Replacement windows are windows that are introduced into an existing window opening. Unlike new construction windows, that requires replacing everything including the studs and frame of a window, replacement windows do not require such hassle.
They are created and measured to fit into a pre-existing window frame to replace the window itself. It is a good option because it is time saving and cost efficient while allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a new window.
A Brief History of Glass Windows
Windows are one of the essential elements of a building’s thermal features. They provide aesthetics, let in light, control noise, and act as a means of natural ventilation. The history of windows is intertwined with that of architecture. Their evolving designs pay tribute not only to architectural advances but also to frame materials and glass manufacturing advances. The technical possibilities of window manufacturing characterize modern architecture, so window and facade technology innovations open up opportunities for architects when designing buildings.
The first-ever glass product was made with black and opaque, used for jewelry, knife, blades, and arrowheads. With traditional glass products, Eastern Mesopotamia (modern Syria) and Egypt introduced expensive types of glass mainly used for making vessels. Craftsmen later on introduced blowpipes making the glass-producing industry faster and easier. Paper windows were widespread in ancient Asian countries, but the Romans were the first to use glass for windows around 100 AD. In England before the 16th century, most windows were of stone or wood, had openings without glass, and could be covered in various ways: oiled cloth, paper, shutters, and even horn plates. Glazed windows were reserved for the tallest buildings and were generally small panes of glass set in lead strip grilles. The 16th century saw the rise of the Tudor dynasty, which brought great prosperity. Windows grew larger, and wealthier households used window size and luxury to show off their wealth. Glass windows were still rare in small, modest homes, but their use steadily increased. Before the spread of glass in the early 17th century, animal horns were used in England. The frame is wooden, and the windows are small to fit the glass.
In 17th-century Europe, the Italian Renaissance strongly influenced the shape of windows, making the popularity find its way to England. The windows were taller than they were wide, often by a mullion and transom. It was divided into four parts. As wooden frames became fashionable, mullions and transoms narrowed, and the glazing was almost flush with the outer window surface. Glass windows took over churches and cathedrals through elaborate stained-glass art. Early advances were directed to the patented product in 1848 by engineer Henry Bessemer for automating glass manufacturing. He also introduced an early form of “float glass” in 1843. It is glass poured into the liquid tin, improved by Pilkington, the company that pioneered the revolutionary float glass process in the mid-20th century. This allowed for floor-to-ceiling windows in a modern style. Get answers to your questions by checking out variety of replacement window options at Maverick Windows.
With advances in glass manufacturing, window sizes also began to increase. The existence of flat glass required fewer mullions, and improved manufacturing processes made glass windows more affordable. Today, besides float glass, homeowners have various window options. Laminated, obscured, tempered, and Low-E glass are options tailored primarily to the homeowner’s preferences and needs.
Why should you Replace Glass Window When Repairing Is Possible?
It may seem cost effective to repair rather than replace your glass window, but in the long run, replacing your glass window is more effective than repairing. Perhaps you are still undecided. If your window is experiencing one or more of the following, it would be best to replace rather than repair.
The window is drafty
If you can listen to the wind coming through your window, you can feel the cold air, your window quivers when you hold your hands close to it, it is best to get a replacement glass window rather than repair.
Energy Saving Consideration
When you repair your window, it won’t be as effective as having it replaced. For this reason, you will still be losing some points in the energy department as your furnace or heater will be doing more work. To prevent this, a replacement is the way to go, rather than a repair.
Damaged window
If the window glass is damaged, warped or cracked, repairing it will only give a temporary fix. This will also lead to other issues like increasing your energy bills etc. The solution is to get a replacement glass window because repairing would be counterproductive in this case.
Windows are foggy
When your window is constantly foggy, your window is getting condensed with water inside the Insulated Glass Unit. IGU’s are permanent and sealed. The only way to fix this is to replace the window as it cannot be repaired.
These are just some of the numerous situations that warrant that you replace your windows. Choosing to repair in these situations would not give benefit in long-term.
What Types of Replacement Glass Windows Are Used in Contemporary Designs?
There are different styles, types and lots of customizable options when it comes to replacement windows and you can find all of them at Fab Glass and Mirrors. Knowing the style, such as arched windows, that will work best for your purpose, you have to know the options that are open to you. Read on to learn more about them.
Double-hung windows are the most popular and most traditional window style available. They are suited for openings where the height of the window is greater than its width. They are also suited for walkways, decks and walls next to patios.
Sliding Replacement Windows
This can also be called gliding windows. These types of windows have slim vertical lines that give it a clean and elegant look. It fits into any style of architecture and is an ideal replacement for window openings where the width of the window is greater than its height. Put these in walls near a walkway or deck and it would be right on point.
Awning And Casement Replacement Windows
Awning and casement replacement windows boast of simple and clean lines that improve the look of traditional homes and harmonize with the architectural design of modern homes. Casement windows are best for openings where the height is larger than the width. Awning windows on the other hand are best for openings where the width is larger than the height. Above your kitchen sink would be a good place to put this.
Bow and Bay Windows
A bay window refers to a group of three windows with angles of 25-45 degrees while bow windows refer to a group that contains three, four or five windows with angles of 10-15 degrees. Bay and Bow windows are the ideal way to make a cozy reading corner or upgrade an existing one and they serve as a fancy focal point for any home.
Custom Shape Repalcement windows
These are sometimes called picture windows. They are fixed windows and are excellent solutions for spaces that are hard to reach and openings that have an abundance of natural light. You can contact Fab Glass and mirror for available custom replacement window types, shapes and sizes.
What Types of Glass Are Used in Replacement Windows?
When you choose the right glass while deciding on a replacement glass window, you will be saving a good amount on your energy bill as well as improving the overall look of your home in addition to its value. The glass types for replacement windows are:
Safety Glass (Tempered Glass): This refers to a glass that has been subjected to tempering. Tempering comprises of heating glass up, which is then rapidly cooled down when its being manufactured. This produces a glass that is stronger than non-tempered ones, and would not result in sharp shards when break down. It would break down to several round edged pieces that are innocuous for everybody.
Low Thermal Emissivity (Low-E Glass): A window glass that is uncoated has high emissivity rating. This means that it relays heat very well in either direction. Low-E glass, in contrast to other glasses, is superior at reflecting incident light, and high melting point. This is achieved because of coatings that have been applied to one or more surfaces of the glass.
Patterned Glass: This is an aesthetic option for replacement glass windows. These are opaque glass finishes that are best suited for pool houses, bathrooms or places where privacy would be preferred by the homeowner.
Films, Tints and other Coatings: Numerous coating options are available for replacement glass windows of commercial and residential buildings. Apart from the fact that films and tints improve privacy, modern coatings make it difficult for a glass window to be destroyed by the elements or by hand.
Art Glass: These are used primarily for the beauty they add to the home. They are available in different styles and colors and are best used for places that are out of the way and other focal points in the home.
Gains of Replacement Glass Windows
There are lots of benefits that accompany replacement glass windows, they are:
- A Low-E glass replacement window will help you lower energy costs by preventing outdoor conditions from impacting your indoor cooling and heating system.
- Replacing your glass windows make them easy to clean and maintain. This also increases their sustainability.
- Replacement glass windows especially double or triple pane glasses act like sunscreen for the home because they provided better protection from UV rays.
- They make your home secured and safer for you especially with the use of tempered glass windows.
- They significantly enhance the value of your property while giving modern touch of charm.