Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher utility costs. Window glass replacement is an easy solution to eliminate these issues.

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

Types

When it comes to replacing windows, homeowners and general contractors must take into consideration a variety of factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass is available in a diverse variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. This blog post explores six different types window glass to help you choose which one is suitable for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is commonly found in older homes and buildings. While it provides 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, window glass replacement as it is prone to turning into shards.

This kind of glass could be used for replicas of historical buildings, where the glass must be in line with the style of the original property in order 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 choice for modern-day homeowners, this option consists of two panes of glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer which is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window replacement cost and reduce condensate and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step up from double-pane insulated glass this model has three panes of tempered glass, each with an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even higher efficiency in energy use. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by trapping heat in the winter months and keeping it out during summer.

The other two 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 utilized in areas that could be damaged by debris or weather conditions. For added privacy tinted or glazed glasses is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors and can be etched, frosted, or decorated to improve the appearance of the window.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the key factors to consider when purchasing new windows or replacing existing glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated or insulation, single strength or double strength, can affect a number characteristics that include security energy efficiency, security, and the reduction of sound. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are essential to keep in mind.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. This glass is 3/32" thick and is utilized in most residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required if you are in a high-rise or airport building.

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusion of at least two sheets of glass together with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The process of fusion 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 ideal for those who want to shield your windows from flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass offers many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and safety. It is created by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking plastic or resin to form a strong, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, and lessening the noise 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 insulation gases to enhance the window performance. This can reduce the amount air that is able to enter or leave the home. This glass is available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does not void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass could vary from 7-10 days depending on size and customization.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacement windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to increase the efficiency of your home's energy use and privacy. You can pick from a variety of options, including Low-E coating and insulated glass thickness and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy consumption by decreasing the transfer of heat from the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options can also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass to give an ethereal look.

Glass that is decorative has no practical usage and is only used to be used for aesthetic purposes. However, it can make your home unique. You can pick from a variety of styles and colors to create a look that suits your personality. You can also opt to have a window or door with a custom shape.

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

Your contractor will provide a comprehensive explanation of the various kinds of glass that are 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 often have a warm-edge gas spacer which protects the area between the frame and the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can choose from tinted, frosted or patterned glass. This option offers a unique appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it's important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also special windows with features to improve security and user-friendliness, such as spring tensioners that stop crashes or possible damage.

Installation

The procedure is straightforward It doesn't matter if you want to replace glass in just one window sash replacement or all of them. A professional will first prepare the opening, removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one near each end, and one hole in the center, down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the exterior edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.

Measure your window openings prior to when you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the thickness and width. Subtract 1/8 inches from the height and width measurements to allow for the frame to expand and contract with the weather. If you don't subtract this amount the glass you are installing could be damaged in the process of installation.

Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within some days of the initial phone call and they'll be ready to install in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, remove any curtains or blinds that are near your windows. Also, make sure to have a clean workspace. Also, you should place a piece or cloth or plastic on the floor to hold any broken glass that could fall.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel that are attached to the frame, use a heating gun to soften them prior to attempting to pry them off. After the old window is removed using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was previously placed. Then, re-caulk the area with an elastomeric caulk that matches your replacement windows.