15 Gifts For The Replacement Window Glass Lover In Your Life

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window is an issue that could result in lower energy usage and higher energy bills. Window glass replacement is a simple fix to reduce those problems.

But when is it sense to replace only the glass? This option is often cheaper than a complete replacement, and you can keep your window frames.

Types

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

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is common in older buildings and installed homes. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it doesn't 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 is often required for reproduction of historical significance because the glass has to be in line with the original design to preserve the property. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new, insulated window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Double-paned Glass

A favorite choice for modern-day homeowners, this design is made up of two panes of glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer which is filled with air to provide insulation. This type of glass is more energy efficient than windows with only one pane, and it can also reduce condensation and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from a double-pane insulated glass This option comes with three panes of tempered glass that have an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes for an even greater efficiency in energy usage. The gases can help reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in winter and letting it escape during summer.

The two other options can be decorative and enhance the appearance of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass are stronger than regular glass and can be utilized in areas that could be damaged by debris or weather conditions. Tinted or glazed glass is often used in lieu of traditional glass to provide privacy. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is one of the primary factors to be considered when buying windows for the first time or replacing glass panes that are already in use. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, will affect various aspects such as security and energy efficiency as well as sound reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to keep in mind.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength, which is a simple sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is utilized in most residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required when you live in a high-rise or airport building.

Double-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process utilizes extreme heat and pressure to produce a strong, durable pane of glass that is about five times stronger than standard window glass. This type of glass is recommended if you want your windows to withstand damage by flying debris, such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass is similar in structure to double-strength, but it has other advantages like noise reduction and security. This glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of resin or plastic. The result is a panel that is strong and difficult to break. This type of glass should be used if you are concerned about protecting your pets and children from falling, and also the reduction of noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can then be filled with different gasses that are insulating to improve the window's performance. This reduces the amount of air that escapes or enters your home, thus increasing the energy efficiency. Glass comes in various sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to remember that tinting will invalidate any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass could vary between 7 and 10 days, based on the size and personalization.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacement windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can select 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 cut down your energy bills by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and the outdoors. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, offer 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.

The decorative glass is not of any practical usage and is only used for aesthetic reasons. However, it can make your home unique. You can choose between a variety of patterns and finishes for the perfect look that suits your style. You can also opt to create a door or window with a customized shape.

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

Your contractor will be able to provide a comprehensive explanation of the various kinds of glass available and the costs associated with them. They can also recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You can also ask them to upgrade your windows with energy-efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows often have gas spacers with warm edges that insulates the area where the frame meets the glass and a layer that is filled with argon. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

While it's normal to pick the standard clear glass, you can also choose patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This type of window can provide distinct appearance and provide more privacy, however it's important to consider the impact this can have on your home's lighting and style. There are also special windows with features to improve security and ease-of-use, such as spring tensioners that prevent the windows from crashing or the possibility of damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window or all of them, the process is pretty simple. First professionals will prepare the opening by removing old putty and scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes one near each end, and one hole in the center, down through the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant along the edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, take measurements of the windows' openings taking into consideration the thickness and width of the framing. Subtract 1/8 inches from the width and height 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 during the installation process.

Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After your initial call you should receive your windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready for installation within one week. Before you begin the removal process, you must take off the blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, be sure that your workspace is clean. It is also recommended to place a piece or plastic or cloth down on the floor to hold any broken glass that could fall.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame 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 initially installed. Then, you can re-caulk the area using an elastic caulk that matches your replacement windows.