Double pane windows, also known as double-glazed windows, are window units that incorporate two glass panes that are hermetically sealed. They are separated by a spacer and filled with an insulating gas, such as argon or krypton.
There are several factors that drive the cost of double-pane windows. These include the frame material, size, and style.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficient windows help to reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool your home. They also provide you with a better chance of saving money on your utility bills. The energy efficient technology found in double pane windows allows for the windows to restrict heat transfer and reduce the amount of outside air entering your home.
Double pane windows can also help to reduce noise pollution. The insulated glazing of the dual panes acts as a sound barrier, which helps to block out sounds like traffic, neighbors, and emergency sirens from getting inside your home.
Double pane windows can be more expensive than single-pane windows, but the added insulating benefits could save you money over time. In fact, the savings on your energy bills will likely make your new windows pay for themselves over time. The number of panes and the type of window you choose will be major determinants in your overall cost.
Reduced Noise Pollution
Modern double pane windows offer a host of benefits including greater energy efficiency, lower heating and cooling costs, increased home comfort, and reduced noise pollution. Additionally, dual pane windows eliminate the need for storm windows which saves homeowners time and effort when it comes to taking them down each spring and putting them back up in the winter.
Double and triple pane windows with varying glass thicknesses dampen and disperse sound waves which results in greatly improved noise control performance. Adding an optional argon gas fill between the glass panes will further improve sound reduction capabilities.
Double pane windows come in many popular styles to fit any style or design of home. They are available in casement windows, double hung windows and sliding windows. They are also available with a wide variety of color and style options to suit any taste. Look for a window with a high STC rating to maximize sound abatement benefits.
Elimination of Storm Windows
Double pane windows have two sheets of glass, creating pockets for a heavier insulating gas like argon. This helps to stunt heat transfer and keep your home a consistent temperature throughout the year, resulting in reduced energy usage.
This can be especially helpful in the hot and cold Madison county Alabama seasons, when your HVAC system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Having double pane windows eliminates the need for storm windows, which can be quite a hassle to take down and put back up each spring and winter.
To remove interior storm windows, first pull out the clips holding the screen in place. Then, if you have paint on the screws holding them to the house, use a screw-removal tool, like a Grabit, to drill through the paint and remove the screws. You can then easily slide the window out of the frame. You can also choose to have Indow interior storm windows, which are a compression fit over the existing window and don’t require any mounting hardware.
Increased Home Value
Double pane windows provide better insulating properties than single pane windows, helping you save money on your energy bills. They also help keep the cold out in winter and the hot out in summer. They can actually pay for themselves over time with the savings on your utility bills. Additionally, these windows reduce outside noise and may help with your sleep quality.
In addition to saving energy, a well-installed dual pane window provides superior condensation resistance and offers insulation that keeps harmful UV radiation out of your home. UV rays can damage carpets, wood floors and even artwork and sentimental items. Double pane windows help protect these valuables from fading and discoloring.
Adding double-pane windows to your house can increase its value by making it more attractive to potential buyers. However, it is important to factor in other costs such as labor, brand, season and any required permits. These factors will affect the total cost of your project.