I want to replace my single pane windows with double pane / insulated glass.?

Question

even though my house is less than 10 years old (built in 1997) the house has only single pane windows. We are in Texas and this isn't such a big problem, but I want to save energy. Replacing the entire window itself will never be a good investment given we do not have extremes in weather. Is it possible to take out only the glass and replace it with double pane or insulated glass?

Answer 1

if you have divided lite windows you would have a hard time doing what you are thinking of doing. if the upper and lower sashes are both single lite then its possible. check this out with a glass company to see what this would cost you per sash, then compare to the cost of just putting replacements in. then figure out how much time it would take you to do this. they won't just pop in where the old glass was though. they channel needs to be able to hold the new thicker glass unit, most likely you would need to remove a 1/4" from the window channel to fit them. you could also check out the big window manufacturers for new sash kits that are already double pane. then you would just gut your old windows and insert the new ones, and you'll be able to tilt to clean these new ones. good luck, i think the replacement way is what you'll find will be the way to go.

Answer 2

Replacing Single Pane Windows

Answer 3

Buy Replacement Double Pane Glass

Answer 4

you'll have a thickness difference that may cause you more trouble than it is worth. Are you trying to get high insulation value in an old and visually pleasing window that has natural wood on the interior side and painted wood facing out? Another option is to use a router to create a pocket for a second pane of glass on the outside of the window. Caulk the pocket to create an air tight seal and you can approximate some of the insulation value of a double glaze, although certainly not all of it. Be sure the new pane of glass is flush with the wood on the outside facing side so it can slide up under the top sash when you open the window.

Answer 5

Just about every possible answer has already been given. I would go with a replacement window as there is probably not enough room in your sills to replace a single pane with a double. Also would like to add that you should look into low e glass. The glass is coated on both panes on the inside to reflect energy out (the sun) and reflect energy in (heating or A/C) This is more economical and longer lasting that the older argon filled products. Argon will eventually leak out and become ineffective. It might also be noted that manufactures of argon filled only warranty their products for a short time, usually not even one year.

Answer 6

You have to replace your windows with the whole unit and not just the panes. You can buy a vinyl replacement window with Argon gas between the double panes. I would consider buying the tilt in windows so they can be cleaned from inside, especially if you have a 2 story home. If everything is accessible, I wouldn't bother with the extra expense. A low E value will give you what you are looking for. Some good brands are Vision, Atrium, ReliaBilt and others. It all depends on what you want to spend and what you want from the windows. Buy what you can afford but quality should be most important.

Answer 7

Use a replacement window.

Go to Energystar.gov and learn about the program.

I live in CT and I use windows that qualify for the Energy Star rating and my utility bills are down over 20%. If you are really interested in increased efficiency, also replace the doors.

This process is entirely too extensive to explain in an answer.

To generalize,

Single Pane R-1
2 Single Pane R-2
Decent insultated window R 3.3
Really good R-4

Answer 8

Yes, that is both cost effect and a good way to go. It can be done quite economically.

First remove the sash and then set up a router to on a router table to round out that existing glass from the INSIDE . Take a knife to square off the corners. Drop out that old single pane glass then measure the glass that came out. Buy a thermopane glass just like that on size. Lots of people selling thermopane glass. Now back to the router and rout that groove around deeper. You will have to use judgement on that depth and allow for a trim piece to be nailed from inside to hold the glass in . Now seal it with window sealant and repaint or revarnish as required. Of course once you get the size of glass you can order it in quantity for several windows.

Our neighbor had a fellow come over and did his whole house of about 20 or so wood windows this way and they are very good. They had that done by a company found in the yellow pages. But I dont see any reason a handy person couldnt do it.

Answer 9

It probably isn't possible to remove only the glass and replace it with a double pane - it would require a replacement of the entire window. A double pane needs to be sealed to prevent condensation between the two. Not doable by an amateur.

Answer 10

yes it is possible but not very practical as it would most likely cost you more to go that route than if you were to just
bite the bullet and change the whole window . The reason for this is duel pane windows if not done correctly tend to fog up on the inside and obstruct the view so its best to go with a factory made and warrantied good quality window .
It really is the best way to go if you want peace of mind.