Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and increase cost of a window replacement of utilities. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to reduce those problems.

But when is it sense to replace just the glass? This is usually less expensive than a full replacement and you can keep the window frames.

Types

When it comes time to replace window glass, homeowners and general contractors must take into consideration a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, protection and appearance. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. This blog post outlines six different types window glass in order to help you choose which one is best for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single-pane glass is typically used in older buildings and in homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however, it does not provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It's also a risk in the event of a break, as it is prone to turning into shards.

This kind of glass is often required for reproduction of historical significance, as the glass must match the original design in order to protect the original property. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new insulation-free window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Glass

This is a popular choice for homeowners of today. 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 can also help reduce noise transmission and condensation.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

This option is an upgrade to double-paned glass that is insulated. It has three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for greater energy efficiency. The gases help to reduce energy costs by trapping heat in winter and keeping it out in summer.

The other two options are decorative and can add to the aesthetic of your exterior home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to damage due to debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed is often used in place of traditional glass to provide privacy. It is available in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a crucial factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, regardless of whether it is laminated, insulation, single strength or double strength, will impact various aspects, including security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. It is also essential to take into consideration local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

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

Double-strength glass is made by fusing two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses extreme heat and pressure to produce a strong, durable pane of glass that is about five times stronger than normal window glass. This kind of glass is recommended if want your windows to resist damage from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass offers many advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and security. It is made by fusing at least two sheets of clear glass together with interlocking resin or plastic to create a sturdy and layered panel that is difficult to break. This kind of glass is suggested for those who are concerned about protecting your children or pets from accidental falls, as well as lessening the noise in 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 of insulating gases to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount air that enters or leaves the home. This glass comes in a variety of sizes and shapes.

The insulated glass can also be tinted to provide an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to remember 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 custom nature of the order.

Customization

You can change the glass for window replacement in your replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can select from alternatives like Low E coating or the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy bills by cutting down on the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Some of these options can also reduce noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass to give more subtle appearance.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and does not have any functional uses, but it can be a great way to make your home distinctive. You can pick from a variety of styles and colors to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can select to have a window or door with a custom-made shape.

You can pick between single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane windows with varying amounts of airspace between panes. The more airspace you can have, the better insulation your window will be.

Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth description of the types of glass and their costs. 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.

Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that create a barrier between the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features help keep the window warmer in the winter months and cooler in summer.

While it's normal to pick the standard clear glass, you can also opt for patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This type of window can provide an unique appearance and provide added privacy, but it's important to consider how this might impact your home's lighting and style. You can also find speciality windows glass replacement with features that increase security and ease-of-use, such as spring tensioners that stop crashes or the possibility of damage.

Installation

The process is simple it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass for just one window or all of them. 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 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. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant on the edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Take measurements of your window openings before you begin the replacement process. Make sure to include the thickness and width. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements in order to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as weather conditions change. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass could be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After your initial call you should receive the windows within a few weeks. They will be ready to install in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, clean out any curtains or blinds from the windows in front of them and make sure that you have a clear workspace. It is also advisable to put a sheet of plastic or cloth on the floor in case any broken glass does fall during the process.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel you can use a heat gun to soften them before attempting to pry them off. After removing the old window using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves which it was originally installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant to match the new windows.