Replacement Window Glass: What Nobody Is Discussing

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and higher cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is a an easy fix to eliminate the risk of these issues.

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

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account many factors. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass is available in a broad range of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. In this blog post, we look at six different kinds of glass for windows to help you determine which one may be the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and structures. 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 kind of glass is typically required for historical replication because the glass has to match the original design in order to protect the original design. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Double-paned Glass

A popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this design comprises two panes tempered glass separated by a spacer which is filled with air for insulation. This type of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window and can also help reduce condensation and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This is an upgrade to double-paned glass with insulated coating. It has three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases aid in reducing the cost of energy by capturing heat in the winter months and letting it out in summer.

The two other options are decorative and improve the aesthetics of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. For replacement window glass added privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or designed 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, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will impact various aspects, such as security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also important to consider local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is commonly used in residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required when you reside in a high-rise or airport building.

Double-strength window replacements glass is made by fusing at least two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinyl butyral. The fusion process utilizes extreme heat and pressure to create an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is about five times stronger than normal window glass. This kind of glass is recommended if want your windows to withstand damage by flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength glass, but it comes with additional benefits like noise reduction and safety. This glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass using layers of resin or plastic. The result is a glass that is strong 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 lessening the noise within your home.

Insulated glass is created by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety of insulation gases to improve window performance. This can decrease the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass is available in various sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting will invalidate any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days, depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

You can change the glass of your replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can choose between options such as Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount of 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 reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to bring some color.

Glass that is decorative has no practical usage and is only used for aesthetic purposes. However, it can give your home a unique look. You can pick from a wide range of designs and finishes to create a style that suits your personality. You can select to have a window or door with a custom-designed 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 can provide an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their costs. They can also recommend the kind of glass that will best meet your needs. You can also ask them to upgrade your windows to energy-efficient glass.

Many modern replacement window handle windows come with a warm-edge spacer that create a barrier between the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill the gaps between the panes. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

You can choose from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This can give you an unique appearance and provide more privacy, however it's important to consider the impact this can have on the lighting and Replacement Window Glass design of your home. There are also special windows with features to improve security and ease of use, such as spring tensioners that prevent crashes or potential damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the process is quite simple. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each end and one in the middle, across the sill and up through the headjamb. Then, they inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of your window openings, making sure to account for the thickness and width of the frame. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged during installation.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact measurements of the replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a few weeks. They will be ready to install in one week. Before you begin the removal process, remove any curtains or blinds close to your windows. Also, make sure that you have a clean work area. You should also place a piece of cloth or plastic on the floor to catch any broken glass that might fall.

If you're ready to start removing the old window pane begin with a paint scraper or old chisel to take away any pieces of wood that are attached to the frame. If there are any metal glazing points you can use a heat gun to soften them prior attempting to pry them off. After removing the old window, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was originally installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the new windows.