Triple Pane Vs. Double Pane Vs. Single Pane: Which Should You Choose?

Windows' benefits go beyond just letting in air and light into a room. Some types of windows can boost the security of your residential or commercial building. Other windows insulate your building to increase energy efficiency. Additionally, windows block out loud noises and make your building more attractive.

Three types of window panes exist: single pane, double pane, and triple pane. Know how to choose the right type for your building.

Single-Pane Windows

A single pane window was the preferred type of window pane decades ago. The windows have only one glass layer and come in multiple designs. These windows are ideal for buildings with weak walls that can withstand heavy loads.

Single-pane windows' main benefit is low cost. A piece can go for as low as $3, and the price rarely goes over $200 per piece. Therefore, you can expect to spend about $50 to buy and install single-pane windows.

Despite the affordability, single pane windows are poor insulators since heat can easily pass through the single glass layer. Thus, these windows can allow more cold to enter your house in summer and increase your energy bills. Similarly, the windows can quickly overheat during the hot months. Therefore, single-pane windows are best-suited for areas with a mild climate.

Another disadvantage of single-pane windows is the inability to block noise from entering your building. Therefore, these windows won't be helpful for people who live in a noisy neighborhood, such as next to an airport.

Double-Pane Windows

Double-pane windows first entered the market in the 1950s. Soon afterward, these windows had become the industry standard and appeared on most buildings in the US. Some people also refer to double-pane windows as double-glazed windows.

Double-glazed windows contain two layers of glass: the inner and outer windows. The outer layer uses transparent glass to ensure the clarity of the appearance of the window. On the other hand, the inner layer uses translucent material, but it can also guarantee some penetration of light. 

A noble gas or air occupies the space between the two layers of glass. The gas acts as a barrier that prevents heat or cold transfer. Generally, noble gases, such as argon or neon, have better insulation capabilities than ordinary air. Hence, you are likely to spend more money on double-pane windows that use noble gases.

The two glass layers and the gas increase your building's energy efficiency. Some estimates claim that you can save about 30% of your yearly energy expenditure. Double-pane windows also block out most noises. Furthermore, you can easily modify the windows to increase privacy and protection.

However, double-glazed windows cost more than single-pane windows. Moreover, you will likely only benefit from the energy savings if all your building's windows are double-pane. Such a huge price tag may not be necessary, especially if your region experiences a mild climate.

Triple-Pane Windows

Triple-pane windows have a similar design as double-glazed windows. The only difference is that triple-pane windows have an extra layer of glass for a total of three. Most triple-pane windows also have a spacer to guarantee equal space between the layers.

Triple-pane windows offer excellent insulation and can greatly slash your energy bills. Therefore, these windows are ideal for areas that experience brutal winter conditions. In addition, triple-pane windows are soundproof and may prevent any noise from entering your home. Nevertheless, triple-pane windows cost more than their double-pane or single-pane counterparts. 

Your building's windows should provide value and last for a long time. Therefore, work with an experienced installer, like Bob's Glass. We repair, replace, and install windows on commercial and residential buildings. Our mission is to build lasting relationships with clients through timely completion of work and affordable pricing. Contact us to get quality window services.