Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and a rise in energy costs. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to minimize the problems.

But when is it sense to replace only the glass? This is a cheaper alternative to a complete replacement, and you can keep the window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complicated process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account many factors. 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 kinds of window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and structures. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it doesn't have the enhanced insulating properties of modern double-pane windows glass replacement. It is also a danger when it is broken because it is prone to becoming shards.

This type of glass can be used for historical replications in which the glass has to be in line with the style of the original property to keep it in good condition. It is not energy efficient and should be changed with a new insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step up from double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass that have an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even greater efficiency in energy use. The gases can help reduce energy costs by trapping heat in winter and letting it escape in summer.

The final two options are decorative and enhance the aesthetics of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to damage due to debris or weather conditions. Tinted or glazed glass is often used in place of traditional glass for added privacy. It is available in a wide variety of colors, and can be etched, frosted, or patterned to enhance the window's look.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a crucial aspect to be considered 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 impact a number of characteristics including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to keep in mind.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength - which is a basic sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32 inches thick and is used in residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or you live near an airport, your windows may require double glazed replacement windows strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). Fusion processes use high temperatures and pressure to produce a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times more durable than normal 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 numerous advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and security. This glass is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to create a sturdy layer that is extremely difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended if your primary concerns are protecting your children or pets from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise within your home.

Insulated glass is made by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety of insulating gases to improve the window handle replacement's performance. This will reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass is available in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The insulated glass can be tinted to add an element of style or privacy. It is important to remember that tinting does void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass can vary from 7-10 days depending on the size and customization.

Customization

You can upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to increase your home's security and energy efficiency. You can select from a variety of options, including Low-E coating and thickness of insulated glass and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy costs by reducing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray shielding and enhance the durability. You can pick tinted or frosted glasses to give an accent of color.

Decorative glass has no functional use and is only for aesthetic purposes. However, it can make your home unique. You can pick from a variety of patterns and finishes to create a style that matches your personal style. You can even choose to have a window or door with a custom shape.

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

Your contractor will provide you with a thorough description of the various types of glass and their prices. They will also be able to recommend the glass type that would best suit your needs. You can also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge separator to protect the area where the frame meets the glass, and an argon gas layer to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features help the window stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

You can choose between tinted, frosted, or patterned glass. This option offers a unique appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it's important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also specialty windows that have features that increase security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to avoid the windows from crashing and sensors to identify potential damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in 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 to remove any dirt. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one near each end and a single hole in the center, down through the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant on the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and close any gaps around the new 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 the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass may be damaged during installation.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact measurements of the replacement windows. They should be delivered within some days of your initial phone call and they'll be ready for installation in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, take down the blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, ensure that your workspace is clean. You should also put a sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass does fall during the process.

When you're ready to begin taking down the old window, start by using a paint scraper or old chisel to take away any pieces of wood molding fixed to the frame. If there are any metal glazing points you can use a heat gun to soften them prior to attempting to pry them off. After taking off the old window using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves the window that it was originally put in. Then, seal the area with an elastomeric caulk that matches your replacement windows.