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When shopping for new windows, one of the main considerations is whether you should settle for double-pane or splurge on triple-pane. The former options are cost-effective and offer excellent insulation, whereas the latter ones come with a higher price tag and the promise of improved energy efficiency. Although both window types are an excellent choice, you still must decide which will suit you best. In this guide, I’ve compiled comprehensive information about double-pane and triple-pane windows so you can make a better-informed decision.
Double and Triple Pane Windows: What’s the Difference?
Before comparing the pros and cons and rushing headlong into choosing the best windows in Calgary, let’s take a quick look at the main difference between these two types of windows:
- Double-pane windows feature two glass panes split by a spacer and filled with insulating gas like Aragon or Krypton.
- Triple-pane windows comprise three panes of glass with two gaps filled with insulated gas.
Noise Reduction
Soundproofing is essential if you live in an urban area, deal with boisterous neighbors, or have windows facing a busy road. Sound Transmission Class is a rating indicating how much sound is blocked by the window. A typical double-pane window ranges between 26 and 32, while triple-pane glass has an STC rating between 28 and 34. Thanks to the additional glass layer, triple-glass windows are a better choice if noise reduction is essential.
Energy Efficiency
The more glass panes shield your room from the outside elements, the better your insulation barrier. In terms of energy efficiency, dual-pane windows insulate twice as much as single-pane, while triple-panes are at the top of this chart, offering less condensation, more soundproofing, and better insulation.
Low-emissivity coating is another factor to consider. Resembling a window tint, low-E coating is a microscopically thin layer applied during manufacturing. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Low-E coating significantly decreases energy consumption and keeps up to 70% of heat outside in summer and inside in winter. The Low-E coating allows for:
- Enhancing energy efficiency and lowering annual utility bills;
- Minimizing IR and UV light without affecting the amount of visible light;
- Reducing condensation, minimizing potential mold and mildew;
- Enhancing comfort, especially in regions with extreme temperature changes.
Although both dual- and triple-pane windows can feature Low-E coating, triple-glass offers even more insulation and protection against ultraviolet rays.
The R-value measures heat resistance and is another important parameter to consider. The higher the value, the more energy efficient your window is: Double-pane windows’ R-value ranges from 3 to 3.8, while triple-pane windows’ ranges between 7 and 8.
Where to Use
In general, double-pane windows are better suited for moderate climates with west- and south-facing rooms. On the other hand, triple-pane windows are a solid choice for more extreme climates and rooms facing east and north. Keep in mind, that triple-pane windows offer more comfort and warmth, so they make a good choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and windows, where maximum insulation is a priority.
Cost
On average, triple-pane windows cost 10-15% higher than double-pane ones. The former are more expensive for a reason: the more complex manufacturing process and extra materials take their toll on the triple-pane window’s price tag. If you’re replacing all of the windows in your house with triple-pane units, the cost can climb up to several thousand dollars. Still, they are worth the extra buck due to their better insulation and soundproofing properties.
Double-Pane vs. Triple-Pane: Which One to Choose?
Before settling on the final choice, let’s make a re-cap of double- and triple-pane main differences:
- Energy Efficiency: Although double-pane windows are a significant improvement from single-pane ones, triple-pane units are a definite winner in this category, offering increased protection against cold and heat.
- Low-emissivity Coating. Available for both types of windows.
- R-Value Measures. Double-pane windows have a 3-3.8 heat resistance, while triple-pane boasts a 7-8 R-value.
- Noise Reduction. STC of a typical double-pane window is between 26 and 32, while triple-pane units offer 28-34 protection against outside ruckus.
- Cost. If you’re on a budget, double-pane windows offer an excellent alternative to pricier options. If you’re ready to spend extra money on the triple-pane units, they are a better long-term investment with higher insulation and noise reduction.
- Location. Double panes are a better choice for milder climates, while triple panes should be your go-to in harsher climates.
Check out my other home improvement related articles: https://captainbobcat.com/category/home-and-garden/