Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Window panes damaged by damage can result in energy loss and higher energy costs. Window glass replacement can be an easy fix to eliminate these issues.
But when is it sense to replace only the glass? This is typically less expensive than a complete replacement and you can also keep your window frames.
Types
When it comes time to replace window glass, homeowners as well as general contractors must take into consideration a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass comes in a variety of styles, thicknesses, and customization options. This blog post explores six types of window glass to help you decide which one is suitable for your project.
Single Light Glass
Single pane glass is common in older homes and buildings. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not provide the superior insulation properties of double-pane windows that are more modern. It could also be a risk if it breaks because it is prone to becoming shards.
This kind of glass can be used for historical replications in which the glass has to be a replica of the original property to keep it in good condition. It isn’t very energy efficient and should be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.
Double Pane Insulated Glass
A favorite choice for modern-day homeowners, this option consists of two panes of glass that is tempered, separated by a spacer which is filled with air for insulation. This type of glass can be more efficient in energy use than a single pane window and can reduce condensate and Window Glass Replacement noise transmission.
Triple Pane Insulated Glazing
A step above a double-pane insulated glass, Window Glass Replacement this option has three panes of tempered glass that have an gas filled with argon or Krypton between the panes for an even greater efficiency in energy use. The gases help to reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in winter and letting it out during summer.
The final two options are decorative and add to the beauty of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to damage from debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy tinted or glazed glass is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a range of colors, and it can be etched, frosted or decorated to improve the appearance of the window.
Thickness
Glass thickness is one of 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 or double strength, laminated or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact various aspects, such as security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are also important to keep in mind.
Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a basic sheet made of clear glass. This glass is 3/32″ thick and is used in the majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required if you are in an airport or high-rise building.
Double-strength window glass is produced by fusion of at least two sheets of glass together with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The fusion process uses high temperatures and pressure to create a tough, durable piece of window screen replacement glass that is five times more durable than normal glass. This type of glass should be used when you want 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. It is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to form a strong layer that is hard to break. This type of glass should be used if you are concerned about protecting your pets and children from falling, as well as the reduction of noise levels in your home.
Insulated glass is made by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety of insulating gases to improve the window’s performance. This will reduce the amount of air that can enter or leave the home. Glass comes in various sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.
You can tint the glass to give it a touch of class or to enhance privacy. It is important to remember that tinting can void any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days depending on the size and nature of the order.
Customization
Depending on your objectives for replacement windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to enhance the efficiency of your home’s energy use and privacy. You can select from options such as Low-E coating, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can help reduce your energy costs by cutting down on the transfer of heat between the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options can also reduce noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a splash of color, or frosted glass for an ethereal look.
Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and does not have any practical uses however, it is an excellent option to make your home more unique. You can pick from a wide range of patterns and finishes to create a style that matches your personal style. You can create a door or window with a custom-designed shape.
Choose between single-paned, double-paned triple-paned or single-paned windows that have different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace you have the more insulation your window will be.
Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of kinds of glass available and their costs. They can also recommend the kind of glass that will best meet your requirements. You can also ask them whether they can upgrade your old windows to more energy efficient glass.
A lot of modern replacement windows have gas spacers with warm edges that insulates the area where the frame meets with the glass and a layer argon to fill the gaps. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
While it’s common to choose a standard clear glass, you can also select frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This type of window has a distinctive appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it is important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also specialty windows that have features that increase security and ease of use including spring tensioners to avoid the windows from crashing and sensors to identify potential damage.
Installation
The procedure is straightforward It doesn’t matter if you want to replace glass for just one window or all of them. A professional will first make the opening ready, taking off 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 one in the middle, across 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 on the edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and close any gaps around the glass.
Before beginning the replacement process, measure the width and height of the windows’ openings making sure to take into account the width and thickness of the framing. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, new glass could be damaged during installation.
Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After your initial phone call you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They will be ready for installation within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, take out any curtains or blinds from near your windows and ensure that you have a clean area to work from. You should also put a piece of cloth or plastic on the floor to stop any broken glass that might fall.
Use a paint scraper remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any metal glazing points, use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to remove them. After the old window has been removed, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves where it was previously placed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant to match the windows that are replaced.