The Difference Between Dual Pane Windows vs Triple Pane Windows

When it comes to upgrading your windows, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between dual pane and triple pane glass.

Both are great options, but they perform differently, especially in Western Canada’s extreme weather.

If you’re wondering which option is right for your home, here’s a clear breakdown to help you make the best decision.

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What Are Dual Pane Windows?

Every Durabuilt window starts with dual pane insulating glass as the standard.

This means:

Two individual pieces of glassSeparated by a sealed airspaceDesigned to reduce heat loss and improve comfort

a. Two individual pieces of glass

b. Separated by a sealed airspace

c. Designed to reduce heat loss and improve comfort

Dual pane windows offer solid performance and are a strong upgrade over older single-pane units. For many homes, they deliver the insulation and energy efficiency needed for everyday comfort.

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What Makes Triple Pane Windows Different?

Triple pane windows take performance a step further.

They include:

a. Three layers of glass

b. Two sealed airspaces

c. Additional insulation and improved temperature control

This extra layer makes triple pane windows especially beneficial in extreme climates—like the cold Prairie and Alberta winters—where keeping heat inside matters most.

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Performance Comparison: Dual vs. Triple Pane

Durabuilt’s testing (performed using Enermodal Engineering Ltd. simulation tools) shows how the two options compare in real-world winter conditions.

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Dual Pane Insulating Glass with Super Spacer

a. Edge of Glass Temperature: 6.5°C

b. NFRC Condensation Resistance Factor: 44.9

c. Spacer Thermal Conductivity: .102 W/m·K

d. Total IGU U-Factor: .277 BTU/h·ft²·°F

e. R-Value: 3.61

Triple Pane Insulating Glass with Super Spacer

a. Edge of Glass Temperature: 8.9°C

b. NFRC Condensation Resistance Factor: 51.9

c. Spacer Thermal Conductivity: .102 W/m·K

d. Total IGU U-Factor: .197 BTU/h·ft²·°F

e. R-Value: 5.08

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What This Means for You

a. Warmer in winter: Triple pane keeps the inside of the glass nearly 2.5°C warmer, reducing drafts and cold spots.

b. Lower chance of condensation: A higher condensation resistance factor means fewer moisture issues.

c. Better insulation: A higher R-value means more energy savings over time.

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Why Many Homeowners Upgrade to Triple Pane

Homeowners often choose triple pane windows for:

a. Improved comfort in bedrooms and living spaces

b. Better performance in severe cold

c. Reduced outside noise

d. Long-term energy savingsHigher resale value

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While dual pane is a reliable, cost-effective choice, triple pane is quickly becoming the preferred option for new builds and modern home upgrades—especially in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

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Durabuilt’s Commitment to Quality

At Durabuilt Windows & Doors, we design our products for Western Canada’s climate, and we’re here to help homeowners choose the best window system for their needs.

Our team offers:

a. Expert guidance

b. High-performance, ENERGY STAR® certified products

c. Professional dealer support

d. Solutions for every home and budget

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Have questions? Or just looking to compare options? We’re here to help.

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