In this day and age, it no longer makes sense to install windows having only a single thickness of glass. Instead, all exterior windows located in living areas or heated areas of a house should be double- or triple-paned. The additional expense is well worth it; you should save enough in fuel and energy costs to more than make up for the initial investment within a few years and have a more comfortable home in the meantime.

More advantages to using double- or triple-pane windows as opposed to a combination of single-pane sashes and storm windows are that the multipanel windows offer a better appearance; are easier to clean; and provide increased soundproofing, a permanent installation, and even a better overall price. In all multipane windows, specify that the thickness of the sash is at least 13?8 inches.

Self-Cleaning Glass

Several manufacturers produce windows made of glass that’s designed to self-clean. Due to chemical compounds embedded within the surface of the molten glass during manufacturing, when the window is exposed to sunlight a chemical reaction helps disintegrate many foreign materials that collect on the glass, such as tree sap, pollen, or dead insects. Also, water doesn’t bead up on self-cleaning glass; instead it spreads out in sheets that wash away loose debris like a squeegee.

While windows with self-cleaning glass cost more, they enable more of the sun’s rays to enter through the cleaner glass — warming interior spaces during winter and helping to reduce energy costs.