15 Gifts For The Replacement Window Glass Lover In Your Life

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and a rise in cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is an easy fix to minimize the problems.

When is it a good idea to replace only the glass? This is a cheaper option than a full replacement, and you will be able to keep the window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacing window glass, homeowners as well as general contractors must take into consideration a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, protection and doors appearance. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. 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 Lite Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and structures. While it offers clarity and doors is easy to clean, it doesn't offer the insulation benefits of double-pane windows that are more modern. It is also a danger if it breaks as it could easily turn into shards.

This kind of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance, as the glass must be in line with the original design in order to preserve the original design. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a new insulation-free window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This option 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 to provide a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases trap the heat in the winter and keep it out during the summer, helping reduce energy bills.

The final two options are decorative and enhance the beauty of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by debris or weather conditions. Tinted or glazed glass is frequently used in place of traditional glass for added privacy. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched or designed to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. It doesn't matter if it's single strength, double strength, laminated or insulated the thickness of the glass will affect several aspects including security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are essential to be aware of.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in most residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required for those who reside in an airport or a high-rise building.

Double-strength glass is made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is approximately five times stronger than regular window glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to withstand damage from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass is similar to double-strength but has additional perks such as noise reduction and security. It is created by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking plastic or resin to create a sturdy, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is ideal in cases of protecting your children and pets from falls as well as reducing noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass is made by putting 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 will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. This glass comes in a wide range of sizes and shapes.

The glass insulated can also be tinted to provide an element of style or privacy. It is important to remember that tinting can void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can range from 7-10 business days depending on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

Depending on your goals for replacement windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to increase your home's energy efficiency and privacy. You can select from alternatives like Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy bills by cutting down on heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray protection, and improve durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a splash of color, or frosted glass for an ethereal look.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and doesn't have any practical use however, it is an excellent way to make your home more unique. You can choose between different designs and finishes to create an appearance that matches your style. You can even choose to have a door or window with a unique shape.

Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned, or single-paned windows. Each has different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you can have the better insulation your window will be.

Your contractor can provide an in-depth description of the kinds of glass available and their prices. They can also suggest the type of glass that would best suit your requirements. You can also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge separator to insulate the area where the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill the gaps between the panes. These features help the window remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can pick from tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This option offers a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on your home's style and lighting. There are also windows that have features that enhance security and ease-of-use, such as spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.

Installation

The process is simple It doesn't matter if you want to replace glass in just one window or all of them. A professional will first prepare the opening by removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends 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 on the exterior edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, measure the width and height of the window openings taking into consideration the width and thickness of the framing. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged during installation.

Call your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days after your initial phone call and they'll be ready to install within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, take out any blinds or curtains from near your windows and make sure that you have a clear area to work from. It is also recommended to place a plastic sheet or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass should fall during the process.

Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel, use a heat gun to soften them prior to trying to pull them off. After taking the old window off using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was initially installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant to match the upvc replacement window handles windows.