Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

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

But when is it sense to replace just the glass? This is a cheaper option than a full replacement, and you will be able to keep your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that homeowners and general contractors alike must consider many factors. This includes energy efficiency, security and appearance. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. In this blog post, we explore six different kinds of window glass to help determine which one may be the best choice for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not offer the same insulation as modern double-paned windows. It is also a danger in the event of a break as it could easily turn into shards.

This type of glass is often required for historical replication since the glass must be a replica of the original design in order to protect the property. It is not very energy efficient and should be changed by a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a popular choice among modern homeowners. It is comprised of two panes tempered glass separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass is more efficient in energy use than a single pane window and can also help reduce noise transmission and condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step above a double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass with an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even higher level of energy efficiency. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by trapping heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.

The two other choices are decorative and add to the aesthetic of your home's exterior. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that may be damaged by debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used in place of traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors, Replacement Window Glass and it can be etched, frosted, or patterned to improve the appearance of the window.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the key factors to consider when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. Whether it is single strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will impact several aspects including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are important to keep in mind.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength - which is a basic piece of clear glass. This glass is 3/32" thick and is utilized in the majority of residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or live close to an airport, your windows may require double strength window glass.

Double-strength window glass is made by fusing at least two sheets of glass together with PVB, or polyvinyl butyral. The process of fusion uses extreme heat and pressure to produce an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is about five times stronger than regular window glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to resist damage from flying debris such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass is similar in structure to double-strength, but it has other advantages such as noise reduction and security. This glass is created by combining two or more sheets of transparent interlocking glass using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a sheet that is strong and difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended if your primary concerns are protecting your children or pets from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise within your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space that can be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window's performance. This will reduce the amount of air that enters or leaves the home. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can be tinted to provide an element of privacy or fashion. However, it is important to keep in mind that the application of tint does not void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days, depending on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

Depending on your objectives for replacing windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to increase your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can pick from options such as Low E coating or the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy bills by reducing heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these options can also lower noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for 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 different patterns and finishes for the perfect look that suits your personality. You can also opt to have a door or window with a custom shape.

Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned or single-paned windows that have different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it is insulated.

Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of glass types and costs. They can also recommend the best glass for your needs. You can also ask them whether they can change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows include gas spacers with warm edges that protects the area where the frame meets the glass and a layer argon to fill in the gaps. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

You can choose between frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This can give you an unique appearance and provide added privacy, but it's important to think about how this will affect your home's lighting and style. You can also find specialty windows with features that increase security and ease of use like spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

The process is simple it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass in only one window or all of them. First professionals will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end, and one hole in the middle along the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the sash weight pockets to fill air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant to the exterior 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 your window openings, taking into consideration the size and thickness of the frame. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you don't subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of the initial phone call and they'll be ready for installation within about a week. Before beginning the removal process, take down any blinds or curtains close to your windows. Also, make sure that your workspace is clean. It is also recommended to put a plastic sheet or cloth on the floor in the event that broken glass should fall during the process.

Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. The glazing points of the metal should be heated before you try to pry them out. After taking the old window off using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was originally installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant to match the windows that are replaced.