Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
A damaged window replacement glass is an issue that can lead to lower energy usage and higher energy bills. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate these problems.
But when does it make sense to only replace the glass? It’s a much cheaper alternative to a complete replacement and you can keep your window frames.
Types
Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that general contractors and homeowners alike must consider various factors. This includes energy efficiency, protection and aesthetics. Glass comes in a variety styles, thicknesses and customization options. In this blog post, we will look at six different types of window glass to help you decide which one is the best fit for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single-pane glass can be used in older buildings and in homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity, but it does not provide the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It can also be dangerous in the event of a break as it can easily become fragments.
This type of glass is usually required for historical replication since the glass must be a replica of the original design to protect the property. However, it’s not very efficient and should be replaced with a brand new insulation-free window unit.
Double-paned Insulated Glass
This option is a popular choice for modern homeowners. It is comprised of two panes of tempered glass that are separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window, and reduces the transmission of noise and condensate.
Triple Pane Insulated Glass
A step above a double-pane insulated glass this model has three panes of tempered glass with an gas filled with argon or Krypton between the panes to create an even higher efficiency in energy usage. The gases help to reduce energy costs by trapping heat in winter and keeping it out in summer.
The other two options are decorative and can improve the appearance of your exterior home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be used in areas that may be damaged by weather or debris conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed is often used in lieu of traditional glass to provide privacy. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window’s appearance.
Thickness
Glass thickness is among the key factors to consider when purchasing new windows or replacing existing glass panes. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, will impact various aspects such as security energy efficiency, security, and the reduction of sound. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are also important to keep in mind.
The most basic type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. This glass for windows replacement is 3/32″ thick and is utilized in a majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass could be required if you reside in an airport or a high-rise building.
Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses high heat and pressure to produce a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended for those who want to shield your windows from flying debris, such as rocks or balls.
Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glasses, including noise reduction and security. This glass is created by combining two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass by using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is durable and hard to break. This kind of glass should be used in cases of safeguarding your children and pets from falls, as well as making it easier to reduce noise in your home.
Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the window performance. This will reduce the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass comes in various sizes and shapes and shapes, from square to rectangular to arched or circular.
You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or privacy. It is important to remember that the application of tint does not invalidate any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass could vary from 7-10 days based on the size and customization.
Customization
You can change the glass in your new replacement windows to improve your home’s security and energy efficiency. You can pick from a variety of options, including Low-E coating, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can cut down your energy bills by reducing the transfer of heat between indoors and the outdoors. Certain types of glass can also reduce 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.
Glass that is decorative has no practical usage and is only used for aesthetic reasons. However it can create a unique home. You can pick from a variety of designs and finishes to create a look that is a reflection of your style. You can choose to create a door or window with a customized shape.
Choose from single-paned, double-paned triple-paned, or single-paned windows. Each has different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it will be insulated.
Your contractor will give you a detailed explanation of the various kinds of glass and the costs associated with them. They can also recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You might also ask whether they can upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.
Many modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer to create a barrier between the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features allow windows to remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
While it’s typical to select a standard clear glass, you may also opt for frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This type of window can provide an unique appearance and provide more privacy, however it’s important to consider how this might impact your home’s lighting and style. There are also special windows with features that improve security and ease of operation including spring tensioners to prevent the windows from crashing and sensors to identify potential damage.
Installation
Whether you want to replace the glass in just one window, or all of them, the procedure is quite simple. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8-inch in diameter, one at each end and one in the middle, through the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill air gaps. Finally, they will apply a layer of elastomeric caulk along the frame’s exterior edges to shield against moisture and seal the gaps between the glass.
Before you begin the replacement process, take measurements of the windows’ openings making sure to account for the thickness and width of the framing. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when the weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, your new glass could be damaged during installation.
Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of the initial phone call and they’ll be ready to install in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, you must take off any blinds or curtains close to your windows. Also, make sure that your workspace is clean. It is also recommended to put a piece of cloth or plastic on the floor to hold any broken glass that might fall.
When you’re ready to begin taking down the old window begin with an old chisel, to remove any pieces of wood that are fixed to the frame. If there are any glazing points made of metal you can use a heat gun to soften them before trying to pull them off. After taking the old window off using a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves the window that it was originally put in. Re-caulk using an elastomeric sealant that matches the replacement windows.