The Difference in Glass Types | Reliable Glazing

The Difference in Glass Types

July 23, 2019

Glass technology has come a long way during our lifetime. Windows that would’ve shattered into thousands of pieces a few decades ago now stay intact even in high-impact scenarios. Today’s glass is made stronger using one of two different techniques: heat-strengthening or tempering. In both processes, glass is heated to about 1,200 degrees before it is force-cooled to create surface and edge compression. Though the methods do have some similarities, this post will cover the difference between the two glass types and some other helpful information regarding house window glass replacement in Denver, CO.

The cooling process is what really separates the two types of glass. With tempered glass, cooling is accelerated to create higher surface compression that is less likely to shatter or experience a thermal break. Tempered glass has a surface compression of at least 10,000 psi, making it about five times stronger than untreated glass. The cooling process with heat-strengthened glass is much slower than with tempered glass and, as a result, the surface compression is quite a bit lower. Though the surface compression is nowhere near 10,000 psi, heat-strengthened glass is still about twice as strong as untreated glass.

Does my home need new glass?

Just like most things in your house, your window glass won’t last forever. Here are a few of the signs that you need to call a professional for house window glass replacement in Denver, CO:

  • Broken windows: It should go without saying that if any glass in your home is broken, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Not only is a window with broken glass a safety hazard, but it’s also an open invitation for critters and bugs to come creeping inside your home. If you want to avoid ever dealing with a broken window again, consider using tempered glass. As discussed above, tempered glass is up to five times stronger than untreated glass, so there’s a very small chance that your windows will ever break again.
  • High energy bills: Did you know that you could be losing up to 30 percent of your heating and cooling energy each month through old, drafty windows? It’s true! Replacing your older windows—particularly those that are over 10 years old—with energy-efficient glass can save about $500 per year. With energy-efficient windows, your heating and cooling system won’t have to work as hard to regulate the temperature in your home, which will save you a bundle on your monthly bills.
  • Drafty rooms: Are some rooms in your home just a bit colder in the winter and hotter in the summer? That problem could be related to a lack of insulation in the walls, or it could be caused by old windows and inefficient glass. Instead of sitting in an uncomfortable room, consider upgrading to double-paned glass that blocks outside air from coming in and prevents your inside air from slipping out.

Regardless of the type of glass you’re interested in buying, be sure to get it from Reliable Glazing! Give us a call today to set up a free consultation for house window glass replacement in Denver, CO.

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