Double Pane vs. Triple Pane Windows: What’s Best for Ontario Homeowners?

When it comes to upgrading your windows, the debate between double pane vs. triple pane windows may come up in conversation. For many, choosing the most energy-efficient window, while also prioritizing comfort and budget, is top of mind.

For Ontario homeowners, particularly those in the GTA, who experience an ever-fluctuating climate, understanding the difference between both types of windows, including which option will benefit your household both immediately and in the long run, is key! We’ll get into that below:

What Are Double Pane and Triple Pane Windows?

Before we jump head first into comparisons, let’s clarify what each of these types of windows offers:

• Double pane windows (sometimes called double glazed windows) feature two layers of glass separated by a space filled with insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. Their R-value (a measurement of heat flow) ranges from 3.0 to 3.8. Having windows with a high R-value contributes to ENERGY STAR certification and energy savings.
• Triple pane windows (sometimes called tripled glazed windows) have an R-value of up to 7.5. They have three layers of glass with two layers of insulating gas in between. While they are often more costly than double pane windows, the additional layer of glass makes them the first choice among Ontarians.

Both double pane windows and triple pane windows offer reduced heat transfer and improved energy efficiency. The additional glass layers also reduce noise, making them better for soundproofing than single-pane wind options.

How Do Double Pane and Triple Pane Windows Compare?

There are multiple factors to consider in the double pane vs. triple pane windows debate. Double pane windows are the more cost-effective option and have a simpler installation process. However, double pane windows do not offer the same insulation or reduced noise transmission as their triple pane counterparts. Here’s a more in-depth look at how they differ:

Energy Efficiency

For Ontarians, especially Toronto residents, cold winters and incredibly humid summers are becoming the norm. With heating and cooling costs on the rise, it’s not surprising that energy efficiency is becoming a primary concern for homeowners. Triple pane windows provide 50% more insulation than their double pane counterparts, translating to:

• Lower heating costs in winter
• Reduced cooling costs in summer
• A more consistent indoor temperature year-round

Soundproofing

Toronto is loud…as are many surrounding GTA neighbourhoods. Noise pollution can disrupt sleep and relaxation in your household and even harm your health. For this reason, more and more Canadians are investing in soundproof windows.

When it comes to triple pane vs. double pane windows and soundproofing, the extra layer of glass in triple pane windows significantly reduces outdoor noise, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who have light sleepers in their family or who live near highways, transit lines, or bustling neighbourhoods.

Cost

Of course, given the benefits, you can expect to pay more upfront for triple pane windows than double pane windows. However, with an additional layer of glass, you can also expect long-term savings in maintenance costs and lower energy bills. Double pane windows are a budget-friendly option that still offers improved energy efficiency and improved insulation.

Durability

Triple pane windows are known for their robust construction and durability. With three glass panes rather than two (or one), you can expect them to hold up better in extreme weather conditions, like hail, wind, or snow. This durability translates to lower maintenance costs, which offsets the higher upfront costs when buying windows.

Image Source: Canva

Are Triple Pane Windows Worth It?

For many Canadians, especially those living in colder climates, the energy efficiency and indoor comfort that triple pane windows offer is worth the investment, even with higher start-up costs. When considering double pane vs. triple pane windows, Canada homeowners should remember the following considerations:

1. Energy Savings: We’ve already brought this point up, but it’s worth reiterating. Triple pane windows can offset the initial cost difference by improving your home’s energy efficiency, reducing your energy costs over time.
2. Increased Comfort: Leave uncomfortable drafts, uneven temperatures and harmful loud noises in the past. It’s time for your family to enjoy comfortable sleep and lazy days at home.
3. Environmental Impact: Many homeowners are striving to reduce their carbon footprints, and triple pane windows can help achieve their goals. The improved insulating barrier, which comes with an additional pane of glass reduces energy usage, which reduces energy costs as an added bonus.
4. Sun Protection: While many people want to maximize natural sunlight in their homes and take advantage of the benefits, sun exposure can fade furniture, artwork, carpets, and even walls. Triple pane windows, especially those with low E glass, provide protection from powerful UV rays that can damage the interior of your home.
5. Added Home Value: Installing triple pane windows will boost your property’s market value, as they’re considered a premium upgrade!

If you’re still on the fence between double pane windows, take a peek at our complete guide to triple pane windows for more insights!

Triple pane windows add to your energy efficiency

Triple Pane vs. Double Pane Windows: Common Questions

How Much Money Can I Save With Triple Pane Windows?

Triple pane windows can reduce your energy bills by up to 30%. Over time, these savings add up! Of course, the amount of savings depends on many factors, including usage patterns and other sources of heat loss in your home.

What If I Only Have The Budget for Double Pane Windows?

Double pane windows remain an excellent choice for homeowners who live in cities with milder climates, or must adhere to a budget. Even with double pane windows, homeowners should notice better insulation and significant improvement in home comfort compared to single pane windows, making them a popular choice for many.

Can I Install Triple Pane Windows in an Older Home?

You can opt to have triple pane windows installed in your older home. In most cases, retrofitting existing windows in old homes with premium windows drastically improves energy efficiency and noise reduction, while providing better insulation.

When Should I Replace My Windows?

Now that you’ve considered the benefits of triple pane windows vs. double pane windows, you might wonder if it’s time to upgrade the windows in your home. Maybe your single pane windows aren’t cutting it in colder weather. Maybe you already have double pane windows, but you’re ready to embrace the added energy efficiency and noise reduction that comes with triple glass windows. Or maybe you’re dealing with one of the following in your home:

• Drafts: Feeling cold air near your windows indicates poor insulation, which can reduce your comfort and make your home less energy efficient.
• Rising Energy Bills: Outdated windows may contribute to high energy bills. This often happens in older homes with single pane windows and significant heat loss.
• Condensation: While often overlooked, foggy windows often signal seal failure or deteriorating frame materials.
• Aesthetic Upgrades: New windows can elevate your home’s curb appeal and property value.

Source: Canva

Why Choose Burano Doors for Your Windows?

Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of each type of window, you can select the right windows for your home, additional pane or no. The choice between double pane vs. triple pane windows depends on your location, budget, and your home itself.

When it’s time to build, replace, or upgrade, working with a trusted provider of high-quality windows is key. By choosing Burano Doors, you’re choosing a 100% Canadian-owned and operated manufacturer. Burano Doors offers custom, energy-efficient windows for Ontario homeowners with friendly, professional service and installation you can count on.

Get in touch with us for premium windows and doors at affordable prices. Embrace the energy savings, noise reduction, and superior insulation that comes with new windows today!