Your worth-bookmarking triple-pane windows buying guide

Getting new windows for your home is a tricky task, especially if you want to upgrade to a more energy-saving unit. To make a well-thought-out decision, you must consider multiple factors, including window type, frame material, the required insulation add-ons, etc. This article is devoted to the most energy-saving windows available on today's market - triple-pane ones. Read on to find how they differ from double-pane ones and what advantages make them worth the investment.

What are triple-pane windows?

Windows made of three glass panes are called triple-pane ones. Each pan has a spacer around the edges to provide a uniform space between layers. The space between panes is filled with insulating gas to enhance the energy efficiency properties of the window. Thanks to the increased insulating air space, triple-pane replacement windows ensure even better energy efficiency and noise reduction than their double-pane counterparts.

Plunging deeper into the triple-pane windows anatomy, we see that it features a thermoset cellular silicone at the base. Then a metalized, multi-layer vapor barrier film comes. Corners come with barrier films, while window edges feature additional sealing.

Double pane vs. triple pane windows - What is the difference?

Most people with a budget to replace their existing home windows with energy-saving ones face the challenge of deciding between double- and triple-pane ones. The simplest approach here is to consider the potential insulation improvements. Dual-pane windows possess excellent energy-saving properties compared to single-pane units, but they bite the dust compared to triple-glazed ones. Thanks to three panes covered with a low-emissive coating, they are better insulators and have a higher rate of heat loss. With triple-pane units in your home, no harmful ultraviolet rays can penetrate inside, causing temperature spikes and furniture fading.

Another benefit of triple-pane windows compared to double-pane ones is the improved insulating value that helps to keep a comfortable temperature inside the building year-round. The R-value of units with triple glazing is higher as they have more layers. Thus, this value equals 3 - 3.8 in units with double panes and 7-8 in units with triple panes. As a result, the average heat loss through the window is reduced by 30% - 40% with triple panes.

Regarding soundproofing, both double- and triple-glazing windows are worth the cost. They effectively reduce outside noise, ensuring a comfortable stay inside. If extra-level insulation is not at the focus of your agenda, a double-pane window will do just fine for noise reduction purposes.

Are triple-pane windows worth the investment?

When deciding whether to buy replacement triple-pane windows for your home, consider the following factors:

Budget. The cost of triple-pane windows is probably one of the highest in the market for energy-efficient windows. You should expect to spend around $890 per average-sized window and $230 per installation. It is a decent sum that not every homeowner is ready to invest in replacing home windows. Besides, this investment is not reasonable for everyone, and we will explain why.
Local climate. If you live in warm states like Florida or California, you have no reason to overpay for windows with triple panes. Double-pane ones should be enough to protect your home from the heat on scorching days and prevent cold air from leaking inside when a cold cyclone comes. On the contrary, if your region frequently experiences extreme cold, it makes sense to consider triple-pane window installation, as they do a better job reducing thermal transfer.
Your plans. When installing these energy-saving windows, consider how long you will stay in your home. If you plan to sell your property in a few years, you will be good with double-pane units. Triple-pane units are only good for a long-term investment.

As you can see, triple-pane units can be worth the extra cost if you have the right conditions to recoup this investment over time.

How much do triple-pane windows cost?

Depending on the cost-affecting factors like window size, configuration, frame material, the type of frame, glass, and others, you could pay anywhere from $595 to $3.200 for a new triple-pane unit (material only). The national average price for standard-sized windows with triple glazing ranges from $890 to $1.200. The high-end price of a triple-pane window may go up to $7.300. This price is relevant for large bay or bow windows with three panes and argon gas inside.

Installation costs vary from $38 to $50 per hour, depending on the region, window size, and configuration. Installing a bow window with triple glazing in New York costs as much as $9.500, including material and labor.

Another must factor to consider when evaluating the cost of a replacement triple-pane window is the manufacturer. Lauded brands like Pella, Marvin, or Renewal by Andersen sell top-quality windows, but their price is slightly higher than the market average. Nevertheless, if you need an extended warranty, you better buy triple-pane windows from these brands.

Want to get the actual cost of triple-pane windows for your home? Fill out the quick request form on the MyHomeQuote contractor-matching platform. Once we process your request, you will get up to five detailed quotes from our partner roofing companies operating in your region.