To understand the benefits of triple-glazed windows, you need to research all the attributes, such as energy efficiency, durability, what works best for your home, and more. At Building Energy, we can install your energy-efficient windows and guide you through the process of choosing the best ones!
What’s the difference between triple-glazed and triple-pane windows?
If you’re looking to replace the windows in your home, the type of glazing on them can make all the difference. The word “glaze” refers to the part of the window made of glass, and “pane” refers to the individual sheet of glass in a window. Triple-Glaze or Triple-Pane windows means three pieces of glass are in the window frame. The two interchangeable terms mean the same thing! Each pane of glass provides an additional insulating air layer between you and the outdoors; more layers of glass means better window insulation!
What makes a window energy-efficient?
There are several attributes that affect a window’s efficiency, which makes doing your research more important.
Attributes to Consider:
- Number of panes of glass
- The thickness of the glass
- Coating on the glass
- Space between the panes
- Material of the spaces separating the glass
- Gas between the glass
- Frame holding the panes in place
Another attribute to consider when picking your windows is Low-E coating. Low-E coated windows block the sun’s rays and reflect the heat! That means less wear and tear on your floors and fabrics and less heat gain in the summer! When you reap these benefits, you can see an improvement in comfort and a reduction in your energy bills, especially in cold climates like Vermont!
Along with the window attributes, another area to consider is the Energy Performance testing, certification, and labeling completed by The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). This group’s voluntary program provides energy performance ratings on all ENERGY STAR-qualified windows, doors, and skylights.
Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing your windows!
It’s essential to understand what you want your windows to achieve: less light, less heat, more insulation, and added comfort. You can find the main energy-efficiency ratings performed by the NFRC below and on the sticker attached to most windows!
Energy-Efficiency Ratings:
- U-factor (UF): The rate at which a window transmits non-solar heat flow. The lower the UF number, the more energy efficient the window is.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): It’s a way of comparing solar radiation admitted through a window, either transmitted directly and/or absorbed and subsequently released as heat inside the home. The lower SHGC rating means less solar heat is transmitted and is more efficient at reducing cooling loads during the summer by blocking the heat gain. The higher SHGC rating is more effective at collecting solar heat during the winter. Your home’s climate orientation and external shading will determine the optimal SHGC for a particular window.
- Air Leakage: This is the rate of air moving through the window’s seals and edges. The air leakage is more present when the wind blows! A window with a low air leakage rating is tighter than one with a higher one. *Please note that air leakage also depends on proper window installation, which is assumed in all ratings!*
- Visible Transmittance (VT): In basic terms, VT is how much light can go through the glass. A window with a higher VT transmits more visible light. The VT you need for a window should be determined by your home’s daylight requirements and/or whether you need to reduce interior glare in a space.
What are the benefits of triple-glazed windows?
Homeowners who choose triple-glazed windows over traditional single or double-glazed ones get to experience benefits such as:
- Reduced noise and sound transmission
- Increased energy efficiency
- Increased comfort (reduced heat loss and cold drafts)
- Increased security and durability (harder to break)
- Increased insulation performance and lower energy bills
- Reduced condensation
Ready to replace your windows?
Great, you’ve come to the right place! With years of experience in window, door, and siding replacement, our construction team here at Building Energy can recommend the right products for your home and budget, all while keeping energy efficiency in mind.
Are you looking to learn more before making a decision? Call (802) 859-3384 or contact us online to discuss your window and construction options with one of our project managers!
Are you thinking about weatherizing and air sealing? These projects can amplify the benefits of replacing windows. Start with an energy audit to prioritize your energy-saving projects!