Replacement Window Glass: What Nobody Is Talking About

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that could cause energy loss and increased costs for utilities. Window glass replacement is an easy solution to eliminate these issues.

But when does it make sense to only replace the glass? It's a much cheaper option than a full replacement and you can keep the window frames.

Types

When it comes time to replace windows, homeowners and general contractors must take into consideration a variety of factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a diverse variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customizing. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass in order to help you choose which one is best for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly found in older buildings and in homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however it doesn't provide the same level of insulation as modern double-paned windows. It can also be dangerous when it breaks, since it can easily become fragments.

This kind of glass could be used to replicate historical designs in which the glass has to be in line with the style of the original property to keep it in good condition. However, it is not very efficient and window replacement should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Glass

A popular choice for modern homeowners, this design is made up of two panes of glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer that is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window and can reduce the transmission of noise and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

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

The final two options can be decorative and enhance the aesthetics of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it a great choice for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be often used in place of glass that is traditional for more privacy. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important aspect to be considered when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, will affect several aspects that include security energy efficiency, security, and noise reduction. It is also essential to take into consideration local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The most basic kind of window glass is single strength - which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is utilized in a majority of residential applications. If you reside in a high-rise or live near an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glasses are made by fusion of two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). Fusion processes use high heat and pressure to produce a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than standard 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 has many advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass by using layers of resin or plastic. The result is a panel that is tough and difficult to break. This type of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, and reducing the noise level within your home.

Insulated glass can be produced by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space that can then be filled with various gasses for insulation to enhance the performance of windows. This can decrease the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, from square to rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can also be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to note that tinting will invalidate any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can range from 7-10 business days based on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

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

Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy costs by cutting down on the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray protection and increase the durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass to give an ethereal look.

Decorative glass has no functional usage and is only used for aesthetic purposes. However, it can make your home unique. You can pick from a variety of designs and finishes to create an appearance that matches your style. You can also opt to have a door or window with a customized shape.

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

Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their costs. They can also suggest the best glass for your needs. You can also ask them to upgrade your old windows with more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows include a warm-edge gas spacer that insulates the area where the frame meets the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features allow windows to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's typical to select the standard clear glass, you may also choose colored, frosted or tinted windows. This can give a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on the style of your home and lighting. You can also find specialty windows with features that will enhance security and ease of use including spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in one window, or all of them, the procedure is pretty simple. First a professional will clean the opening by removing old putty and then scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8-inch in diameter, one at each end and one in the middle, through the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the sash weight pockets 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.

Before beginning the replacement upvc window handles process, take measurements of your window openings, making sure to take into account the thickness and width of the framing. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass may be damaged in the process of installation.

Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After the initial call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They will be ready for installation within a week. Before beginning the removal process, clear out any curtains or blinds close to your windows and make sure that you have a clean area to work from. Also, you should place a piece of plastic or cloth down on the floor to stop any broken glass that could fall.

When you're ready to begin removing the old window pane begin by using a paint scraper or an old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding fixed to the frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you attempt to pull them out. Once the old window is removed, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves where it was previously installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the replacement windows.