Replacement Window Glass: 11 Things You re Forgetting To Do

Six Types of Replacement Window Glass

Broken window panes can lead to energy loss and a rise in cost of utilities. Window glass replacement is a straightforward fix to reduce those problems.

But when does it make sense to replace just the glass? This is a cheaper alternative to a complete replacement window handle and you can keep the window frames.

Types

Window replacement is a complicated process that both general contractors and homeowners alike must consider various aspects. This includes energy efficiency as well as security. Glass is available in a diverse variety of thicknesses, styles and options for customization. This blog post outlines six different kinds of window glass to help you choose which one is the best fit for your project.

Single Lite Glass

Single-pane glass is typically found in older structures and homes. Although it is clear and is easy to clean, it does not offer the insulation benefits of modern double-pane windows. It can also be dangerous if it breaks, as it can easily turn into shards.

This type of glass is typically required for reproduction of historical significance because the glass has to be in line with the original design in order to protect the property. It isn't very energy efficient and must be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.

Double Pane Insulated Glass

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

Triple Pane Insulated Glass

A step up from a double-pane insulated glass this model has three panes of tempered glass that have an gas filled with argon or Krypton between the panes to provide an even greater efficiency in energy usage. The gases help to reduce energy costs by capturing heat in winter and letting it escape during summer.

The two other choices are decorative and add to the aesthetic of your home's exterior. Laminated glass or tempered glass are stronger than regular glass and can be used in areas that might be damaged by weather or debris conditions. For added privacy tinted or glazed glass can be used instead of traditional glass. It comes in a range of colors, and can be etched, frosted, or decorated to improve the appearance of the window.

Thickness

Glass thickness is an important aspect to take into consideration when purchasing new windows or replacing old glass panes. It doesn't matter if it's single strength double strength, double strength, laminated or insulated the thickness of the glass will impact several aspects including energy efficiency, security and noise reduction. It is also essential to take into consideration local building codes and the requirements of the manufacturer.

Single strength is the most basic type of glass for windows. It is a simple sheet of clear glass. This glass is 3/32 inch thick and used in residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required for those who are in an airport or high-rise building.

Double-strength glasses are made by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The process of fusion uses high heat and pressure to produce a tough, durable piece of window glass that is five times stronger than standard glass. This kind of glass should be used if you wish to protect your windows from flying debris such as rocks or balls.

Laminated glass has numerous advantages over double-strength glass including noise reduction and security. It is made by fusing at a minimum two sheets of clear glass together with layers of interlocking plastic or resin to form a durable and layered panel that is difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended if your primary concerns are protecting your pets or children 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 that can then be filled with various gasses for insulation to enhance the performance of windows. This can reduce the amount of air that escapes or enters the home, which improves the efficiency of energy. Glass comes in various shapes and sizes and shapes, from square to rectangular to circular or arched.

You can tint the insulated glass to add a touch of elegance or to enhance privacy. It is important to keep in mind that tinting does void any warranty. The turnaround time for insulated replacement glass can vary from 7-10 days based on the size and customization.

Customization

You can upgrade the glass of your replacement windows to improve your home's security and energy efficiency. You can pick from a variety of options, window glass replacement including Low-E coating, insulated glass thickness, and the amount of air space between panes.

Energy-efficient glasses can cut down on your energy bills by decreasing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray protection and increase the durability. You can also pick tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass for an ethereal look.

Decorative glass has no functional usage and is only used to be used for aesthetic purposes. However, it can give your home a unique look. You can choose from a wide range of designs and finishes to create a look that suits your personality. You can even have a window or door with a customized shape.

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

Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their prices. They can also suggest the kind of glass that best suits your requirements. You can ask them to replace your old windows with energy-efficient glass.

A lot of modern replacement windows have a warm-edge gas spacer that insulates the area between the frame and the glass. It also includes a layer of that is filled with argon. These features help keep the window warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

You can pick from tinted, frosted or patterned glass. This option can provide a unique look and offer additional privacy, but it's important to consider how this might impact the lighting and style of your home. There are also special windows with features to improve security and ease of use like spring tensioners that prevent the windows from crashing or possible damage.

Installation

Whether you want to replace the glass in one window, or all of them, the process is fairly straightforward. A professional will first make the opening ready, taking off 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 at each end, and a single hole in the middle along the sill and then up through the head jamb. They will then inject expanding foam into the pockets of sash weights to fill air gaps. Then, they apply a layer of caulk made of elastomeric along the frame's exterior edges to protect against moisture and close the gaps around the new glass.

Before you begin the replacement process, measure the width and height of your window openings, making sure to account for the thickness and width of the framing. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the width and height measurements in order to allow for expansion and contraction of the frame when weather conditions change. If you don't subtract this amount, your new glass may be damaged during installation.

Contact your glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions of your replacement windows. After the initial call you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready for installation within about a week. Prior to starting the removal process, clear out any curtains or blinds from near your windows and make sure that you have a clean area to work from. It is also recommended to put a piece of plastic or cloth down on the floor to hold any broken glass that may fall.

When you're ready to begin taking down the old window begin with a paint scraper or an old chisel to remove any pieces of wood that are fixed to the frame. Heat the metal glazing points before you try to pry them off. After the old window has been removed and discarded, use the paint scraper or hammer to clean the grooves in which it was previously placed. Re-caulk the area with an elastomeric sealant that is compatible with the new windows.