How Much Do Triple-Pane Windows Cost? (2024)
Typical Cost Range:
$400–$3,000 per window
Clicking “Get Your Estimate” submits your data to Home Service Quotes, which will process your data in accordance with the Home Service Quotes Privacy Policy.
Ad Disclaimer
Triple-pane windows cost homeowners an average of $1,000 but typically range from $400–$3,000 per window. See which factors will impact your total cost.
Triple-pane windows consist of three glass panes with a gas-insulated space between each layer. Although these windows are more expensive and less common than double- or single-pane windows, they’re more energy efficient and better at preventing heat loss.
We have researched the best replacement windows and compiled this guide to triple-pane windows to help you decide if they’re right for your home.
Window Replacement
Window replacement typically costs $300–$2,000 per window, depending on the window type.
Window Repair
Window repair typically costs $177–$623, but it can vary based on the type of repair.
What’s the Cost Of Triple-Pane Windows?
The cost of triple-pane windows can vary considerably from as low as $400 to well over $3,000. However, they cost an average of $1,000 per window, including installation. Your total cost depends on the size and type of window being replaced, as well as the frame material and any extra cost for labor.
How Much Do Triple-Pane Windows Cost for Your Whole House?
The cost of triple-pane windows for your whole house costs an average of $5,000–$25,000. The triple-pane windows cost varies by the number, size, type, and style of windows that you are replacing.
Number of Windows | Average Cost |
---|---|
5–6 | $5,000–$6,000 |
8–10 | $8,000–$10,000 |
13–15 | $13,000–$15,000 |
18–20 | $18,000–$20,000 |
23–25 | $23,000–$25,000 |
How Do Top Triple-Pane Windows Providers Compare?
See how different top window brands compare to find the best triple-pane window installer for your home.
How Do Triple-Pane vs. Double-Pane Windows Compare?
Double-pane windows are a lower-cost alternative to triple-pane windows. Though three glass layers provide better insulation and energy efficiency than two, both double- and triple-pane windows are more efficient than single-pane windows, particularly if you pick an Energy Star-rated design. Here’s how the two stack up against each other.
Triple-Pane
Cost: More expensive
Efficiency: 97%
Security: Better
Noise Reduction: STC 26-38
Insulation: R-value of up to 5
Double-Pane
Cost: Less expensive
Efficiency: 90%
Security: Good
Noise Reduction: STC 26-32
Insulation: R-value of 3–3.7
Triple-pane windows are slightly better at blocking sounds but the difference is often minimal. Both have a similar sound transmission class (STC) value, though high-end triple-pane windows can be slightly more soundproof. Additionally, three glass panes are harder to break than two, so triple-pane windows are more secure.
The highlight of triple-pane windows are their insulating properties, which allow for better energy savings. Windows with a high R-value are better at blocking heat flow, allowing less heat to escape your home in cold weather. Double-pane windows may allow up to 10% of heat to escape the home, while triple-pane windows reduce that number to 3%. However, triple-pane windows cost almost twice as much per window as the cost of a double-pane window.
How Do Triple-Pane Windows Work?
Triple-pane windows, also called triple-glazed windows, have three glass panes each separated by a layer of gas that’s sealed into the sash. Glass on its own isn’t a good insulator of heat or sound, so the gas fill works to keep heat and noise from transferring through. Triple-pane windows are significantly more energy-efficient and slightly better at reducing sound than double-pane windows.
What Factors Affect Triple-Pane Window Cost?
- Window type: Smaller, less complex windows cost less.
- Labor: The easier a window is to install, the less labor costs.
- Material: Aluminum is the least expensive frame material, and fiberglass is the most expensive.
- Story: First floor windows cost less to install than those on higher floors.
- Gas fill: Windows filled with krypton gas are more expensive than those with argon.
- Glass treatment: Low-E glass costs more than regular glass.
Cost by Window Type
Different types of windows come with different costs. Large windows with complicated opening mechanisms cost more in both materials and labor. Here are some average costs per window, including installation.
- Awning window: $1,100
- Bay window: $4,000
- Bow window: $9,600
- Casement window: $1,250
- Double-hung window: $820
- Hopper window: $700
- Picture window: $650
- Skylight window: $1,800
- Single-hung window: $575
- Size is also a factor, with triple-pane glass typically costing $25–$40 per square foot.
Labor Cost
Triple-pane windows have higher labor costs because they’re heavier and more difficult to work with. You’ll want to budget about $100–$800 per window for triple-pane window installation. Anything that increases the time and effort it takes to install the window will also increase the price.
Cost by Material
Costs also vary by window frame material. Aluminum is usually the cheapest window replacement option, but it’s also the poorest insulator. Insulated vinyl is a better choice if you want energy-efficient windows. Fiberglass is the most insulating and durable material, but it’s expensive and harder to find.
Material | Cost Per Window |
---|---|
Aluminum | $725 |
Composite | $1,450 |
Fiberglass | $1,800 |
Vinyl | $900 |
Wood | $1,100 |
Cost by Story
First floor windows are the least expensive. Replacing windows on upper stories typically takes at least an hour longer and requires extra equipment and safety precautions, increasing the installation cost.
Cost by Gas Fill
Triple-pane windows’ energy-efficient properties come from the three glass panes as well as the insulating gas in the space between them. Krypton gas is the highest-quality gas fill but it’s the most expensive. Argon gas is more common and affordable. It’s slightly less effective than krypton, but it still does a much better job of preventing heat transfer than standard air.
Glass Treatment
Purchasing windows with a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating will further reduce your energy costs. Low-E glass has a thin coating that allows less sunlight to pass through, making it more energy-efficient. Windows with Low-E glass cost about 15% more than standard windows.
Ad Disclaimer
Get Estimates from Window Experts in Your Area
Compare quotes from local pros
Clicking “Get Your Estimate” submits your data to Home Service Quotes, which will process your data in accordance with the Home Service Quotes Privacy Policy.
Can You Install Triple-Pane Windows Yourself?
While you can install triple-pane windows yourself, they are heavy and difficult to work with, so it’s usually wise to have them professionally installed rather than trying to do it on your own. Here’s what to expect from both professional and do-it-yourself (DIY) installation.
Professional Window Installation
A window replacement contractor can usually install one new window in an hour. However, it will take longer to install windows on upper floors. Professionals will know how to meet all necessary building codes and work with your home’s existing structure to ensure everything is properly installed.
DIY Window Installation
Installing triple-pane windows is not a DIY-friendly job. Though the process will be cheaper if you do the project yourself, it will take longer, and you must buy all the necessary tools and insulating materials.
How To Hire a Professional Window Installer
Here are some questions to ask when comparing contractors.
- Is the contractor properly licensed and insured?
- Does the person have experience installing triple-pane windows?
- Can they provide an estimate with an itemized cost breakdown?
- What is their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating? Are they accredited?
- What do former customers have to say? How well are they rated on review sites?
How To Save Money on Triple-Pane Windows
Here are some ways to keep window costs down, even if you hire professional installers.
- Choose a frame material that’s inexpensive but still provides proper insulation. This usually means insulated vinyl frames.
- Stick with standard window sizes and styles.
- Replace all your windows at once if possible. Though this will cost more up-front, it will ultimately be less expensive than having them done one at a time.
- Replace your windows during summer or winter, when window contractors are less in-demand and may charge less.
- Get quotes from multiple contractors. You may be able to negotiate.
Ad Disclaimer
Get Estimates from Window Experts in Your Area
Compare quotes from local pros
Clicking “Get Your Estimate” submits your data to Home Service Quotes, which will process your data in accordance with the Home Service Quotes Privacy Policy.
Are Triple-Pane Windows Worth It?
There are situations where triple-pane windows can definitely be worth it for your home. Triple-pane windows are typically best for cold climates. Though more expensive, the cost will be offset by savings on your heating bill. We recommend having a professional install your windows. This will cost more than doing it yourself, but it’s quicker and will ensure the job is done correctly, as triple-pane windows can be difficult to work with.
FAQs About Triple-Pane Window Cost
Are triple-pane windows worth it?
Whether triple-pane windows are worth it depends on your budget and your home’s needs. Triple-pane windows can greatly reduce energy bills in cold climates where it’s important to keep heated air indoors.
How much does it cost to install triple windows?
Installing triple-pane windows typically costs $1,000 per window, although the price can be as low as $400 or as high as $3,000 depending on the window type.
What are the disadvantages of triple-pane windows?
Triple-pane windows are more expensive to buy and install than single- or double-pane windows. They’re also heavier, require a sturdier frame, and don’t reduce much more noise than double-pane windows.
What is the difference between triple-pane windows and double-pane windows?
Double-pane windows consist of two glass panes with a spacer gas in between. Triple-pane windows consist of three glass panes also separated by spacer gas. Triple-pane windows are more energy-efficient and expensive than double-pane windows.
How do I know when to replace my windows?
If you see condensation between the panes of double- or triple-pane windows, the seal has failed and you need new ones. Likewise, if you notice more sound from the outdoors or feel any drafts, your windows are no longer properly insulated. Finally, rising energy bills with no other explanation are often a sign that heat is leaking from your windows.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.