Putty VS Sealant

[Kaiser Soze]

I'm installing a new window to replace an old AC unit. It will be protected by a Pergola so what is the standard for fixing in the glass? Putty or Silicone sealant.
Is 3mm the standard for glazing windows?

Thanks

[pawnhead]

Putty is very rarely used anymore. Silicone the glass in and install glazing beads.
As for the glass thickness, it depends on the size of the pane, and the height off the floor. There is an Australian standard which covers this, but 3mm is the thinnest you'd want to use for a small pane at least a metre from the floor I'd say. Play it safe and get something 5 or 6mm, or even laminated/toughened. It's better insulation and less chance of sharp glass shards attacking you if it does happen to break if the window slams or gets hit by a flying branch.

Edit:
AS1288 (http://www.saiglobal.com/shop/Script/Result.asp?SearchType=simple&Sort=ISO&Status=all&Gst=1&Max=15&Db=AS&DegnKeyword=AS1288&Search=+Go+)
AS2047 (http://www.saiglobal.com/shop/Script/Result.asp?SearchType=simple&Sort=ISO&Status=all&Gst=1&Max=15&Db=AS&DegnKeyword=AS2047+&Search=+Go+)
Or ask your glass supplier. They'll probably have a copy of the standards, and know what's required. :wink:

[OBBob]

Hi There

Normally the galss supplier can tell you the minimum thickness you need for the application. Just remember with silicone that once it's there it isn't coming out again easily!