Triple-Pane Windows: Are They Worth It?

Have you been looking for ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency? If so, you’re probably familiar with all options available to homeowners today. Popular products on the market right now include:

• Tankless water heaters
• Low-flow plumbing fixtures
• Smart thermostats
• Double-pane windows
• Insulation retrofits

And the list goes on. But as with any type of home improvement project, enough searching will uncover newer, better options.

This is especially true when it comes to windows.

If you’ve wondered about the difference between double- and triple-pane windows, you’re not alone. These options confuse many homeowners. But there’s good news. You’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll explain what makes a triple-pane window different from a double-pane window. We’ll also cover how to know whether your windows need to be replaced, and what to look for in a high-quality replacement window.

Double-Pane Windows vs. Triple-Pane Windows

If double-pane windows are good, wouldn’t triple-pane windows be better? The complicated answer is, well, complicated. Maybe.

Depending on your area’s average summer and winter temperatures, triple-pane windows could be a great investment. But they could also be an unnecessary expense.

Let’s take a look at the specifics of each option.

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Double-pane windows

Double-pane windows are relatively simple in terms of construction. Instead of one pane of glass in the frame, there are two. The space between the panes of glass is filled with an insulating, inert gas—usually argon or krypton (or a combination of the two).

If you can, opt for windows made with low-E glass. This type of glass is coated with a glaze that reflects heat radiation from the sun but brings in sunlight. Low-E glass lessens the burden on your HVAC system—and your wallet—without compromising the amount of natural light in your home.

Pros

• Cost-effective in relation to energy savings
• Easy to find from most manufacturers, regardless of window size and style
• Available in a variety of frame materials

Cons

• Seals in low-quality windows can fail
• Cracked glass panes are difficult (and often costly) to replace

Triple-pane windows

Triple-pane windows aren’t as common as double-pane windows in most parts of the US. The main difference between double- and triple-pane windows is that triple-pane windows have three panes of glass instead of two.

You likely already knew that. Here’s how that affects the window’s performance.

A three-pane design means the window provides more insulation for your home. If you live in an area with very cold winters, triple-pane windows can help minimize heat lost through your windows when it’s chilly outside.

Triple-pane windows may also be a good option if you live in a noisy, urban area. That extra pane of glass makes a big difference in sound reduction. But be sure to weigh the overall cost of the windows before you make a final decision.

The primary downside of triple-pane windows is their cost and their weight.

The two spaces between the three panes of glass are usually filled with krypton gas. Krypton gas is more expensive than argon, and the additional pane of glass adds weight.

Pros

• Provide better insulation than double-pane windows
• Noticeably reduce outside noise

Cons

• Energy savings may not be significant enough to justify added cost
• Additional weight may require modification to your home’s structure

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Do You Really Need to Replace Your Windows?

As with most home exterior upgrades, new windows are a great investment. Depending on the type of window and the material, you’ll see an average return of 70-85% of your initial investment. Most sources agree that vinyl is the best overall choice for replacement windows.

But that investment only makes sense if your windows actually need to be replaced.

Old doesn’t necessarily equal bad. If your windows are still in good shape, focus on other home improvements first.

5 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

Here are 5 common signs to watch for. If you see any of these, it’s likely time to reach out to a window pro to get estimates on replacing your home’s windows.

1. Single-pane windows

Even if your home’s single-pane windows are in good shape, one pane of glass is no match for the insulating power of two (or three) panes.

You’ll see a significant improvement in your heating and air conditioning costs after you have double- or triple-pane windows installed.

2. Difficulty keeping the home a consistent temperature

Old, drafty windows will force your HVAC system to work overtime to maintain the temperature.

If you’ve noticed hot or cold areas in the house, inspect the windows both inside and outside (if they’re at ground level). If you can feel air escaping in either direction, call a reputable window replacement contractor.

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3. Foggy glass

The seals in older and poor-quality double-pane windows will eventually fail. When this happens, outside air enters the void between the panes of glass and condenses, which causes cloudy patches.

In the case of a failed seal, your best bet is probably to replace the window altogether. Some companies can replace only the foggy section of the window.

But be aware. In many cases, a new window will prove more cost-effective.

4. Broken windows

Not only are broken windows not energy efficient, but they also pose a serious safety hazard.

Depending on the extent of the damage and the window’s design, a glass company may be able to replace the damaged pane. If it can’t be replaced, you’ll need to purchase a new window.

5. Damaged windows

Just like anything else on the outside of your house, windows take a beating.

Vinyl and aluminum windows withstand the weather better than wood. If wood-frame windows aren’t maintained, they can start to decay.

If you notice soft or discolored areas on the frame, start looking at options for replacement.

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Choosing High-Quality Windows

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?

Here are 4 things to look for:

1. An established manufacturer

Your windows may require warranty service or replacement pieces in the future. If that happens, you’ll have an easier time getting help from a window company with a longstanding history than from a fly-by-night operation.

2. Aesthetics

The style of your home may dictate, to an extent, the design of your windows. If you choose windows that clash with the house’s architectural style, 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.

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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. If you brace yourself for a tough winter each year, however, consider triple-pane windows.

Window technology keeps getting better and better. To get the most for your money, work with a window company that knows the ins and outs of the newest energy-saving developments.

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