Triple pane windows are a wise choice if energy efficiency is your primary concern.
Triple-pane windows provide more insulation against high temperatures since they contain one more sheet of glass than double-pane windows.
They also act as a soundproofing barrier. Even with the added advantages, the price isn’t always justified.
What you should know if you’re in the market for new windows and unsure whether triple-pane is worth the additional cost.
An explanation of triple pane windows
IGUs (insulated glass units) or triple-glazed windows are other names for triple pane windows. They are constructed of three glass layers. Between the layers is a spacer and an insulating non-toxic gas filler.
Although krypton, which is denser but more expensive, is also an option, argon is the gas that is most frequently used in triple-pane windows.
Triple pane refers to the glass, not the window, in this case. The most common window designs, including double-hung and slider windows, both come with triple-pane glass options.
How Much Are Windows With Three Panes?
Double-pane glass costs 10–20% less than triple-pane glass. A typical double-hung window costs between $660 and $720.
The cost could reach the hundreds of dollars depending on the brand, size, and characteristics of the window’s frame.
The added material and complexity of the manufacturing process are the causes of the increased cost.
Compared to double-pane windows, triple-pane windows may require 30 to 35 years to pay for themselves, depending on how much energy you use.
Which manufacturers offer windows with three panes?
The majority of premium brands come standard with double-pane windows. Triple-pane variations are more difficult to find, but they are offered by the following businesses in a few models:
· Pella
· Andersen
· Milgard
· Simonton
· PlyGem
Advantages and Disadvantages of Triple-Pane Windows
Although superb insulators, triple-pane windows are not for everyone. Here are a few things to consider.
Pros:
· Excellent insulators – Triple-pane windows will help maintain a constant temperature in your home if you live in a chilly environment.
· Stops air leaks – The extra glass layer is ideal for preventing draughts.
· Triple-pane windows are beneficial for homes on busy streets because they reduce noise.
Cons:
· More expensive – Triple-pane windows are generally 10–20% more expensive than double-pane windows, but they can be twice as expensive.
· Long time to recover the cost – It may take decades to recover the additional cost.
· issues with glass Many builders and contractors think the glass panes on US-made triple pane windows are excessively thin and prone to shatter, according to a survey performed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for the US Department of Energy.
· If you want a triple pane window, you don’t have many options because not all manufacturers offer them.
Do triple-paned windows offer any advantages over double-paned ones?
Compared to a double pane window, a triple pane window features an additional glass panel.
A second chamber can be filled with an insulating gas thanks to the extra piece of glass. Triple-pane windows are hence more energy-efficient and provide improved noise reduction.
A triple-pane window will take decades to pay for itself because it is more expensive than a double-pane substitute.
Triple pane glass is recommended if you live in a tough northern environment. If not, double-pane glass might offer all the benefits you need.
What is the R-value of triple-pane windows?
The R-Value of a window is a gauge of how well it resists heat. Most triple-pane windows have an R-value of at least 5, though this number varies depending on the window’s kind and manufacturer.
For instance, a triple-paned window filled with krypton gas will have a significantly higher R-value than a triple-paned window filled with air.
Which is preferable, triple or low-e glass windows?
If you’ve been torn between getting a triple pane windowsor Low-E glass, you can have both. A triple pane window’s glass panel count refers to the total number of panels in the window.
The term “low-e” refers to a very thin low-emissivity coating. When these two are coupled, your house will have better energy efficiency.
Will a Triple-Pane Window Raise My Home’s Value?
You can anticipate recouping around 70% of your window replacement costs.
However, you could not recover as much if you pick expensive windows for your space.
In hostile climates where triple-pane windows are standard, their value can increase. They might not have such a good ROI if not.
Why do windows with triple glazing fog up?
Triple-glazed windows may fog up when cold air and hot air mix. Wintertime, when temperatures are low and the house is heated from the inside, is when fogging is most prevalent.
It’s acceptable for condensation to form on the window’s exterior, but not on the interior. If you notice fogging between the glass panes, the insulated glass unit needs to be replaced since the seal is broken.
Are triple-paned Andersen windows available?
Triple-pane windows are a feature of Andersen’s A-Series and E-Series products. Their Denvertriple-pane windows are supposedly ideal for cold climates.
Is it possible to reseal a window with three panes?
A window with three panes cannot be resealed. When the seal breaks, you must replace the entire insulated glass unit (IGU), which requires either buying a new sash from the manufacturer or having the IGU replaced by a glass repair firm.
Final thoughts
Triple-pane windows aren’t worth the additional cost for folks who live in moderate climates. The additional insulation might be beneficial if you live in an area with extreme heat or cold.
If you want to increase your home’s energy efficiency but don’t want to spend the money on triple-pane windows throughout, think about installing them in rooms with a north or east facing window.
The remainder of your home can then have double-pane windows installed.
