Part of your window renovation plans would involve choosing between the double pane window style or the triple pane window option. But then, what does it all mean? Are triple pane windows better or worth the extra money they cost?
Well, in this article, we help you make that decision much easier. Based on up-to-date research from different window experts, we'll discuss triple-pane windows, comparing them to double-pane units, examining their benefits, and determining whether they're worth the extra price. So be sure to read to the end to find out more.
Triple-Pane Windows vs. Single-Pane Windows double – Essentials
Whether to install double or triple pane windows in your home depends mainly on the location and how much energy savings you need.
The weather in North America can be extreme and unpredictable, giving homeowners drastic changes in weather during the winter and summer. Fortunately, both styles of window panels do a great job of insulating and generally saving energy.
- The double pane window has a simple design. There are two glass plates designed with a small space in the middle. This small space is full of gases such as krypton or argon, which offer excellent insulation.
- Triple pane windows have a more complicated design structure than double pane units. It offers three glasses with insulating gas between each glass fitted to the frame.
On average, triple-pane windows are more expensive than double-pane models. But both products should have a useful life of 15 to 20 years, provided they are made from quality materials and purchased from a reliable manufacturer.
Benefits of Triple Pane Windows
Triple pane windows are not as popular as single or double pane windows. This is because they are quite new and cost a lot more. However, for people who can afford it, they offer the following benefits;
• Greater insulation performance
Triple-glazed windows help reduce the possibility of heat loss to the outside atmosphere. This means that rooms are warmer in cold weather, and during hot weather they are even cooler.
• They are safer
The extra pane of glass in a triple-pane window makes it much more difficult to break than other options. They are also more durable, with a lifespan that spans decades.
• They are more soundproof
If privacy is a significant concern for you, this window option is better due to more LoE glass options that offer lower sound and noise transmission.
How much energy can you save?
As previously stated, homeowners save significantly more energy with a triple pane window than with other window panel options on the market. But how much energy can you save?
Windows, in general, are responsible for more than 50% of all energy leakage that occurs in a home, with single-pane windows offering little to no help in fixing any of these leaks. Double pane windows work much better here. But triple-pane models provide up to 20% more energy savings, even than double-glazed windows. And when compared to single-pane windows, they offer up to 50% more energy savings.
This means homeowners save a lot more on their cooling and heating bills in the long run as less heat is lost to the environment.
- Keep in mind that triple-pane windows cost about 15% more than double-pane windows, so how much money you save on your utility bill largely depends on location.
- According to the research, a set of triple-pane windows were installed in 2019 (during the winter heating season) and 2020 (during the summer cooling season) for a period of 10 weeks. By recording energy consumption by the team throughout the period, it was found that the windows saved an average of 28% on cooling bills and 12% on heating bills during this period.
Should you make extra investments to install triple pane windows?
Long story short – absolutely. These models offer up to 20% more energy savings than double-glazed windows, and for regions with extremely cold climates, you save a lot on your utility bills in terms of heating and cooling.
Additionally, comfort should be the main reason you get a triple pane window. With greater energy efficiency, your environment stays colder or warmer for a longer time, which means you are much more comfortable. And let's not forget the extra security that triple pane windows provide. In short, this home renovation is worth all its cost.
How to choose high quality triple pane windows?
To get the best possible windows for your home, try to keep the following tips in mind:
• Go to a trusted manufacturer
Not all window manufacturers actually deliver what they advertise, and for a novice, it's very easy to get fooled with the wrong windows. This is why you look for a reputable and reliable manufacturer when choosing the right triple pane windows.
• Inspect the windows
Before choosing a specific window, always inspect it carefully. Make sure your preferred unit has been Energy Star certified and has a minimum energy rating of 40.
• How well does it fit into your home?
The final tip would be to determine if the new triple pane window fits well in your home. If you can't decide on your own, look for a professional to help you choose the best window that complements the overall design of your home.
Packing
Here it is! Everything you need to know about triple pane windows. In the end, the final decision is yours. If you think these models are a good option, go for it. Just make sure your reasons are influenced by the guide above.
Author- Roman Tymchenko
Roman Tymchenko is the lead writer at Ecoline Windows, a Canadian company that helps homeowners across the country with window and door replacement projects.