place of glass that is traditional for more privacy. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is one of the primary factors to be considered when purchasing new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, double strength, insulated, or single strength double strength, can affect various aspects, including security energy efficiency, security, and the reduction of sound. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are important to remember.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. This glass is 3/32 inch thick and used in residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required for those who are in a high-rise or airport building.

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusing at least two sheets of glass together with PVB or polyvinyl butyral. The process of fusion uses extreme heat and pressure to create an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is approximately five times stronger than standard window glass. This type of glass is recommended when you want to protect your windows from flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength, but it has other advantages like noise reduction and safety. This glass is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking resin or window glass replacement plastic to create a sturdy and layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your children or pets from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise in your home.

Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window performance. This will reduce the amount of air that escapes or gets into the home, thus increasing the energy efficiency. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, from square to rectangular to arched or Window glass replacement circular.

The insulated glass can also be tinted to add an element of privacy or style. It is important to remember that tinting will invalidate any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement window glass near me 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 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, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy bills by cutting down on heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these options also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to bring a splash of color.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and does not have any functional uses however it can be a great option to make your home more unique. You can choose from a wide range of styles and colors to create a style that matches your personal style. You can choose to create a door or window with a custom-designed shape.

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

Your contractor can give you an in-depth description of the kinds of glass available and their costs. They will also be able to recommend the type of glass that would best suit your needs. You can also ask them whether they can change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

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

While it's common to choose the standard clear glass, you may also choose colored, frosted or tinted windows. This type of window has a distinctive appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it is important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also special windows with features that will enhance security and ease of operation like spring tensioners to avoid collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is easy it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass in only one window or all of them. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and then scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. 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 finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and close any gaps around the glass.

Take measurements of the window openings prior to you begin the replacement process. Make sure to include the thickness and width. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.

Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact measurements of the replacement windows. You should receive them within some days of the initial phone call and they will be ready for installation within a few days. Before beginning the removal process, take down any blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, make sure that your workspace is clean. You should also lay a sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass falls during the process.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal, use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to remove them. After taking off the old window, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the windows that are replaced.