When it comes to windows, two things matter the most: the window frame and the window glazing. They are responsible for making the windows energy-efficient, soundproof, and aesthetically pleasing. In this article, we’ll focus on the glazing part.
So, what is window glazing? This term can be used to refer to the process of fitting glass panes into a window frame, to the glass itself, or to the glazing putty that holds the glass within the frame. We’ve explained everything in detail below, so scroll down!
Key Takeaways
- The term window glazing is most commonly used to refer to the glass within a window. The window can be single-glazed, double-glazed, or triple-glazed. Other window glazing types include low-E glass, tempered and laminated glass, as well as tinted and reflective glass.
- Window glazing can also refer to the process of installing the glass in the window unit, as well as to the glazing putty that secures the glass.
- Reglazing windows usually refers to the process of replacing the existing glass or adding another glass pane to improve energy efficiency.
What Is Window Glazing?
Based on the context, the term “window glazing” can refer to:
- The process of fitting the glass within the window frame; in this regard, you may also hear the term “to reglaze” or “window reglazing,” which means to replace the glass.
- The glass itself; you may also hear the terms “double-glazed” or “triple-glazed”, which indicates how many glass panes a window unit has.
- The glazing putty that holds the glass within the frame.
- The process of using the putty to install the window glass; in this regard, you may hear the question “How to glaze windows?” which means how to secure the glass within the sash.
The primary purpose of the window glazing compound is to improve energy efficiency and maintain a steady indoor temperature. But the benefits don’t stop there – suitable window glazing can also reduce UV exposure, as well as improve soundproofing and security.
If you’ve stumbled upon this term while looking for replacement windows, what you probably need to know is the best type of window glazing for your house, and we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn more about different types of window glazing and how to choose between them!
Single-Glazed Windows
Single-glazed windows have just one layer of glass. Nowadays, few houses have single-pane windows because they’re the least energy efficient because they’re not equipped to prevent cold and warm air from escaping the house – or entering it, for that matter.
Most homeowners who have single-pane windows eventually reglaze them, adding another glass pane, which improves the windows’ energy efficiency. So if you notice drafts around your single-pane window; glaze it using an Insulated Glass Unit (see below) or replace the window altogether.
Double-Glazed Windows
A double-glazed window is an Insulated Glass Unit. In other words, the window glazing of a double-glazed unit doesn’t refer only to the glass itself. It also refers to all the other materials part of that Insulated Glass Unit.
So, given that a double-glazed unit has two panes of glass, it automatically has other materials that keep those panes apart. For example, an IGU has warm-edge spacers that separate the glass panes. Then, the space between them is filled with an inert gas – usually argon or krypton – that serves as insulation. All these materials are under the umbrella term of window glazing.
As such, do you need double-paned windows? Probably yes. Whether you live in a cold, hot, or mild climate – you’ll probably feel much more comfortable in your house if you have double-pane windows. Another layer of glass, plus the insulated gas between the panes, can truly help you save on energy bills, and you won’t have to worry as much about cooling or heating your house in the winter or summer. Double-pane windows can also improve your sleep because sound waves find it more difficult to penetrate two glass layers.
Triple-Glazed Windows
Like double-glazed windows, triple-glazed windows are Insulated Glass Units, except that instead of two panes of glass, they have three layers of glass and two layers of gas. In other words, they take energy efficiency, noise reduction, and security to the next level!
However, not everyone needs triple triple pane insulated glass – it is, after all, much more expensive. Triple-pane windows are usually installed only in very cold climates where superior energy efficiency is required. Otherwise, high-quality double-glazed windows – if possible, equipped with Magic’s retractable thermal blinds, which further improve energy efficiency – are more than enough for keeping comfortable indoor temperatures.
Low E Glass
Low E glass is a type of window glazing equipped with a thin, almost unnoticeable coating that minimizes heat transfer and blocks harmful UV rays. If you have double- or triple-pane windows, you can add more than one Low-E coating.
There are two types of low-E coatings: passive low-E coatings and solar control low-E coatings. Passive coatings are best for cold regions, while solar control coatings are best for warm climates.
Windows with Low-E glass are usually 10%-15% more expensive than standard windows, although they can help you save 25%-30% on energy bills.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that breaks into small, dull cubes rather than sharp shards. It undergoes a manufacturing process involving heating to over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and rapid cooling. This process improves its strength, making it harder to break and safer if it does break as it shatters into less dangerous pieces.
Tempered glass is a good alternative to laminated glass because it’s cheaper.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass has two or more panes of annealed glass (untreated glass) or tempered glass bonded together with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This not only improves the window’s soundproofing properties and reduces UV radiation but also enhances safety. In simple terms, when laminated glass breaks, the broken pieces don’t fall off; instead, they remain glued to the plastic layer.
You can install laminated glass in rooms where children or pets play to avoid accidents. If the budget is not a problem and safety is a concern, you can install laminated glass everywhere in your house, although tempered glass is also an excellent (and more budget-friendly!) safety glass.
Tinted and Reflective Glass
Tinted glass has a thin layer of colored film. Although it’s primarily used for privacy, tinted glass can also improve energy efficiency and block harmful UV rays as it reduces glare and solar heat gain. You can customize it however you want. On the other hand, tinted glass has a very low Visible Transmittance, which means it lets less natural light in.
Like tinted glass, reflective glass has a mirror-like coating that reduces heat gain and ensures privacy during the day. Nobody can see anything inside the house from the outside because the windows reflect the outdoors. In the evening, however, when the light is on, the reflective properties don’t work anymore, so you’ll need an additional privacy window treatment – Magic’s thermal blinds, for example, which are opaque.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows
We keep talking about energy efficiency and the role window glazing plays in it, but what is it about this energy efficiency that makes it so indispensable to our homes?
Well, first, energy-efficient windows are partly responsible for regulating your indoor temperature and insulation. For example, upgrading from single-pane windows to double-glazed windows can reduce heat loss by up to 30%, which translates into significantly lower energy bills.
Secondly, energy-efficient windows are better at reducing noise pollution. If you live close to busy streets or a railway station, for instance, you probably don’t sleep very well, especially if you’re a light sleeper. Double-pane windows can truly make a difference, especially if they’re equipped with noise-reduction treatments like Magic’s thermal blinds. Don’t forget that better sleep equals better health, improved mood, and increased energy levels!
An additional layer of glass obviously makes the windows harder to break, so you’ll rest assured that your windows are more secure.
Last but not least – energy-efficient windows are more eco-friendly. Since they can lower your energy use, you directly contribute to global environmental efforts.
Make sure to check a window’s energy ratings before buying it. These are the U-factor, the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, the Air Leakage, and the Visible Transmittance. They can be found on the National Fenestration Rating Council’s website. You can see the ratings for Magic products here.
Tips for Choosing the Right Window Glazing
Here’s what you have to consider when choosing window glazing:
- The climate. The climate is the most important! Are the temperatures fluctuating often in your region? Are the humidity levels high? Are the winters very cold and the summers very hot? All these questions will help you understand the degree of energy efficiency you need for your windows. For example, you don’t need to pay extra for triple-glazed windows when double-glazed windows are enough for your home’s needs in terms of energy efficiency.
- The window size. Let’s say you want a window wall – it will naturally have a large glazing area. This can affect the type of glazing you choose. For example, you may need laminated glass for it, as it can pose a risk if it’s broken.
- The window location. You may need tinted glass if your window is in the bathroom, or you may not need two Low-E coatings if the window is always in the shade. Naturally, there are other scenarios involving the window location that can affect your decision, so make sure to consider every detail!
- The budget. It goes without saying that the budget is the decisive factor! Don’t forget that installing high-quality windows is a long-term investment that increases the value of your property.
If you don’t know where to start, you can book a free consultation with Magic. One of our project managers will guide you every step of the way and help you find the best windows for your home, even if this means personalizing them to the core!
Signs Your Windows Need Reglazing
But do your windows need reglazing after all? Here are the signs you should look out for that indicate your windows may be damaged:
- Broken or cracked glass
- Condensation between glass panes
- Increased energy bills for no apparent reason
- Drafts and water leakage
- Difficulty opening and closing the windows
- Damaged window frame
If the window frame is not damaged, you can probably just reglaze the windows. This means you’ll opt for a retrofit project, which implies replacing the glass only, while the frame stays in place. If the frame is damaged, you’ll have to replace the entire unit.
Should You DIY or Hire Professionals?
Reglazing your windows is generally not a DIY project – unless you work in the industry, of course, and have experience in replacing windows. The importance of correct window installation cannot be overstated! Moreover, you can get injured while reglazing your windows.
On the other hand, professionals are already well accustomed to all the steps of replacing an entire window or reglazing it. They can also guarantee that the work is done safely, reducing the risk of injury, and have the necessary equipment to improve installation efficiency and effectiveness.
Can’t Pick the Best Window Glazing? Contact Magic!
In conclusion, window glazing plays a critical role in improving your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and security. Understanding the various types of window glazing is extremely important. Choosing the best window glazing for your home is just as important and sometimes quite challenging, especially if it’s your first time replacing windows.
Therefore, if you don’t know where to start, Magic’s here to help! Our project managers will inquire about the climate of your region, the condition of your house, and your preferences, and provide you with a solution that’s fully tailored to your needs! Since we’ve brought glass production in-house, we can customize your windows any way you want!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is window glazing?
Window glazing refers to the glass panes set within a frame – the window can be single-, double-, or triple-glazed. It is also used to refer to the process of fitting and securing the glass in place and to the glazing putty used to do that.
What are the benefits of double-pane insulated glass?
Double-pane insulated glass significantly improves energy efficiency and insulation due to the gas-filled space between the two panes, which reduces heat transfer. This results in lower energy bills and increased comfort indoors.
Is window glazing the same as caulking?
Window glazing is not the same as caulking because the glazing compound is different than caulk, having a thicker consistency.
How does laminated glass improve safety?
Laminated glass significantly enhances safety by preventing shattering, as the interlayer holds the glass together in case of breakage, thereby reducing injury risks.
How can I tell if my windows need reglazing?
If you notice visible damage, such as cracks or chips, condensation between panes, or a rise in your energy bills, it is clear that your windows need reglazing. Addressing these issues promptly will help maintain your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.