How Glass Windows Are Made

While gazing out of a perfectly smooth, clear glass window, have you ever wondered how it was created? Many people don’t realize that the beautiful windows they use every day in their homes, cars and office buildings went through an incredible process to reach the size and shape they are in now.

Let’s start with the process of creating glass, and then move to how that glass becomes the windows you see every day.

How Glass Is Made

Glass windows are manufactured in a factory, undergoing an intense process where temperatures reach up to 1500 degrees Celsius. Here’s what happens:

• Glass-making materials are combined. This includes sand, soda ash, dolomite, limestone and salt cake.
• These materials are mixed together with surplus glass and heated in a furnace to 1500 degrees Celsius. Furnaces can hold more than 1200 tons of glass.
• The glass melts, and will then be brought to a temperature of 1200 degrees Celsius.
• The glass is fed into a bath of molten tin. Tin is ideal for the glass-making procedure because it mixes perfectly with the glass.
• The glass floats onto the tin surface, transforming into a sheet. The temperature is reduced, and the sheet is lifted onto rollers. The differences in flow speed and roller speed create glass sheets of different thicknesses and widths.
• The glass is cooled and reheated slowly to increase strength and prevent shattering. Or it is tempered, meaning it is reheated and chilled with sudden blasts of cold air.
• The glass may be glazed and coated with insulated window glazes, heat absorbing tints, or other coatings.

How Windows Are Made

Now that the glass has been created, how does it become the window in your home? Here’s what happens at a window-manufacturing plant:

• Dimensions are entered to fit a particular window. The glass is cut by machines to fit the desired size.
• The glass is cleaned with a high-pressure cleaner.
• Panes of glass are sealed together.
• Pieces of frame are cut and welded together.
• The frame and glass are assembled.

As you can see, the process of making windows is complex and requires intricate machinery and experienced technicians.

How Stained Glass Windows Are Made

Stained glass windows – how are they made?

These wonders grace churches, historical buildings, Victorian homes, cathedrals, and works of modern art all throughout the world. Creating them requires great skill, patience, and a lot of lead soldering.

The first step is to diagram the window on a small scale, in color, called a Vidimus. It must take into account the mathematical dimensions of the larger piece to be created. This requires technical expertise as the drawing is later used to make a Cartoon, or a full-sized design of the window. The cartoon is drawn on paper that is translucent. Everything is taken into account – the separate glass pieces, the window framework, and the lead soldering that holds it all together. There is always a theme or story involved in stained glass art and this is carefully considered as the Vidimus and technical Cartoons are rendered.

The artist, or master-glazier, carefully selects individual pieces of colored glass and cuts them down to the proper sizes with a tool. The technique is called grozing. Paints are applied to create special the special details required by faces, hands and hair. The paint has traditionally contained ingredients like wine, vinegar and urine! After all the pieces have been cut, they are beveled and cleaned. The colored panes are then fitted into lead H-shaped frames called cames which are welded with molten tin at the joints. These structures can be flimsy so mastic and oily cements or pastes are used to secure the glass to the cames. When they are dry, the panel of colored panes is then carefully fitted into the larger framework of the window which is often supported by iron rods. Modern art pieces use different enamels, paints, and additives to glass to produce a dizzying array of effects and lead is sometimes replaces with copper.

At Glass King, we do window glass repair and should your stained glass window break, we offer high-quality factory made designs that we can place in your window frame or door. We offer a wide selection and we have a guarantee on all of our workmanship. Call us at 480-389-5656 for an estimate today.

How are medieval stained glass windows made?

The artisan draws a cartoon template, cuts the glass to size, and makes and applies the paint. He ads illustrative and color details with outlines, matting, stippling, paint scraping, and silver staining.

Next, glass pieces are assembled into the template, then joined with long lead pieces. Soldered ends hold the pieces together. The application of glazing cement and chalk waterproofs the piece for the ages.

This is how medieval-era stained glass panels were made. The music-filled V&A video above documents the reproduction of a 14th century stained glass panel that was in the choir windows of Erfurt Cathedral in eastern Germany.

Created in 1375, the original ‘Entry into Jerusalem‘ is now a part of the The Victoria and Albert Museum‘s collections.

Artisans at Goddard and Gibbs demonstrated centuries-old techniques in the video above, but the steps within this painstaking process are not unfamiliar in modern times. From Khan Academy:

During the Gothic period and the Renaissance (1100s–1500s) stained glass was one of the foremost techniques of painting practiced in Europe. It may seem surprising to call stained glass a form of painting, but in fact it is. Look closely at the image here and note that the surfaces of each piece of glass are painted in a wide range of dark tones. One of the most widespread forms of painting, stained glass inspired the lives of the faithful through religious narratives in churches and cloisters, celebrated family and political ties in city halls, and even decorated the windows of private houses.

The term stained glass derives from the silver stain that was often applied to the side of the window that would face the outside of the building. When the glass was fired, the silver stain turned a yellow color that could range from lemon to gold. Stained glass was usually used to make windows, so that the light would shine through the painting. It is a form of painting that began over 1,000 years ago and is still essentially made the same way today.

Watch more glass and V&A videos [noindex]next:
• Magic Lantern Slides
• How to make a turquoise goblet
• Remaking an ancient glass fish at the Corning Museum of Glass
• 3D scanning and printing artifacts at the V&A
• In Search of Forgotten Colours – Sachio Yoshioka and the Art of Natural Dyeing[/noindex]

This Webby award-winning video collection exists to help teachers, librarians, and families spark kid wonder and curiosity. TKSST features smarter, more meaningful content than what’s usually served up by YouTube’s algorithms, and amplifies the creators who make that content.

Curated, kid-friendly, independently-published. Support this mission by becoming a sustaining member today.

27 Different Types of Windows (Diagrams)

Do you know the 27 different types of windows? We list them all out here with diagram examples of each type. We showcase all styles, different number of panes and types of window frames.

Here are 5 indicators when it’s time to change your windows.

1. You feel a draft of cold air in winter or heat coming through in the summer.
2. There’s paint peeling around the exterior of your windows which may indicate condensation, mold or rot. If a hard tool pushes into the wood around your windows, it’s a sign the windows should be replaced.
3. If you see cracks in the window panes or casing, they should be replaced.
4. If you see condensation on the windows or between the window panes causing seal failure, that’s cause for replacement.
5. Your windows no longer open or close properly.

Typically, expect to have to change your windows after 20 years.

The next question is what types of Window replacement services in Oslo should you get. Here’s a huge list of options, styles and types.

Table of Contents

A. Window Styles & Designs

We kick off our types of windows guide with 15 window styles (fully illustrated).

1. Single Hung Window

The single hung window is a classic and very common design. It operates with the bottom sash being manipulated. Since this type of window does not open outwards, it is a perfect choice of window for small spaces like windows facing pathways, streets and other narrow spaces.

Pros:

• easy installation
• perfect for narrow outside space
• affordable
• easily matches any home design
• energy-efficient (less heat-loss)

​Cons:

• Since only the lower stash is operational, this type of windows require you to clean it from the outside.
• Ventilation can be limited.

Price Range: $100-$250 and up

2. Double Hung

The double-hung window type is the most common type of window in American houses because of its practicality and functionality.

Pros:

• Very easy to own and comes in many designs and built which matches every architectural design.
• Easy maintenance since both the upper and lower stashes can be manipulated to allow ventilation inside.
• Like the single hung window type, it is perfect for narrow outside spaces.
• Affordable.
• Energy-efficient

Cons:

• Limited ventilation.
• Depending on the materials and functionality, this type of window is not as airtight as other window types in the market.

Price Range: $200-$350 and up

3. Oriel

The oriel is a type of bay window (see item no.14 ) that is commonly used in the upper floors/stories that are supported by brackets, corbels or similar. This type of windows extends the area of the room exteriorly.

Pros:

• Elegant and more ornamental.
• Allows more natural light to enter the room.
• Gives a panoramic view of the outside.
• Like all other bay window types, it adds space to your room.
• Makes your house look luxurious.

Cons:

• Not suitable for people who don’t want the “extra sunlight” in their rooms.
• Decoration for the window needs to be customized, meaning costly.
• Window treatments could be expensive.
• Can be costly.

Price Range: $1000 and up

4. Cottage

The Cottage type of window is a variation of the double hung window where the upper stash is shorter than the lower one. It is also commonly called as the “front window type”. Aside from the smaller upper stash, the features and characteristics of the cottage window is very similar to the aforementioned double hung window. This type of window is also known as the “Georgian” and “Tudor” type of window.

Pros:

• Offers a classic design that never goes out of style.
• Affordable.
• Low-maintenance.
• Energy-saving.
• Easily customizable and matches traditional house designs.

Cons:

• This can be a little more difficult to clean than the double hung window because of the smaller upper stash.

Price Range: $400 and up

5. Two-Panel Slider

The 2 panel slider is the most common type of sliding window. It has two panels where one or both of the panels are slided left and right to allow ventilation into the room.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• Easy to install.
• Low-maintenance.
• Suitable for narrow outside spaces.
• Complements classic and modern architectures.
• Energy-efficient.
• Durable and long-lasting.

Cons:

• Since these windows, does not swivel inwards or outwards, cleaning the outside part (especially in upper floors) can be challenging).

Price Range: $250-$300 and up

6. Three-Panel Slider

This type of sliding window is wider than the 2 panel slider, thus provides a more panoramic view of the outside scenery. The three-panel slider has the middle panel fixed, while the other two side panels slide to the middle to open and close the window.

Pros and Cons:

Aside from the wider space, it has all the same pros and cons of the 2 panel slider like low maintenance, durability, and affordability.

Price Range: Depending on the materials used and durability it costs $300 and up

7. Picture Window

The picture window is one of the most unique form of windows since it is fixed (can not be manipulated). It is just a glass window pane which has the main purpose of framing an outside view–like a picture frame, thus the term “picture window”. Although this is not a very common type of picture you see on a daily basis, it is particularly seen on houses with vaulted ceilings.

Pros:

• Affordable.
• Low Maintenance.
• Easy Installation.
• The most energy-efficient type of window.
• No curtains and blinds required for a majestic outside view.

Cons:

Price Range: $250-$650

8. Deadlites – Sash-Only

Many people are using deadlites and picture window interchangeably. Well, when it comes to features and characteristics, they are almost identical. The only difference between the two is that picture windows has frames like the regular windows while deadlites are “stand-alone” or has only the feature of a single sash (of a window). This means, DIY stained glass windows, it does not have any primary frame.

Pros:

• A very affordable type of window since it has only one sash.Highly energy-efficient like picture window.
• Other advantages are similar to picture windows.

Cons:

• Similar to picture window type.

Price Range: $150-$500

9. Hopper

The hopper window is a type of a single-sash casement window (see number 10) which opens by tilting vertically inwards the house. Hoppers, usually horizontal rectangles, are hinged in the bottom which allows the tilting of the window to open from the top.

Pros:

• Easy to access and operate.
• Energy-efficient.
• Excellent insulation
• Great for narrow outside spaces since it opens inward the house.
• Easy and low maintenance.

Cons:

• Tends to limit room space (opens inwards).
• Possibility of water entry.
• limits privacy.

Price Range: $100-$600

10. Casement

Like previously mentioned, casement windows are single-stash windows similar to the hopper, except that it is installed vertically instead of horizontally. These are hinged windows that opens inwards or outwards from the sides.

Pros:

• Excellent for ventilation.
• Easy and low maintenance.
• Good quality insulation.
• Comes in variety of designs, sizes, and materials.

Cons:

• Difficult to use with window screens since it usually cranks outwards.
• Not very secure.
• Size limitations.

Price Range: $270-$750

11. Awning

Like mentioned above, awning is similar to hoppers except that instead of tilting inwards, it tilts outwards. This mechanism of opening prevents it from limiting the size of the room, but can not be installed where plants and other barriers of the space outside of the wall can prevent the window

Pros:

• Saves energy.
• Provides good insulation.
• Prevents snow and rain from entering the room.

Cons:

• Difficult to clean the outer portion of the window pane.

Price Range: $420-$760

12. Transoms

When it comes to aesthetics, transom windows are the most common accent type of window you could see in most beautiful houses all over the country. Traditionally, they are commonly known as fan-shaped but are now popular for having various designs and build.

Pros:

• Great for beautifying your home while allowing natural light to enter.
• Provides good ventilation and insulation.

Cons:

Price Range: $200-575

13. Different Shapes

Different shapes windows are mainly for aesthetic purposes and can be used in various needs and purposes for each room in your home. For example, round-shaped windows or half-circle shapes are common in kitchen and bathrooms where privacy is most important.

Pros:

• Perfect fr unique architectural interests.
• Allows more natural light to enter.

Cons:

• Typically provides no ventilation.

Price Range: $250-$750 and up

14. Bay

We slightly talked about the Bay Windows earlier, when we talked about the oriel windows. It has an outward frame, commonly hexagonal, which adds space to your room.

Pros:

• Adds space and aesthetic touch to your room.
• Gives an enhanced panoramic view of the outside.
• Can instantly transform the look of your house by adding an elegant touch.

Cons:

• Can possibly block narrow outside space.
• Replacement and maintenance is costly.

Price Range: $1150-$3550

15. Bow

As what you might already know, Bow windows are variations of the bay window. The only difference is instead of having hexagonal and straight edges, the bow window is curved, forming an arch. Because of the curved edges, this type of window is typically larger than bay windows.

Pros:

• Most elegant window design.
• Gives a panoramic view.
• Adds space to the interior.

Cons:

• Costly.
• Difficult to clean.
• Not for people who don’t want “extra light and heat” inside the room.

Price Range: $2000 and up

16. Jalousie

When proper ventilation is your priority, then a jalousie window will serve you well. Jalousie windows have parallel glass, wooden louvres or acrylic that can be tilted open and shut simultaneously. Besides its outstanding function, its design is versatile enough to compliment any type of house aesthetics.

Pros

• Provides proper ventilation
• Has a complimentary design
• Can maintain airflow during storms and rains with its slanted design.

Con: Not as secure as other window types.

17. Garden Style Window

This type of window is perfect for those people with a green thumb. It is a four-sided window that extends outward to be able to capture enough amount of sunlight needed by plants. Turn your window into a small, indoor garden that can exhibit colorful, fresh and healthy plants, flowers or even herbs that you can use in your kitchen.

Pros

• Aesthetically-pleasing design
• Can be a mini greenhouse or plant sanctuary
• A window with a durable architecture

Con: It’s extended built, when placed incorrectly, may interfere with sidewalks, patios, or other exterior features.

18. Glass Block Window

A glass block window doesn’t only look nice and flattering, it also serves a significant purpose in terms of privacy and security. With its thick and durable yet trendy designs, this type of window is definitely one of the most popular among homes and offices.

Pros

• Frosted glass blocks come with an obscured view to maintain your privacy
• Many designs to choose from
• Its thick and durable finish provides extra security to your homes and offices

Cons

• No natural ventilation
• Distorts lights and images

19. Storm Window

A storm window is mounted on the outside or the inside of the main glass window. The second barrier on top of the original window helps keep the house warm during winter and cool during summer. This unique architecture and design creates a solid seal that helps in the improvement of your home’s insulation while it protects it from outside elements.

Pros

• More affordable than the typical double pane windows
• Installation is very cheap
• Improves home insulation
• Increases efficiency of standard windows

Cons

• High-maintenance
• Condensation between two layers may cause damage to wooden exteriors

20. Egress Window

Aesthetics is important, but the actual function plays a much more significant role when it comes to home improvements. Good thing about the egress window, it caters both safety and style. This type of window provides a safe escape route from your home in case of emergencies such as fire, earthquake, etc. It also serves as an access point for emergency personnel.

• Can serve as a safe escape during emergencies such as fire
• Brightens dark rooms, especially the basement
• Provides enough ventilation to the room
• Cost-effective and very attractive

Cons

• Can cause moisture problems if not properly installed
• Installation takes a lot of effort and planning

21. Skylight

A skylight is a window installed in a roof or ceiling for daylighting purposes. This type of window is commonly seen on vacation houses and cabins because besides that fact that it conserves energy, it also provides a beautiful view of the sky from the outside.

Pros

• Brightens dark areas with natural sunlight
• Provides indirect solar light
• Aesthetically pleasing and compliments well with any interior

Cons

• Expensive to install and maintain
• Can sometimes cause roof leaks
• Can potentially dame roof structurally

22. Round

While round windows are inspired by rose windows from the Gothic architecture, there exists modern round windows that serve the same purposes. And that is to create a focal point for the structure’s exterior details and allow enough amount of light and air.

Pros

• Comes with unique details and designs
• Adds more natural light into the area

Cons

• Most round windows cannot be opened or closed
• Not a common trend despite its classic finish

23. Arched

Arched windows are common on Roman architecture but its timeless beauty offers a unique look to modern structures. It increases the curb appeal of your home’s exterior despite being low-maintenance.Pros

• Offers a unique architectural interest
• Easy to maintain
• Has a versatile design

Cons

• Does not offer ventilation
• Not ideal escape routes during emergencies

24. Dormer Windows

Dormers create more space under angled roofs and make it possible to have windows in those spaces for natural light.

These days many houses incorporate fake dormers for the aesthetics, but some new houses make them real.

Interestingly, there are quite a few different types of dormer windows. The one pictured above is the most common, but there are other dormer designs. Check them out:

B. Window Panes

1. Double Pane

Double Pane is the most common type of window pane. It has two sheets of window pane glasses that are separated by trapped gas (commonly krypton or argon) in the middle. The gas makes a tight seal which holds the window more firmly, which prevents heat and energy loss inside the house.

Pros:

• These type of windows prevent condensation on your windows, especially during winter.
• Provides good insulation.
• Because of the creation of a tight seal, this type of windows help block outside noise.
• Increased security and durability.

Cons:

• It may not be a good match for old, ancestral homes.
• Maintenance is costly since it can’t be repaired once broken–you need to replace the entire thing.
• Having such a great insulator, is not a very good news during summer season.

2. Triple Pane

Due to architectural advancement and breakthroughs, the triple pane window is becoming more and more popular recently. Unlike the double pane windows, it has three sheets of window glass pane, separated by 2 separate layers of gas. This 2 layers of airtight gasses provides improved insulation than the double pain.

Pros:

• Triple pane windows are the improved versions of the double pain. So to make it short, it is the improved and better version of all the advantages/pros of the double pane–better insulation, better sound proof and lower condensation during winter.

Cons:

• It is more expensive than the double pane.
• Heavier than double pane, so it needs more durable window sash/frame.

3. Quadruple Pane

The quadruple pane window is by far, the most advanced type of window pane right now. The insulation is made even better by combining 4 sheets of window pane glass with three spaces filled with gas that are airtight. It significantly raises the functionality and features of the other two type of panes mentioned above. It is better in all the pros and advantages of all the panes listed above with the con of being super heavy weight and needs a tougher, more durable window frame and sash. Not to mention the more expensive price!

C. Types of Window Frames

Now that we were able to cover the types of windows and window panes, let us now discuss the structure that support and put them all together–the frame! depending on your needs and preferences, here are the most common types of window frames to choose from!

1. Wood

Wooden frames are the most popular ones used in most houses up to date. It has the aesthetic appeal and classic appearance. It is used for years, not only in the window frame industry, but in the entire architectural industry because of its known beauty and durability.

Pros:

• Easy to own, fix and replace.
• Durable and long-lasting if well-maintained.
• Beautiful to look at.

Cons:

• Requires maintenance.
• Can be a good target of insects and termites.
• Expensive.

2. Vinyl

Vinyl window frames are made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC’s). It is the same materials widely used in plumbings and pipes. This is a popular type of window frame due to its durability and affordability.

Pros:

• Low on energy cost.
• Versatile material which can easily made into various window styles and designs.
• Low maintenance.

Cons:

• During extreme heat conditions, vinyl colors will fade which needs to be totally replaced since it can’t be repainted.
• Low resale value.

3. Aluminum

Aluminum windows has been used in classic as well as modern architecture. This is because of its durability and longevity.

​Pros:

• Outperforms wood and vinyl in noise abatement.
• Low maintenance. It doesn’t shrink, split, fade and rust.
• Weather-proof.
• Easily matches classic and modern architecture.

Cons:

• Although cheaper than wooden frames, it costs more than vinyl and fiberglass.
• Not very efficient as an insulator. It also absorbs cold, which is not very ideal for winter.

4. Fiberglass

Although fiberglass type of window frame is not so common, it is still known to be the most durable and low maintenance among the four types. This frame is made of extruded fiberglass sections and formed into a frame. The outcome appearance look similar to a PVC window frame.

Pros:

• Though they look similar, fiberglass frame can be repainted and is far more durable than a PVC frame.
• Low maintenance.
• Weatherproof.
• Best insulator frame.
• Sound resistant.

Cons:

• Though far more durable and efficient, it still looks like a PVC frame so some homeowners would prefer the later because this type of frame is more expensive, if not the same price as the wooden frame.

D. Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to commonly asked questions about glass windows.

How long do glass windows last?

Glass windows are fairly long-lasting but can last even longer with proper maintenance and care. The average time for glass windows to last is between 15 and 20 years without extensive maintenance and up to 30 with proper care. The lifespan of your glass window is also affected by the type of area in which you live and whether or not there is a significant amount of tumultuous weather (i.e. thunderstorms and snow). However, the type of frame you use also has a huge impact on the lifespan of a window.

For example, wooden frames can last for 10 to 20 years on average but have been reported to last up to 30 years. Aluminum frames last even longer, ranging between 15 to 40 years. Vinyl frames are arguably the most durable, lasting anywhere between 20 and 40 years with proper care.

Can glass windows be painted?

Yes, but you must make sure that you have the correct type of paint. For example, acrylic paint can be useful for not only decorating your window, but also making the window itself more durable. In order to allow the paint to increase the lifespan of your window, you should get acrylic paint that has a baked-on capability. The feature might not be labeled as such, but you’re essentially looking for something that will become harder when exposed to direct sunlight.

Can glass windows crack on their own?

Yes, glass windows can crack on their own. However, it’s more nuanced than you might think, being caused by a variety of causes. The phenomenon is referred to as Spontaneous Glass Breakage and is usually the result of how the glass was tempered or installation errors. It is difficult to tell if there is a problem with the glass, though, as it typically cracks spontaneously at random or in tumultuous circumstances. If you want to prevent your glass windows from breaking, we recommend that you read up on Spontaneous Glass Breakage so you can be aware of the risks and be properly prepared.

Can glass windows be repaired?

Glass windows can be repaired, but the specific type of repair necessary will depend on just how severe the damage is. For example, it is possible to look at small cracks in a window and reinforce the glass so it does not break any further, while larger cracks may require the entire window to be replaced. If you are unsure about whether or not your window needs repair, it’s important to do your research and consult a professional for their opinion. If you don’t do this, you put yourself (and your window) at risk!

Are glass windows load-bearing?

Whether or not glass windows are load-bearing depends on the specific type of frame and brand you purchase. Aluminum glass windows are not load-bearing, meaning that you should exercise caution when looking into those specific types of windows. However, there is no surefire way to tell if the windows you’re looking into are load-bearing. If you want to be absolutely sure, consult a professional and look for products that specifically advertise load-bearing capabilities. After all, the ones that are load-bearing will definitely advertise that!

How are glass windows made?

Glass windows are typically made by melting various minerals. The temperature for the melting process is often so high (around 3090 degrees Fahrenheit) in order to melt the specific components into one substance. The most common element in glass is often silica, a compound that is also often found in sand.

Once the compounds are all mixed into one liquid, limestone is added to the mix in order to make sure it does not dissolve. The addition of limestone results in glass forming, with this molten glass being shaped into various objects. In the case of windows, the molten glass is molded into window shapes to be sold after it properly cools down. It’s worth noting, though, that this process will change slightly depending on the specific kind of glass that you’re making and which types of materials you’re using. If you want to learn about how the creation process differs depending on which type of glass you’re making, we recommend this article.

Can glass windows be resealed?

To put it simply, yes. However, if the crack is too substantial to be resealed, it isn’t very likely that it is possible. To understand whether or not the window you want to fix is resealable, you should contact a professional to get a proper estimate and evaluation.

Can glass windows be recycled?

In the United States, it’s far less common that glass windows can be recycled. Contrary to popular belief, not all types of glass are made the same, making certain recycling facilities not interested in having to sort through glass windows. The reason why glass windows are often different from bottles and other types of glass that you should recycle is that the glass is treated, making it difficult to break up and subsequently to recycle.

However, this does not mean that you shouldn’t try to recycle windows if you have the chance to. There are organizations that have been specifically created to help people recycle windows properly and we recommend you look into one of those facilities in order to recycle your windows properly. Another recommended option for those looking to recycle glass windows is to consider ways in which you can reuse your windows, whether it be through repairing them first or installing them in a context that works. Theater companies are also always on the lookout for functioning props, so—even if you can’t use your cracked window at home—perhaps your window can become part of a new play!

Can used glass windows be sold?

Yes, but it is often tricky to sell glass windows at any comparable market prices. The only situation in which someone would actually want to purchase your glass windows is for historical preservation purposes, so it’s unlikely that someone will take you up on it. However, if you happen to have a glass window that is of significant historical value, it is likely possible to sell it to a local shop! Even if the windowpane itself isn’t usable anymore, you can likely still sell the frame for a good amount of money.

Are glass windows insulated?

Not all of the time. The insulation process that makes it possible to properly regulate the temperature of a room is typically achieved through the glass making process. So, if you want to have windows that are truly insulated, it’s important to make that a goal of your window shopping from the beginning. If you don’t take this first step, you might end up with windows that have too many spaces for air and subsequently don’t insulate very well. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t insulate windows on your own if you want. If you want to try insulating your windows, there are plenty of options available on the internet and we recommend you do some research before committing to one. If you want to make sure that you’re doing it properly, always get the opinion of a professional.

Are glass windows soundproof?

Not necessarily. Though there are some glass windows that are specifically constructed to be soundproof, this is not the case for all glass windows. If you are somebody who wants to have soundproof windows, you should search for a brand that advertises this feature. It’s almost impossible to soundproof windows that have already been made due to the way the glass is constructed, so you will have to seek out this help as an additional step of the process. Though there may be guides that claim to help soundproof any type of glass window, they are often incorrect and misleading.

Are glass windows waterproof?

Not inherently. Though water technically bounces off of glass windows, windows that do not have proper frames might be more susceptible to damage during more tumultuous weather conditions such as flooding, hurricanes and thunderstorms. If you want to try out a type of window that will hold up in poor conditions, we recommend looking into glass block windows. However, to ensure that you’re installing any windows you purchase properly, you should enlist the help of a professional. If you don’t, you run the risk of your windows not being truly waterproof!

E. Window Buying Guide

Now that you have a good understanding of your window options, what else should you look for. Here are some tips.

• ENERGY STAR and NFRC labels: Energy Star label means your windows meet the EPA’s minimum standard for insulating in your area.
• In colder climates, consider gas-filled windows with low-E coatings to reduce heat loss. You can also get a low U-factor for better thermal resistance. U-factor is the rate at which window conducts non-solar heat flow.
• In warmer climates, choose windows with coatings to reduce heat gain. Look for low solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). SHGC is a measure of solar radiation admitted through a window. Low SHGCs reduce heat gain in warmer climates.
• In climates that are both hot and cold (i.e. have seasons), get windows with both low U-fctors and low SHGCs.

Window Styles Infographic

Below is an image that includes all of the above in one easy-to-pin infographic.