Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and a rise in utility costs. Window glass replacement is a simple fix to minimize the problems.

But when does it make sense to replace just the glass? It’s a much cheaper alternative to a complete replacement and you can keep the window replacements frames.

Types

When it comes time to replace windows, homeowners and general contractors must take into consideration a variety of factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, security and aesthetics. Glass is available in a variety of styles, thicknesses, and customization options. This blog post will explore six different types window glass to help you decide which one is suitable for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older homes and structures. It is easy to clean and offers clarity however it doesn’t offer the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It is also a danger if it breaks because it is prone to becoming shards.

This type of glass is typically required for historical replication because the glass has to be a replica of the original design in order to protect the property. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a new, insulated window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

A very popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this option consists of two panes of tempered glass 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 can also help reduce condensation and sash noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step above a double-pane insulated glass, this option has three panes of tempered glass that have an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes to provide an even greater efficiency in energy use. The gases aid in reducing energy costs by capturing 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 glass or tempered glass is stronger than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by debris or weather conditions. For added privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window replacements‘s appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is one of the key factors to consider when buying new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. It doesn’t matter if it’s single strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated the thickness of the glass will impact several aspects including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. It is also crucial to take into consideration local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a basic 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 close to an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). Fusion processes use high temperatures and pressure to create an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended if you wish to protect your windows from damage from flying debris such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and safety. It is created by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to form a strong, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is ideal in cases of protecting your children and pets from falls, and also reducing noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass can be produced by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can then be filled with various gasses that are insulating to improve the performance of windows. This can reduce the amount air that can enter or leave the home. Glass comes in various shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to arched or circular.

The insulated glass can also be tinted to provide an element of style or privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does void any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass can vary from 7-10 days based on the size and personalization.

Customization

You can upgrade the glass of your replacement windows to improve your home’s security and energy efficiency. You can select from options such as Low E coating or the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount of air space between panes.

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

The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and doesn’t have any practical use however it can be an excellent way to make your home unique. You can choose between various styles and finishes to create the perfect look that suits your personality. You can even choose to create a door or window with a unique shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows with varying levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it is more insulated.

Your contractor will be able to provide you with a thorough description of the various types of glass available and their prices. They can also suggest the best type of glass for your requirements. You can ask them to upgrade your windows with energy-efficient glass.

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

While it’s normal to pick the standard clear glass, you may also select colored, frosted or tinted windows. This can give you distinct appearance and provide added privacy, but it’s important to think about the impact this can have on your home’s lighting and style. You can also find specialty windows with features that will improve security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is easy, whether you want to replace glass for just one window or all of them. First professionals will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes, one near each end and a single hole in the center and down through the sill and up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant on the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and close any gaps around the glass.

Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of the windows’ openings taking into consideration the width and thickness of the frame. Subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow for the frame to expand and contract in response to the weather. If you don’t subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged during the installation process.

Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an order for the exact measurements of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days after your initial phone call and they should be ready for installation within a few days. Before beginning the removal process, take down any curtains or blinds which are located near your windows. Also, ensure that you have a clean work area. Also, you should put a piece of cloth or plastic down on the floor to hold any broken glass that might fall.

When you’re ready to begin removing the old window pane, start with a paint scraper or an old chisel to remove any pieces of wood molding that are connected to the frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel you can use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to remove them. After removing the old window using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves the window that it was originally put in. Re-caulk with an elastomeric sealant that matches the replacement windows.