Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and increase utility costs. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate the risk of these issues.
What is the best idea to replace only the glass? This is usually less expensive than a full replacement and you can retain your window frames.
Types
Replacement window glass is a complicated process that general contractors and homeowners alike must take into account many factors. This includes energy efficiency, security, and appearance. Glass is available in a broad variety of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. This blog post outlines six different types window glass to help you determine which one is the best fit for your project.
Single Light Glass
Single pane glass is common in older homes and structures. It is easy to clean and offers clarity, but it does not offer the same insulation as modern double-paned windows. It could also be a risk when it is broken as it could easily turn into shards.
This type of glass can be used for historical replications in which the glass has to be in line with the style of the original building to keep it in good condition. However, it is not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new insulation-free window unit.
Double-paned Insulated Glass
A favorite option for modern-day homeowners, this design is made up of two panes of tempered glass separated by a spacer which is filled with air to provide insulation. This kind of glass could be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window and reduce condensate and noise transmission.
Triple Pane Insulated Glass
This is an upgrade from double-paned glass that is insulated. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill in between for an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases hold heat in winter and keep it out in summer, helping cut energy costs.
The two other choices can be decorative and improve the aesthetics of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that may be damaged by debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used instead of traditional glass. It is available in a 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 windows for the first time or replacing existing glass panes. The thickness of the glass, regardless of whether it is laminated or insulated, single strength or double strength, will affect various aspects that include security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. It is also essential 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 basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is commonly used in residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise or live near an airport, your windows might require double strength window glass.
Double-strength glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of glass with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is about five times stronger than normal window glass. This kind of glass is ideal if you wish to protect your windows from flying debris such as rocks or balls.
Laminated glass has many advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and safety. This glass is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to form a durable, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended in cases of protecting your pets and children from falls and also reducing noise levels in your home.
Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space that can then be filled with different gasses for insulation to enhance the window's performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, thereby improving the energy efficiency. This glass is available in various shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to arched or circular.
The insulated glass can be tinted to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to remember that tinting can void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass may vary from 7-10 days based on the size and personalization.
Customization
You can upgrade the glass in your replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can pick from options like Low E coating, the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glasses can lower your energy costs by cutting down on the transfer of heat between indoors and outdoors. Some of these options can also reduce noise, offer UV protection, and improve durability. You can also opt for tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for an ethereal look.
The purpose of decorative glass is to enhance the aesthetics and does not have any practical uses however, it is a great option to make your home unique. You can pick from a variety of patterns and finishes to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can choose to have a window or door with a custom-designed shape.
Choose between double-paned, single-paned triple-paned or single-paned windows that have different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it is more insulated.
Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of types of glass and their prices. They can also recommend the best glass for your needs. You can ask them to replace your old windows with more energy-efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows often have a warm-edge gas spacer which insulates the area between the frame and 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 opt for frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This can give a unique appearance and may also provide privacy. However, it's important to think about the impact on your home's style and lighting. You can also find speciality windows with features to improve security and ease-of-use, such as spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.
Installation
Whether you want to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the procedure is pretty simple. First a professional will clean the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end and a single hole in the center along the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the sash weight pockets to fill 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, measure the width and height of the
window replacements near me openings taking into consideration the size and thickness of the frame. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when weather changes. If you do not 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. You should receive them within a few days after the initial phone call and they should be ready to install within a few days.