Are you out there looking for windowpanes for your home or office? If so, then perhaps you are considering a glazing that will give you the best value for your money. Over the years, both double and triple glazing have been taking the lead and maybe you are wondering which type you should you consider. Well, this article takes you on a journey to explore and understand the true variances between the two options. The best way to bring their unique differences to light is by looking at the pros and cons of each one of them. Take a look!
Pros and cons of double pane windows
Pros
1). Energy efficient, thus saving on energy costs – The double-paned window has two sheets of glass in a single frame. There is a space between the two glasses that is often filled by an inert gas like argon. This design provides an additional layer of insulation to a property. With this type of window, property owners can save up to 30% on heating expenses during cold seasons and up to 20% during warm seasons.
2). Environmentally friendly – Double pane windows are known for their positive environmental effect. It typically insulates homes/businesses from outside or unwanted noise, thus ensuring that you live in a peaceful, private, and quiet environment.
3). Available in a myriad of sizes, shapes, and styles – Unlike other improved and new kinds of window glazing, double pane windows are easily made in different sizes, shapes, and even styles ideal for any kind of window frame. This virtue gives property owners a wider choice when it comes to choosing panes.
The cons
1). Expensive – The only challenge with double paned windows is that they are quite pricey. Part of the cost is due to installation requirements. A skilled window installation expert is necessary for the installation of double-paned windows. As we all know, these experts charge a reasonably high installation fee!
2). Complete overhaul in case of damages – If a double pane window breaks, chips, or cracks, the entire window needs to be replaced since these panes cannot be repaired. Again, if you are replacing these windows in an older home/office, you must make a complete overhaul because the latter looks modern and comes with modern framings. Otherwise, you will have a mismatched look!
Pros and cons of triple pane windows
While a double pane glass window has two layers of glass sandwiching an Argon/fiber-filled space, the triple pane has three glass pieces each separated by a perimeter space filled with an energy-efficient element like fiber. The unit is sealed hermetically to keep moisture and air outside.
Pros:
1). Energy efficient and saving on energy costs – Since triple pane windows consist of three layers of glass compacted to form a unit, it provides even better heat insulation. It brings drastic savings on energy bills. You can save up to 40%-50% on energy bills throughout the year.
2). More environmentally friendly – Triple pane windows are the best option if you are thinking about noise reduction. Some manufacturers may claim that triple glazing essentially provides the same noise reduction effects as double glazing. The truth of the matter is that triple glazing does a much better job because it has a higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating.
3). Available in a myriad of styles, sizes, and shapes – Just like the double-paned windows, the triple panes are also easily made in different sizes, shapes, and even styles ideal for any kind of window frame. This feature gives property owners a wider choice when it comes to choosing panes.
Cons
1). Quite pricey – Compared to the double pane glazing, triple pane windows often cost more. However expensive it may be, it is a worthy investment because it will save tons of money on your electric bills.
2). Requires strong frames – Since triple pane windows are considerably heavier than double panes, it will require stronger frames. Of course, the need for stronger frames means additional costs will be incurred.
Now that you are armed with information about triple pane vs. double pane windows, it is up to you to choose which glazing best suits your needs and budget. In general, triple-paned windows are worth the additional costs if you intend to live in your property for many years. In the long run, the cost of investment will be equal to the energy saving benefits. Double paned windows are also an excellent investment when it comes to preserving energy.
