Replacement Window Glass Isn't As Tough As You Think

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane can be an issue that could lead to lower energy usage and higher costs for utilities. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to reduce those problems.

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

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that general contractors and homeowners alike must consider various aspects. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customizing. In this blog post, we will look at six different types of glass for windows to help you determine which one may be the best choice for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass can be found in older buildings and in homes. Although it is clear and is easy to clean, it doesn't have the enhanced insulating properties of double-pane windows that are more modern. It can also be dangerous if it breaks as it could easily turn into fragments.

This type of glass can be used to replicate historical designs, where the glass must match the design of the original property to keep it in good condition. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This option is a popular choice among homeowners of today. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass that are separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass is more energy efficient than windows with only one pane, and it also helps 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 higher efficiency in energy usage. The gases can help reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in the winter months and keeping it out during summer.

The last two options are decorative and improve the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it an excellent option for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. For Replacement Window Glass added privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used in place 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 one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying windows for the first time or Replacement Window Glass replacing glass panes that are already in use. The thickness of the glass, regardless of whether it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, will affect various aspects such as security energy efficiency, security, and noise reduction. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are important to keep in mind.

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 the majority of residential applications. If you live in a building that is high-rise, or your home is close to an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create 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 withstand damage by flying debris, such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass offers many advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and security. This glass is created by combining two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass by using layers of resin or plastic. The result is a sheet that is durable and hard to break. This kind of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your pets or children from accidental falls, and reducing the noise level in your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with different gasses that are insulating to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount air that enters or leaves the home. Glass is available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the insulated glass to give it a touch of class or to enhance privacy. However, it is important to remember that tinting does not void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days, depending on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

Depending on your goals for replacement windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to enhance your home's energy efficiency 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 lower your energy costs by decreasing heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray shielding and enhance the durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass for more subtle appearance.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no practical use, but it can be an excellent option to make your home more unique. You can choose from a variety of styles and colors to create a look that matches your personal style. You can choose to have a window or door with a custom-made shape.

Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned or single-paned windows that have different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is well-insulated.

Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the glass types and prices. They will also be able to recommend the glass type that best suits your requirements. You can ask them to replace window handle your windows with energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that protect the area where the frame meets the glass and a layer of argon gas to fill the gaps between the panes. These features help the window remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

You can pick from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This can give you distinct appearance and provide more privacy, however it's important to think about how this might impact the lighting and design of your home. There are also special windows with features that will improve security and ease of use like spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is easy it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass for 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 in order 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. Then, they inject expanding foam into the sash-weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Finally, they will apply an elastomeric caulk along the frame's exterior edges to shield against moisture and seal the gaps between the glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of your window openings, making sure to account for the width and thickness of the frame. 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 don't subtract this amount the new glass could be damaged during the installation process.

Call your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After your initial phone call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They will be ready for installation within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, remove any curtains or blinds which are located near your windows. Also, make sure to have a clean workspace. Also, you should put a piece of plastic or cloth down on the floor to catch any broken glass that may fall.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel that are attached to the frame, use a heating gun to soften them prior trying to pull them off. After taking the old window off and hammer, use a paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Then, re-caulk the area with an elastomeric caulk to match your replacement windows.