The Types of Window Glass: Single and Double-Pane

Not all windows are created equal! Homeowners often get lost in other decisions such as wall color and carpeting, but there are a variety of window glass types to choose from as well, and choosing the right one can be a big decision. With varying costs and different energy rankings, it is easy to get lost when it comes time to choose a window type. Today we’ll look at two of the oldest and most common types of window glass – single and double pane.

Single pane
Single pane windows are common in older homes and aren’t very energy efficient. While they typically let in a lot of sunlight, they can drastically spike up a heating bill in the winter. Single pane windows are the cheapest windows you can purchase however. Modern technology has made the single pane a lot more energy efficient than it was a few decades ago; still, when compared to other types of windows it is on the low-end of the efficiency scale.

Double pane
Double pane windows, as the name suggests, offer a second pane of glass and increase the energy efficiency of the window. In colder climates, argon gas is infused between the two panes to increase insulation and energy efficiency. Double pane windows also do a much better job of blocking outside noise than single pane windows. Price-wise, double pane windows will be more expensive than single pane, but the amount of energy saved usually makes the initial cost worthwhile. These windows have become the preferred choice among most builders and are used in all window types.