Are grilles between the glass better than snap-in grilles?

Yes, grilles between the glass (also called "between-the-glass" or BTG grilles) are generally superior to snap-in grilles for both performance and maintenance reasons.

Between-the-glass grilles are sealed inside the window unit, which means they're completely protected from weather, dirt, and damage. You'll never need to clean around individual grille bars, and they can't be bent, broken, or knocked out of place. This makes window cleaning much faster and easier - just a simple wipe of the smooth glass surface on both sides.

Snap-in grilles sit on the interior glass surface and can collect dust, require individual cleaning of each bar, and may rattle or come loose over time. While they're removable for cleaning (which some homeowners prefer), they also create more surfaces that need regular maintenance. The clips that hold them in place can also leave small marks on the glass or create slight gaps where dirt accumulates.

In Ottawa's climate, between-the-glass grilles perform better because they're not exposed to temperature fluctuations that can cause expansion and contraction. This is especially important during our harsh winters when snap-in grilles might become brittle or the clips might not hold as securely.

From an energy efficiency standpoint, between-the-glass grilles don't interfere with the window's thermal performance since they're sealed within the insulated glass unit. Quality manufacturers offer various grille patterns and colours that are permanently sealed between the panes.

The main trade-off is cost - between-the-glass grilles typically add $50-100 per window compared to snap-in options, but most homeowners find the convenience and durability worth the investment. For grille options, request a free quote through Ottawa Window Pros and ask an installer to show you samples and explain the cleaning difference.

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