If you’re shopping for new replacement windows for your Minneapolis MN area home, you probably know that one of your choices is the number of glass panes. The differences between single-, double- and triple-pane windows are the amount of layers of glass the window contains. Ones with one layer are known as single-pane, those with two are double-pane, and those with three are known as triple-pane.
There are benefits and drawbacks to having more than one sheet of glass in your window, but what are they?
Pros of Triple-Pane Windows
Energy Saving Benefits – Double- and triple-pane windows are able to provide significant energy efficiency to a home compared to those that just have one. (Most older homes that haven’t had the windows replaced probably have single-pane windows.) The extra glass keeps the cold and warmth outside when you want it to stay outside, so the home stays the temperature you want it to be. You’re able to save up to 50% of existing energy costs when you replace single-pane windows with triple-pane windows.
Improve Your Insulation – The air between the glass panes functions as an insulator. With triple-pane windows, you’re able to have better sound-proofing with more insulation, and you can keep your heat inside on cold months and cool air inside on warmer months. It also helps to prevent condensation from building up on the inside.
Adds to Your Security – Single-pane windows are easy for intruders to break through. The double- and triple-panes provide more of a challenge that a lot of burglars just do not want to deal with.
Cons of Triple-Pane Windows
They Have Extra Weight – Since they have extra glass, this also means that they come with extra weight. Sometimes certain window frames are too flimsy to hold the glass, so new ones will have to be added. This is a consideration if you’re contemplating only having insert windows installed; a full replacement may be necessary, but your window contractor can evaluate that for you.
Excessive Condensation – You will find that there may be more condensation on the exterior of the window than there was when you only had one pane to worry about. The cold mornings that you have can cause this to become worse. It can be inconvenient since you will not be able to see out of the windows during this time.
They Come with an Extra Cost – Although the extra cost is worth it because it increases your energy savings, triple-pane windows are more expensive, since you are paying for that extra glass. You also have to think about whether or not you have to get new frames for the glass as well, since this is going to cost more money. Some homeowners choose to install triple-pane windows only on the northern side of their homes where winter’s icy blast hits the strongest. You may want to consider this as a cost-saving measure.
Time to replace the windows in your Minneapolis MN home? Speak with us here at Window Outfitters to learn more about what we are able to provide you with when it comes to the triple pane windows you’re after. We offer a wide range of replacement window choices at affordable prices. Call today to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation at our Savage showroom – (952) 746-6661.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
