Triple Pane Windows Guide

Choosing windows can be surprisingly difficult. Of all the (many) decisions you’ll make when building or remodeling, we’d argue that selecting windows is pretty high up on the list of things you want to “get right.” 

So, which type of window is best? Do you need triple pane window replacements or double pane? What’s the difference? Which is better? 

Before you can decide on which windows to invest in, you should understand the different options you have. 

What are Triple Pane Windows?

Triple pane windows are exactly what they sound like - they’re a 3 pane window that consists of three total panes of glass. Similar to double pane windows, triple panes have a spacer separating each pane to keep them uniform. They also have either air or gas in between panes, which both helps to keep windows stable, while improving energy efficiency and acting like a sound barrier.

Cost of Triple Pane Windows 

As you might expect, triple pane windows cost more than double pane. The cost can range from around $500 to upwards of $1000, plus labor. It’s the extra pane of glass and a more complex installation process that results in the additional cost. An average estimate of how much more a triple pane window costs falls somewhere in the 10 to 15 percent range. If you plan to be in your home for a long time though, the savings you can recoup throughout the life of the windows may pay for the additional cost.

What are Double Pane Windows

Double pane windows are similar to triple pane, except they only have two panes of glass. They also have spacers to keep the distance of the glass uniform, and as you might guess, they’re also filled with gas or air. Like triple pane windows, double pane are a bit more expensive than single pane, but they can last for 8 to 20 years, which makes them more of a sound investment. 

It’s worth pointing out that one drawback to both double and triple pane windows is moisture can sometimes get trapped in between the panes of glass, which can lead to condensation.

Triple Pane vs. Double Pane Windows

Energy Efficiency 

Yes, it’s true that double and triple pane windows will increase energy efficiency throughout your home. The extra layers of glass, filled with air or gas, drastically reduces energy transfer. Your home will stay warmer in the winter and much cooler in the summer. Triple pane windows can be up to 50 percent more energy efficient than a single pane window, and up to 20 percent more efficient than a double pane. If you live in an extremely cold climate, double and triple pane windows can have a significant impact on your heating and cooling bills.

Cost

Triple pane windows are the most expensive option available when it comes to windows. If you really do a stern cost analysis, double pane windows actually tend to be the best value, unless of course, you plan to stay in your home for at least 10 or more years. While triple panes do reduce energy costs, it could take you 10 - 20 years for the energy savings to really pay off. That said, triple pane windows can add value to your home, as they’re considered a luxury product. 

Sound Proof

Both double and triple pane glass offer significant sound reduction when compared to single pane glass. But there isn’t a substantial difference between double and triple pane in terms of triple pane offering much more. Most often, if you want the benefits of noise reduction, a double pane window will do just fine.

Temperature Regulatins

Double and triple pane windows can both help regulate temperature. The extra layers of glass, combined with the gas in between each layer, serve as a reflective layer that keeps heat in during the winter, and out during the summer. Obviously triple panes will be a bit more effective in this department, but both options are better than single pane windows.

Safety

Triple pane glass is substantially stronger than double or single pane glass. In fact, a triple pane window could stay intact even after being hit 30 times with a baseball bat.

Are Triple Pane Windows Worth the Extra Money?

Should you up the game and go with triple pane windows? If you fit all the right criteria, including you live in a cold climate, want to improve the value of your home and plan to stay in the house you’re in for at least a decade or more, triple pane windows may very well be worth the extra cost. They’re more energy efficient, look great and will eventually pay for themselves. 

Ready to learn more about triple pane windows? Have any questions? Reach out to Window World today to get all the advice and expert suggestions you need. We offer free, no-obligation consultations both virtually or in your home.