Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and higher cost of utilities. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate the risk of these issues.

When is it a good idea to just replace the glass? This is a cheaper option than a full replacement, and you will be able to keep the window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency, security and appearance. Glass comes in a variety styles, thicknesses and customization options. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you choose which one is best for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is typically used in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not offer the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It is also a danger in the event of a break because it is prone to becoming fragments.

This kind of glass is usually required for historical replication since the glass must be in line with the original style in order to preserve the original design. It is not energy efficient and should be changed by a new, insulated window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Glass

This is a popular choice for homeowners who are more modern. It is comprised of two panes tempered glass separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass is more energy efficient than a single pane window, and it can also reduce noise transmission and condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from a double-pane insulated glass this model has three panes of tempered glass, each with an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes for an even higher efficiency in energy use. The gases help to reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.

The two other options are decorative and can add to the aesthetic of your home's exterior. Laminated or Replacement window glass tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it a great choice for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glass is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a wide variety of colors and it can be etched, frosted or patterned to improve the appearance of the window seal replacement.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, insulation, single strength or double strength, will impact several aspects such as security energy efficiency, security, and sound reduction. It is also important to consider local construction codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32 inches thick and used in residential applications. If you reside in a high-rise or you live near an airport, your windows may require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses extreme heat and pressure to create a strong, durable pane of glass that is around five times stronger than normal window glass. This type of glass is recommended if you wish to protect your windows from damage by flying debris, such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength, but it has other advantages like noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a glass that is strong and difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended in cases of protecting your pets and children from falls as well as the reduction of noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can then be filled with different gasses for insulation to enhance the performance of windows. This will reduce the amount of air that is able to enter or leave the home. Glass comes in a wide range of shapes and sizes.

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

Customization

Based on the goals you have for new replacement windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to increase the efficiency of your home's energy use and privacy. You can pick from options like Low E coating, insulated thickness of glass, and the amount of air space between panes.

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

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and does not have any functional uses, but it can be a great option to make your home more distinctive. You can pick from different patterns and finishes for an appearance that matches your personality. You can even choose to have a window or door with a custom shape.

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

Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their prices. They can also suggest the kind of glass that would best suit your requirements. You can also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your old windows to more energy efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows are often fitted with a warm-edge spacer to insulate the area where the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill the gaps between the panes. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's common to choose a clear, standard glass, you may also select frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This type of window can provide 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. You can also find specialty windows that have features that enhance security and ease of operation, such as spring tensioners to avoid the windows from crashing and sensors to identify the possibility of damage.

Installation

The process is simple it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass in only one window or all of them. 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 holes of 3/8-inch diameter, one near each end and a single hole in the center along the sill and up through the head jamb. Then, Replacement Window Glass they inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Measure the window openings prior to you begin the replacement process. Make sure to include the width and thickness. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when the weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass could 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 a few days after your initial phone call and they'll be ready for installation within a few days. Before beginning the removal process, take down any curtains or blinds close to your windows. Also, be sure that you have a clean work area. It is also recommended to place a piece or cloth or plastic on the floor to hold any broken glass that may fall.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal, use a heat gun to soften them prior attempting to pry 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, you can re-caulk the area using an elastic caulk that matches the replacement windows.