Windows play a crucial role in a home’s appearance and comfort levels, and when the time comes to replace them, many homeowners understand the importance of investing in the triple-pane windows as a cost-cutting method.
However, many people wonder – are triple-pane windows worth the cost? In many cases, the decision comes down to double or triple panes; here is a look at the differences between these two options and why you may want to consider going with triple-pane windows.
Double-Pane Windows
A double-pane window has two panes of glass in the window frame rather than one. An insulating inert gas is used to fill the space between the two panes of glass. This is usually krypton or argon, or it may be a mixture of the two gasses.
Many double-pane windows are made with low-E glass, which is coated using a glaze that can reflect heat radiation from the sun while still allowing plenty of sunlight to enter. Double-pane windows are cost effective regarding energy savings and are widely available across manufacturers and frame materials.
However, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. The seals in windows of lower quality may fail, while any cracked panes in these windows can be costly and challenging to replace.
Triple-Pane Windows
As you might expect, triple-pane windows have three panes of glass rather than two. This means there are two spaces instead of one between the panes, which tend to be filled with krypton. This gas is more expensive than argon, which is a contributing factor to the higher price tag of triple-pane windows. Like double-pane windows, these are also available with low-E glass to reflect heat while allowing sunlight inside.
Benefits of Triple-Pane Windows
Why are triple-pane windows worth the extra expense? Here is a look at some of the top benefits.
Energy Efficiency
There are many factors that go into determining the overall energy efficiency of a window, but one of the biggest ones is the number of panes that the window contains. Triple-pane windows are substantially more efficient than the dual-pane varieties, while dual-pane windows offer a big step up in terms of efficiency over their single-pane counterparts.
The three-pane design allows the window to offer greater insulation for the home. This is particularly important to those who live in areas that experience very cold winters as it can reduce the amount of heat that is lost through the windows in colder temperatures.
It is not just the extra glass that makes a big difference; it is also the presence of an additional layer of insulating gas that makes these windows so superior. A triple-glazed window essentially contains five times the number of layers of insulation that are found in a single-glazed window.
This can lead to sizable savings in energy costs. In many cases, the energy savings that homeowners found that make installing these triple-pane windows worth the cost is how often pay for themselves across the lifetime of the windows.
Noise Reduction
Another situation where triple-pane windows are worth the cost is for those who live in noisy urban areas. Having an additional pane of glass and an extra layer of insulating gas can make a significant difference when it comes to reducing the outdoor sounds that make their way inside, creating a more peaceful environment within the home.
Whether you live in a bustling city or along a busy road, the noise reduction benefits that come with materials and construction make glazed triple-pane windows worth the cost.
It is also worth noting that some window manufacturers allow you to increase the thickness of the glass in these windows to provide further noise insulation and dampen sound better. In some cases, the thickness of each pane can be varied in a way that allows you to control sound at different frequencies for additional noise reduction that addresses specific concerns.
Greater Heat Reflection
High-end triple-pane windows feature low-E glass, which can block out the sun’s damaging infrared and ultraviolet rays. In addition to stopping your home from heating up, it offers protection against ultraviolet light, which can damage your fabrics, flooring and other interiors over time.
These windows’ heat-reflecting ability can also reduce the wear and tear that your heating and cooling system is subjected to. While many people are focused on the noticeable energy savings these windows provide, it is also important to consider the reduced load on your HVAC systems when you don’t need to run your heat or air conditioning as often. This can help extend the lifetime of your unit and reduce maintenance.
Reach Out to the Window Replacement Team at Adelphia Exteriors
If you are considering replacing the windows in your home, the window replacement team at Adelphia Exteriors in Northern Virginia can help you find the right style to meet your needs and budget. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.