Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and a rise in cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is a simple fix to minimize the problems.

What is the best idea to replace window pane just the glass? This is usually less expensive than a full replacement and you can also keep your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complicated process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account various aspects. This includes energy efficiency as well as security. Glass comes in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. This blog post explores six types of window glass to help you decide which one is best for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and buildings. It is easy to clean and provides clarity however, it does not provide the same level of insulation like modern double-paned windows. It's also a risk if it breaks, as it can easily turn into fragments.

This type of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance, as the glass must be in line with the original design in order to preserve the property. It is not very energy efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

A favorite option for modern-day homeowners, this option consists of two panes of tempered glass separated by a spacer which is filled with air to provide insulation. This type of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window, and reduces the transmission of noise and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from a double-pane glass that is insulated, this option has three panes of tempered glass that have an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes for an even higher efficiency in energy usage. The gases hold heat in the winter and keep it out in summer, helping to reduce energy bills.

The last two choices are decorative and improve the appearance of your home's exterior. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it a great choice for areas that are susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy tinted or glazed glasses is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the key factors to consider when purchasing new windows or replacing existing glass panes. Whether it is single strength double strength, double strength, laminated or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact a number of characteristics including security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. It is also crucial to consider local construction codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The most basic kind 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 fusion of two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high temperatures and pressure to create a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want to shield your windows from flying debris such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass offers many advantages over double-strength glasses, including noise reduction and security. It is made by fusing two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a sheet that is tough and difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your pets or children from accidental falls, as well as reduce the noise levels within your home.

Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with various gasses that are insulating to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount air that is able to enter or leave the home. This glass is available in various sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or window glass replacement circular.

The insulated glass can be tinted to add an element of privacy or style. It is important to keep in mind that tinting will invalidate any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass can vary from 7-10 days based on the size and customization.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for new replacement sash windows windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency and 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 decreasing heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Certain types of glass can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray protection and enhance the durability. You can pick tinted or frosted glasses to add a splash of color.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and doesn't have any practical uses however, it is an excellent option to make your home more unique. You can choose between various patterns and finishes for the perfect look that suits your personality. You can even choose to create a door or window with a unique shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows with varying levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you have, the better insulation your window will be.

Your contractor can give you an in-depth explanation of types of glass and their costs. They will also be able to recommend the kind of glass that would best suit your needs. You may also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have gas spacers with warm edges that is insulated where the frame meets the glass, and also a layer of that is filled with argon. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

You can pick from tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This option can provide distinct appearance and provide more privacy, however it's important to think about the impact this can have on the lighting and design of your home. There are also special windows with features that increase security and ease-of-use, such as spring tensioners that stop slams or sensors that detect possible damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the procedure is pretty simple. First a professional will clean 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, through the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the sash weight pockets to fill air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the exterior edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and close any gaps around the new glass.

Measure your window openings before you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the thickness and width. Subtract 1/8 inch both from the width and height measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract according 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, indicating the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. They should be delivered within some days of the initial phone call and they will be ready to install within a few days. Before you begin the removal process, clear out any curtains or blinds from the windows in front of them and make sure that you have a clear area to work from. It is also recommended to place an unfinished 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 removing the old window pane begin by using a paint scraper or old chisel to take away any pieces of wood molding that are fixed to the frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame 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 in which it was previously installed. Re-caulk with an elastomeric sealant to match the windows that are replaced.