When it comes to getting a window replacement in Ontario, one of the first questions many homeowners have is whether they should go for triple-pane or double-pane windows. It seems as if the answer is pretty simple: get the better-performing windows. But when you consider that the difference between a double-pane window and triple-pane window replacement in the whole house can be thousands of dollars, many homeowners begin to question whether the investment is worth it. In this blog we are going to talk about the double pane vs triple pane windows.
We’ll try to answer this question, and tell you what you need to know about triple-pane Ontario windows, but first let’s start with the basics:
What are triple-pane windows?
To answer this question fully, you need to understand what a pane is. A window pane, also sometimes referred to as a glazing, is quite literally the sheet of glass separating the inside from the outside. Double-pane and triple-pane windows come with two or three panes respectively.
The introduction of additional panes in a window also led to the invention of insulated glass units (IGUs) sometimes referred to as sealed units.
A sealed unit combines the multiple panes of a window with an energy efficient spacer into one. Gas fills are usually used in between the panes for additional efficiency.
Today, double-pane windows are considered the standard in most provinces. But standard isn’t always good enough for everyone and in all places.
Let’s go through what you need to know about the difference an extra pane of glass can make.
How are triple-pane windows better than double-pane?
The answer is pretty straightforward. An additional pane of glass in the window creates a better insulating barrier. Compared to double-pane units, triple-pane windows have allow less heat to escape, have less condensation, and are more soundproof.
But the extra pane of glass is also beneficial because it allows for more additional features in your windows. And extra glazing means your windows can have an additional coat of Low-E for better performance, and an additional gas chamber that prevents warm air from escaping to the outside. Combined with the insulating properties of an additional pane, these features make your window even more efficient, and your home more comfortable.
How much do triple-pane windows cost?
This is the big question that can sometimes put homeowners off getting triple-pane windows.
On average triple-pane windows cost 10-15% more than double-pane units.
This may not be such a significant price difference if you are replacing one or two windows. But if you are removing old windows in the entire house, getting triple-pane replacements can add several thousand dollars on top of your already expensive project.
Surely, there has to be some benefit in return for the investment. This brings us to the next question:
Are triple-pane windows worth the money?
If you read American window replacement websites, you will often see companies saying that spending extra money on triple-pane windows doesn’t make sense. This is actually true in a lot of the United States. What makes Canada different? Same thing that always did: our climate. Because the US has a much more temperate climate than most of Canada, a strong insulating barrier isn’t always needed in a window opening: the difference in temperature between the indoors and outside isn’t as big as it would be further north.
On average, the triple-pane windows can help you save an additional 2-3% on your energy bill annually. In reality, that number greatly depends on the condition of your house, the wall structure, what temperature you consider comfortable, and even the condition of your furnace.
There is no sure way to calculate how much more money triple-pane windows can save you. But if you consider that new windows should last you 25 years, the 2-3% annual savings margin may be well worth the extra investment.
Ontario Homeowners: Do You Need Triple-Pane Windows?
Chances are, if you are reading this post, you are on the fence about investing the additional money into your replacement. But it also probably means that you still want a solution that offers savings and makes your home comfortable.
If you want to get a quality replacement, consider investing in ENERGY STAR rated windows. You can check out a list of all ENERGY STAR rated windows on this Ecotech Windows and Doors. These windows comply with international standards in order to be considered efficient in different climate zones. In order to be considered efficient in Ontario, windows must meet a minimum ER rating of 29 and a maximum U-factor of 1.40.
How do double-pane and triple-pane windows match up with these ratings? With triple-pane windows, there usually aren’t any problems with meeting climate zone requirements in Ontario. When it comes to double-pane windows however, it is often necessary to include those extra upgrades to make the windows meet the local climate zone requirements. Because additional features add to the price of double-pane windows the final price can very well end up being close to what a triple-pane window would cost you anyways.
