5 Myths About Replacement Window Glass That You Should Stay Clear Of

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that can cause energy loss and increased utility bills. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to minimize the problems.

But when does it make sense to replace only the glass? This option is often cheaper than a complete replacement and you can retain your window frames.

Types

Window replacement is a complex procedure that homeowners and general contractors alike must take into account various aspects. This includes energy efficiency, safety and aesthetics. Glass is available in a diverse variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. This blog post outlines six types of window glass in order to help you decide which one is best for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is commonly found in older buildings and in homes. While it offers clarity and is easy to clean, it does not offer the insulation benefits of double-pane windows that are more modern. It is also a danger in the event of a break as it could easily turn into fragments.

This kind of glass can be used for replicas of historical buildings in which the glass has to match the design of the original property to preserve it. However, it's not very efficient and should be replaced with a new insulation-free window unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

This is a very popular choice among homeowners of today. It consists of two panes of tempered glass that are separated by an air-filled spacer. 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 with insulated coating. It is made up of three panes of glass window replacements that is tempered, and an argon gas or Krypton fill between them to provide greater energy efficiency. The gases suffocate heat in the winter and keep it out during the summer, helping reduce energy bills.

The final two options are decorative and add to the appearance of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas that are prone to being damaged by debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glasses is an alternative to traditional glass. It comes in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important factor to consider when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. No matter if it's single strength or double strength, laminated, or insulated glass, the thickness of the glass will impact a number of characteristics including security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also essential to take into consideration local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.

The most basic kind of window glass is single strength, which is a basic piece of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in most residential applications. If you live in a high-rise building or you live close to an airport, your windows may require double strength window glass.

Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses extreme pressure and heat to create an extremely tough, durable piece of glass that is approximately five times stronger than regular window glass. This kind of glass is recommended for those who want your windows to withstand damage from flying debris like balls or rocks.

Laminated glass resembles double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and safety. This glass is made by gluing at least two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking resin or plastic to create a sturdy, layered panel that is difficult to break. This type of glass is ideal when you are concerned about protecting your children and pets from falls and also the reduction of noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass is produced by putting spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety of insulation gases to improve the window's performance. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters your home, thus increasing the efficiency of energy. Glass is available in various sizes and shapes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

The glass insulated can also be tinted in order to add an element of style or privacy. However, it is important to remember that tinting does not invalidate any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

Based on the goals you have for replacement windows, you might want to upgrade the glass to enhance your home's energy efficiency and privacy. You can pick from alternatives like Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can reduce your energy costs by cutting down on the transfer of heat between indoors and outside. Some of these glass options can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray shielding, and improve durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a pop of color, or frosted glass for an ethereal look.

Glass that is decorative is only for aesthetic purposes and has no practical uses, but it can be an excellent way to make your home distinctive. You can choose from a variety of styles and colors to create a style that is a reflection of your style. You can even have a window or door with a customized shape.

You can choose between single-pane, double-pane, and triple-pane windows that have different amounts of airspace between panes. The more airspace your window has, the better it is insulated.

Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the glass types and costs. They can also recommend the glass type that would best suit your requirements. You can also ask them whether they are able to upgrade your windows to more energy efficient glass.

Many modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that insulate the area where the frame meets the glass and an argon gas layer to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features help the window remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

While it's typical to select the standard clear glass, you can also opt for frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This type of window has a distinctive design and provides additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also windows that have features that enhance security and user-friendliness like spring tensioners that stop slams or sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

If you're looking to replace the glass in just one window or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. A professional will first prepare the opening by removing the old putty. They will then scrape the grooves in order to remove any dirt. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes one near each end, and one hole in the middle, down through the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they apply an elastomeric sealant on the exterior edges of the frame to shield it from moisture and fill any gaps in the new glass.

Take measurements of your window openings prior to when you begin the replacement process. Be sure to include the thickness and width. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. They should be delivered within some days of your initial phone call and they should be ready to install within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, clear out any blinds or curtains from near your windows and make sure that you have a clean workspace. Also, you should place a piece or plastic or cloth down on the floor to stop any broken glass that could fall.

Use a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. Heat the metal glazing points before you attempt to pry them out. Once the old window is removed using a paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves where it was originally installed. Re-caulk with an elastomeric sealant to match the new windows.