Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and a rise in cost of utilities. Window glass replacement can be a simple fix to reduce these issues.

When is it a good idea to replace only the glass? This is usually less expensive than a complete replacement, and you can keep your window frames.

Types

When it comes to replacing window glass, homeowners and general contractors must consider many factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, safety and window glass replacement aesthetics. Glass is available in a broad range of thicknesses, styles and options for customizing. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you decide which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly used in older buildings and houses. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not provide the same level of insulation as modern double-paned windows. It is also dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily become fragments.

This type of glass is often required for reproduction of historical significance because the glass has to be in line with the original style in order to protect the original property. It is not very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated window unit.

double glazing window replacement Pane Insulated Glass

This is a very popular choice for homeowners who are more modern. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass that are separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window and can reduce condensate and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

This is an upgrade from double-paned glass that is insulated. It has three panes glass that is tempered, and window glass replacement an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in winter and keeping it out in summer.

The final two options can be decorative and add to the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, making it a great choice for areas that are susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. For added privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used in place of traditional glass. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched, or designed to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is among the primary factors to be considered when purchasing new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, will impact several aspects that include security energy efficiency, security, and sound reduction. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are also important to keep in mind.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength - which is a simple sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32" thick and is utilized in most residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or live close to an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glasses are made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses high heat and pressure to create an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to resist damage from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass is similar in structure to double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and security. It 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 kind of glass should be used in cases of protecting your children and pets from falling, as well as reducing noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space that can then be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window performance. This can decrease the amount of air that enters or leaves the home. This glass is available in various 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 privacy. However, it is crucial to remember that the application of tint does not void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days, depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for new replacement window seals windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can pick from options like Low E coating, the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy costs by cutting down on the transfer of heat from the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options can also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass to give more subtle appearance.

The decorative glass is not of any practical purpose and is used only to be used for aesthetic purposes. However it can create a unique home. You can pick from various designs and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personal style. You can have a window or door with a custom-designed shape.

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

Your contractor will be able to provide a comprehensive explanation of the various kinds of glass that are available and their prices. They can also suggest the type of glass that best suits your requirements. You can also ask them if they can change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows include a warm-edge gas spacer that protects the area where the frame meets the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill the gaps. These features help the window remain warmer in winter, and cooler in summer.

While it's common to choose the standard clear glass, you can also choose colored, frosted or tinted windows. This type of window has a distinctive appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it is important to consider the impact on your home's style and lighting. There are also special windows with features to improve security and ease-of-use like spring tensioners to prevent slams or sensors that detect the possibility of damage.

Installation

If you are looking to replace the glass in one window, or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. A professional will first prepare the opening, removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves to get rid of any dirt. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends and one in the middle, through the sill, and up through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant to the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and close any gaps around the new glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, take measurements of the windows' openings making sure to account for the width and thickness of the frame. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements in order to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as the weather changes. If you don't subtract this amount the new glass may be damaged in the process of installation.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of your initial phone call, and they will be ready to install in about a week. Prior to starting the removal process, clean out any blinds or curtains from the windows in front of them and make sure that you have a clear workspace. You should also place a sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass should fall during the process.

Utilize 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 to trying to pull them off. After taking off the old window and hammer, use a paint scraper to clean the grooves the window that it was originally put in. Then, re-caulk the area using an elastic caulk that matches the windows you are replacing.