Advantages of Triple Pane Glass for Commercial Windows
12/08/2020
Whether beginning a new commercial construction project or replacing windows in an existing building, choosing the right type of glass is a critical part of the planning process. There is a great number of different types of glass available, with dual pane being the most common. However, triple-pane glass can provide a wealth of advantages for commercial buildings.
Door and Window Market outlines the three key advantages of triple pane windows in commercial construction:
1. U-Value Optimization
Energy efficiency is top of mind in many modern construction projects and triple-pane windows optimize U-values. Air circulation increases convection, which decreases thermal performance, by transferring heat. Triple-pane designs create two smaller air gaps, resulting in less convection and consequently better thermal performance. In addition, low-conductivity gases like krypton and argon/krypton blends tend to be more effective in smaller, more confined areas, resulting in optimum U-values.
2. Condensation Resistance
Condensation occurs when the inside temperature is higher than the outside temperature. In addition to being unsightly, over time the moisture from condensation can cause damage to window frames. Triple-pane windows have a higher condensation resistance than dual-pane windows, because of the additional layer of glass. According to Door and Window Market, condensation resistance on triple-pane windows can be boosted by using warm edge spacer systems.
3. Sound Attenuation
Triple-pane windows make an enormous impact on acoustic comfort. As Door and Window Market explains:
Similarly, the number of panes (or glazes) in a window greatly affects its energy efficiency, as this informs how insulative the glass actually is. Single-paned windows offer very poor insulation and allow heat to pass through them very easily, making them very cold in winter and very warm in summer. By definition, an energy-efficient window must contain at least two panes of glass, though there are also triple-pane varieties on the market. In both cases an inert gas (such as argon or krypton) is used to fill the spaces between panes, which in turn helps improve insulation against unwanted heat transfer into or out of the building. Increasing the number of glass panes also lowers the window’s overall U-value, as multiple panes reduce the rate of conduction.
For these reasons, triple-pane glass is an excellent choice for buildings in a noisy environment and a cold climate. Triple pane glass can provide the greatest reduction to heat loss and acoustic comfort, while also improving energy efficiency.
Not sure what type of windows are ideal for your commercial construction project? Call to discuss options or contact us for a quote.