We live in Springfield, Illinois and want to install some good replacement windows for our cold climate. I’ve heard about triple pane windows but I’m not sure what the advantages these window are to double pane windows. Before we make this major home maintenance investment, could you explain me the difference?
Tom J. ~ Springfield, Illinois
One thing you will probably notice right off the bat is that there can be a dramatic price increase from double to triple pane windows. Now lets look at triple pane widow technology. There are differences within the triple pane family of windows. You will want to look and see if the windows are gas filled and if they are, what type of gas are they filled with. There are generally two types of gases used in windows, Argon and Krypton. Krypton generally provides a higher R-value than Argon. There is the pane spacing, generally wider spacing provides higher R-value. However, the wider version of a triple pane (argon fill) may be lower than the narrower version (krypton fill) in R-value at about 8. Triple pane windows also have the advantage of having a second pane of glass to apply 2nd Low-E coating to. Due to the high efficiency of triple pane windows you may get outside condensation on the windows. This is not a window defect, it is actually very normal, but may be an issue for some people.
Dual pane windows employ all the same technologies a triple pane but as a general rule can only reach an R-value of about 6 where as a triple pane window can get up to an R-value of 10. Ultimately, the best windows in the world are not going to perform properly if they are not installed correctly, so make sure your installers are following the manufacturers installation guidelines.
Regardless of double or triple panes, make sure that you purchase a brand that is known for quality seals. Many cheaper models of windows leak at the sills, which means you lose the insulating gas, and eventually get moisture between the panes.
Yes, purchase great quality from major manufacturers. The Simonton Impressions 9800 line, for example, offers triple pane in it’s glass options.
It is a good idea to choose triple pane in IL since you will want to retain the maximum amount of heat in your house. The U-Factor is the measurement to look for on the NFRC sticker. Most good (Tax Credit compliant) double pane windows have a value of .30 for the UF. Triple pane on the other hand, commonly come in at .17, which is highly efficient and translates to the R-Factor mentioned in the first reply.
A U Factor is just the inverse of the R Factor. Put 1 over the R Factor and divide the R Factor into 1 to obtain the U Factor. This development of U Factors was purposely done by the window industry to help keep the general public confused about the insulating value of double and triple pane windows.
If you want a dynamite window insulation value, then add a good storm window to your existing double or triple pane window. The more air or gas that you trap in more separate layers, the greater the insulating value. The Storm Window will act as an additional protective envelope layer to your existing window; they will be an outer wind break, and they will provide another protective layer of trapped air to help insulate your house.
Just as multiple layers of blankets trap more insulating air, multiple layers of windows trap more insulating air, and this window system insulates better – IF IT IS INSTALLED PROPERLY!!! PROPER INSTALLATION IS MANDATORY!!!
Where can I find triple pane glass panels? Not windows! Just glass. I have a skylight designed where I need 2 triple pane panels 28 by 82 inches.
Thanks in advance
David Chisholm