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Shopping for new windows can be a total pane in the neck. With so many options and configurations, it can be a daunting task to find the best window for your home. In this article, we are going to explore the differences between double pane and triple pane windows, to help you make the best decision for your home.
A double pane window is a window that consists of two panes of glass per frame.
In between the two glass panes lies a spacer that separates the two panes which is filled with argon gas. The argon gas seals the space and insulate the window. The argon gas minimizes drafts and improves insulation of the windows. This in term helps keeps your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Double pane windows are standard and come in a variety of designs and styles to fit your budget and taste.
A triple pane window is a window that consists of three panes of glass per frame.
In between the three glass panes, are two spacers that separate the three panes and each spacer contains argon gas. The argon gas seals the space and insulates the window which helps keeps your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Due to the extra pane and gas, triple pane windows are about 10-15% more expensive but will be worthwhile in the long run. Triple pane windows are better compared to double pane windows due to their increased soundproofing abilities, improved insulation performance, and reduced condensation buildup. Additionally, triple pane windows will increase your home value and give your home an edge when selling on the market.
Energy efficiency is a very important deciding factor when comparing double pane windows to triple pane windows. A popular measurement for energy efficiency is a U-Factor. U-Factor is a rating on a scale from 0-1 that measures the rate of heat loss (lower number means less heat loss).
The U-Factor is based mostly on the quality of the glass, spacer, and frame. U factor is important when the outside of the house temperature is considerably colder than the inside (winter) and when the outside of the house temperature is considerably warmer than the inside of the house (summer). Double pane windows are sufficient when the temperature is relatively consistent all year round and there is little usage of heating/air conditioning. However, in a setting such as New England, triple pane windows are ideal because the U Factor is lower which means the rate of heat loss is less. During winter, the extra pane will save you money on your heating bills each month and keep your house warmer as well. Additionally, during the summer, having triple pane windows will help save money on your cooling bills by keeping the cool air inside your home and preventing the warm air from entering your home.
Double pane windows are the most bang for your buck option due to their affordability and practicality. Double pane windows are a reliable, lightweight, and energy efficient option that will be sure to reduce drafts and keep the heat in your home. However, triple pane windows are the best option for long term home buyers.
Triple pane windows are 10-15% more expensive on average. Accordingly, they are more energy-efficient than double pane windows which will save you money during the cold winters and hot summers. Additionally, triple pane windows will increase your home value more than double pane windows. Lastly, triple pane windows tend to have less condensation buildup and are better at reducing noise. Each option has its positives and negatives so there is no clear answer. However, if you plan on living in the house for a while and live in a climate such as New England you might want to consider looking for triple pane windows. If you live in a region where there are no snowy winters and scorching summers, then double pane is more than adequate.
The structural integrity of your home is something to consider when deciding between double pane windows and triple pane windows. Triple pane windows are heavier than double pane windows. The extra weight could have negative consequences for an older home with structural issues. We suggest extra reinforcement may when installing triple pane windows on a house with poor structural integrity. If your home has structural issues, we recommend choosing double pane windows because they are lighter and easier to install.
Condensation occurs when the air is cooled to its dew point (temperature water condenses at) or the air becomes so saturated that it cannot hold any more water.
How does this relate to windows? Well, warm air expands and can hold more humidity than cooler air. When the window temperature is cooler in the inside than the outside temperature (due to poor insulation) the condensation will build on the window. This buildup of condensation can damage window frames and windowsills. Triple pane windows are the most energy efficient option and can maintain the same temperature on the window as the air inside the home. Since the temperatures are similar, condensation will not occur.
If you have any or all of the Six Tell-Tale Signs above, consider replacing your windows. Contact Advanced Windows Systems today to speak with a window expert! We offer a lifetime warranty on all of our windows!
Call us at 1-800-CALL-AWS to schedule your free home estimate!
By: Luis Chavez
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