Single Pane VS Double Pane Windows ｜ How Should I Choose?
Traditionally windows have always been single pane. Homes with older construction have this window style throughout. However, with the transformation of the manufacturing process, window designs have also evolved. Although single pane windows are still in use, double panes of glass are also becoming common. These window designs differ significantly. In this article, we shed light on the benefits, drawbacks and applications of single pane vs double pane windows allowing customers to make a better choice when opting for one for their home.
I. Single Pane Windows
Single pane windows are the most common type used in home installation even today. They are conventional windows that offer easier lightweight construction. With single pane windows, homeowners have a wider choice in terms of style, designs and materials.
1. What are Single Pane Windows?
These types of windows have a single sheet of glass in the windows. They are abundantly used within homes and even in modern constructions because they are standard. Most people are unaware that other varieties exist which is why they don’t inquire about other varieties. A single pane window has numerous characteristics and benefits that can make it a personal preference for customers.
2. Can single pane windows be energy-efficient?
When talking about single pane vs double pane windows, the former is relatively less efficient in terms of energy conservation. The treatment of single pane glass has no insulation either. This means that the weather outside can raise or lower the internal temperature. HVAC systems therefore have to do more work raising the power bills significantly.
3. Single Pane Windows Pros and Cons
There are not many advantages of single pane windows and despite being common, they are slowly becoming double or even triple pane windows. The only benefits of single pane windows are that they are inexpensive and can fit to larger window sizes easily. Besides these factors, manufacturers and contractors have better reasons not to install single pane windows within most modern homes.
Poor energy conservation: One of the primary functional features of windows is to protect the house from outside temperature rise or drop. Single pane windows are not very efficient at that allowing heat out and cold air in quite easily. When comparing single pane vs double pane windows, the latter are naturally more efficient.
Lack of noise reduction: A single sheet of glass is evidently not effective at ensuring noise reduction. Construction noises, animal sounds and numerous others can easily penetrate through single pane windows. Moreover, single-pane windows can generate banging or clicking noises on their own during high winds, rain or hail.
Less security: Single pane windows are available in variable thickness but overall, they are easy to break. This element compromises the general security of the home.
4. Where to buy single pane windows?
Single pane windows or glass sheets are readily available from a variety of manufacturers in your local marketplace. Homeowners or contractors can opt to either purchase these windows from a store or order them online. Some of the top companies include Alside Excalibur, Andersen, Jeld-Wen and WANJIA Windows and Doors. Wanjia offers a comprehensive selection of doors and windows in a variety of sizes, styles, and features. Users can also compare single pane vs double pane windows on their website.
II. Double Pane Windows
Double pane windows were commercially introduced in the 1950s but the started to become popular in the 1970s due to their numerous advantages over single pane windows. Today, single pane windows are rapidly being replaced by double pane windows in homes, offices and even vehicles.
1. What are Double Pane Windows?
With double pane windows, there are two sheets of glass stacked side by side at a certain distance. The design allows an air pocket to be built between the two layers providing energy-efficiency and noise reduction amongst numerous other benefits.
With double pane windows, there are two sheets of glass stacked side by side at a certain distance. The design allows an air pocket to be built between the two layers providing energy-efficiency and noise reduction amongst numerous other benefits.
2. What Are the Benefits of Double Pane Windows?
Double pane windows are rapidly becoming common, and it's not just homes. Even modern vehicles these days offer double glazing windows for better comfort and less road noise. The frequent use of double pane windows is due to their numerous benefits which include but are not limited to providing energy efficiency, reducing power costs, protecting homes against outside temperature changes, and increasing resale value.
3. Double Pane Windows Pros and Cons
For a thorough comparison of single pane vs double pane windows, here are some of the advantages of double pane windows in more detail:
There are some disadvantages to double pane windows. Here are some:
4. Where to Buy Double Pane Windows?
Almost every leading manufacturer has a range of designs and styles for double pane windows allowing customers a lot of convenience when in the market. The most noteworthy manufacturers of double pane windows include Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Pella and Wanjia to name a few. The quality and style range offered by Wanjia is extensive and the windows are affordable.
III. Single Pane or Double Pane: What Are the Differences?
1. Cost
Single pane windows cost relatively less as compared to double pane windows. The overall construction and materials used make for simpler production that eventually lowers the cost. Moreover, with double pane windows, there are additional costs like glazing and specific installation. Also, if the window breaks during installation, you have to pay for replacement rather than repair, like on single pane windows.
2. Appearance
Single pane vs double pane windows are available in identical styles. Aesthetically, it is hard to tell the difference between them. However, since single pane windows are going out of use quite rapidly, there are more designs available and manufacturers are innovating with newer ways of making these windows more interesting.
3. Quality
Depending on the manufacturer, both single and double pane windows are available in high-quality finishes. Double pane windows offer more benefits so they deliver greater value for money which makes them superior in this perspective. Overall quality for both remains identical when purchasing from a trusted manufacturer.
4. Insulation
This one remains undisputed. Double pane windows are made up of two sheets of glass which provide far greater insulation as compared to single pane windows. Furthermore, the two sheets of glass hold a small air pocket between them which provides additional temperature shielding for the home or office where they are installed. These factors allow double pane types to excel in insulation comparison of single pane vs double pane windows.
5. Energy Efficiency
Double hung windows provide greater energy efficiency for homes. Their insulation capabilities allow HVAC systems within homes to function more effectively. Double pane windows provide strong barriers for heat to leave the house or cool air to enter, offering greater benefits in terms of energy conservation.
6. Thermal efficiency
Once again, double pane windows take the prize here. Their construction allows a strong barrier between the outside atmosphere and the internal temperature. When it is cold outside, your home can stay warm and vice versa thanks to double pane windows. Single pane windows don’t provide the same level of comfort.
7. Installation
The installation of double and single pane windows is similar. They are manufactured in identical frames and can be installed by the same professional. However, handling is a crucial concern because a slight mishap can be more costly with double pane windows.
The installation of double and single pane windows is similar. They are manufactured in identical frames and can be installed by the same professional. However, handling is a crucial concern because a slight mishap can be more costly with double pane windows.
8. Maintenance & Cleaning
Both double and single pane windows are easy to maintain and clean. Essentially, they are still panes of glass which means that a squeegee and glint are enough to keep these windows looking fresh and beautiful.
IV. Conclusion
Having to choose between single pane vs double pane windows is quite common in modern construction. However, the many benefits that double pane windows have over single pane windows make them a preferable choice for both contractors and homeowners. Double pane windows are expensive but they provide more in terms of value to customers. This allows more people to gravitate towards them when building a home. Contemporary designers are now even installing triple pane windows which have even more benefits but are naturally more expensive.