Changing from single to double glass

With a stucco home, it really isn't practical to simply change out an entire window frame without having to do involved repair on the stucco.

I would like to change from single pane glass to double and was wondering if there exist such a replacement where only the top and bottom window portion can be replaced from single to double without having to replace the frame.

Does something like this exist or does the double pane throw off the entire window frame?

 

Have you looked into replacement windows? The frame stays in place, you remove the top and bottom sashed and replace them with the new ones. Total time about 30 minutes. But to answer your question, no there isn't anything that will fit in a single pane sash to allow the retrofitting of double pane IGU. The IGU is too thick.

 

Actually, you did answer my question.

I wasn't looking to replace just the glass as I wouldn't expect that to fit, but I didn't know the term sash and that was actually what I was wondering.

Basically if the sash is the same for both a single and double glass window then I should be able to replace them.

I checked the Lowes web site and they don't have them in my area. Is there a web site that I can get a ballpark price?

 

Jim,
What Chandler was talking about is not just a sash replacement. Basically its an insert with 2 sashes and a subframe that fits in your existing frame after the old sashes are removed. It does cut down slightly on the viewable area, but is the least expensive option. They may be special order at your local stores, as they are here where I live. Just too many sizes to stock them all. Up north from you, they are standard shelf items for wood windows, but you didn't state what kind of windows you have.

If you had a higher end older window like Andersen, they now sell double pane sashes for older windows, but that gets real expensive very quickly.

I saw a website a while ago for window pricing, but the figures were outrageous! Prob 2-3 times more than if I ordered them locally.

I think you need to visit a few suppliers in your area and see what is available. Watch out for the in-home sales people, that can be dangerous if you don't have some basic pricing first. Knew one guy paid over $12K for 14 windows, just mid-grade replacement units and installation....OUCH!