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Depending on when your home was built, its glass windows could have been crafted in a variety of ways. Two of the most popular types for American homes are plate or float glass windows and understanding which type your home has is important. That’s because they have different properties as well as historical significance, and by knowing their history, you can make a more informed decision of how to handle your home’s windows.

Plate Glass Windows

Between the 1920s and the 1960s, plate windows were the most common type used in home construction. Practically hand-crafted, plate glass was made by pouring molten glass onto metal tables and continuously rolling it until it was smooth and uniform before being left to cool. Plate windows were popular partly because they could be easily cut to a unique size and shape to create custom fitted windows and doors.

Today, plate glass windows are no longer manufactured in the United States, partly because the creation process is more expensive and wastes more resources. Due to their rareness, however, many homeowners seek out plate windows to preserve a slice of history.

Float Glass Windows

Glass WindowsPlate glass was replaced by float glass, which is made by pouring liquid glass over a molten tin. This caused the lighter glass to create a level surface by floating until cooled. Most homes built after the 1950s have float glass windows and doors because they are more affordable, provide better insulation, and have a smoother surface with fewer imperfections than the plate glass alternative.

These days, float glass can be created with special features and properties, and it is more widely used to create tinted or heat absorbing glass. One concern with float glass windows is its breakage pattern. When it is impacted, the glass breaks into large, sharp pieces that can be dangerous to clean up.

 

Understanding what type of glass windows your home has can help in the decision-making process when it comes to maintenance or replacements. If you have questions about your home’s windows, contact the professionals at The Glass Guru of Macedonia in Summit County, OH. For 15 years, they’ve specialized in residential glass, and they can provide repairs to your float glass windows or restoration if you want to preserve your plate windows. With a quick turnaround time and a 10-year warranty on their repairs, they can handle all of your glass window needs. Schedule an estimate by calling them at (330) 467-5318 or learn more online today.

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