I assume your debate is to just replace the glass in the existing sash versus changing the entire window (frame, sash and glass)? New insulated glass units with grids will not be inexpensive but the new glass should carry a 10 year warranty (no labor covered however). So realistically you need to factor the cist versus how long you will keep the home. 90's vintage aluminum windows would not be thermally broken so newer windows would definitely improve the efficiency of the HVAC and conversely the home.

Mostly depends on the unknown future failure rates to be honest. If you replace the glass in 8 windows, and they continue to fail...the math didn't make sense. If its just those few, then the math does make sense. Tough question as it is based, entirely, on a "what if" scenario.

My main issue is that vinyl windows in the standard white are just so ugly and it ruins the look of your home. It costs a bomb to replace in a darker colour or with thinner windows. I am also not sure what the realistic return on house value and efficiency would be given an increase of almost 8,000 to replace the entire windows on the front of the house with a bronze vinyl. Was just wondering if anyone had any personal experience with just replacing the glass in aluminium windows.

Best bet is to get a bid from someone who is specialized in replacing glass in windows.

@Jennifer, where is the home located? Unless you happened to take that picture on a very rare snowy day in your warm region, I assume that you live someplace at least relatively cold. In that case, ditch the aluminum windows. Aluminum frames and cold weather don't go well together. If these were wood windows in great shape I'd agree with all of the sentiments about costing glass vs window replacement etc, but a dollar spent on some 1990's aluminum windows in a place that gets any measurable amount of snow is a dollar too much.

On choices, a slimmer lined vinyl window won't look all that different from your current units if you do a full frame install, but I also agree that something darker would look very nice. Fiberglass or composite would be a good choice as well.

I actually live in Texas. That was a photo of the house on a rare snow day. Would you change the advice above in this instance?

Yes, it changes everything , especially if you are in a zone 2 climate zone. If the windows are in good operating condition Replacement Glass is probably your best option.

Are they aluminum or aluminum clad? If the frames are in good shape could you replace the Sashes only (sash packs)

Probably not because the windows are pretty foggy and the seals have gone

How do you tell the difference between aluminium or aluminium clad?

What is the interior material? Glass can be replaced cheaply and easily as long as they were quality when they were installed.

Aluminum clad will have a wood interior , an all aluminum window will be aluminum inside and out, either one should be serviceable.

Yeah they are aluminum on both sides but in good shape.n

The seal failure has nothing to do with the frames. If you have no issues with drafts or water, etc, glass replacement is reasonable. However, if you change your mind and do a more complete replacement, it might be worth it to eliminate your crescent windows and modify the masonry above the (or keep the masonry and fill with decorative accents) just a thought.