Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that can cause energy loss and higher utility bills. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to lessen these issues.

When is it a good idea to replace just the glass? This is usually less expensive than a complete replacement and you can retain the window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacement window glass, homeowners and general contractors need to consider a variety of factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, security and aesthetics. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. In this blog post, we look at six different types of window glass to help determine which one may be the best choice for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly found in older buildings and houses. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not offer the insulation benefits of double-pane windows that are more modern. It is also dangerous in the event of a break, as it can easily become fragments.

This kind of glass can be used to replicate historical designs in which the glass has to match the design of the original property to preserve it. It is not energy efficient and should be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This is an upgrade from double-paned glass with insulated coating. It has three panes glass that are tempered and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for greater energy efficiency. The gases suffocate heat in the winter months and keep it out in the summer, helping to reduce energy costs.

The last two options are decorative and Replacement Window Glass add to the aesthetics of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used instead of traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important aspect to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. Whether it is single strength double strength, double strength, laminated or insulated the thickness of the glass will affect a number of characteristics such as security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are important to keep in mind.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a simple sheet made of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is utilized in the majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required if you reside in a high-rise or airport building.

double glazing replacement windows-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). Fusion processes use high temperatures and pressure to produce a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended if wish to protect your windows from damage by flying debris, such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength glass, but it comes with additional benefits such as noise reduction and safety. This glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of transparent interlocking glass by using layers of resin or plastic. The result is a panel that is tough and difficult to break. This kind of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, as well as reducing the noise level in your home.

Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space that can then be filled with different gasses for insulation to enhance the window performance. This will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass is available in a variety of sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the glass to give it a touch of class or privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does not void any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

You can change the glass in your new replacement windows to enhance your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can select from options like Low E coating, insulated thickness of glass, and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy costs by reducing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these options can also lower noise, provide UV protection, and increase durability. You can pick tinted or frosty glasses to add an accent of color.

The decorative glass is not of any practical use and is only to be used for aesthetic purposes. However, it can create a unique home. You can choose between a variety of designs and finishes to create the perfect look that suits your personal style. You can even choose to create a door or window with a custom shape.

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

Your contractor will be able to give you a detailed description of the various types of glass that are available and their costs. They can also suggest the type of glass that best suits your requirements. You might also ask whether they can change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have a warm-edge gas spacer which protects the area where the frame meets with the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill in the gaps. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can choose between frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This type of window has a distinctive design and provides additional privacy. However, it is important to think about the impact on your home's style and lighting. You can also find speciality windows with features to improve security and ease of use like spring tensioners to prevent slams or sensors that detect possible damage.

Installation

The procedure is straightforward It doesn't matter if you want to replace glass for just one window or all of them. 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 near each end, and one hole in the middle and down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Finally, they will apply a layer of caulk made of elastomeric along the frame's outer edges to guard against moisture and fill in the gaps around the new glass.

Measure the window openings prior to you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the thickness and width. Subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to allow for 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 installation.

Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and make an appointment for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of your initial phone call and they'll be ready to install within about a week. Before beginning the removal process, take down the blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, make sure to have a clean workspace. It is also advisable to place a plastic sheet or cloth on the floor in case broken glass should fall during the process.

If you're ready to start removing the old window pane, start by using a paint scraper or an old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood molding that are attached to the frame. Heat the metal glazing points before you try to pry them out. After taking the old window off, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in the window that it was originally put in. Then, you can re-caulk the area using an elastic caulk that matches the replacement windows.