Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
A damaged window is an issue that could result in lower energy usage and higher energy bills. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to reduce those problems.
When is it a good idea to replace just the glass? This is typically less expensive than a complete replacement and you can retain your window frames.
Types
When it comes time to replace
windows replacement, homeowners and general contractors must consider many factors that impact their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and protection. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. In this blog post,
Glaze we will look at six different kinds of window glass to help you determine which one is the best choice for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single pane glass is common in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and offers clarity, but it does not provide the same insulation as modern double-paned windows. It's also a risk when it breaks, since it is prone to turning into shards.
This kind of glass is typically required for reproduction of historical significance since the glass must match the original style in order 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 is a very popular choice among modern homeowners. It consists of two panes tempered glass, separated by an air-filled spacer. This type of glass is more efficient in energy use than a single pane window, and can also help reduce condensation and noise transmission.
Triple Pane Insulated Glazing
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 greater level of energy efficiency. The gases suffocate heat in winter and keep it out in summer, helping to reduce energy bills.
The last two choices can be decorative and enhance 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 weather or debris conditions. For added privacy, tinted or glazed glass is an alternative to traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or designed to enhance a window's appearance.
Thickness
Glass thickness is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying windows for the first time or replacing existing glass panes. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated or double strength, insulated, or single strength double strength, can affect various aspects such as security, energy efficiency, and sound reduction. It is also crucial to consider local building codes and requirements from the manufacturer.
Single strength is the simplest type of glass used for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is used in residential applications. Double strength window glass might be required when you live in a high-rise or airport building.
Double-strength glasses are made by fusing two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The fusion process uses high heat and pressure to create a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass should be used if you wish to protect your windows from flying debris like balls or rocks.
Laminated glass resembles double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass with interlocking plastic or resin to form a strong, layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This kind of glass is suggested if your primary concerns are protecting your children or pets from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise within your home.
Insulated glass can be made by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an air space which can be filled with different gasses that are insulating to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or gets into the home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in various shapes and sizes that range from square or rectangular to circular or arched.
The insulated glass can also be tinted in order to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does void any warranty. The turnaround time for replacement of insulated window glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days based on the size and nature of the order.
Customization
You may upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to increase your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can select from options like Low-E coating, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glass can help reduce your energy costs by reducing the transfer of heat from the indoors and outside. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, provide UV-ray protection, and improve durability. You can choose tinted or frosted glasses to give an accent of color.
The decorative glass is not of any practical usage and is only used to be used for aesthetic purposes. However it can create a unique home. You can pick from a wide range of designs and finishes to create a look that suits your personality. You can have a window or door with a custom-made shape.
You can choose between single-pane, double-pane and triple-pane windows, with different amounts of airspace between panes. The more airspace the window has, the better it will be well-insulated.
Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of types of glass and their costs. They can also suggest the best type of glass for your needs. You can also ask them to upgrade your windows with more energy-efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that 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 keep the window warmer in the winter months and cooler in summer.
While it's typical to select a standard clear glass, you may also choose patterns, frosted, or tinted windows. This option can provide distinct appearance and provide additional privacy, but it's important to take into consideration how this might impact your home's lighting and style. There are also special windows with features that will enhance security and ease of use including spring tensioners to avoid slams and sensors that detect potential damage.
Installation
The procedure is easy it doesn't matter if you wish to replace glass in just one window or all of them. First professionals will prepare the opening by removing the old putty and scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends, and a single in the middle, through the sill, and up through the headjamb. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the
sash window replacement weight pockets to fill any air gaps. In the end, they will apply a layer of elastomeric caulk along the frame's outer edges to shield against moisture and seal the gaps around the new glass.
Before beginning the replacement process, measure the width and height of the windows' openings taking into consideration the width and thickness of the frame. Subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height measurements to allow the frame to expand and contract with the weather. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged during installation.
Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and make an order for
glaze the exact dimensions of your replacement windows.
