How Much Do Double Paned Windows Cost?

What Are Double-Pane Windows?

Double pane windows are made from two panes of glass separated by a spacer that holds trapped gas, such as argon or krypton. They are considered an energy efficient window type.

The spacer helps hold the panes of glass firmly in place even if they are subjected to pressure from outside. A seal keeps gas from leaking out from between the two layers, ensuring that the windows will insulate the home at impressive levels.

When it comes down to single pane vs. double pane windows, it is easy to see why double-paned windows are some of the best replacement energy efficient windows available. In the sections below, we will talk more about their function, cost worth and benefits to help you make a decision for your home.

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Are Double Pane Windows Worth the Cost?

In a March 2021 Modernize survey, 40 percent of homeowners said they are actively pursuing home improvement projects to save money on their utility and electric bills. Because double paned windows are energy-efficient and better at insulating homes compared to single paned windows, installing them can lead to significant savings over time.

If you currently have single hung windows with only one pane of glass and high energy bills, double paned windows are worth the cost, especially if you are replacing all home windows at once. Keeping even a couple of single paned windows, however, will limit the overall energy savings you will see. When you change out all the single pane glass windows at once, you form an effective barrier that will make the most difference for your cost savings.

Double pane windows are definitely worth the cost once you start seeing the return on savings with a more energy efficient home. You may also be interested in knowing if triple pane windows are worth the investment. If you are planning to install new windows, it is always smart to use a window replacement cost calculator to get an idea of new window prices before talking to a local window contractor.

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Energy Efficient Gas Fillers 

Some double paned windows have air between the layers. Though air helps effectively insulate the window, a dense gas like argon or krypton will provide even better insulating properties for the replacement windows. Argon gas is the best gas to use because it is colorless, odorless, and nontoxic. Even if the glass leaks argon gas for some reason, it will not cause any harm in your home.

Double Paned Window Spacers

Most people give them very little thought, but the spacers between the two layers of dual pane glass in the window makes a difference in thermal performance as well as the window frame material you choose. Look for “warm edge spacers” which function as insulators and prevent heat from moving from one glass pane to the other. Double pane spacers can help with energy efficiency and lowering utility bills in the long run. You will want to decide which energy star rating is best for your budget.

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Benefits of Double-Paned Windows

Lower Condensation Issues

If you have owned a house with single pane windows in a cold climate, you know all about winter condensation issues. This is when water accumulates on your windows due to the temperature difference between the house’s interior and exterior. Single pane windows also transfer the cold into your home unlike dual paned windows. As the cold infiltrates, all the water vapor in your home that comes into contact with it turns to water and then freezes from the low temperatures coming through your windows. Double paned windows solve this issue by separating the warm interior pane and the outer colder pane. All of the top replacement window brands offer double pane glass windows with different frame types such as vinyl windows, aluminum windows, fiberglass frame windows, replacement wood windows, and even clad wood window installation options.

Enhanced Insulation

Because double pane windows keep the cold out in the winter and retain heat in the summer, they are more effective insulators than single pane replacement windows. The increased insulation comes from the extra layer of glass, of course. But even more so, the gas or air that is trapped between the two layers does the brunt of the insulating by slowing the transfer of heat in either direction of the window, especially when installing thermal windows.

Blocks the Noise

If you live in a noisy neighborhood, you will enjoy the noticeable increase of quiet you get after upgrading to double-pane windows. Compared to single pane replacement windows, dual pane windows barely let any sound in at all and are a great addition for sound proof windows for your home.