How Much Do Triple Pane Windows Cost?
The cost of triple-pane windows varies widely depending on several factors, but on average, homeowners can expect to spend between $550 and $1,100 per window. This price range includes both the cost of the window itself and the installation fees.
Though it’s a higher price range than double-pane windows, the savings can be significant when upgrading to triple-pane. Let’s explore when triple-pane windows are worth it, and where in the above price range your own project may fall.
What Are Triple-Pane Windows?
Triple-pane windows, as the name suggests, consist of three layers of glass, with a space between each pane that is usually filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. This design makes for an extremely insulated window as well as for a window that is excellent at reducing heat transfer. This means they keep warm air inside during the winter and cool air in during the summer, which can lead to substantial savings on heating and cooling costs.
Triple-pane windows are also call triple-glazed windows. “Glazing” is another term for “pane of glass.” You can learn more about it by reading our guide to window glazing.
Triple-Pane vs. Double-Pane Windows
Just as you’d expect from the names, the main difference between a double-pane and triple-pane window is the number of glass panes as well as how many gas-filled spaces there are between those panes.
-
Double-Pane
Average Cost: $400 to $700- Two layers of glass
- One layer of gas fill
- Good balance of cost and energy efficiency
- Best for moderate climates
-
Triple-Pane
Average Cost: $550 to $1,100- Three layers of glass
- Two layers of gas fill
- More expensive, but provides greater energy savings
- Best for climates with extreme temperatures
The choice between the two often depends on the climate where you live, your home’s existing insulation, and budget considerations.
Factors That Affect Triple-Pane Installation Cost
Several factors influence the cost of installing triple pane windows. Let’s explore these factors in detail.
Window Type
The type of window you choose will have a large impact on your project’s final cost. A window with moving parts will be more expensive than a fixed window, for example. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular window types across the U.S. and what their average cost range is for a triple-pane version.
| Window Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Casement | $600 - $1,000 |
| Single-Hung | $500 - $850 |
| Double-Hung | $650 - $950 |
| Picture | $650 - $1,200 |
| Sliding | $500 - $900 |
| Awning | $550 - $850 |
| Bay | $1,800 - $3,500 |
Note sure what type of window you have or what type you want? Here’s a quick description of each:
- Casement. Opens outwards to the side via a crank handle.
- Single-hung. Slides up and down from the bottom.
- Double-hung. Slides up and down from both the bottom and the top. This is the most popular window in the U.S.
- Picture. Does not open, resulting in unobstructed views.
- Sliding. Opens by sliding horizontally.
- Awning. Opens upwards and outwards, creating an awning.
- Bay. Typically made of three different windows with a center window that opens and two side windows set at an angle against the center window that may or may not open. Tends to be the highest priced window since it is actually three windows combined into a single style.
If you want to learn more about these styles or any other window style, you can visit our guide to types of windows.
Number of Windows
The number of windows being replaced at one time can also impact the cost significantly. Bulk installations may offer cost savings per window. Here’s what you might expect:
| Number of Windows | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | $1,500 - $3,300 |
| 4-6 | $3,000 - $6,600 |
| 7-10 | $7,000 - $11,000 |
| Whole house | $15,000 - $30,000 |
The cost for replacing all the windows in a house (“Whole house” in the table above) can vary significantly depending on the total number of windows, their sizes, and the type of windows chosen. This range provides a ballpark figure for typical residential homes, which can include anywhere from 15 to 30 windows.
Window Size
Window size directly affects the cost due to the amount of material and labor required. Below is a table showing an average small, medium, and large window size and how much each costs:
| Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small (18 x 24 inches) | $450 - $600 |
| Medium (24 x 36 inches) | $600 - $900 |
| Large (36 by 48 inches) | $800 - $1,100 |
The size window you choose will most likely be determined by the size you currently have as well as by the window type you want. Different window types have different sizes that come standard, and some may be larger than others.
To learn more, you can visit our guide to standard window sizes.
Frame Material
The frame material is another significant factor in the overall cost of triple-pane windows.
| Frame Material | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $450 - $700 |
| Aluminum | $600 - $1,000 |
| Clad wood | $800 - $1,200 |
| Wood | $700 - $1,100 |
| Fiberglass | $500 - $900 |
If you haven’t thought much about frame material yet, here’s a quick “what to know”:
- Vinyl. This is the cheapest material, and it comes in a range of qualities, including insulated versions.
- Aluminum. A sleek, modern-looking material that tends to conduct heat well, so it is not as energy efficient as other options.
- Clad wood. Also called “composite frames,” these have a wood core that are then surrounded by another material, like vinyl or aluminum. This makes them the best of both worlds, but at a high price point.
- Wood. A timeless material that is an excellent insulator, but requires a fair amount of maintenance and upkeep.
- Fiberglass. A more expensive material growing in popularity that is low-maintenance and very energy efficient.
You can check out our guide to window frame materials to learn more about each of these options.
Cost by Gas Fill
The type of gas used between the panes affects the insulation properties and cost.
| Gas Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Argon | $550 - $850 |
| Krypton | $750 - $1,100 |
Here’s what to know about both:
- Argon. This is the most popular choice. It is cheaper, and while it is a bit less energy efficient, it still performs far better than a window without gas fill.
- Krypton. More expensive than argon, krypton is the more effective insulator and is used in triple-pane windows in extremely cold climates.
You can learn more about both of these (plus explore xenon as a gas fill) over at our blog post on the best gas fill for windows.
Location
The installation location and the floor on which the windows are being installed can also impact the cost due to accessibility and labor required. Single-story homes can expect to see lower installation costs because they tend to require less labor than two-story or three-story homes. The more floors your home has and the trickier the install location, the pricier your window replacement gets.
Labor Cost
Labor cost for window installation will vary by region but generally ranges from $100 to $300 per window. If you live in a city where cost of living tends to be higher, you can expect your windows to fall toward the higher end of that range. In lower cost of living areas, your labor rates will likely be toward the lower end.
Low-E Glass Coating
Opting for low-E glass coating, which enhances the energy efficiency of the window by reflecting infrared light, can add to the cost by about 10-15%. You can learn about low-E glass and if it’s a good choice for your region by reading our guide.
How to Find Savings For Triple-Pane Windows
To minimize the expenses associated with triple pane windows, homeowners should consider:
- Getting multiple quotes. Shopping around and getting quotes from several installers can lead to better deals. Our research shows three to four quotes is the right number to find the best price.
- Seasonal discounts. Taking advantage of off-season discounts when demand for window installation is lower.
- Replace all your windows at once. Larger projects may attract more significant bulk discounts.
- Standardizing window sizes. Custom sizes are more expensive, so using standardized windows where possible can reduce costs.
Be sure to ask any contractors you are getting quotes from what they recommend to bring project costs down. They may be able to point you toward rebates or tax incentives for energy efficient windows at either the federal or local level in addition to providing valuable advice on how to get windows that will save you money on your utility bills while still fitting your budget.
Why Get Triple-Pane Windows
The benefits of triple-pane windows go beyond energy savings. They also offer superior noise reduction, increased home security, and better UV protection, which helps in maintaining the color and integrity of home furnishings. The investment in triple-pane windows enhances overall home comfort and increases property value.
However, that investment doesn’t make sense for all areas or for all homes. You will get the most out of triple-pane window energy savings if you live in area that sees extreme temperatures in the summer, winter, or both. In more moderate climates, double-pane windows may make more sense.
How to Hire a Professional to Install Triple-Pane Windows
We recommend meeting with three to four contractors. This will not only help you find the best price for your project, but will also help you find someone you click with. Trusting your contractor to deliver on the promised work is a key component to reducing your overall project stress.
In addition to asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations, you can also browse our contractor directory to compare local pros. If you’d like us to do the research work for you, click below to answer a few questions about your project, and we will match you with up to four contractors.
