Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and increase energy costs.
Window glass replacement is a straightforward solution to eliminate these issues.
But when does it make sense to replace only the glass? This is typically less expensive than a complete replacement and you can keep your window frames.
Types
When it comes to replacing windows, homeowners and general contractors must consider many aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency, safety and aesthetics. Glass is available in a wide variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. This blog post explores six different kinds of window glass to help you decide which one is the best fit for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single pane glass is commonly found in older homes and structures. Although it is clear and is easy to clean, it does not have the enhanced insulating properties of modern double-pane windows. It is also dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily become pieces.
This type of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance, as the glass must be in line with the original design to preserve the original property. It isn't very energy efficient and should be changed by a new, insulated window unit.
Double-paned Insulated Glass
A popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this option 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 is more energy efficient than a single pane window and it also helps reduce condensation and noise transmission.
Triple Pane Insulated Glass
This is an upgrade from double-paned insulated glass. It features three panes tempered glass and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases hold heat in the winter and keep it out in summer, helping to further reduce energy bills.
The final two choices can be decorative and enhance the aesthetics of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass are stronger than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed is often used in place of traditional glass for added privacy. It comes in a wide variety of colors, and can be etched, frosted, or decorated to improve the look of windows.
Thickness
Glass thickness is among the primary factors to be considered when purchasing new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. No matter if it's single strength, double strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will affect a number of characteristics including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. It is also essential to consider local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.
Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. It is 3/32" thick and is utilized in the majority of residential applications. If you reside in a high-rise building or you live near an airport, your windows might require double strength
window replacement glass glass.
Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create an extremely durable and strong piece of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended if wish to protect your windows from damage from flying debris such as balls or rocks.
Laminated glass resembles double-strength, but it has other advantages like noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing two or more sheets of clear, interlocking glass with layers of plastic or resin. The result is a glass that is durable and hard to break. This kind of glass is recommended when your primary concern is protecting your pets or children from accidental falls, and reduce the noise levels within your home.
Insulated glass is made by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space which can be filled with a variety insulating gases to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, from square to rectangular to arched or circular.
The glass insulated can also be tinted to provide an element of style or privacy. It is important to note that tinting will void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass may vary between 7 and 10 days, based on size and customization.
Customization
Based on the goals you have for replacing windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency and privacy. You can select from options such as Low E coating, insulated thickness of glass, and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can help reduce your energy consumption by decreasing the transfer of heat from the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, provide UV-ray protection and enhance the durability. You can choose tinted or frosted glasses to give some color.
Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and has no practical uses, but it can be an excellent way to make your home more unique. You can choose between a variety of styles and finishes to create a look that fits your style. You can even choose to have a door or window with a unique shape.
Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned, or single-paned windows. Each has different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is insulated.
Your contractor will give you a detailed description of the various types of glass available and the costs associated with them. They can also suggest the best glass for your needs. You might also ask whether they can change your old windows to more energy efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge separator 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 help the window remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
While it's common to choose the standard clear glass, you can select colored, frosted or tinted windows. This option offers a unique appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on your home's style and lighting. There are also special windows that have features that enhance security and ease of operation like spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect the possibility of damage.
Installation
Whether you want to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the process is quite simple. 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 3/8-inch diameter holes, one near each end, and one hole in the middle along the sill, and up to the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric caulk around the frame's edges to protect against moisture and close the gaps around the new glass.
Take measurements of the window openings prior to you begin the
replacement glass for window near me process. Make sure you include the thickness and width. Also subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame as weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass may be damaged during installation.
Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions for your replacement windows.