Windows can be one of the greatest sources of sound penetration in a building. If you live near a busy road, restaurants, or just have noisy neighbours, you would likely benefit from noise-reducing windows. In this blog post, we will discuss what noise-reducing windows are, the different types and how upgrading can benefit you.
For more information, you can reach out to our friendly team.
What are Noise-Reducing Windows?
Noise-reducing windows are designed to help stop noise penetration and to keep unwanted noise out of your home. Unlike standard windows, which can often let in noise from traffic and other external sounds, noise-reducing windows utilise special materials and construction techniques to block or absorb sound waves to keep your home quiet.
How Do They Help Manage Noise Control?
Noise-reducing or noise-cancelling windows disrupt and dampen sound waves as they travel into your home. There are various techniques to achieve this. Some of these techniques include:
Multiple Layers of Glass
One smart building technique is to use multiple layers of glass. Two or three layers of glass will be installed and separated by a thin layer of air or inert gas. This air/gas creates a barrier that sounds struggle to get through.
Different Glass Thickness
Asymmetrical glazing is a term used for when two panes of glass of differing thickness are placed into one sealed unit. This building technique helps to block a wider range of sound frequencies from low rumbles to sharp sounds.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass utilises a special sound-dampening interlayer, often made of PVB or EVA, sandwiched between two layers of glass. The flexible layer absorbs vibrations and is especially effective against mid to high-frequency noise.
Tightly Sealed Frames
Outside noise can get in even from the tiniest of gaps. To help with sound insulation, frames need to be sealed tightly to eliminate the weak points around the glass.
Noise Reducing vs Soundproof Windows
Is there a difference between soundproof windows and noise-reducing windows? Yes, there is, and it’s a very important one. Often, the terms noise-reducing and soundproofing are used interchangeably. Here is why they don’t mean the same thing:
Noise-Reducing Windows
- Designed to reduce external noise significantly.
- Can typically reduce sound levels by 30-70%, depending on the materials and form of installations
- Fantastic for reducing noise pollution and reducing the noise level in your home.
Soundproof-Windows:
- The term “soundproof windows” can be misleading; no window can block out all sound.
- Soundproof environments require specialised environments beyond the window, including sound-insulated walls, ceilings & floors.
- While laminated and double-glazed windows come close, they are not entirely soundproof.
Benefits of Noise-Reducing Windows
Improved Sleep:
Noise-proofing the windows in your bedroom could help your sleep significantly. Whether you live near a road or a busy apartment building, soundproofing your windows will help you to sleep better and improve your overall well-being.
Better Focus & Productivity
If you work from home, you may have experienced how difficult it can be to work with too much noise. Soundproofing your windows can help you stay focused on the task at hand and keep out any unwanted noise.
More Privacy
Noise-reducing windows can keep noise from coming in, and going out. If privacy is one of your concerns, you should consider soundproofing your windows.
Increased Property Value
Installing noise-reducing windows will help to increase your home’s value. Double-glazed and laminated windows share noise reduction and heat reduction properties, making them highly energy-efficient and appealing to potential buyers.
Thermal Insulation
Noise reduction windows also offer thermal insulation. Many of the properties that help block out sound also block out heat. This helps with your home’s energy efficiency and creates a more comfortable environment.
Types of Noise-Reducing Windows
If you are looking to replace existing windows or install new ones, you should consider which type of window would be best for your home.
Double Glazed Windows
Two panes of glass separated by an insulating gap
The most common & cost-effective method of noise control
Helps to reduce both noise and heat transfer
Triple Glazed
Three layers of glass with insulating layers
Superior thermal and sound insulation performance.
Ideal for homes in high-noise areas such as near a highway or airport.
Laminated Acoustic Glass
Sound with a special sound-dampening interlayer
Adds a layer of security and UV protection
Excellent for reducing noise from voices, music and traffic.
Secondary Glazing
Involves installing an extra pane of glass or acrylic to the inside of existing windows.
Ideal for heritage homes, strata buildings or rental properties where installing another window isn’t an option.
Helps to improve thermal insulation alongside noise reduction.
Why Does Professional Installation Matter?
Eliminate Gaps & Leaks:
Sound can penetrate even the tiniest of cracks. Having a professional install your noise-reducing windows will ensure that gaps and leaks are filled, so you can get the most out of your windows.
Noise Control Performance:
Professional window installers understand how to correctly align and fit frames and glass to enhance their sound insulation performance. This is especially important in older homes where secondary glazing is being retrofitted.
Warranty Coverage
Most product warranties depend on professional installation. Here at Perth Window and Door Replacement Company, we offer a 10-year warranty on both labour and materials to give you peace of mind.
Why Choose Perth Window and Door Replacement Company for Noise-Reducing Windows?
At Perth Window and Door Replacement Company, we’ve been helping Perth homeowners manage noise control in their homes for over 41 years. Our range of high-quality noise-reducing windows is designed to keep out all unwanted noise and improve thermal insulation. We stand by our work with a 10-year warranty on both labour and materials.
Interested in upgrading your windows or doors? Contact us for a quote, or visit our Malaga showroom to see the quality for yourself.
