Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that could lead to energy loss and increased energy bills. Window glass replacement can be an easy fix to lessen these issues.

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

Types

Window replacement is a complex procedure that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account numerous aspects. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you determine which one is suitable for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single pane glass is common in older homes and structures. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not provide the superior insulation properties of double-pane windows that are more modern. It's also a risk if it breaks, as it can easily turn into shards.

This kind of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance since the glass must be a replica of the original design in order to protect the original property. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Insulated double glazed replacement windows-paned Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

A step up from a double-pane glass that is insulated This option comes with three panes of tempered glass that have an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes to create an even greater level of energy efficiency. The gases suffocate heat in the winter and keep it out in summer, helping to further reduce energy costs.

The other two options are decorative and add to the aesthetic of your exterior of your home. Laminated or Window glass replacement tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. Tinted or glazed glass is often used in place of glass that is traditional for more privacy. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is one of the primary factors to be considered when buying new windows or replacing existing glass panes. No matter if it's single strength or double strength, laminated, or insulated glass, Window glass replacement the thickness of the glass will affect a number of characteristics including energy efficiency, security and sound reduction. It is also crucial to take into consideration local construction codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

The most basic kind of window glass is single strength, which is a basic piece of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is used in residential applications. If you live in a high-rise, or your home is near an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusion of at least two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The fusion process uses high temperatures and pressure to create an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This type of glass is recommended if want your windows to resist damage by flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass is similar to double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of resin or plastic. The result is a sheet that is durable and hard to break. This type of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, as well as lessening the noise within your home.

Insulated glass is created by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety of insulating gases to improve window performance. This will reduce the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. This glass is available in various sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of elegance or to enhance privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does void any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can range from 7-10 business days, depending on the size and nature of the order.

Customization

You may upgrade the glass of your replacement windows to increase your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can select from options such as Low-E coating and insulated glass thickness and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy bills by reducing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, provide UV-ray protection and increase the durability. You can choose tinted or frosty glasses to give some color.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and does not have any practical use, but it can be an excellent option to make your home unique. You can choose from a wide range of designs and finishes to create a style that suits your personality. You can even have a window or door with a unique 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 will be well-insulated.

Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their costs. They will also be able to recommend the most suitable glass for your needs. You can also ask them to upgrade your windows to 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 the gaps between the panes. These features help the window remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's common to choose a standard clear glass, you can opt for colored, frosted or tinted windows. This can give you distinct appearance and provide additional privacy, but it's important to take into consideration the impact this can have on the lighting and design of your home. There are also specialty windows that have features that increase security and ease of use like spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

If you're looking to replace the glass in just one window or all of them, the procedure is quite simple. 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 of the ends, and a single in the middle, through the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and fill any gaps in the new glass.

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

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. After your initial call you should receive your windows within a few weeks. They'll be ready for installation within one week. Before you begin the removal process, take down any blinds or curtains close to your windows. Also, be sure to have a clean workspace. You should also place a piece of cloth or plastic down on the floor to hold any broken glass that may fall.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. Warm the glazing points of the frame before you try to pry them off. After the old window is removed and discarded, use a paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was previously installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant to match the new windows.