Picking the right windows for your home is big decision. Your budget along with the appearance, style, and desired energy efficiency are all things to consider. One of the first steps to take is to choose between singe pane or double pane windows.
Single Pane Windows
Much like it sounds, single pane windows are made with one layer of glass. These windows are offered in the same styles and materials as double pane windows, but are not particularly effective at insulating the home from noise pollution or seasonal temperatures. Homeowners who live in mild climates and quiet neighborhoods may lean toward single pane windows as they are an initially cheaper option. However, the overall cost of single pane windows will increase over time due to inefficient energy savings.
Double Pane Windows
Alternatively, double paned windows are made with two individual layers of glass with space between them. Applauded as sturdy and durable, the separated layers of glass act as a buffer and capture cold temperatures and high heat before they can leak into the home. This results in a lower energy bill over time and a reduction in fossil fuel use altogether.
This buffer also captures noise pollution in the same way. While not always sound-proof, double paned windows are able to significantly reduce the noise of traffic, neighbors and late night noises that may keep you up at night. What’s more? Double paned windows typically add to the overall value of your home.
Energy Savings
If you are installing windows in a new home or replacing old, outdated ones, double paned windows generally result in a large return on your investment. In fact, 25% of annual heating and cooling costs for an average American home is attributed to inefficient windows, according to the Department of Energy (source). By switching to higher efficiency double paned windows, your energy bill is certain to decrease. Even the most basic double paned windows can reduce energy usage by 18% in the summer and up to 24% in the winter when compared to older single paned windows (source).
In order to see energy savings, however, all windows must be replaced with a double paned model. A single replacement will not yield the same money-saving results.
Cost
Single paned windows are a cheaper purchase. Homeowners on a tight budget, in turn, may be more likely to decide on the less efficient option. More often than not, these windows require added technology to keep the seasonal temperatures out eventually; thus, the added price over time—in addition to the higher energy bills—may not be worth the cheaper upfront cost.
Triple Pane Windows
If you’re looking for added security, energy savings and noise reduction, triple pane windows are a wonderful option. While similar to double-paned windows, triple pane models can fill the space between the middle and inner window pane with insulating gas, such as argon, doubling the amount of inert gas within the window. This acts as a highly effective insulator to save energy. The extra layer of low-E can have a drastic effect on preventing radiant thermal heat from the outside, which is beneficial for homes in hot climates such as Phoenix, Arizona.
What’s more, triple-glazed windows tend to attract little to no condensation as a result of their inherent energy efficiency. These windows are harder to break, trap heat and cold air and block noise from the outdoors effectively.
Selecting Your Windows with XO
At XO Windows, we have a large selection of double paned and triple paned windows that offer you and your home a multitude of benefits. Our experience and expertise allows us to assess your unique needs and guide you along the way to finding your perfect windows to fit your style, comfort and budget.
For a FREE estimate or for more information about our products and services, call us today at 602-455-6616—or contact us here.