Double or Triple Pane Replacement Windows?

When buying replacement windows in Portland, OR there are several factors to consider. One major consideration is double or triple pane windows. Double pane windows have two panes of glass and triple pane windows have three. Which one is right for the home? The answer generally comes down to what is most important to the homeowner as the consumer. These are the things to keep in mind to help find the best options:

1. Energy Efficiency

One pane of glass provides little to no insulation. That is why the modern standard for most windows is double glazing. It provides far better insulation and adequate energy efficiency for most climates. Triple glazing is another option and the extra pane of glass provides even better energy performance. That said, the upgrade may not be worth the investment if triple-glazing only increases savings by only two or three percent. There are other, more cost-efficient ways to improve energy efficiency with double pane windows. But efficiency is not the only benefit of triple glazing.

2. Condensation Control

Newer homes tend to retain more moisture which results in problems with condensation. This is especially true in cooler, already humid climates. One thing triple pane windows can provide is more condensation resistance. The added layer of protection means the inside pane remains closer to room temperature and is less likely to develop condensation.

3. Comfort

A similar benefit is triple-glazed windows make the room more comfortable. The interior glass remains within a couple of degrees of interior wall temperature. So homeowners sitting by a window on a cold night are less likely to feel the cold leeching inside. Similarly, these products reduce convection currents too. So even on hot days, the interior glass will not feel that much warmer than the wall temperature.

4. Security

This is one benefit that often sways homeowners to choose triple-glazed windows. More glass means more security. The added barrier makes it especially difficult for intruders to gain access to the home by smashing a window. It also helps keep the occupants of the home safer.

5. Daylighting

If getting more natural light into the home is a top priority, then it might be more prudent to choose double pane windows. These allow more light to filter through. The difference is subtle but is definitely something to keep in mind when deciding between the two products.

6. Sound Reduction

It is easy to assume that more glass means more noise reduction. This isn’t necessarily true. By checking the sound transmission coefficient (STC) on window labels homeowners can see there is not a significant difference between double and triple glazed windows. It turns out that laminated coatings are a far more cost-effective way to reduce noise.

7. Longevity

Some people argue that triple-glazed replacement windows are more prone to seal failure. This isn’t the case. In fact, the stability of the seals on triple pane windows outshines most double pane windows.

The glazing efficiency on replacement windows in Portland, OR involves more than just the number of panes. It also includes coatings on the glass, space between the glass, the inert gas between the glass, and the frame material holding the glass in place. And the truth is, there is no real consensus among window professionals as to which glazing option is best. Ultimately the final say comes down to the homeowner and their priorities. Find out more for EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.