Triple Pane Windows Better?
I was thinking that the argument of double pane versus triple pane windows was pretty basic, but it’s not that easy. On the surface, it would seem that triple is better. Apparently that is not necessarily so. Each type of window has strengths and weaknesses. Any experience in a landmark building with triple pane? Brand…
I was thinking that the argument of double pane versus triple pane windows was pretty basic, but it’s not that easy. On the surface, it would seem that triple is better. Apparently that is not necessarily so. Each type of window has strengths and weaknesses. Any experience in a landmark building with triple pane? Brand recommended? Exact type? Prices? Anybody has really installed a triple pane window and can tell the difference?
When dealing with windows, keep in mind that U value addresses the whole window, not just the glass. So while you may have a triple paned window, if it’s a shoddy frame, you’ll be worse off than a double paned window with a good frame in many cases. For a good window, with a U value of around .3, R values convert to around 3. Most window companies don’t change the sash, or frame when dealing with triple pane, so most triple paned windows only move you up a point or two. Given that, my personal opinion is that you don’t gain enough with the triple paned to make up for the look, which may be an acquired taste, but I just never got used to the darker tint. To me it always looks gloomy. The windows that Emperium talks about sound interesting, I have no experience with them, but their R value would be around 7.6 which isn’t bad, but still not worth the difference in tint in my opinion (I’d be curious to know what their double paned window is rated at).
Optiwin tiple pane windows for Germany were just approved for the Passive House project in Park Slope (landmark). They are waaaay more energy efficient (U-value of 0.13) and airtight than any double hung double pane window you are thinking about…..oh, yes they are wood casement windows and close better than a fridge door.
You should also consider double pane windows with laminated glass for one of the panes. Laminated glass with a pvc interlayer will help to reduce noise transmission and is also better for security.
Windows We Are just installed double-paned windows in our south facing center slope (non landmarked) apt. I asked about triple-paned, and they actually talked me out of it for less expensive double-paned — said I wouldn’t notice the difference really and the windows become much heavier. That said, we can barely here horns out front, and definitely can’t hear car engines or tell when it’s raining. I’d give them a call and see what they say – you might have a noisier situation that would warrant triple-pane, but they’ll definitely let you know if you don’t need it.
And also this site is very useful: http://oee.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/residential/personal/windows-doors/types.cfm?attr=4
It has a lot of information beyond the link I am copying.
We installed a three large American Jewel windows that are triple paned in the front part of our house. We live on a busy avenue, and were trying to cut down on the noise. There is a noticeable difference in the noise level with the triple pane window. We have new anderson double panes in the rest of the house. They cut a lot of the noise as well. We also used substantially less heat this winter so far with the new windows. Triple pane are a little darker than double pane, so you may want to consider that. We get a lot of light, so it’s not that bad. But if you don’t get that much light in the house, the triple pane may make the room darker.
You will find a lot of useful information here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insulated_glazing
But maybe somebody has any experience and is willing to share it with all of us.