Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window is an issue that could result in energy loss and higher utility bills. Window glass replacement is an easy fix to minimize the problems.

What is the best idea to just replace the glass? It's a much cheaper option than a full replacement and you can keep your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account numerous aspects. This includes energy efficiency, security, and appearance. Glass is available in a variety of designs, thicknesses and options. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you decide which one is best for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass can be used in older buildings and homes. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not have the enhanced insulating properties of double-pane windows that are more modern. It can also be dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily become pieces.

This kind of glass could be used for historical replications, where the glass must match the design of the original property to keep it in good condition. It is not very energy efficient and must be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.

Double-paned Insulated Glass

A popular choice for modern homeowners, Replacement Window Glass this type of window is made up of two panes of tempered glass separated by a spacer that is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window, and reduces noise transmission and condensate.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from double-pane insulated glass, this option has three panes of tempered glass with an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes to create an even greater efficiency in energy use. The gases suffocate heat in winter and keep it out in summer, helping cut energy costs.

The two other options are decorative and enhance the look of your exterior of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it a great 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 for added privacy. It is available in a wide range of colors, and can be etched, frosted or patterned to enhance the window's look.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a key aspect to be considered 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 affect several aspects such as security, Replacement Window glass energy efficiency, and noise reduction. Local requirements for building codes and manufacturer requirements are essential to remember.

Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a basic sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32" thick and is utilized in most residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required when you reside in an airport or a high-rise building.

Double-strength window glass is produced by fusion of at most two sheets of glass together with PVB, or polyvinyl butyral. The fusion process uses extreme heat and pressure to create an extremely tough, durable piece of glass that is about five times stronger than standard window glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to withstand damage by flying debris, such as balls or rocks.

Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and safety. It is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to form a durable and layered panel that is hard to break. This type of glass is recommended if you are concerned about protecting your pets and children from falls, and also the reduction of noise levels within 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 of air that escapes or gets into the home, thus increasing the energy efficiency. Glass comes in a variety of sizes and shapes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the insulated glass to give it a touch of class or to enhance privacy. It is important to remember that the application of tint does not void any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window seal replacement replacement glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacement windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can choose from a variety of options, including Low-E coating and insulated glass thickness and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy costs by reducing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray protection, and improve durability. You can pick tinted or frosted glasses to give some color.

The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and has no functional uses, but it can be an excellent way to make your home more distinctive. You can pick from various designs and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personality. You can also opt to have a window or door with a unique shape.

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

Your contractor can provide an in-depth description of the types of glass and their prices. They will also be able to recommend the type of glass that would best suit your needs. You can also ask them to replace your old windows with more energy efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have gas spacers with warm edges that is insulated where the frame meets the glass, and also a layer of argon to fill in the gaps. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's typical to select a clear, standard glass, you can choose colored, frosted or tinted windows. This can give you distinct appearance and provide additional privacy, but it's important to consider the impact this can have on the lighting and style of your home. There are also specialty windows with features that will improve security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to prevent slams and sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is straightforward, whether you want to replace glass in just one window or all of them. A professional will first prepare the opening, removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves in order to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends and one 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 will apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the 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 height and width measurements in order to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass may be damaged during the installation process.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready to install in a week. Before beginning the removal process, take down any blinds or curtains that are near your windows. Also, be sure that you have a clean work area. You should also place a plastic sheet or a cloth on the floor in case any broken glass falls during the process.

Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal that are attached to the frame, use a heating gun to soften them prior attempting to pry them off. After the old window is removed using a paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was previously installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that matches the new windows.