Ask an Expert: The Non-Energy Benefits of Triple-Pane Windows
At the Wise Window Hub, we usually talk a lot about energy savings when it comes to windows—but that’s just the beginning. There’s a whole set of non-energy benefits that come with choosing triple-pane windows, and they’re just as important when it comes to comfort, durability, and value.
To get the full story, we caught up with Steve Sylvestre, a longtime window expert and champion of high-performance homes, to break it all down.
Q: Thanks for sitting down with us to learn more. When most people hear “triple-pane” and think about lower utility bills. What else should they know?
Steve: That’s definitely a big part of it, but honestly, the real magic of triple-pane windows shows up in homeowner’s daily experience of living in their home. These windows make homes more comfortable, more durable, and even healthier. It’s not just about energy—it's about a better living experience for the people inside.
Q: Let’s talk comfort. What difference do triple-pane windows make there?
Steve: It’s huge. With triple-pane windows, you’re getting rid of the cold drafts you usually feel near windows in the winter. The temperatures stay nice and even throughout the house, which makes a big difference—especially in colder climates.
Another thing that most people don’t realize: triple-pane windows block out twice as much outdoor noise compared to standard double-pane windows. So, homes feel a lot more peaceful inside. For builders and contractors, this means happier clients and way fewer complaints about cold spots or outside noise.
Q: What about durability—how do these windows hold up over time?
Steve: They hold up really well, a comparable lifespan to a business-as-usual window when it’s been made and installed well. One of the main issues with lower-performance windows is condensation on the room side surface of the glass. That might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can lead to mold, mildew, damage to window frames, or even wall deterioration over time.
Triple-pane windows are much better at reducing that kind of condensation, which means fewer maintenance headaches for homeowners—and fewer callbacks for you. They’re built to last.
Q: Can upgrading to triple-pane actually boost home value?
Steve: Yep. Buyers consistently ask for and value better windows these days. Triple-pane windows improve curb appeal and are a premium feature that adds to a home’s overall value. In fact, studies show that about 60–80% of the project cost for window upgrades is typically added back to the resale value. So, for builders, it’s a smart investment. For contractors, it’s a great way to offer something that really benefits your customers.
Q: Do these windows help with indoor air quality or wellness at all?
Steve: Definitely. A much lower chance of condensation means less chance of mold or mildew building up. That’s better for indoor air quality and overall health. And when you factor in the noise reduction, it adds up to a calmer, more comfortable living space. These are the kinds of benefits that homeowners really notice—and appreciate – every day.
Q: How do triple-pane windows fit in with changing building codes?
Steve: Triple-pane windows are one of the easiest ways to get ahead of current and future code requirements. As energy codes tighten, the insulation low hanging fruit is getting picked, and so windows are becoming the next best option. Triple-pane helps offset other insulation needs, and in some cases, can allow for downsizing HVAC systems. So you’re not only staying compliant—you’re also reducing your energy costs over time as well as the need for future retrofits.
Any final words for the readers?
Steve: Triple-pane windows do a lot more than save energy. They make homes more comfortable, more durable, quieter, and healthier. Whether you’re building new or upgrading existing homes, they’re one of the smartest choices you can make - the easy button for building upgrades - for your clients and for your business.