Are you thinking of the best replacement windows in Canada? The choice of new windows might be a tough decision, that’s for sure. You want maximum energy efficiency, added aesthetics, security and ultimate comfort from your new units, right?
If that is the case, many experts recommend going with triple pane picture windows as your new replacement units since despite being more expensive, these windows provide you with numerous other benefits that double-glazed windows don’t offer.
Want to learn everything in detail? Keep reading!
Triple Pane Windows Explained
Triple pane windows are also referred to as triple glazed windows. These types of windows get their name because they’re designed with three panes of glass. In between each pane is a cavity that is filled with air or any other type of gas. Triple pane windows can be made from different materials, including vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood.
Vinyl triple pane windows are the most energy-efficient option available today. These units are extremely durable and will last for decades without the need for repairs or maintenance.
Why Picture Windows?
Picture windows are non-operable units that are installed for maximum energy efficiency. Canadians usually prefer this window style for living rooms to enjoy a great unobstructed view outside since picture windows feature a huge glass area.
The R and U values that directly represent the energy efficiency performance of your new windows is the highest when considering picture windows, that is why you can expect the biggest ROI in terms of energy bills when installing picture windows as your new replacement units.
How Do They Add To Your Energy Efficiency Needs?
Energy efficiency is one of the most important reasons to install new windows in your home. If your existing windows are drafty and allow cold air into your home during the cold periods, you may have higher energy bills and lower comfort within your house. And that’s where triple pane windows come as a game-changer.
Triple glazed windows are up to 50% more energy efficient than standard units and their design with 3 layers of glass means your new units will get more insulation for your home. If you live in a region with harsh winters, triple-pane units will help minimize heat loss via your windows when it’s chilly outside.
Triple Pane Windows Come With More Gas Fill
One of the major differences between double and triple-paned windows is the amount of gas filling between each layer of glass. Triple pane windows have an additional layer of glass that allows for more space to be filled with insulating gas. As a result, triple pane windows provide improved insulation that can help you lower your energy bills.
Extra Pane of Glass = More Low-E
The 2nd and 3rd layers of glass are filled with Argon or Krypton gas which is denser than air. The extra pane of glass gives you more space for the gas to fill. This allows the window to be more energy efficient. In addition, the 3rd pane gives you more space for the Low-E coating. This increases its energy efficiency even more.
Triple Pane Windows are Ultimate Noise Cancelling Units
Another benefit of triple pane windows is improved soundproofing. The noise from outside may bother you if your home is located near a busy street or a crowded industrial area. When you install triple pane windows, you’ll enjoy a significant reduction in exterior noise — up to an estimated 60 % less than with standard double pane windows.
Triple Pane Windows For Reduced Condensation
Triple pane windows provide better performance when it comes to reducing condensation compared to single and double-pane units. Condensation occurs when water gathers as droplets on a cold surface when humid air is in contact with it. But the more insulated your window is, the higher will be the temperature of your interior glazing surface and the chances for condensation to occur are less. Since triple glazed units have an extra pane of glass, these windows come with more insulation and ultimately reduce the condensation.
Double Pane vs. Triple Pane Windows – What is Better?
Well, this is a good question that requires studying a lot of analytics to give a clear answer. Generally, triple pane windows are of course better, since they improve your energy efficiency, reduce noise pollution and condensation and ultimately increase your property value.
But what is important here is ROI since any new windows won’t be cheap, that’s for sure. And to understand how long it will take your new windows to pay off, it is worth analyzing your climate zone, utility bills, your house’s current thermal performance and of course your budget.
As a rule, triple pane windows cost 15-20% more compared to double pane units, so when calculating the overall price of your replacement project you are to expect to pay a lot more if choosing to go with 3 glazed units. But the thing is, you might not even need them if your house is already well insulated and the energy bills are mediocre. Double pane windows might be just enough for your house and it will take shorter to pay off, providing you with the comfort you need.
That is why it is very important to consult with reliable Canadian window replacement experts, so they can analyze your project, needs, and house conditions to suggest the units that will work best for you.
