The 10 Scariest Things About Replacement Window Glass

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

A damaged window pane is an issue that could lead to energy loss and higher utility bills. Window glass replacement can be an easy fix to eliminate these issues.

But when does it make sense to only replace the glass? It's a much cheaper option than a full replacement, and you will be able to keep your window frames.

Types

Replacement window glass is a complicated process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must take into consideration numerous factors. This includes energy efficiency, protection and appearance. Glass comes in a variety designs, thicknesses and options. In this blog post, we explore six different types of window replacement companies glass to help determine which one may be the best choice for your project.

Single Light Glass

Single pane glass is a common sight in older buildings and homes. It is easy to clean and provides clarity however, it does not provide the same insulation like modern double-paned windows. It could also be a risk in the event of a break because it is prone to becoming shards.

This type of glass can be used for historical replications, where the glass must be in line with the style of the original property in order to preserve it. It is not energy efficient and should be changed with a new insulated window unit.

Insulated Double-paned Glass

A very popular choice for modern-day homeowners, this type of window is made up of two panes of tempered glass separated by a spacer that is filled with air for insulation. This type of glass can be more energy efficient than a single-pane window and can reduce condensate and Replacement window glass noise transmission.

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step above a double-pane glass that is insulated this model has three panes of tempered glass, each with an argon or krypton gas fill between the panes for an even higher efficiency in energy use. The gases hold heat in the winter months and keep it out in summer, helping reduce energy bills.

The other two options are decorative and enhance the look of your exterior of your home. Laminated glass or tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and can be utilized in areas that could be damaged by debris or weather conditions. For extra privacy tinted or glazed glasses can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched, or decorated to enhance the window's appearance.

Thickness

Glass thickness is a key aspect to be considered when buying new windows or replacing old glass panes. The thickness of the glass, no matter if it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, can affect a number characteristics that include security energy efficiency, security, and noise reduction. It is also crucial to think about local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.

The most basic type of window glass is single strength, which is a basic sheet of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and is used in residential applications. If you reside in a building that is high-rise, or your home is near an airport, your windows could require double strength window glass.

Double-strength windows are made by fusion of at most two sheets of glass with PVB or polyvinylbutyral. The fusion process uses extreme heat and pressure to create an extremely durable, strong pane of glass that is approximately five times stronger than normal window glass. This type of glass is recommended if want your windows to resist damage from flying debris like rocks or balls.

Laminated glass is similar to double-strength but has additional perks like noise reduction and safety. It is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking plastic or resin to form a strong and layered panel that is extremely difficult to break. This type of glass is recommended when you are concerned about protecting your pets and children from falls, and also reducing noise levels in your home.

Insulated glass is made by adding spacers between the glass to create an air space that can be filled with a variety insulating gases to improve the window's performance. This reduces the amount of air that escapes or gets into the home, thus increasing the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the glass to add a touch of style or to enhance privacy. It is important to remember that tinting can void any warranty. The time frame for replacing insulated windows glass can vary from 7 to 10 business days, depending on the size and custom nature of the order.

Customization

Depending on your goals for new replacement windows, you may want to upgrade the glass to improve your home's energy efficiency as well as privacy. You can pick from options like Low E coating and the thickness of glass that is insulated, and the amount air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glass can cut down your energy costs by decreasing the transfer of heat between the indoors and the outdoors. Certain types of glass can also cut down on noise, offer UV-ray protection, and improve durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a pop of color or frosted glass for a more subdued look.

Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no practical use, but it can be a great option to make your home more unique. You can choose between various styles and finishes to create the perfect look that suits your personal style. You can choose to have a window or door with a custom-designed shape.

Choose between double-paned, single-paned triple-paned, or single-paned windows. Each has different amounts of airspace in between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it is more insulated.

Your contractor will provide you with an in-depth explanation of glass types and costs. They will also be able to recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You can ask them to replace your old windows with energy-efficient glass.

Modern replacement windows come with a warm-edge spacer that create a barrier between the frame meets the glass, and a layer of argon gas to fill in the gaps between the panes. These features keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.

You can choose from frosted, patterned or tinted glass. This option offers a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it's important to take into consideration the impact on the style of your home and lighting. There are also specialty windows with features that will improve security and ease of operation like spring tensioners to avoid slams and sensors that detect potential damage.

Installation

The procedure is straightforward, whether you want to replace glass replacement windows for just one window or all of them. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing old putty and then scraping the grooves to remove any dirt. They will also drill three holes of 3/8 inch in diameter one at each end and one in the middle, through the sill, and finally through the headjamb. They will then inject expanding foam in the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. In the end, they will apply an elastomeric caulk along the frame's exterior edges to protect against moisture and seal the gaps between the glass.

Take measurements of the window openings prior to you begin the replacement process. Make sure to include the thickness and width. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements in order to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you do not subtract this amount, the glass you are installing could be damaged during the installation process.

Once you have the measurements, contact your glass manufacturer and place an order for the exact dimensions of the replacement windows. You should receive them within a few days of your initial phone call, and they'll be ready to install in about a week. Before you begin the removal process, you must take off any blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, ensure that your workspace is clean. It is also advisable to place a plastic sheet or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass falls during the process.

Utilize a paint scraper to remove any wood moldings that are attached to your frame. If there are any glazing points made of steel that are attached to the frame, use a heating gun to soften them prior to attempting to pry them off. After the old window is removed and discarded, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves where it was previously placed. Then, seal the area with an elastomeric caulk that matches your replacement windows.