Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and a rise in utility costs. Window glass replacement is a a simple fix to reduce these problems.

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

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account numerous aspects. This includes energy efficiency as well as security. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customizing. This blog post explores six different types window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for Replacement Window Glass your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is typically found in older buildings and houses. While it provides clarity and is easy to clean, it does not provide the superior insulation properties of modern double-pane windows. It can also be dangerous when it breaks, since it is prone to turning into fragments.

This type of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance because the glass has to match the original design in order to preserve the original property. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new insulation-free window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Glass

This is a popular choice for modern homeowners. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass, separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass is more energy efficient than windows with only one pane, and it also helps reduce noise transmission and Replacement Window Glass condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This option is an upgrade from double-paned insulated glass. It has three panes glass that are tempered and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for greater energy efficiency. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by trapping heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.

The final two choices can be decorative and enhance the aesthetics of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass are stronger than regular glass and can be utilized in areas that could be damaged by weather or debris conditions. For extra privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a wide variety of colors, and can be etched, frosted, or designed to enhance the window's look.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a crucial factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, can affect a number characteristics such as security energy efficiency, security, and sound reduction. It is also crucial to take into consideration local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.

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

Double-strength window glass is made by fusion of at most two sheets of glass together with PVB, or polyvinyl butyral. The fusion process uses high heat and pressure to produce an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This type of glass is recommended if wish to protect your windows from damage from flying debris such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass is similar in structure to double-strength, but it has other advantages such as noise reduction and security. This glass is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass together with interlocking plastic or resin to form a strong and layered panel that is difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended if your primary concerns are protecting your pets or children from accidental falls, as well as lessening the noise within your home.

Insulated glass is produced by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety insulating gases to enhance the window performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, thus increasing the energy efficiency. Glass is available in a variety of sizes and shapes.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or privacy. However, it is important to remember that the application of tint does not void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass may vary between 7 and 10 days, based on size and customization.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacing windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to enhance your home's energy efficiency and privacy. You can select 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. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and increase durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for a more subdued look.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no functional uses, but it can be a great way to make your home unique. You can choose between a variety of styles and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personality. You can select to create a door or window with a customized shape.

You can pick between single-pane, double glazing replacement windows-pane and triple-pane windows that have different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you can have the better the insulation of your window.

Your contractor will be able to provide a comprehensive explanation of the different types of glass available and the costs associated with them. They can also suggest the glass type that will best meet your requirements. You can also ask them if they can upgrade your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have a warm-edge gas spacer that is insulated between the frame and the glass, and also a layer of that is filled with argon. These features help the window remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can pick from tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This can give a unique appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it is important to think about the impact on the style of your home and lighting. You can also find speciality windows with features to improve security and user-friendliness like spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing or the possibility of damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in one window, or all of them, the procedure is fairly straightforward. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing old putty and scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8 inch in diameter one at each of the ends, and a single in the middle, across the sill and up through the headjamb. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the sash-weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric caulk around the frame's edges to protect against moisture and seal the gaps between the glass.

Measure the window openings prior to you begin the replacement handles for windows process. Make sure you include the width and thickness. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you do not subtract this amount, the glass you are installing could be damaged during the installation process.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After the initial call, you should receive the windows within a few weeks. They will be ready to install in a week. Before you begin the removal process, remove the blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, make sure to have a clean workspace. It is also advisable to place an unfinished sheet of plastic or cloth on the floor in the event that broken glass does fall during the process.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you attempt to pull them off. Once the old window is removed and discarded, use the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was originally installed. Re-caulk with an elastomeric sealant to match the new windows.