Here I will write in detail about the Condensation in Double Pane Windows. In my previous post I have shed some light on Condensation in Triple Pane Windows.  I want to add that post that some fogging is natural and condensation will disappear while other causes are an indication of what industry experts refer to as “failure.” While natural condensation is nothing to worry about, if your window develops and retains condensation for other reasons, it may require repair or replacement.

Condensation on Double Pane Windows

What is Condensation?

Condensation is an accumulation of water on the windowpane. Condensation on the outside surface of a window most often occurs during cold weather. Water vapors develop as the temperature lowers, and the molecules inside the vapors move closer and closer together until they form water droplets. When the air temperature reaches what is called the “dew point,” the condensation process begins, and the droplets collect as a visible stream or build up of liquid, on the outside or in between the double windowpanes.

Structural Problems Causing Condensation

A double-pane window is not made of glass alone. Gas is enclosed in between the panes. The gas layer provides desirable insulation properties to reduce heat loss and during cold weather and heat gain during warm weather. Some double-pane windows also have a thin layer of film covering the inner panes to further reduce heat loss and gain. When the inside layer is compromised through faulty manufacturing, improper maintenance or aging, condensation can develop.

Natural Condensation

Double-pane windows go through a natural daily cycle of expansion and contraction, which is called solar and thermal pumping. Solar pumping occurs as sunlight shines on the windows it heats the gas inside of the two glass panes. Thermal pumping occurs when the sun goes down and the glass contracts. Natural condensation, on the outside of windows, due to solar or thermal pumping is okay, and usually evaporates as the temperature rises.

Silica Desiccant Deterioration

In addition to gas and film, double-pane windows have a material called silica desiccant inside the frames of the window. The desiccant is composed of tiny pellets that absorb moisture. As the desiccant ages, it loses its capability to absorb moisture and prevent condensation if the moisture from the outside seeps through the double-pane windows to the inner areas. This results in condensation forming on the outside and in between the double-pane windows.

How To Prevent Condensation in Windows Panes?

Homeowners should continually examine double-pane windows. Even newly installed windows might have batch issues, which if left undetected can lead to early failure. Check windows on bright and sunny days by inspecting the edges closest to the frames to see if there are any visible signs of condensation. If so, you should notify your retailer immediately to have the windows repaired or replaced. 

Every two yeas you should re-caulk the exterior seam where the glass and the window frame meet the exterior material of the home, such as wood or brick mortar. This reinforces the integrity of the double-pane window structure and helps prevent the development of condensation.

I hope this article have helped you to understand the Problem of Condensation in Double Pane Windows and Your Double Pane Windows will last Longer. In future I will write about different problems in Double and Triple Pane Windows and their fix or Replacements, so Stay Tuned!

In this post I will describe why Triple Pane Windows Fog Up or Condensation on Outside? Or if you are having Moisture outside the Windows? In my previous post I have in detail compared the two windows i.e Double Pane Windows vs. Triple Pane Windows. Now I will discuss some very common problems to the Triple Pane Windows. You can Also Check my Article about Double Pane Windows Condensation.

A Foggy Window

What does Pane Windows Condensation Indicates?

Triple pane window construction consists of three layers of glass. Between the center layer and each of the outer layers is a layer of gas, such as argon or krypton. Called fill gases, they insulate the glass, reducing the amount of energy lost through the home's windows. 

Triple pane windows create a barrier between the warm dry air inside your home, and cold, more moist air on the outside. Condensation, or fog, on these windows indicates that they are no longer doing their job.

Why Fog? (Condensation)

Fogging of triple pane windows is the result of one side of the glass being a different temperature and moisture level than the opposite side of the same glass. The sweat that forms when this happens can be damaging to your home's exterior at worst, and at best, blocks or clouds your view through the offending window. Window glass responds to environmental factors the same way as a glass full of ice water sweats outwardly on a hot day.

Shows Failure

The presence of fog on the outside of the window indicates that the triple pane window technology has failed. In new windows, it could be anything from a manufacturer's defect to improper installation procedures. In older windows, it is usually caused by a leaking seal. As these windows age, the seals may break down and allow air and humidity in between the panes, while at the same time releasing the insulating gas and resulting in fogging.

Condensation Inside Panes

Sometimes the fog occurs on the inside of the triple pane window. It is almost always caused by too much moisture inside the home. With new homes this is a common problem as the new building materials are still in the process of drying out. In older homes, adjusting the humidity inside the house to reduce the relative humidity should solve the problem.

Your Location

Sometimes your location can affect how much fog appears on the windows. For instance, parts of the United States where average winter temperatures are 35 degrees Fahrenheit or lower see more condensation problems due to the large discrepancy between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Areas with warmer winters do not usually have problems with fogging windows. Triple pane windows are an ideal choice for colder climates because their technology reduces the instance of outdoor fogging.

I hope this article would have helped you understanding the Condensation in Triple Pane windows, In future I will write about how to fix this condensation problem and also about the Condensation in Double Pane Windows.

This article describes the in detail comparison of Double Pane Windows vs. Triple Pane Windows. I have written introductory articles about Double Pane Windows and Triple Pane Windows.  Now we will considers them side by side, comparing them so we know which one is better!

If you're buying new windows, you may wonder if you need to consider triple-pane glass. In most cases, double-pane windows will be your best option, but triple-pane occasionally makes more sense.

Windows - Your World View

How to Identify Triple Pane vs. Double Pane Windows?

Sometimes one gets confused how to identify Triple Pane windows from Double Pane windows. Double-pane and triple-pane refer to the number of glass sheets in a single window opening, either two or three. In either case, there's air or a gas locked between the panes, adding insulation.

Single Pane - Double Pane -  Triple Pane Windows

Triple Pane Windows

The major benefit of triple- over double-pane glass is greater insulation. There's also less sound transfer.  A triple-pane window has interior, middle and exterior layers of glass; surrounding the middle pane are inert gases. 

The third pane of glass, plus the two air spaces between the three-glass layers, provide extra insulation. As energy costs have increased over the years, triple-pane windows have become increasingly popular among homeowners looking for ways to reduce their energy bills.

 

Drawbacks

Triple-pane windows cost about 25 percent more than comparable double-pane windows. They're also heavier and more awkward to use.

Double Pane Windows

Double pane windows became common in residential use during the 1950s when they were placed mostly in picture windows. But because double panes were found to be a good source of additional insulation, more and more homeowners began using them in all windows. 

Double-pane windows consist of two panes of glass with an air space between them usually measuring a half inch or less. Some double-pane windows include ventilation holes that enable movement between outside air and the air contained in the space between the glass panes.

Advantages and Insulation Ratings 

Both double- and triple-pane windows offer more insulation than single-pane windows, as measured by R value. An R value pertains to an insulation's resistance to heat flow; the higher the R value, the better the insulation. Generally, a double-pane window with low e-glass (the most commonly used glass fiber in fiberglass) carries an R value of 3.5 to 4.0. Triple-pane windows that have added krypton and two coats of low e-glass can have an R value of 9.0.

Disadvantages 

Triple Pane Windows contain three panes of glass, triple-pane windows cost more than single- or double-pane windows. In addition, triple-pane windows are substantially heavier, making them more difficult--and possibly more expensive--to install. 

Double-pane windows are designed with a sealed double glazing that prevents air from entering or exiting the space between the two glass panes. If the seal becomes compromised because of age, wear or damage, condensation could develop between the panes, limiting visibility and diminishing the insulation value.

Considerations 

Because triple-pane windows cost significantly more than single- or double-pane windows, you need to consider whether potential energy savings will offset the higher price tag. Triple-pane windows might be most cost-effective in cold climates and areas that experience winter-like weather several months out of the year.

Whichever type of windows you buy, consider having them glazed with a UV coating. This increases energy efficiency without adding much to your overall cost.

 

I hope this article will help you in selecting the best for your home between Double Pane Windows and Triple Pane Windows.

This article will give you basic insight about Double Pane Windows. I have earlier written an introductory article about Triple Pane Windows. And also discussed some of the advantages and disadvantages of both type of windows. Now I will describe some aspects of the Double Pane Windows.

What is a Double Pane Window?

The growing consciousness of the need for energy efficiency has driven home the importance of revolutionizing the home construction industry. One consequence has been the increasing replacement of single pane windows with double pane windows. Double pane windows consist of two glass panels, which face each other, and are set in a single frame.

The two glass panels are separated from each other by a small gap of approximately half of an inch. Sometimes the gap between the glass panels is filled with a non-toxic gas such as argon, which enhances the insulating property of double pane windows. They are also called double glazed windows.

Double Pane Windows

 Why to Choose Double Pane Windows?

Double pane windows can be quite attractive home features. But their popularity in comparison to single pane windows far exceed any visual allure. They are highly regarded for their energy efficient properties. Energy efficiency is of primary concern considering data reveals that energy loss in the average American home accounts for approximately 25% of annual heating and cooling costs. Double pane windows can positively impact householders’ utility bills since they insulate the home from the outside elements. The glass panels of double pane windows usually have a special coating which reflects infrared light.

This feature is effective across climates as in the warmer months of summer, light and heat is kept out, which leaves homes cooler. Meanwhile, homes are kept warmer in the cold winter periods as double paned windows keep heat inside homes. This insulating feature of double glazed windows benefits home owners also by protecting household items such as rugs and furniture from sun damage. Double pane windows are also the preferred choice among homeowners who are keen on reducing noise from outside disturbances.

Individuals therefore who live in close proximity to schools, areas with heavy traffic build up or other noisy environments will find double pane windows more advantageous than single pane windows. The snug set of the glass panels sealed into the frames are quite effective in preventing sound leakage. Double pane windows are also specially treated making them are harder to break, offering greater protection to home owners against possible game ball accidents.

Double Pane Windows Disadvantages

There really are a few, if any, disadvantages in retrofitting homes with double pane windows. One only has to ensure the right purchase is made based on individual needs and desires. The only downside to replacing single pane windows with double paned ones is the cost. The cost can be somewhat off putting, but the long term saving gains will more than compensate for the initial expense. 

 If one is replacing windows, or constructing a new home, one should also consider triple pane windows. They are more expensive than double panes, but they are more energy efficient. However, depending on how cold or hot it gets where you are, double glazed windows may be the more practical option.

I hope this Introductory article about Double Pane Windows will helped you in making the right choice between Triple Pane Windows and Double Pane Windows.

Stay tune, In future I will write more about performance characteristics and Efficiency of Double Pane and Triple Pane Windows.

While selecting a Windows of a house a lot of people are confused about choosing between Triple Pane Windows or Double Pane Windows? There are some pros and cons of both the Triple Pane Windows and Double Pane Windows. In this post I will shed some light on the both Pane Windows. And I hope it will help you to make a wisely decision.

What is A Triple Pane Window?

Windows generally come in either single pane, double pane or triple pane. A triple pane window is simply a window that has an exterior, middle and interior pane, with a layer of gas (usually argon or krypton, though sometimes air) between the middle pane and the other two panes. As such triple pane windows are very energy efficient, more so than the other window types.

That is, they greatly reduce loss of heat from inside, and the transmission from outside to inside. In other words, when the time is hot, the heat from outside will not easily seep into your home or building through these windows. Similarly, when it is cold, the heat inside your home will not easily leak out through these windows.

Single Pane -  Double Pane - Triple Pane Windows

Triple Pane Windows vs. Double Pane Windows

The battle between different types of windows comes down to price vs. efficiency. Considering the insulation that they provide, as just explained, it would seem a good choice to go with triple pane windows over the other kinds. For providing better insulation translates to reduced energy consumption that you would undergo to either maintain the warm or cool temperature inside your house. So then, why would anyone choose not to go with triple pane windows? Well although there are cost savings involved, in terms of using less power for heating or cooling, triple pain windows can be a lot more expensive. So much so that the amount you will save in energy costs, would not compensate for the extra costs you would pay upfront, over the lifespan of the windows.

Furthermore, it is likely that new technology will produce even better kinds of windows at cheaper costs, so it might make sense to simply go with double pane windows until such a time comes. Another drawback with triple pane windows is that they can be very heavy. This has implications for the structure in which they are going. If the structure is not built to take this weight, damage may be caused to both the building and the windows themselves in due course. Of course, if you had your structure built well enough then this is not an issue.

However, the heaviness of these windows could mean added expense if you are getting them shipped to you. Also, this reduces the options available for framing. And of course, it could pose a tad more challenging to install than regular double panes.

Why to Choose Triple Pane Windows

As discussed earlier Triple Pane Windows has high Price as well as they are heavy so why bother thinking about them? Things are not that simple. 

You can consider triple pane windows a luxury. They might not be economical, but they do provide more comfort and warmth inside. If you were to stand near such windows inside a home when it is freezing outside, and compare this to double pane windows, you would have no doubt about the difference. Another thing going for these luxurious windows, is that they do not have nearly as much condensation on the inside.

So if you don’t like having to deal with that on your windows, then this advantage to the triple panes might make them worth it. It should also be mentioned that while for most people, the savings in energy costs might not be worth it, it does to some extent depend on where you live and how cold (or hot) it might get. So for those living further to the north where it gets really cold, it might be better to go with the triple. Some people might also add that external noise is much better filtered with the triple panes than dual panes. Generally speaking this is probably true, due to the differences in glass thickness and space between panes.

However, you should realise that if the thickness of the glasses and the overall space in between the interior and the exterior are the same for both the triple and double, then they are about equal when it comes to sound insulation. One thing you should know, if you do decide to go with triple pane windows that contain either argon or krypton or a mixture, is that the gas does leak over time, even without any damage to the window. A fair estimate is approximately 1% per year. So eventually air will replace the gas, and this will reduce the energy efficiency of the windows.

Buying Guide for Triple Pane Vs. Double Pane (or other General Windows)

Windows are given U and R ratings. U values indicate how well heat is conducted. R values tell how well heat is resisted. This means the lower the U value the better. Conversely, the higher the R value, the better it is. The R values are what is used mostly, and they normally range anywhere from 0.9 to 3.0.

The R-value of a window is dependent on the number of layers of glass used, the quality of the installation with respect to air leaks, the glazing material type, whether plastic, glass or other, the size of the air space in between the glass layers, and finally how well the frame itself behaves as a resistor or conductor.

So if you are comparing windows, you need to pay attention to the U or R values. To ensure you’re comparing apples with apples, you need to verify that these values are guided by the standards established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). You should also check to see that these values are for comparable styles, and the same size windows. Another factor that will determine that your comparison is valid, is just what is the R or U value measured for. Is it just the middle of the glass, or is it for the whole window including the frame?

In conclusion, Triple Pane Windows vs. Double Pane Windows ,we have seen advantages and disadvantages to triple pane windows, and we have provided guidance for how to evaluate your options in windows. It is hoped that this information has been helpful.

In future I will post more about Triple Pane Windows and Double Pane Windows, like there performance characteristics, efficiency etc. so stay Tuned.