Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and increase cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is a an easy fix to lessen these issues.

But when does it make sense to only replace the glass? This is typically less expensive than a complete replacement and you can retain your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account many factors. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass comes in a variety styles, thicknesses, and customization options. In this blog post, we explore six different kinds of glass for windows to help you determine which one may be the most suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and buildings. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It could also be a risk in the event of a break as it could easily turn into shards.

This type of glass can be used for historical replications, where the glass must match the design of the original property in order to preserve it. It is not energy efficient and should be changed with a new insulated glass unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a very popular choice among modern homeowners. It consists of two panes tempered glass, separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass could be more energy efficient than a single-pane window, and reduces condensate and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This is an upgrade to double-paned insulated glass. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in winter and letting it escape in summer.

The last two options are decorative and improve the beauty of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glass is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors, double and can be etched, frosted, or designed to improve the look of windows.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a key aspect to be considered when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. No matter if it's single strength double glazed windows replacement strength, double strength, laminated or insulated the thickness of the glass will affect a number of characteristics such as security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to keep in mind.

Single strength is the most basic type of glass for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32 inches thick and is commonly used in residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required when you reside in an airport or high-rise building.

Double-strength windows are made by fusing at least two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This kind of glass is recommended when you want to protect your windows from flying debris, like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass is similar to double-strength glass, but it comes with additional benefits such as noise reduction and security. This glass is created by combining two or more sheets of transparent interlocking glass by using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is durable and hard 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 is produced by putting spacers in between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety insulating gases to improve the window's performance. This will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. This glass is available in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, from square to rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. It is important to note that tinting will void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days based on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

You can upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can pick from options like Low-E coating and thickness of insulated glass and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy consumption by reducing the transfer of heat from the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to bring a splash of color.

The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and does not have any functional uses however it can be an excellent option to make your home more unique. You can pick from a wide range of patterns and finishes to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can even have a door or window with a custom shape.

You can choose between double-pane, single-pane and triple-pane windows with varying amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is insulated.

Your contractor will provide you with a thorough explanation of the various kinds of glass available and the costs associated with them. They will also be able to recommend the kind of glass that best suits your requirements. You can also ask them to replace your windows with energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have gas spacers with warm edges that is insulated between the frame and the glass. It also includes a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

While it's typical to select a standard clear glass, you can also choose frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This option can provide a unique look and offer more privacy, however it's important to take into consideration how this might impact the lighting and style of your home. You can also find speciality windows with features that increase security and user-friendliness like spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the procedure is fairly straightforward. A professional will first make the opening ready, taking off the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves in order to remove any dirt. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes one near each end, and one hole in the middle, down through the sill and up through the head jamb. Then, they inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and close any gaps around the glass.

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

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After the initial call you should receive your windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready to install in about a week. Prior to starting the removal process, take out any blinds or curtains from the windows in front of them and make sure that you have a clean area to work from. Also, you should place a piece or plastic or cloth down on the floor to stop any broken glass that might fall.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal you can use a heat gun to soften them prior attempting to pry them off. After taking off the old window using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves in the window that it was originally put in. Then, seal the area with an elastic caulk that matches the windows you are replacing.