Selecting the right windows for your Charlotte home can be more complicated than you might anticipate because of the many options at your disposal. There are numerous factors that you should take into account when you’re trying to determine which types of windows are right for you. These factors include materials, installation costs, style, energy efficiency, and life expectancy.
Regardless of the type of window you select for your home, it should last for many years, which is why it’s important that you make a decision you can be happy with.
What Is the Difference Between Single-, Double- & Triple-Pane?
A windowpane is a glass panel that the window is made from. Single-pane windows come with just one pane of glass that’s positioned in a frame. This frame can be made from many different materials.
Double-pane windows consist of two separate panes of glass that are positioned within a frame. This type of window can trap certain gases like argon, which ensures that the window is more energy-efficient than its single-pane counterpart.
As for triple-pane windows, these windows use three distinct pieces of glass with a small space between every layer. Because of how the glass panes are sealed, triple-pane windows are essentially airtight for superior efficiency. In fact, triple-pane windows tend to be around 30% more energy-efficient than double-pane windows.
Single-Pane Windows
Single-pane windows are typically found in older homes. Because these windows only consist of one pane of glass, they don’t provide much insulation, which means that your monthly energy bills will likely be higher.
Pros
- Most affordable option available to you
- Relatively lightweight
- Many different materials and styles to select from
Cons
- Don’t provide much energy efficiency
- Are unable to reduce noise
- Long-term costs are higher than other window types because of less energy efficiency
Double-Pane Windows
Double-pane windows are beneficial when used in nearly every climate. However, you may want to avoid double-pane windows if you live in an area that experiences harsh winters with consistently frigid temperatures.
Pros
- Moderate amount of noise reduction
- Can improve your home value
- Moderate amount of insulation, which should reduce energy bills
- More eco-friendly as a result of using less fossil fuels to heat/cool your home
Cons
- Upfront costs can be high
- Savings on monthly energy bills are only noticeable if more than one double-pane window is installed in your home
Triple-Pane Windows
Triple-pane windows are known to be the most advanced windows that you can find on the market. Because of the ample amount of insulation provided by triple-pane windows, these windows work well in harsh climates and in noisy areas.
Pros
- Highly energy efficient compared to single-pane and double-pane windows
- Offers a high amount of insulation
- Dampens outside noise considerably
- Reduces monthly energy bills
- Available in numerous styles and sizes
Cons
- Energy savings aren’t high for homeowners in temperate climates
- Windows can be heavy, which increases installation costs
- Can be costly to purchase numerous triple-pane windows
Single- vs. Double- vs. Triple-Pane Windows
If you’re still unsure of which type of window to choose for your home, the following offers an in-depth comparison between the three types. With this information in hand, it should become easier for you to make your final decision.
Appearance
If appearance is a primary concern of yours, you’ll find that triple-pane, double-pane, and single-pane windows have a very similar appearance to one another. As such, it’s difficult to select a window type based on appearance.
Customizations
All three types of windows can be customized in many different ways to suit your exact needs. While single-pane windows tend to have more styles, double-pane and triple-pane windows can be outfitted with more add-on features. Keep in mind that features like hurricane shutters and removable storm windows can be outfitted on all three window types.
Durability
When you’re weighing the durability of all three types of windows, it’s important to understand that the number of glass panes included in the window will usually determine which type has the most durability. In the majority of situations, triple-pane windows will be more durable than double-pane windows, which will themselves be more durable than single-pane windows.
If you live in a city or area that regularly experiences extreme weather, durability is a key factor in determining which type of window is best for your home. The most durable windows can withstand ample amounts of precipitation and high winds.
Price
If you want to purchase the most affordable windows, single-pane windows are almost always going to be more affordable than their double-pane and triple-pane counterparts. When looking at the upfront costs of these windows, double-pane windows tend to be around 40-50% higher in costs when compared to single-pane windows.
Triple-pane windows cost around 10-30% more than double-pane windows. Keep in mind, however, that the energy savings you have with double-pane and triple-pane windows should eventually cancel out the higher upfront costs.
Energy Savings
Windows with more glass panes will always be more energy efficient than windows with just one glass pane. If you outfit your home with double-pane or triple-pane windows, you’ll notice that your monthly energy bills are lower. When windows are equipped with more than one pane, interior temperature regulation is easier, which means that your air conditioner or heater won’t need to be used as often.
Length of Life
All three types of windows should last you around 15-20 years. However, the higher durability that comes with more panes of glass means that double-pane and triple-pane windows may be able to last for a lengthier period of time.
Picking the Best Window for Your Charlotte Home
Residents of Charlotte, Belmont, Ballantyne, Mooresville, Waxhaw, Steele Creek and beyond can benefit from all three window types. However, the best type of window for you may be a double-pane window. While triple-pane windows offer better energy efficiency and durability, the Charlotte climate is relatively mild, which reduces the need for triple-pane windows.
If cost is a major consideration for you, it may be best to choose single-pane windows and save some money on the upfront costs. As for double-pane windows, they provide a considerable amount of insulation and durability without the high costs of triple-pane windows. If you want the best windows that money can buy, triple-pane windows are the way to go.
Get Expert Window Installation Advice
Not sure which window option is best for your Charlotte home? Let the Vision Roofing professional contractor team make a recommendation based on your goals and budget.
Contact us today online or call us at 704-312-8558 to learn more about which windows are right for your home.
