Once the norm, single-paned windows are rarely installed anymore.
There is no contest when comparing single- to double-paned windows.
Double-paned windows offer stellar energy efficiency, better soundproofing, and increased interior comfort.
The Spruce / Joules Garcia
What Is a Double-Paned Window?
A double-paned window has two panes of glass set into a frame.
Between the glass is an intervening gas or air pocket to better insulate a room.
This window is sometimes called a double-glazed window.
Double-paned windowsare now standard for both new construction and replacement windows.
Triple-paned windows are sometimes recommended in environments with harsh weather for maximum insulation.
Glazing
Glazing means glass or, in this sense, panes of window glass.
Professionals who work with glass are sometimes called glaziers.
This gas, denser than air, is the barrier against outside temperatures that single-paned windows cannot offer.
Pane vs. Sash
Window panes are sometimes confused withwindow sashes.
Panes are sheets of glass.Window sashesinclude glass, frame, and other components to form a complete window unit.
What R-Value Means For Double-Pane Windows
R-value measures the material’s resistance to energy transfer.
The higher the R-value number, the greater the resistance and the higher the insulating value of the window.
Most windows have a speciallow-E (low emissivity) insulating filmon the glass that adds to the R-value.
Wall R-Values vs.
Window R-Values
With window R-values reaching nearly 5.5, how does that compare to wall system R-values?
Window manufacturers continue to develop technologies that will allow windows to more closely approach the higher R-value of walls.
Still, walls will always provide better energy efficiency than windows.
Double-glazed casement windows cost from $355 to $900 per window unit.
Double-glazed windows areworth the costfor most homeowners.
In most areas, they are the norm.
They offer energy efficiency and soundproofing that single-paned windows don’t.
