Contrary to popular belief, all windows aren’t the same. Of course, you may be familiar with different frame types, but you might think that what’s in the middle of those frames is relatively standardized. Glass is glass, right? There’s not much to it. As long as it isn’t cracked, any kind of window will serve your home well.
Unfortunately, this false line of thinking costs Minnesotan families and businesses so much comfort and money each and every winter season. While window frames are important too, the right kind of pane makes all the difference in the way your window functions—and it’s why we at Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors, as window contractors, recommend the triple-pane type. Because of their unique construction, they stand head and shoulders above their single or double-paned competitors and maximize the benefits a well-made and well-installed window brings.
What Is a Triple-Pane Window?
Of course, before we elaborate on that, you need some context. What is a triple-pane window anyway? Of course, you may have already guessed that it’s a window with three panes, but it’s a little more complicated than that. These three panes have a small amount of space between them that can be pumped with various gasses, such as Argon or Krypton. Though those gasses may sound scary, rest assured they’re completely harmless, and they’re already in the air we breathe. They’re widely used in the window industry today to provide insulation and thus make homes more comfortable and energy-efficient.
In short, a triple-pane window is essentially a window which has more space to fit these gasses than its double-paned brethren, thanks to its three separate panes.
Why Are Triple-Pane Windows Worth it?
Does a bit of extra gas really make a difference? Take it from the window replacement pros: it sure does. Like we said above, triple-pane windows are the workhorses of the window world; they do everything double-pane windows do, but better.
- Triple-pane windows are an amazing defense against the Minnesotan cold. Because there is more of that insulating gas to go around, triple-pane windows make your home warmer and thus more comfortable. With triple-pane windows, you can cozy up to the fireplace or space heater and pretend it’s summer for a bit; we won’t judge. Minnesotan winters are hard enough even without what 2020 has thrown at you.
- Triple-pane windows are at a lower risk for condensation. We’ve talked ad-nauseum about window condensation on our window installation blog, and here we are again—it’s a pertinent topic! Triple-pane windows are somewhat less likely to result in excessive moisture accumulation because they’re good insulators and thus tend to be warmer than their double-paned brethren. Given that condensation can happen when warm and humid air from your home hits a cold window, it’s no wonder.
- Triple-pane windows can add to your home’s value. These windows are not yet widely used in the construction industry; they’re generally considered a luxury product. Of course, then, they can be a major selling point for your home in the future if you ever do hit the market. Now that you know some of the benefits, it’ll be easy to explain why a potential buyer would take note of them.
Why Should my Triple-Pane Windows Have Vinyl Frames?
We’ve touched on vinyl windows before on our blog and explained their superiority to wood frames—but why should they be your frame-of-choice for your triple-pane windows? Indeed, vinyl isn’t the most expensive option out there; wouldn’t the most luxurious frame be the best fit for the best-performing pane?
While we see the benefits of other frame types, we at Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors recommend vinyl frames for triple-pane windows for a few reasons:
- They cut down on cost. We won’t lie: because so much goes into making a triple-pane window, they do tend to be pricier than other options on the market. Combine that with the expense of other frame types and you’re left with a window that’s probably drastically out of your budget—unless you want to be swimming in debt. Vinyl frames, on the other hand, bring the benefits of triple-pane windows into the realm of economic possibility by being relatively affordable. Enjoy the warmth and condensation-reducing effects of this window type while smartly saving cash.
- They’re easy to clean. You’ll want to keep your new investment in tip-top shape, but that can become a drag more than a matter of pride with maintenance-heavy window frames like wood. Vinyl frames, in contrast, are a cinch to clean, meaning that you can easily keep your triple-pane windows looking great.
- They insulate amazingly. Vinyl is a great insulator, oftentimes surpassing other more expensive materials like wood. When paired with powerhouse triple-pane windows, vinyl frames can make your home as snug as a bug, as well as cut down on your heating bills.
Contact Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors for Top-Notch Triple-Pane Insulation
Of course, you’ll only get something out of your new windows with a high-quality window installer on your side. If your family needs bay windows, casement windows, or anything in between, contact Tony’s Lifetime Exteriors of Sauk Rapids now at 320-252-9086.