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Six Types of Replacement Window Glass
A damaged window pane is an issue that could cause energy loss and higher energy bills. Window glass replacement is an easy solution to eliminate these issues.
But when does it make sense to replace just the glass? It's a much cheaper option than a full replacement and you can keep your window frames.
Types
When it comes to replacement window glass, homeowners as well as general contractors must take into consideration a variety of aspects that affect their overall goals. This includes energy efficiency and security. Glass is available in a wide range of thicknesses, styles and options for customizing. In this blog post, we look at six different types of window glass to help decide which one is the best choice for your project.
Single Lite Glass
Single pane glass is common in older homes and structures. It is easy to clean and provides clarity, but it does not offer the same insulation as modern double-paned windows. It can also be dangerous in the event of a break, as it is prone to turning into fragments.
This type of glass is typically required for historical replication because the glass has to match the original design in order to preserve the property. It is not energy efficient and should be replaced with a new insulated glass unit.
Double Pane Insulated Glass
A very popular option for modern-day homeowners, this design consists of two panes of glass that is tempered, separated by a spacer that is filled with air for insulation. This kind of glass is more energy-efficient than windows with only one pane, and it can also reduce noise transmission and condensation.
Triple Pane Insulated Glazing
This option is an upgrade from double-paned glass with insulated coating. It features three panes glass that is tempered, and an argon gas or krypton fill between them for an increased level of energy efficiency. The gases can help reduce the cost of energy by capturing heat in the winter months and letting it escape in summer.
The last two options are decorative and can add to the aesthetic of your exterior of your home. Laminated or tempered glass is stronger than normal glass, which makes it a great choice for areas susceptible to damage due to debris or weather conditions. Glass that is tinted or glazed can be frequently used in place of traditional glass for added privacy. It comes in a range of colors and can be frosted, etched or patterned to enhance a window's appearance.
Thickness
Glass thickness is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying new windows or replacing glass panes that are already in use. The thickness of the glass, whether it is laminated, insulated, single strength or double strength, can affect various aspects, including security and energy efficiency as well as sound reduction. Local construction codes and manufacturer specifications are essential to keep in mind.
The most basic kind of window glass is single strength - which is a basic piece of clear glass. The glass is 3/8 inch thick and used in residential applications. Double strength window glass may be required if you reside in an airport or a high-rise building.
Double-strength glass is created by fusion of two or more glass sheets with PVB (polyvinyl butyral). Fusion processes use 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 when you want to protect your windows from flying debris, like balls or rocks.
Laminated glass is similar in structure to double-strength but has additional perks such as noise reduction and security. It is made by combining two or more sheets of transparent interlocking glass by using layers of plastic or resin. The result is a panel that is strong and difficult to break. This kind of glass is recommended in cases of protecting your children and pets from falls, and also the reduction of noise levels within your home.
Insulated glass can be created by adding spacers to the glass. This creates an airspace that can be filled with various insulating gasses to improve the window performance. This can reduce the amount air that enters or leaves the home. This glass is available in various shapes and sizes, ranging from square or rectangular to arched or circular.
The insulated glass can be tinted to add an element of privacy or fashion. It is important to remember that tinting will invalidate any warranty. The time frame for insulated replacement glass may vary between 7 and 10 days, based on the size and personalization.
Customization
You can upgrade the glass in your new replacement windows to enhance your home's privacy and energy efficiency. You can choose between options like Low E coating, the thickness of glass that is insulated and the amount of air space between panes.
Energy-efficient glasses can reduce your energy costs by decreasing heat transfer between indoors as well as outdoors. Some of these glass options can also reduce noise, offer UV-ray shielding, and improve durability. You can also choose tinted glass to add a splash of color or frosted glass to give more subtle appearance.
Decorative glass is purely aesthetic and has no functional uses however, it is an excellent option to make your home more distinctive. You can choose between a variety of styles and finishes to create an appearance that matches your personality. You can also opt to have a window or door with a customized shape.
Choose from single-paned, double-paned, or triple-paned windows with different amounts of airspace between the panes. The more airspace your window has the better it will be well-insulated.
Your contractor can provide an in-depth explanation of the kinds of glass available and their prices. They can also recommend the most suitable glass for your requirements. You can also ask them to replace your old windows with more energy-efficient glass.
Modern replacement windows are often fitted 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 keep the window warmer in winter and cooler during summer.
While it's normal to pick the standard clear glass, you can choose frosted, patterned, or tinted windows. This option offers a unique design and provides additional privacy. However, it is important to think about the impact on your home's style and lighting. There are also windows with features to improve security and user-friendliness, such as spring tensioners to prevent slams or sensors that detect the possibility of damage.
Installation
If you're looking to replace the glass in one window, or all of them, the process is quite simple. First, a professional will prepare the opening by removing old putty and then scraping the grooves clean. They will also drill three holes that are 3/8-inch in diameter one at each of the ends and one in the middle, across the sill, and finally through the headjamb. Then, they will inject expanding foam into the sash weight pockets to fill any air gaps. Then, they'll apply an elastomeric sealant to the edges of the frame, to protect it from moisture and fill any gaps in the new glass.
Take measurements of your window openings before you begin the replacement process. Make sure you include the width and Window glass replacement thickness. Also, subtract 1/8 inch from both the height and width measurements in order to allow the expansion and contraction of the frame as weather changes. If you do not subtract this amount, the glass you are installing could be damaged during the installation process.
Contact the glass manufacturer to place an order, indicating the exact dimensions for your replacement windows. After the initial call, you should receive the windows within a couple of weeks. They'll be ready to install in one week. Before you begin the removal process, remove any blinds or curtains which are located near your windows. Also, be sure that you have a clean work area. You should also place a plastic sheet or a cloth on the floor in case broken glass falls during the process.
If you're ready to start removal of the old window, start by using an old chisel to take away any pieces of wood molding that are attached to the frame. If there are any metal glazing points, use a heat gun to soften them prior trying to remove them. After the old window has been removed, use a hammer or paint scraper to clean the grooves where it was originally installed. Then, you can re-caulk the area using an elastomeric caulk to match the replacement upvc window handles windows.