Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is a an easy fix to eliminate these problems.

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

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must consider many aspects. This includes energy efficiency as well as security. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. This blog post will explore six types of window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is commonly found in older homes and structures. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however it doesn't provide the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It can also be dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily become shards.

This kind of glass is typically required for reproduction of historical significance since the glass must be a replica of the original design in order to protect the original design. It isn't very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This is an upgrade to double-paned glass with insulated coating. It features three panes glass that are tempered and an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases suffocate heat in winter and keep it out in the summer, helping to further cut energy costs.

The two other choices can be decorative and add to the beauty of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass and can be utilized in areas that could be damaged by debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be often used in lieu of traditional glass for added privacy. It is available in a variety of colors, and it can be etched, frosted, or patterned to improve the look of windows.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the most important factors to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated or insulated, single strength or double strength, can affect various aspects, including security energy efficiency, Replacement Window Glass security, and noise reduction. Local requirements for building codes and manufacturer requirements are also important to be aware of.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a basic sheet made of clear glass. It is 3/32 inches thick and is commonly used in residential applications. double glazed window replacement strength window glass might be required when you are in a high-rise or airport building.

Double-strength windows are made by fusion of at least two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create a durable, strong pane 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 offers many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is tough and difficult to break. This kind of glass is ideal when you are concerned about safeguarding your children and pets from falls as well as the reduction of noise levels 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 improve window performance. This can decrease the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass is available in various sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the insulated glass to give it a touch of class or to enhance privacy. It is crucial to remember that the application of tint does void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days based on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacing windows, you might want to upgrade the glass to increase the efficiency of your home's energy use and privacy. You can choose between options such as Low E coating or the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy costs by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, provide UV-ray protection and increase the durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for a more subdued look.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and does not have any functional uses, but it can be a great way to make your home distinctive. You can pick from different designs and Replacement Window Glass finishes to create an appearance that matches your personality. You can also opt to have a door or window with a custom shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows, with different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it will be insulated.

Your contractor can give you an in-depth description of the types of glass and their costs. They can also recommend the glass type that would best suit your needs. You can ask them to upgrade your windows with energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge separator to protect the area where the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill the gaps between the panes. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can choose from tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This can give a unique appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it's important to think about the impact on your home's style and lighting. There are also specialty windows with features that will enhance security and ease of use including spring tensioners to avoid slams and sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the procedure is fairly straightforward. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing old putty and then scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes one at each end, and one hole in the center along the sill and up through the head jamb. Then, they 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 seal any gaps around the new glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, measure the width and height of the window openings making sure to take into account the thickness and width of the framing. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.

Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days after your initial phone call and they will be ready to install within a few days. Before beginning the removal process, take out any blinds or curtains from near your windows and ensure that you have a clean workspace. It is also recommended to put a sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in the event that broken glass should fall during the process.

When you're ready to begin removal of the old window, start by using an old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood molding that are fixed to the frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal, use a heat gun to soften them before attempting to pry them off. Once the old window is removed and discarded, use the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was previously installed. Then, seal the area using an elastomeric caulk to match the replacement windows.