Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Damaged window panes can cause energy loss and higher energy costs.
Window glass replacement can be a simple fix to reduce the risk of these issues.
When is it a good idea to replace just 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 complicated process that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into consideration numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customizing. In this blog post, we explore six different types of glass for windows to help you decide which one is the best choice for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single-pane glass is typically found in older structures and homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity, but it does not offer the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It is also a danger if it breaks as it can easily become shards.
This kind of glass is usually required for historical replication because the glass has to match the original style in order to preserve the original design. It is not very energy efficient and should be replaced with a new insulated window unit.
Double Pane Insulated Glass
This option is a popular choice for homeowners who are more modern. It consists of two panes of tempered glass that are separated by an air-filled spacer. This kind of glass is more energy-efficient than a single pane window, and it can also reduce noise transmission and condensation.
Triple Pane Insulated Glass
This is an upgrade to double-paned glass that is insulated. It is made up of three panes of glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce energy costs by trapping heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.
The two other options are decorative and can add to the aesthetic of your exterior of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is more durable than normal glass, which makes it a great choice for areas that are susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy, tinted or glazed glass can be used in place of traditional glass. It comes in a range of colors and
residential can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.
Thickness
Glass thickness is a crucial factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, regardless of whether it is laminated or double strength, insulated, or single strength double strength, will impact various aspects such as security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction. Local building codes and manufacturer requirements are essential to keep in mind.
Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a basic sheet made of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in a majority of
residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required when you are in a high-rise or airport building.
Double-strength glass is created by fusing two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process utilizes extreme heat and pressure to produce an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is around five times stronger than normal window 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 resembles double-strength glass, but it comes with additional benefits like noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass with layers of interlocking plastic or resin to create a sturdy layer that is extremely difficult to break. This type of glass should be used if you are concerned about safeguarding your children and pets from falls and also making it easier to reduce noise in your home.
Insulated glass can be produced by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can then be filled with different insulating gasses to improve the performance of windows. This reduces the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
The insulated glass can also be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or fashion. However, it is important to keep in mind that the application of tint does not invalidate any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass may vary from 7-10 days depending on size and customization.
Customization
You can upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to enhance your home's security and energy efficiency. You can pick from options like Low-E coating and insulated glass thickness and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy consumption by cutting down on the transfer of heat between the indoors and the outdoors. Some of these options also lower noise, provide UV protection, and increase durability. You can pick tinted or frosted glasses to add a splash of color.
Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no practical uses however it can be a great option to make your home more distinctive. You can choose between a variety of styles and finishes to create a look that fits your style. You can also opt to have a window or door with a customized shape.
Choose from single-paned, double-paned, or triple-paned windows with different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace you can have, the better the insulation of your window.
Your contractor will give you a detailed explanation of the various kinds of glass and their prices. They can also recommend the best type of glass for your needs. You may also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows are often fitted with a warm-edge spacer that protect the area where the frame meets the glass, and a layer of argon gas to fill 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 can also select colored, frosted or tinted windows. This type of window can provide an unique appearance and provide additional privacy, but it's important to take into consideration how this will affect the lighting and design of your home. There are also windows that have features that enhance security and ease of use, such as spring tensioners that stop the windows from crashing or the possibility of damage.
Installation
If you're looking to replace the glass in one window or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. First a professional will clean the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill holes of 3/8-inch diameter one at each end, and a single hole in the middle and down through the sill, and up to the head jamb. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant along the exterior edges of the frame to protect it from moisture and seal any gaps around the glass.
Measure the window openings prior to you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the width and thickness. Subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract in response to the weather. If you don't subtract this amount, new glass may be damaged during installation.
Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order with the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After the initial call you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready to install within one week.