Glass is what new windows are all about. Especially if your current windows are cracked, broken, or otherwise ineffective and ugly. While window styles may be a sexier topic, you can't ignore the very thing that separates you from the outdoors on a snowy winter day.

Replacement Window Glass

1. How Many Panes of Glass?

In all but the most tropical parts of North American, the standard now is double-paned windows. But even in tropical climes, double-paned windows are the way to go. Provided the house has a cooling system, double-panes slow the transfer of heat into the house. Coupled with a non-conductive window material such as wood, vinyl, or fiberglass, double-paned windows are a great way to maintain an even temperature in your house. Triple-paned windows are used mainly in very cold climates.

2. The Low Down on LoE

LoE glass has a thin, metallic coating on the inside of the outer pane of glass. LoE does make a difference in repelling UV rays that are harmful to house interiors. But if you value sunlight in your house, LoE definitely cuts down on the light. It is possible to get windows without LoE, even though the window companies will only grudgingly admit it. LoE is a valid option and should be considered. But when salespeople give it the hard sell, it skates perilously close to being one of those gimmicks inflicted on unsuspecting consumers.

3. Krypton Gas, Argon Gas, or None?

Argon or the more expensive krypton gas is often injected with double- or triple-paned windows. Since these gases are denser than air, they slow down the transmission of heat or cold from the outside. It's hard to buy windows without gas anymore. Window companies will swear that only you're the only person on earth who wants gas-less windows. It is true that gas provides a better barrier than air. But if you live in anything approaching a temperate climate, you probably don't need gas. Like LoE, it's not exactly a trick or gimmick, but it's an option you want to weigh carefully.