Double vs Triple Glazed Windows for Capsule Houses

Do you love the sleek look of capsule houses with panoramic windows? Many modern capsule homes no longer use single-pane glass. Instead, they rely on insulated glass units (IGUs) with two or three layers of glass to improve comfort, energy efficiency, and safety.

• Double-pane windows use two layers of glass

• Triple-pane windows use three layers of glass

Each IGU typically includes a Low-E (low emissivity) coating and a sealed gas-filled cavity, such as argon or krypton.

Windows in a capsule house do much more than frame the view. They protect against heat loss, cold air, noise, condensation, and even intrusion. How well they perform largely depends on how many glass layers they contain.

In this guide, you’ll learn whether double or triple glazed windows work better for capsule houses—and which option fits your climate, design, and budget.

1) Double vs Triple Glazing in Capsule Houses

Capsule houses typically use IGUs, meaning multiple panes of glass sealed together as one unit. These units are usually either double-pane or triple-pane, and all panes are tempered (toughened) for safety.

Between the glass layers is an airtight spacer filled with insulating gas such as argon or krypton, which slows heat transfer.

A Low-E coating reflects infrared heat back indoors during winter and reduces heat gain in summer.

For example:

• A common double-pane IGU may be 6-12-6 (two 6 mm panes with a 12 mm argon gap).

• A triple-pane unit may be 6-12-6-12-6, adding an extra pane and cavity.

Triple glazing offers better thermal insulation and sound reduction, which is why it’s often found in high-end capsule houses or cold-climate models. However, double glazing remains the most common choice for standard capsules due to lower cost and weight.

2) Choosing the Right Glazing by Climate and Use

Climate plays a major role in window selection.

Mild and temperate climates

In moderate regions, double glazed Low-E windows are usually sufficient. High solar-gain Low-E coatings allow winter sunlight to warm the interior while limiting heat loss—especially effective for capsules with large south-facing windows.

Cold, snowy, or windy climates

In harsh environments, triple glazing performs better. It reduces heat loss, minimizes cold spots, lowers condensation risk, and improves overall comfort due to its lower U-value.

However, triple-pane windows are heavier and more expensive, so frames and hardware must be designed to support them.

Quick rule of thumb:

• Choose double glazing for mild or sunny climates

• Choose triple glazing for severe winters or maximum performance

3) Low-E Coatings, Gas Fills, and Spacer Technology

The performance of IGUs depends heavily on three hidden components:

➜ Low-E coating

The type of Low-E coating affects both U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC).

• High-SHGC coatings suit cold climates and passive solar designs

• Low-SHGC coatings work best in hot or sunny regions

Always match the coating to your climate and window orientation.

➜ Gas fill

Argon gas is the standard choice—cost-effective and efficient in 12–16 mm gaps.
For tighter gaps or higher insulation needs, krypton gas performs better, though at higher cost.

➜ Spacer bars

Avoid basic metal spacers, which conduct heat. Instead, specify warm-edge spacers made from low-conductivity materials. These keep the glass edges warmer, reduce condensation, and improve long-term comfort.

4) Frames, Hardware, and Thermal Breaks for Capsule Designs

Glass performance means little without proper frames.

Capsule shells often use steel, aluminum, or fiberglass, and metal frames must include thermal breaks to prevent heat loss.

Good frame options include:

• Thermally broken aluminum

• uPVC frames

• Fiberglass frames

Triple glazing adds weight, so hinges, rollers, and fasteners must be rated accordingly. Always confirm with your supplier that the frame and hardware system supports triple IGUs.

For curved capsule shells, use flexible sealants and setting blocks. Rigid materials may cause stress, seal failure, or glass distortion.

5) Panoramic and Curved Glass in Capsule Houses

Large windows are a signature feature of capsule homes, but safety and engineering matter.

➜ Safety glass

• Laminated glass is recommended for skylights and overhead glazing because it stays intact when broken.

• Tempered glass is strong and heat-resistant but shatters into small pieces.

Local codes may require laminated glass for certain applications—always verify compliance.

➜ Curved insulated glass

Curved double-pane IGUs are common and use flexible spacers to maintain seal integrity.
Triple-pane curved units are possible but usually limited to gentle curves and require engineering approval.

➜ Snow and load protection

In snowy regions, protect large windows and doors with snow guards or diverters to prevent roof snow from pressing against the glass.

6) Condensation, Noise Control, and Overall Comfort

Comfort in a capsule house depends on measurable performance values:

• Low U-factor on cold-facing walls

• Balanced SHGC based on facade orientation

• Condensation Resistance (CR) rating above 50 to reduce fogging

For noise reduction in compact spaces, consider:

• Laminated acoustic glass

• Mixed pane thicknesses to disrupt sound frequencies

Together, these choices ensure year-round comfort in a small living space.

FAQs

Are capsule house windows usually double or triple glazed?
Most standard capsule houses use double glazing. Triple glazing is common in high-end or cold-climate models.

Is triple glazing worth it in a mild climate?
Usually no. Double glazing with the right Low-E coating offers a better balance of cost and performance in moderate climates.

Can curved glass be triple glazed in capsule houses?
Yes, but with limits. Curved triple glazing is possible only with gentle radii and experienced manufacturers.

Conclusion

Both double and triple glazed windows can work well in capsule houses when matched correctly to climate, design, and budget. Double glazing suits most temperate regions, while triple glazing delivers superior comfort in extreme cold. By choosing the right glass, coatings, gas fills, spacers, and frames, capsule homes can achieve excellent energy efficiency, comfort, and panoramic appeal without compromise.

At this point you understand the glazing options you can choose for your capsule house. Whether you want a double or triple pane capsule house, BST can provide one for your needs.