Community Chat

[SahmIam]

@SilleeMee  Thank you so much for that info; makes perfect sense! For our needs, it sounds as though the triple-pane plus low-E is the best choice. I'm keeping this house as a rental property once we relocate (years away) and having renters who don't complain about their utilities bill PLUS noise is a definite perk, lol. I do believe that our state offers a rebate/tax credit/SOMETHING when choosing high efficiency window... I will definitely look into that program as well.

Thank you again, my friend. : )

[Lila Belle]

We have double paned widows with the stuff in between because it doesn't get super cold where we live.

They do block sound. Really great when fireworks go off and our dog doesn't bark or get upset from the noise.

[gardenman]

The more layers of glazing the less sound penetration you'll get. The drawback of course is that now you have more room for a seal failure of the window and the windows will be heavier and need a stronger counterweight system to offset the extra weight. The weight's more of an issue for the installer than the consumer, but the seals in multi-pane windows can be a real pain for consumers. If the seal betwen any of the panes becomes compromised, then air can get in and bring in moisture and the pane unit will need to be replaced.

Depending on the costs, and your aesthetics, single or double glazed windows combined with a good quality storm window can be another option for you to consider. You get the extra layer of glass for noise suppression, but there's less worry about a broken seal.

[SilleeMee]

For those of us who live at high altitudes, 1000 feet and higher, argon-gas will escape from the window panes if you bought your windows manufactured at sea level and installed them in your high-altitude house. So be sure to check where your windows are made before purchasing. 

fyi: argon gas is used in between panes of glass to make them more thermally insulated...R-value increased by about 20%.

[x Hedge]

Very interesting point @SilleeMee. Thank you

[Puzzle Piece]

No, just dual paned with some sort of gas inside.  I would consider the triple paned for sound insulation and energy savings.