Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and higher energy costs. Window glass replacement is an easy fix to reduce those problems.
What is the best idea to replace only the glass? It’s a much cheaper option than a full replacement, and you can keep the window frames.
Types
Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account various factors. This includes energy efficiency as well as security. Glass is available in a broad range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. This blog post outlines six different types window glass in order to help you determine which one is best for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single pane glass is common in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity however it doesn’t provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It is also a danger in the event of a break as it can easily become shards.
This kind of glass can be used for historical replications where the glass must be in line with the style of the original property in order to keep it in good condition. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.
Double-paned Insulated Glass
This is a popular choice for modern homeowners. It is comprised of two panes tempered glass separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window and reduce condensate and noise transmission.
Triple Pane Insulated Glass
A step up from a double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass, each with an argon gas or krypton gas fill between the panes for an even higher level of energy efficiency. The gases hold heat in winter and keep it out during the summer, helping to cut energy costs.
The final two choices can be decorative and improve the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, making it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a wide range of colors, and it can be etched, frosted, or designed to improve the appearance of the window.
Thickness
Glass thickness is among the primary factors to be considered when buying new windows or replacing existing glass panes. No matter if it’s single strength double strength, double strength, laminated or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will affect various aspects, such as security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to remember.
The most basic kind of window glass is single strength, which is a basic piece of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and used in residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required for those who live in a high-rise or airport building.
Double-strength glasses are made by fusion of two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely tough, durable piece of glass that is about five times stronger than regular window glass. This type of glass is recommended for those who want to shield your windows from flying debris, like balls or rocks.
Laminated glass is similar to double-strength, but it has other advantages like noise reduction and safety. This glass is created by combining two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of resin or plastic. The result is a sheet that is durable and hard to break. This type of glass should be used in cases of protecting your children and pets from falls and also making it easier to reduce noise in your home.
Insulated glass is created by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety insulating gases to improve window performance. This will reduce the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass is available in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
The glass insulated can also be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to remember that the application of tint does void any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass may vary between 7 and 10 days, based on size and customization.
Customization
You can change the glass in your new replacement windows to increase your home’s security and energy efficiency. You can pick from options such as Low E coating or insulated thickness of glass, and the amount air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can help reduce your energy consumption by reducing the transfer of heat from the indoors and outdoors. Some of these options also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and increase durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a splash of color, or frosted glass for more subtle appearance.
Decorative glass has no functional use and is only for aesthetic purposes. However, it can make your home unique. You can pick from a variety of patterns and finishes for an appearance that matches your personality. You can choose to create a door or window with a custom-made shape.
You can pick between single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane windows that have different levels of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you have, the better the insulation of your window.
Your contractor will be able to provide you with a thorough explanation of the different types of glass that are available and their costs. They can also recommend the glass type that will best meet your requirements. You might also ask whether they can upgrade your old replacements windows to more energy efficient glass.
A lot of modern replacement windows have a warm-edge gas spacer which is insulated between the frame and the glass and a layer that is filled with argon. These features allow windows to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
You can choose between tinted, frosted or patterned glass. This can give a unique appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it is important to take into consideration the impact on your home’s style and lighting. You can also find speciality windows that have features that enhance security and user-friendliness like spring tensioners to prevent slams or sensors that detect the possibility of damage.
Installation
The procedure is easy it doesn’t matter if you wish to replace glass for 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 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. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of the sash to fill in air gaps. Then, they will apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the glass.
Before beginning the replacement process, take measurements of your window openings, taking into consideration the thickness and width of the framing. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as the weather changes. If you don’t subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.
Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. After your initial call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They will be ready for installation within about a week. Before beginning the removal process, you must take off the blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, ensure that you have a clean work area. You should also place an unfinished sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case any broken glass falls during the process.
If you’re ready to start removing the old window pane, start with a paint scraper or old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood that are attached to the frame. The glazing points of the metal should be heated before you try to pry them off. After taking off the old window and hammer, use a paint scraper to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that matches the new windows.
