Our companies are backed by the Best Pick Guarantee. Call one today!
Looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home? Triple pane or triple glazed windows are becoming an increasingly popular option. Triple glazed or pane windows are made up of three panes of glass, with two layers of air or gas between them, providing superior insulation compared to traditional double pane windows. This extra layer of insulation helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer, resulting in lower energy bills and improved comfort. But are triple pane windows worth the extra cost? We explain what they are and look at the biggest pros and cons of upgrading to triple glazed windows. Plus, we look at how you can tell is triple pane windows are worth it for you.
What Are Triple Pane Windows?
Triple pane windows are made up of three layers of glass, each separated by a layer of air or gas. In comparison, double glazed windows only have two glass layers with a layer of air or gas. This extra layer of insulation helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer. As a result, they can lower energy bills and improve your comfort.
Also called triple glazed windows, they are becoming increasingly popular due to their superior insulation compared to traditional double pane windows. The additional layer of insulation also helps reduce noise from outside, making them a great choice for homes in busy areas.
However, triple-pane windows are less common than double-pane windows. Not all manufacturers offer them, so they can be hard to find in some areas.
Pros of Triple Glazed Windows
The biggest benefit of triple glass windows is their superior insulation compared to double pane windows. This extra layer of insulation helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer, resulting in lower energy bills and improved comfort. They also help reduce noise from outside, making them a great choice for homes in busy areas.
Cons of Triple Glazed Windows
The biggest downside to triple pane windows is the cost. They are more expensive than double glazed windows, and can be up to twice as expensive. Additionally, they can be more difficult to install due to their weight and size.
Are Triple Pane Windows Worth It?
Whether or not triple pane windows are worth it depends on your individual situation. Consider your local climate, the existing energy efficiency of your house, and the cost difference of upgrading.
If you live in a cold climate and are looking to reduce your energy bills, then triple glass windows may be worth the extra cost. However, if you live in a mild climate or don’t need the extra insulation, then double pane windows may be a better option.
Triple Pane vs Double Pane Windows
When it comes to choosing the right windows for your home, double or triple pane windows are both great options.
Double-pane windows are typically more affordable and provide good insulation from outside temperatures. They also help reduce noise levels from outside sources. Triple glazed windows offer even better insulation and soundproofing than double pane windows, but they come with a higher price tag.
You should consider the following factors when deciding between triple pane and double pane windows:
Window Price
When it comes to choosing new windows, cost is often the most important factor. At least in terms of the glass itself, three panes will always cost more than two. But it is important to consider all the other factors as well. Gas fills, Low-E glass coatings, frame insulation, and frame materials will also impact the overall cost.
In some cases, you can get the same window performance for less money when you go with the three panes of glass. This is because you can save on gas fills and glass coatings that drive up costs. The right balance of cost and features depends largely on the manufacturer and their options.
Energy Efficiency Performance
All energy-efficient windows can reduce energy usage and lower your utility bills. However, the exact performance depends on your climate and other factors.
If you live in colder climates, the added protection of three panes of glass can offer up to a 20% improvement over double-paned windows. But that doesn’t mean you will save 20% on your gas or electric bill. The exact savings will depend on how warm or cool you keep your house and other energy options on your windows.
For example, the added glass insulation is less valuable if you do not also insulate the frames. Take into account all of the energy-saving features available and discuss the best combination for your budget.
Noise Reduction
Both types of windows will help reduce outdoor noise, but triple-pane glass offers a significant improvement over double-glazed windows. While no window will block out all sound, triple pane windows offer a slight advantage.
However, it’s also important to consider the thickness of the glass panes themselves. For example, two panes of 10 mm glass offer more sound protection than three 3mm panes. If noise is a major concern, talk with your window specialist about the best options for your home and budget.
How Do You Get the Best Quality Windows for the Price?
Choosing replacement windows can be a little overwhelming. With all the options available to you, how do you know if the window you select is any good?
The key is finding the right value for your budget. And value is the balance between the window quality and the price you are paying.
The best way to ensure you get the best quality windows for the price is to do your research. Read reviews online and talk to window specialists in your area. Ask questions about the materials used, the construction process, and any warranties that come with the windows.
Also, make sure you are comparing apples to apples when it comes to pricing. Some companies may offer a lower price but use lower-quality materials or construction methods.
Whether you go with triple or double-paned windows, here are the most important factors to consider when looking for the best value on new windows.
1. An established manufacturer or installer
There are plenty of discount window companies around, but not all offer a good value. Shop around for the right manufacturer or window installation company. Look for an established company that you trust, especially if you are planning on buying triple pane windows
And remember, you are not just buying windows. You are paying for installation and warranty support. If one company quotes you much less than another, think about how they can offer such a great deal.
Also, be wary of any company that does not clearly answer questions about where or how their windows are made. This ensure you get a quality window, regardless of the features you choose.
2. Aesthetics
Second, think about the look of the windows. While your home will dictate the style of your windows to some extent, there are many options on the market today.
Make sure they fit with your home’s style, or you may not see the return on investment you were hoping for. Regardless, be sure you’re happy with the way the windows look. You’ll have a hard time avoiding them once they’re installed.
3. Ease of use
Display windows are in the store for a reason, so don’t be shy. Test out every window that catches your eye.
Are they easy to open and close?
Will you be able to clean them inside and out without a ladder?
Do the latches feel solid?
Do the screens fit tightly while still being simple to remove?
Is the weatherstripping attached well?
If you answer no to any of the above questions, keep looking.
4. Energy efficiency
One of the most satisfying parts of having new windows installed is watching your utility bills decrease.
Choose multi-pane windows that are filled with argon, krypton, or a blend of the two. These gases provide better insulation than plain air.
To maximize your savings, opt for low-E glass.
The Bottom Line
If your home’s single-pane, drafty, or damaged windows are costing you money every month, you’ll breathe a sigh of relief once you have replacement windows installed.
In most cases, double-pane windows are all you need. However, if you brace yourself for a tough winter each year, consider triple-pane windows.
Window technology keeps getting better and better. Work with a window company that knows the ins and outs of the newest energy-saving developments to get the most for your money.
Quality matters when hiring for a big project. Call a Best Pick now!