In the market for new windows? It’s a great time to be shopping for replacements. You have more options today than ever before. It has never been easier to add beauty, style, and ventilation to your home. Of course, you’ll need to choose the right windows, and part of that decision hinges on whether you want double or triple-paned glass. Which is right for you?
Double-Paned Windows
Most windows today are double-paned. That means there are two pieces of glass in the frame, usually with an inert gas like argon between them. Double-paned windows marked a significant leap forward in terms of design technology and performance from older, single-pane windows. The two panes of glass and the gas in between work to insulate the home against temperature fluctuations.
Double-paned windows are available in wood, vinyl, and fiberglass, and are significantly more efficient than single-paned windows. They also reduce noise from the outdoors, making them a great choice for those who live near busy roadways or other environments where sound is a factor. They’re best suited for moderate climates and moderate noise levels. Double-paned windows also work best in west and south-facing rooms.
Triple-Paned Windows
Triple-paned windows represent the next step in window design evolution. Instead of two panes of glass, these use three. Two are set relatively close together at the exterior of the window, and the third forms the inner edge. Argon or another inert gas fills both gaps.
This design amplifies the insulative and sound-dampening capabilities of double-paned windows, making these the perfect choice for those who live in very hot or cold climates, as well as anyone who lives in a loud environment.
Like double-paned windows, triple-paned options come in wood, fiberglass, and vinyl. They’re the better option for extreme climates and north or east-facing rooms, as well as homes built in very noisy places.
Note that triple-paned windows are more expensive than their double-paned counterparts, so if you’re on a budget and want something that offers the best of all worlds (sound dampening, efficiency, and affordability) then double-paned windows are probably the right choice. If you live in an extreme environment or deal with lots of noise and aren’t concerned with your budget, triple-paned windows will work well.
Not sure which is the better option? Rusco Windows and Doors can inspect your home and the surrounding environment, and then make recommendations that fit your needs, goals, and budget.