Types Of Window Glass

Can you choose the type of glass in your windows? In fact, yes! When you buy replacement windows, there are some decisions you can make about both the amount of glass (how many panes) and the type of glass (how it’s manufactured).

Recall that window glazing often refers to the panes of glass (single glaze, or single pane; double glaze, or double pane; triple glaze, or triple pane). (Learn more about window glazing.)

This article looks more specifically at how we make the types of glass, specifically how we heat and cool it. The variance in how we manufacture glass gives the different types their distinct properties. Some glass is stronger or more energy efficient than other types, for example.

This glossary is a good place to start.

• Float glass. Float glass is a flat, even type of glass; it’s the basic type of glass in most modern windows.
• Annealed glass. Annealed glass is float glass that has been slowly cooled; it’s ordinary window glass, before it is coated or treated for strength or energy efficiency.
• Heat strengthened glass. This type of glass refers to annealed glass that has been reheated and cooled rapidly. Heat-strengthened glass is twice as strong as annealed glass.
• Tempered glass. Tempered glass, or safety glass, is float glass that has been heated to about 1200 degrees Fahrenheit and then rapidly cooled. It breaks into small, dull pieces.
• Heat soak tempered glass. Heat soak tempered glass is specially heated to create extra strong safety glass.
• Laminated glass. Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that does not easily break, and when it does, it typically stays in the frame.
• Insulated glass. Insulated glass is made from two or more pieces of glass with an air-filled space in between.
• Gas filled glass. Gas filled glass has a layer of gas (either argon or krypton) between the panes of glass; this gas helps insulate the windows. Learn more about argon gas.
• Low-E glass. Low-E glass has a coating that helps deflect UV rays, keeping heat out of the house during the summer. Low-E glass also helps keep heat in the home during the winter. Read more about Low-E glass.
• Tinted glass. Tinted glass helps absorb heat from the sun, so it keeps a home cooler.
• Obscured glass. Obscured glass is glass that has been frosted or patterned so that light is allowed to filter in, without distinct shapes being seen through the glass. It’s common in bathrooms.

Learn more about how to choose which glass is right for you, and how glass can help you better control your climate.

Window glass isn’t one size or type fits all. Property owners and builders have many types of window glass to choose from depending on the intent for the window, the location and features desired. Trust your local Glass Doctor to help you choose the glass that’s right for you and to maintain it for years to come.

Need window glass repair or replacement now? Call 855-603-1919 for 24/7 emergency service.

What Do I Need to Know to Select the Right Type of Window Glass?

Windows are more than meets the eye. A good window allows sunlight, lines of sight and ventilation into the home while enhancing your home’s aesthetic and keeping your property and its contents safe.

Before your make your decision, consider the following:

• The amount of natural light you wish for the space
• The location of the window
• Your climate
• The overall building design
• The type of window you desire

Laminated, Tempered or Annealed

There are several different ways to manufacture glass. How the glass is manufactured will impact several factors, including how safe it is when it breaks. Three very important types of glass are annealed, tempered and laminated glass.

1. Annealed glass is a traditional glass type that has been cooled slowly. Not suitable as a safety glass, as it breaks into large, sharp and unpredictable shards.
2. Tempered glass is a type of glass that has been strengthened through compression. Tempered glass is used widely as a safety glass as it breaks into very small, dull shards when impacted.
3. Laminated glass is also a type of safety glass. It is created by sandwiching an inner layer of plastic (like polyvinyl butyral (PVB)) between two layers of glass. On impact, the glass sticks to the interlayer, reducing the likelihood for injuries stemming from broken glass.

Different Types of Window Glass

There are several types of window glass, each suitable for a different residential or commercial application. Four of the most popular types are:

• Insulated Glass Units
  Insulated glass units (IGUs) are windows with two or more panes separated by a spacer and hermetically sealed. The space between panes is filled with air or a gas, like krypton or argon, to help insulate the window. IGUs are popular for their ability to reduce energy transfer between the indoors and outdoors – keeping properties warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Double pane windows are a common type of insulated glass unit.
• Low-emissivity (Low-E) Glass
  Low-emissivity or Low-E glass is glass that has been coated with a transparent substance that minimizes the amount of light that enters through the glass. Low-E glass reflects the sun’s rays, reducing solar impact on the temperature of a property and reducing energy costs.
• Privacy or Obscure Glass
  Privacy glass – glass that is reflective or has been obscured – is a great choice for bathrooms, offices or street side rooms. This type of glass allows sunlight in but protects you and your property from prying eyes.
• Impact Resistant Glass or Hurricane Glass
  Hurricane resistant windows and doors are made from impact resistant or hurricane glass. Hurricane glass is a type of laminated glass designed to provide protection from flying debris. Hurricane glass reduces the danger posed by broken windows, as the broken glass sticks to the inner layer of the window on impact.

Let Glass Doctor Fix Your Windowpanes

Window choice has a big impact on your property. From safety and security to energy costs, trust your local Glass Doctor to help you make the right decision for your company or household. Request an appointment online or call 855-603-1919 to get started today.