Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
Window panes damaged by damage can result in energy loss and increase cost of utilities. Replacement of windows is a an easy fix to eliminate these problems.
But when is it sense to replace only the glass? This is a less expensive option than a full windowpane replacement, and you will be able to keep your window frames.
Types
Replacement window glass is a complex procedure that both general contractors and homeowners alike must consider various aspects. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a diverse range of thicknesses, styles, and options for customization. In this blog post, we will look at six different kinds of window glass to help determine 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 offers clarity however, it does not offer the same insulation as double-paned windows of today. It is also dangerous in the event of a break, as it is prone to turning into pieces.
This kind of glass is usually required for reproduction of historical significance since the glass must match the original design in order to protect the original design. It is not energy efficient and must be replaced by a new, insulated window unit.
Insulated Double-paned Glass
A popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this option is made up of two panes of glass that is tempered, separated by a spacer that is filled with air to provide insulation. This type of glass is more energy-efficient than windows with only one pane, and can also help reduce noise transmission and condensation.
Triple Pane Insulated Glazing
This option is an upgrade to double-paned glass with insulated coating. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for a higher level of energy efficiency. The gases hold heat in the winter and keep it out in the summer, helping cut energy costs.
The last two options are decorative and enhance the beauty of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to damage from debris or weather conditions. To provide additional privacy tinted or glazed glasses is an alternative to traditional glass. It is available in a variety of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.
Thickness
Glass thickness is among the key factors to consider when purchasing new windows or replacing existing glass panes. It doesn't matter if it's single strength double strength, double glazing window replacement strength, laminated, or insulated, the thickness of the glass will impact a number of characteristics such as security, energy efficiency and sound reduction. It is also essential to take into consideration local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.
Single strength is the simplest type of glass for windows. It is a simple sheet made of clear glass. The glass is 3/16" thick and is used in a majority of residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required when you reside in an airport or high-rise building.
Double-strength glass is created by fusing two or more glass sheets together with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to create a durable, strong pane of window glass that is five times stronger than normal glass. This type of glass is recommended if want your windows to withstand damage from flying debris like rocks or balls.
Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glass, including noise reduction and security. This glass is created by fusing two or more sheets of clear interlocking glass by using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a glass that is strong and difficult to break. This kind of glass is suggested when your primary concern is protecting your children or pets from falls that could be accidental, and lessening the noise in your home.
Insulated glass is created 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. This glass comes in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. It is important to remember that tinting will invalidate any warranty. Turnaround for insulated window replacement glass can be anywhere from 7-10 business days, depending on the size and custom nature of the order.
Customization
Depending on your goals for replacing windows, you may wish to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency and privacy. 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 cut down your energy consumption by decreasing the transfer of heat between indoors and outside. Certain types of glass can also reduce noise, provide UV protection, and improve durability. You can pick tinted or frosty glasses to add an accent of color.
Glass that is decorative has no practical use and is only to be used for aesthetic purposes. However it can make your home unique. You can choose between various designs and finishes to create a look that fits your style. You can have a door or window with a customized shape.
Choose between single-paned, double-paned triple-paned or single-paned windows that have different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace the window has, the better it is well-insulated.
Your contractor will give you a detailed explanation of the various kinds of glass available and the costs associated with them. They can also suggest the most suitable glass for your needs. You can ask them to replace your old windows with energy efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge separator to create a barrier between the frame meets the glass and a layer of argon gas to fill the gaps between the panes. These features help the window remain warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
You can pick from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This option offers a unique appearance and can offer additional privacy. However, it's important to consider the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also specialty windows that have features that improve security and ease of use including spring tensioners to prevent collisions and sensors to detect potential damage.
Installation
The process is simple, whether you want to replace glass in just one window or all of them. First a professional will clean the opening by removing the old putty and then scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill 3/8-inch diameter holes one at each end, and one hole in the center 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. In the end, they will apply an elastomeric caulk along the frame's exterior edges to guard against moisture and fill in the gaps around the new glass.
Before beginning the replacement double glazing window process, measure the width and height of your window openings, making sure to account for the thickness and width of the frame. Also subtract 1/8 inch from the height and width measurements to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you do not subtract this amount, the new glass could be damaged in the process of installation.
Once you have the measurements, call your glass manufacturer and make an appointment for the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. They should be delivered within a few days of the initial phone call and they'll be ready to install within about a week. Before you begin the removal process, take down any blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, be sure to have a clean workspace. You should also place an unfinished sheet of plastic or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass should fall during the process.
Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel you can use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to pull them off. Once the old window is removed using the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves in which it was originally installed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that matches the windows that are replaced.