Double vs Triple Pane Windows: Which Is Better? | Flower Mound, TX
Photo By Przemysław Iciak at istock
If you’re looking for more ways to make your home more energy-efficient, you may already be familiar with tankless water heaters, low-flow showerheads, smart home systems, retrofitting insulation, and double pane windows. As with anything on the market, soon enough, your search will uncover newer, possibly better versions. If your home only has single-pane windows, you may be wondering if it’s better to spring for double- or even triple pane windows.
Depending on where you live in Flower Mound, TX, and your home’s construction, you may find that both double pane and triple pane windows are an excellent, energy-saving, bill-reducing investment. However, to help you decide between the two, let’s look at some specifics.
Double Pane Windows
In terms of construction, double pane windows are relatively simple. Instead of a single pane of glass sitting in the frame, there are two with a void in-between. This void is filled with argon, krypton, or a combination of insulating, inert gas. To increase the energy efficiency of double pane windows, you may opt for low-E glass. Low-E glass has a coating that reflects the sun’s heat radiation while allowing sunlight through. This type of glaze is helpful if you’re looking to reduce the burden on your home’s HVAC without compromising the amount of light that enters your home.
Some of the advantages of choosing double pane windows include:
- Cost-effective energy savings
- Available with a variety of frames
- Available in a variety of sizes and styles
- Helps stabilize the interior temperature
- Better for the environment than single-pane windows
- Increased home value
However, they are more expensive than single-pane windows. Repairs are also complicated, so you may find yourself replacing whole windows in the event of a failure or breakage.
Triple Pane Windows
Triple pane windows are a luxury, non-standard window type. While not common in standard home construction, these windows have various benefits. The primary difference between double and triple pane windows is that triple pane windows are crafted with three panes of glass. In cold winters, triple pane glass effectively minimizes heat loss. With two voids between the glass panes, insulating space is vastly increased.
Triple pane windows are an excellent choice if you live in a noisy, urban neighborhood. The additional insulation that triple pane windows provide effectively reduces sound. However, there are more advantages and disadvantages to consider before springing for this window type.
Some of the advantages include:
- Noise reduction
- Better insulation than double pane windows
- Strong and durable
- Great return on investment
- Decreased condensation
- Better home security
- Energy bill savings
As with double pane windows, there are some downsides to purchasing this window style. Most notably, triple pane windows may require modification to your existing home’s structure due to their heaviness.
How To Know If You Should Replace Your Windows
New windows are an excellent investment for many Flower Mound, TX, homeowners. Depending on the type of window you choose, and the frame material, you can see an average return of 70-85% on your initial investment. Plus, thanks to advancements in the fenestration industry, new windows are extremely energy-efficient compared to 1970s era single-pane windows, for example. But how do you know if it’s the right time to replace your existing windows?
- Single-pane windows. If you’ve got single-pane windows, these are no match for the insulating power of two or three panes of glass found in more modern windows. Upgrading to windows with two or three panes will likely net you a significant reduction in energy bill costs.
- Difficulty maintaining consistent home temperatures. Upgrading windows can reduce the number of hot or cold spots inside the house. Drafty windows are one of the main culprits that force your HVAC to work overtime to meet the temperature set by your home’s thermostat. Not only will upgrading your windows reduce drafts, but they can reduce the unnecessary pressure on your HVAC that could lead to early failure.
- Damaged windows. If a glass pane is broken, a window replacement contractor will often advise replacing the entire window. In these circumstances, it’s the perfect opportunity to consider upgrading to more efficient windows. Replacement is recommended if a wood frame is old, soft, or discolored.
- Fogged glass. Old or poor quality, windows will regularly fog up when the seals break. Outside air entering the void between panes of glass condensing as it comes into contact with the glass causes the cloudy patches on windows. When this happens, you have two choices – get the seals replaced or replace the windows. Often, replacing the windows is far more cost-effective.
Choosing High-Quality Triple Glass Windows
Deciding to replace your windows and spring for double or triple glass windows is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Always go with an established manufacturer who offers a warranty, as you’ll have an easier time with aftercare.
If you have the opportunity, visit a display showroom and test out the windows that you’re thinking of buying. See whether you find them easy to open and close, determine whether you can easily clean them inside and out, check the latches and additional security measures, as well as weatherstripping and other components that make up the window. While the style of your home will often dictate the type of window you can install, visiting a showroom will give you a better idea of how windows look in reality and how it might feel to have them in your home.
Which Window Style Is Best For You?
Ultimately, whether a double or triple pane window is better for you depends on your individual circumstances. Budget constraints, and other factors, can play a massive part in whether you should opt for two or three panes of glass in your new windows. Here at Energy Window Solutions, we can help you make the right decision. We offer free estimates and have over 30 years of experience in the window industry. Call us today for more information about double or triple pane glass windows in Flower Mound, TX.