Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher utility costs. Window glass replacement can be a simple fix to reduce these issues.

But when is it sense to only replace the glass? This is a cheaper option than a full replacement and you can keep the window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account many factors. This includes energy efficiency, protection, and appearance. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. In this blog post, we look at six different kinds of window glass to help determine which one is the best choice for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass can be found in older buildings and in homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity however it doesn't provide the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It's also a risk when it breaks, since it can easily turn into pieces.

This kind of glass could be used to replicate historical designs where the glass must match the design of the original property to preserve it. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

A favorite choice for modern-day homeowners, this option consists of two panes of glass that are tempered and separated by a spacer which is filled with air for insulation. This kind of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window and it can also reduce condensation and noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glazing

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

The two other options are decorative and add to the aesthetics of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be often used in lieu of glass that is traditional for more privacy. It comes in a wide variety of colors, and it can be etched, frosted, or designed to improve the look of windows.

Thickness

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

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

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusing at least two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinyl butyral. The fusion process uses high temperatures and pressure to create a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This kind of glass is ideal when you want to protect your windows from flying debris, like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing two or more sheets of transparent, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is durable and hard to break. This type of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your pets or children from falls that could be accidental, and reducing the noise level within your home.

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

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or privacy. However, it is important to remember that the application of tint does not invalidate any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass could vary between 7 and 10 days, based on the size and customization.

Customization

You may upgrade the glass of your replacement windows to improve your home's security and energy efficiency. You can choose between alternatives like Low E coating or the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can help reduce your energy bills by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and outside. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, provide UV protection, and increase durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass to give a more subdued look.

Decorative glass has no functional usage and is only used for aesthetic reasons. However it can give your home a unique look. You can pick from a variety of designs and finishes to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can even have a door or window with a customized shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows that have different amounts of airspace between panes. The more airspace you can have the more insulation your window will be.

Your contractor will be able to provide you with a thorough explanation of the various kinds of glass available and their prices. They can also suggest the glass type that will best meet your requirements. You can also ask them to replace your windows with more energy-efficient glass.

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

While it's normal to pick the standard clear glass, you may also choose patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This option can provide an unique appearance and Replacement Window Glass provide additional privacy, but it's important to think about how this will affect your home's lighting and style. There are also special windows with features to improve security and user-friendliness, such as spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.

Installation

The process is simple it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass for just one window or all of them. First a professional will clean the opening by removing old putty and then scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end, and a single hole in the middle and down through the sill and up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant along the edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and seal any gaps around the new glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of the window openings taking into consideration the width and thickness of the framing. Subtract 1/8 inch both from the width and height measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract with the weather. If you do not subtract this amount, the new glass may be damaged during the installation process.

Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of the initial phone call and they will be ready to install in about a week. Before beginning the removal process, you must take off the blinds or curtains which are located near your windows replacement. Also, be sure to have a clean workspace. It is also recommended to place a piece or plastic or cloth down on the floor to catch any broken glass that may fall.

Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel that are attached to the frame, use a heating gun to soften them before attempting to pry them off. Once the old window is removed using the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves in which it was previously placed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that matches the windows that are replaced.