Often referred to as double pane windows, insulated doubles, or officially as IGUs (insulated glass units), these windows provide significantly better energy efficiency than single-pane glass windows.

Double pane windows or doors consist of two pieces of glass, either annealed or tempered, with a spacer in between. This space is filled with gas, enhancing the home's energy efficiency.

However, like any closed system, they can have issues, such as trapped moisture, especially with Florida and its humidy. When water becomes trapped between the panes, it creates fog inside the glass that cannot escape independently.

Annealed glass is also known as standard glass usually being 1/16” or 1/8” thick glass float glass or strengthened glass. Single-pane windows, typically made of thinner glass, are at a higher risk of breaking. Windows with this glass still commonly found in many Florida homes. Annealed glass, when broken, shatters into large, jagged pieces. Older single pane window glass is sometimes fragile and may have unseen damage that weakens its integrity. The cost for clear single pane glass replacement starts at 180.00$ for windows no larger than 900 Sq Inches (Size “A”).

Tempered glass, a type of safety glass, is up to four times more durable than regular untreated glass. Ideal for those worried about breakage, it shatters into small, rounded fragments that reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, building codes and safety regulations often require the use of tempered glass in specific areas of a home, such as near and above doorways, and around shower and bathing areas.

The surround insert of a door panel or sidelite is comprised of three main components: the exterior moulding, interior moulding (together forming the lite frame or rim), and the glass (most often is double pane glass) sandwiched in-between. If you have broken or fogged glass, that usually results in us measuring and ordering a new unit. Other times, due to heat absorption, the plastic door lite rims become cracked and that necessitates a full replacement as well.

If you have older windows with broken trim that need replacing, or windows that require resealing to extend their life, consider this: A loose pane can significantly reduce a window's energy efficiency and may lead to air and water leaks. Our service includes fixing loose glass panes without removing the entire fixture from the frame, a process known in our industry as wet glazing. This involves removing most of the original trim and caulking, then re-caulking the glass from both inside and outside, thus sealing it to the frame. The typical cost for this service is $80.00 per glass window opening. Please note, there is no guarantee against breakage of window glass during cleaning and sealing. In the event that the glass breaks during replacement, we do not assume responsibility for compensating the glass replacement. Older window glass is more fragile and may have unseen damage that weakens its integrity. The customer is responsible for any glass replacement costs in such cases. The cost for clear single pane glass replacement starts at 180.00$ for windows no larger than 30"x30".

Before: Doorlite interior glass was broken.

After: Replaced with a rain glass door lite unit.