Triple-pane windows: understanding the benefits

Triple-pane and dual-pane glass are both types of insulated glass units (IGUs). An IGU includes two or more panes of glass sealed together with an air space in between. The air space on our windows is typically filled with an argon-gas blend that helps slow down the transfer of energy and makes the glass more efficient.* 

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Northglass.

Here's the difference between the two types of IGUs we offer:

Dual-pane glass has two panes of glass and an air space in between. The air space can have an argon-gas blend and may be coated on two surfaces with a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating. Our windows come with specific combinations of Low-E coatings that improve energy efficiency in various climates.

Triple-pane glass has three panes of glass with two air spaces in between. Both air spaces can be filled with an argon-gas blend, so there are two opportunities to slow the transfer of energy. This type of glass also differs in that it offers an additional opportunity for adding a Low-E coating when compared to dual-pane glass. The additional air space and the additional opportunity for adding a Low-E coating help make triple-pane the most insulating glass option.  

Low-E coatings can be applied to triple-pane glass in various ways. The more coatings applied, the better the thermal performance will be. Of course, the right option for you will depend on the local climate and goal of your build. Here’s what you should know about how Low-E coatings can be applied to triple-pane glass:

1. Standard triple-pane glass options include one surface with a Low-E coating. These are the standard coatings to choose from:

• Low-E4® Glass is a great option in most climates because it helps reflect heat in the summer and keep heat inside in the winter, making it ideal in any climate where both heating and cooling costs are experienced. It’s our trademarked Low-E glass construction and available on all our products.
• SmartSun™ Glass gives the benefits of Low-E4 glass while also blocking 95% of UV rays. This makes it a good option in all climates, particularly the sunny West or milder South. Find it available on all our products.
• PassiveSun® Glass allows the sun to help heat the home in the winter when a low sun angle directs more energy through the glass. It is made for climates where extensive heating is required and is ideally suited to passive homes. It’s available on all our products.
• Sun Glass is made to help block the sun’s heat and is tinted. Compared to SmartSun glass, its tint is more pronounced and it’s more effective at blocking the sun. It’s ideally suited for southern climates. Find it available on E-Series, A-Series, 400 Series, and 100 Series products, plus 200 Series patio doors. 

Our standard triple-pane window glass comes with one Low-E coating. You can select the coating appropriate to your climate when ordering.

2. Enhanced triple-pane glass options include two surfaces with Low-E coatings. Using two Low-E coatings can further enhance thermal performance. Here are some combinations to be aware of:

• Low-E4 Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass has one pane with Low-E4 coating and one pane with PassiveSun coating. This combination helps windows perform well in all seasons while also allowing the warmth of the sun to help heat the home. It’s a good option in northern climate zones.
• Low-E4 SmartSun Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass has one pane with Low-E4 coating and one pane with SmartSun coating. This combination helps keep homes cool in summer and warm in winter, with the added benefit of blocking 95% of UV rays. It’s a good option where there are both heating and cooling bills along with lots of direct sunlight.
• Low-E4 PassiveSun Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass has two panes with PassiveSun coating. This option helps improve thermal performance while avoiding too much tint. It’s a good option for the northermost climate zones.

3. Enhanced triple-pane glass with HeatLock® technology options allow for three panes to be coated with a combination of two of our “soft” coatings — Low-E4, SmartSun, Passive Sun, and Sun — and our “hard” coating of HeatLock technology. HeatLock technology helps keep heat from escaping the home. When it’s combined with the right “soft” coatings, it can provide a glass option that’s suited to various climate types. Here are three options to be aware of:

• Low-E4® PassiveSun Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass with HeatLock Technology allows the sun to help heat the home, so it’s best used in a home that’s designed to handle a higher solar heat load. It’s typically used in northern climates.
• Low-E4 SmartSun Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass with HeatLock Technology provides high thermal performance without too much solar heat gain, so it’s ideal in a home with lots of direct sun exposure. It’s typically used in southern climates.
• Low-E4 Enhanced Triple-Pane Glass with HeatLock Technology is ideal for homes where energy usage is split more evenly between heating and air conditioning and where there’s an intermediate amount of solar heat. 

A window with triple-pane glass will have higher R-Value. R-Value measures resistance to energy (or heat) flow. In other words, when R-Value is in relation to a window it is measuring how well the window keeps heat from escaping the home, or how insulating the window is. A triple-pane window will almost always have a higher R-Value than a window with dual-pane glass. This is because of the qualities described above. Namely, the additional pane of glass and additional air space combined with opportunities for Low-E coatings slow down the transfer of heat.

When looking at windows and doors, you’ll see thermal performance measured with U-Factor, rather than R-Value. U-Factor is the inverse of R-Value. Instead of measuring resistance to heat flow, it measures heat loss, with smaller numbers indicating a slower rate of loss. Although both measures relate to thermal performance, it’s most common to see R-Value used to measure wall assemblies and U-Factor to measure window assemblies. U-Factor is also the measure used by the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC), which is a nonprofit organization that has established window, door, and skylight energy performance ratings. 

It’s important to look at the U-Factor for the entire window assembly — glass, frame, etc. — when assessing performance. To do this, look for the “whole unit” U-Factor measure, rather than “center of glass” U-Factor measure. It’s particularly important to look at U-Factor in a cold climate because it will help you understand how well the unit will help keep warm air inside the house in winter. (Whereas in a hot climate, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient would be the key thermal measure to evaluate because it gives an indication of how well the unit will help keep the sun’s heat out of the home).

Windows with triple-pane glass will almost always outperform windows with dual-pane glass from a sound perspective. This is because they are thicker. The thickness of the two air spaces and three panes of glass helps slow down the transmission of sound. The measures used to evaluate sound performance are sound transmission class (STC) and outdoor-to-indoor transmission class (OITC). STC measures how well sound travels inside a building — think TV or conversations — and might be helpful to consider when evaluating windows for a multi-family unit. OITC, on the other hand, measures outdoor-to-indoor sounds and might be most helpful to consider where there are concerns about traffic noise, airplane noise, etc. We provide both metrics through the testing we do — find performance documents.

Keep in mind, triple-pane glass is not the only way to reduce noise.

The exact cost will depend on the product line, type of window, and options added. However, it’s true that triple-pane windows typically cost more than standard dual-pane windows. This is because triple-pane windows require more materials to make, including some that are more expensive. They also require more time to manufacture. The glass specifically takes more time to produce. With a thicker and heavier piece of glass, different components are needed to make the window operate — again contributing to a higher price. 

Another aspect that contributes to increased price is the physical weight of the window, which is typically 1.5 times the weight of a standard dual-pane window. This means that more labor or equipment might be required for installation.

Despite the expense, triple-pane windows might be the right solution for your project, particularly if you’re looking for the highest-performance possible without sacrificing aesthetics. In that case, we'd suggest starting with the A-Series, which combines both these qualities. 

Key Takeaways

• Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an insulating layer of air or gas between them.
• Triple-glazed windows have three glass panes, providing better insulation and energy efficiency.
• Double-glazed windows are generally more cost-effective and easier to install.
  Triple-glazed windows offer superior noise reduction and are ideal for extreme climates.
• At Panda Windows & Doors we’re always happy to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

What is Double-Glazed Glass?

Buying windows isn’t something you do every day - more like every 20 years or so. That’s why it’s super important to get it right when deciding between double-glazing and triple-glazing units.

Double-glazed glass windows feature two panes of glass with an insulating gap in between. The gap is filled with air or an inert gas like argon or krypton, known for their insulating properties.

In a nutshell, a double-glazed window consists of:

• Two glass panes, usually made from float glass for clarity and strength;
• Space bars made from aluminum, stainless steel, or polymer composites to hold the glass panes vertical;
• Seals that prevent draft;
• Insulating gas, like argon or krypton, for better thermal performance.

How It Works

Double-glazed window’s effectiveness lies in the insulating gap, filled with gas, between the glass panes. This layer acts as a barrier, reducing heat transfer and enhancing your home’s thermal efficiency.

Founded in , Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 8-12 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Advantages and Disadvantages of Double-Glazed Glass

Double-pane windows have an internal gas chamber that improve insulation and soundproofing (courtesy of macrovector)

Advantages

Two panes of glass are better than one - and for a good reason. Double-pane glass:

• Improves your home’s energy efficiency, which in turn, lowers your energy bills;
• Helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, meaning a more comfortable home;
• Minimizes outside noise entering inside for a quieter home;
• Reduces condensation on the interior glass surface, preventing most moist-related damages;
• Two layers of glass provide better protection against break-ins.

Disadvantages

But of course, double-glazed windows have their downsides, like:

• Usually, they cost more than single-pane windows.
• They are heavier, meaning they require stronger frames and support structures.
• And in extreme climates, they may be inadequate in keeping the heat in and cold out.

What is Triple-Glazed Glass?

Triple-glazed glass is an upgrade on double-pane glass and is perfect if you’re looking for the absolute best thermal performance.

The unit comprises three panes of glass, with double air spaces. Like double-pane windows, the spaces in between are filled with air or noble gas that serve as a barrier, preventing heat transfer.

Commonly used materials in triple-glazed windows include:

• Glass panes: Made from float glass for optimal clarity and strength.
• Spacer bars: Typically aluminum, stainless steel, or polymer composites.
• Seals: Silicone or polyurethane to ensure airtightness.
• Insulating gas: Argon or krypton for enhanced thermal performance.

Insulating glass window keeps cold draft out in winter (courtesy of marymarkevich)

Contact us to discuss your requirements of triple glazed glass. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

How It Works

The three layers of glass and the two insulating spaces in triple-glazed windows drastically reduce heat loss, minimize noise, and improve your home’s comfort.

Their unique configuration makes them ideal for extreme climates.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Triple-Glazed Glass

Advantages

• Triple-glazed windows provide far better insulation than double-pane options;
• You can achieve a quieter environment with triple-glazing solutions since they can keep out external noise more effectively;
• Triple glazed glass helps you get rid of condensation build-up and provides an excellent barrier against outside drafts;
• It also enhances your home’s security since the three layers of glass are hard to break.

Disadvantages

Despite their numerous benefits, triple-glazed windows also come with a few disadvantages:

• They are more expensive than double-glazed windows due to additional materials and manufacturing complexity;
• Much heavier than double-glazed windows, requiring stronger frames and potentially more robust installation methods;
• May not be suitable for every application, particular In mild climates, where the added insulation may not justify the higher cost.

Double-glazed Glass vs Triple-Glazed Glass

Energy Efficiency

Triple-glazed glass offers superior thermal and energy performance compared to double-glazed options. When comparing factors such as the solar heat gain coefficient or U-values, triple-pane windows perform better, often achieving over 20-30% more energy ratings.

Nevertheless, double-pane glass is still energy-efficient, especially if you’re in an area with a moderate climate. They provide a significant improvement over single-pane windows and can help reduce energy bills and improve indoor comfort.

Cost Considerations

Generally, triple-glazed windows are more expensive, as expected and is due to the extra materials and manufacturing processes involved.

Here's a rough cost comparison*:

*The price ranges are approximations accurate at the time of writing. Actual prices will vary based on the requirements of each project.

While triple-glazed windows offer better performance, the higher cost cannot be justified in many cases. In such situations, double-pane glass may just be the right option, providing a good balance of performance and affordability.

Aesthetics and Practical Considerations

Both double-glazed and triple-glazed windows can be customized to match your home’s design and style.

However, since triple-glazed windows are thicker and heavier, they require stronger frames, which makes them appear bulkier. Conversely, double-glazed windows are slimmer and more versatile in terms of design options.

Ideal Uses for Each Glass Type

Residential Applications

For residential applications, the choice between double-glazed and triple-glazed windows depends on your specific needs and the climate in which you live.

• Double-glazed windows are suitable for moderate climates, cost-effective, and versatile in design.
• Triple-glazed windows are ideal for extreme climates, superior insulation, and noise reduction.

For example, if you live in a region with mild winters and summers, double-glazed windows provide sufficient insulation and energy efficiency.

They are also more affordable and easier to install. On the other hand, if you reside in an area with harsh winters or hot summers, triple-glazed windows offer better temperature control and comfort.

Residential float glass clear glazed window (courtesy of freepik)

Commercial Applications

Triple-glazed windows are often preferred for their superior insulation and noise reduction, which can enhance the comfort and productivity of occupants.

For example, in office buildings located in busy urban areas, triple-glazed windows can significantly reduce external noise, creating a quieter and more conducive work environment. In contrast, double-glazed windows may be sufficient for commercial buildings in quieter locations or with less stringent insulation requirements.

Making the Right Choice With Panda Windows & Doors

At Panda Windows & Doors, we understand that choosing the right windows can be overwhelming.

That's why we offer personalized consultation services to help you make an informed decision. Our experts will assess your needs, preferences, and budget to recommend the best window solutions for your home or business.

Whether you're considering double-glazed or triple-glazed windows, our team will provide detailed information and answer any questions you may have. We'll guide you through the entire process for a seamless and satisfying experience.

Product Range

We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of high-quality window systems to meet the unique needs of our customers.

Our product range includes:

• Folding Doors
• Lift & Slides
• Horizontal Wall Systems
• Pivot & French Doors
• Multi-Slides
• Retractable Screens
• Panda-Select Line
• TS.X0
• Architectural Windows

Our windows are designed to provide exceptional performance, durability, and aesthetics. Whether you prefer the energy efficiency of double-glazed windows or the superior insulation of triple-glazed windows, we have the perfect solution for you.

Contact us to find out more about our bespoke windows and doors for your home or business today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are triple-glazed windows worth the extra cost?

Triple-glazed windows are worth the extra cost if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or require superior noise reduction.

They offer better insulation and energy efficiency, which can lead to long-term savings on energy bills. However, in milder climates, double-glazed windows may provide sufficient performance at a lower cost.

How do double-glazed windows improve energy efficiency?

Double-glazed windows improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of your home. The insulating layer of air or gas between the glass panes acts as a barrier, preventing heat loss.

What are the maintenance requirements for triple-glazed windows?

Triple-glazed windows require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. This includes cleaning the glass panes, checking the seals for any damage or wear, and making sure that the frames are in good shape.

Due to their additional layers and complexity, triple-glazed windows may require more attention compared to double-glazed windows.

Can I retrofit my existing windows with double or triple glazing?

Yes, it is possible to retrofit your existing windows with double or triple glazing. By upgrading them, you can improve energy efficiency and comfort without the need for a complete window replacement.

For more information, please visit one way mirror.