Double Pane Windows
Double pane windows account for nearly 90% of all new construction and replacement windows manufactured today. Common names also include dual pane or double glazed. Whatever name you call them, double pane windows are one of the most energy efficient options on the market (the exception being triple pane windows.) For additional inform on window glass, refer to our Guide To Window Glazing.
Double Pane Window Basics
Double pane windows are simply windows that contain an outer and an inner pane of glass. This differs from the windows of old that were single glazed, meaning they contained only one pane of glass. The single pane version usually had an aluminum frame and, although quite strong, were highly inefficient, offering an R value of 1.
Dual pane windows were developed and manufactured as a more efficient technological advance in the window industries beginning several decades ago. The two panes are part of the insulated glass unit, abbreviated IGU. The IGU is a self-contained, sealed unit that contains the dual pane glass, argon or krypton fills, and a non metallic spacer. Dual pane windows will typically offer an R-value of 2. (Triple pane windows will typically offer an R-value of three.)
Dual Pane Window Costs
Because dual pane windows account for such a large percentage of the window market, the costs are essentially identical to normal replacement window prices. So, for instance, vinyl replacement windows will run $400 to $1200 fully installed. Wood clad windows, on the other hand, will run $1400 to $2800 fully installed.
In between these are fiberglass windows, which will run $1100 to $2300 fully installed. Likewise, aluminum windows will run $1100 to $2300 fully installed. Finally, composite windows are all over the board and very difficult to provide a price range for. One of the most popular composite windows is the Renewal By Andersen. Renewal By Andersen prices for a dual pane replacement window is $2200 to $2600 fully installed.
Window Ratings
Double pane window ratings will vary significantly, but will be much better than a single pane window. A high-quality dual pane window will achieve and R value of 2 and a U factor of .27. Most consumers should shoot for a double pane window that has a U factor of .31 or lower.
Popular Manufacturers
There are hundreds of dual pane window manufacturers. Here are three that market to a budget, mid range and high end clientele (in that order).
Jeld Wen Window Costs
Milgard Windows Pricing
Andersen Windows Prices
Related Topic: Double Hung Windows
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