Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher utility costs. Window glass replacement is an easy 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 keep the window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacing windows, homeowners and general contractors must consider many factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, security and aesthetics. Glass comes in a variety styles, thicknesses, and customization options. In this blog post, we look at six different types of glass for windows to help you determine which one may be the best choice for replacing your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is common in older homes and buildings. It is easy to clean and provides clarity, but it does not provide the same level of insulation as modern double-paned windows. It could also be a risk if it breaks because it is prone to becoming shards.

This type of glass is usually required for historical replication since the glass must match the original design in order to preserve the property. It is not very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a very popular choice among homeowners of today. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window, and reduces condensate and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from a double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass with an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even higher efficiency in energy use. The gases hold heat in the winter and keep it out in summer, replacing helping to reduce energy bills.

The two other options are decorative and add to the aesthetics of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be utilized in areas that could be damaged by weather or debris conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed is often used in place of traditional glass to provide privacy. It is available in a wide range of colors, and it can be etched, frosted, or designed to enhance the window's look.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. Whether it is single strength double strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will affect a number of characteristics including security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also important to think about local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The simplest type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in most residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required if you are in an airport or high-rise building.

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusion of at least two sheets of glass together with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The process of fusion uses 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 resist damage from flying debris such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass offers many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and security. This glass is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass together with interlocking plastic or resin to form a strong layer that is extremely difficult to break. This type of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your pets or children from falls that could be accidental, and reduce the noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass can be produced by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with various gasses that are insulating to improve the performance of windows. This will reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters your home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or style. It is important to keep in mind that tinting can void any warranty. The time frame for replacing insulated windows glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

You may upgrade the glass in your replacement double glazed window windows to enhance your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can select from alternatives like Low E coating, 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 heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, provide UV-ray protection and enhance the durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a splash of color, or frosted glass for a more subdued look.

The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and doesn't have any practical uses however, it is a great way to make your home more distinctive. You can choose between various styles and finishes to create the perfect look that suits your personality. You can even create a door or window with a custom shape.

You can pick between double-pane, single-pane and triple-pane windows with varying levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it will be well-insulated.

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 will best meet your requirements. You may also ask them if they can upgrade your old windows to more 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 in the gaps between the panes. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

You can pick from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This type of window can provide a unique look and offer more privacy, however it's important to consider how this will affect the lighting and style of your home. There are also specialty windows that have features that increase security and ease of operation like spring tensioners to avoid the windows from crashing and sensors to identify the possibility of damage.

Installation

If you're 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 the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill three holes of 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends 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 apply an elastomeric caulk around the frame's edges to shield against moisture and seal the gaps around the new glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, measure the width and height of the window openings making sure to account for the width and thickness of the framing. Subtract 1/8 inches from the height and width measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract according to the weather. If you don't subtract this amount, the glass you are installing could be damaged in the process of installation.

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

If you're ready to start taking down the old window begin by using a paint scraper or old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding that are fixed to the frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal you can use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to pull them off. After the old window has been removed, use the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was previously placed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the new windows.