Soundproof Residential Windows

When it comes to creating a peaceful environment inside your house, the elimination of unwanted external noises plays a vital role. For anyone living in busy cities, near railway lines or air traffic, curbing noise pollution from entering your private space might sometimes end up being a cumbersome task.

Come to think of it, most of this external hubbub enters our homes through windows and doors that fail to keep the external noise out. This is where soundproof windows (noise reduction windows that block up to 90% to 95%↗ of noise coming through windows) come into the picture. While installing soundproofing window solutions, take note of the Sound Transmission Class (STC) scale, wherein a relatively higher value indicates more noise reduction.

So let’s talk about some soundproofing solutions that can be the difference makers for residential windows.

Use the links below to jump ahead:

Can you soundproof residential windows?
Best window options for sound reduction
3 Tips for soundproofing windows
Should I upgrade my windows for sound reduction?

Can you soundproof residential windows?

Residential windows can be easily made soundproof via multiple avenues. Moreover, with the recent advancements in the acoustics industry that fabricates soundproof windows, you can also choose the selective frequencies of the sounds you want to block.

Best window options for sound reduction

Some of the most functional and effective window options for sound reduction are as follows:

Windows with Dissimilar Glass

Windows containing dissimilar glass are primarily just routine double pane window systems that consist of two panes of glass with different thicknesses. The science behind them reducing noise is that glass panes with different thicknesses block different frequencies, resulting in a window unit that blocks a wider range of frequencies than a standard window system with similar glass. They are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and provide effective sound control, with an STC rating as high as 34↗.

Windows made Specifically for Sound Reduction

Window system manufacturers frequently use standard impact-resistant laminated glass, in order to break up the sound waves, and effectively block sound transmission. The laminate polyvinyl butyral (PVB)↗ interlayer has a different density from the glass being used, which breaks sounds and prevents it from entering your home, delivering an STC of around 32 to 35 in the process.

Milgard Quiet Line Series

Milgard’s Quiet Line Series↗ noise reduction windows can be one of the go-to options as well if you’re looking to achieve some of the best sound control ratings in the business. Courtesy of the three layers of glass, Quiet Line Series is able to touch STC ratings of as high as 48, which amounts to a near-perfect level of noise reduction. Among other available variants, you can also opt for heavier glazing options and/or laminated glass, for premium noise reduction to tackle extraordinarily noisy surroundings. Moreover, they come with a whopping ten-year warranty period which includes replacement if found to be defective in materials and/or workmanship.

3 Tips For Soundproofing Windows

If replacement windows aren't within your budget, and the outside noise is not letting you concentrate, you can soundproof your windows yourself through these DIY (Do-It-Yourself) tricks.

Seal the Leaks with Acoustic Caulk

The tiny gaps between the wall and window borders are culprits that are often overlooked. Acoustic Caulk↗ is an effective quick fix that can block these minuscule pathways for three to four years since it barely shrinks or cracks, and as a result, provides a considerable reduction in sound transmission.

Use of Soundproof Blankets

Since these blankets are made of heavy layers of dense materials such as polyester, fiberglass, woven cotton, and so on, they absorb a whole lot of noise from the outside world as well as reduce inside echo. Choose the method of installation which suits your home decor the best, and experience the difference.

Increase Layering through Glass or Acrylic

By adding a storm panel or an additional monolithic↗ pane to the window provides the dead air space (between the primary and secondary window) that causes noise to die giving STC ratings of 39 or higher. Also, you can attach a piece of acrylic or glass (acoustic grade or laminated) on the inside and use a metal frame to hold it in place.

Should I Upgrade My Windows for Sound Reduction?

Blocking out outdoors noise or reducing unwanted external sounds is a major anomaly in older homes fitted with single-pane glass. Upgrading to multiple-pane glass window systems (like double, triple, and quadruple-pane) will result in improved energy efficiency, effective sound reduction, and an aesthetically pleasing ambiance. Factor in the weather, geographical location, and costs to make a well-balanced upgrade.

Your house is supposed to be a peaceful retreat from the fast-paced world outside your walls. And it is only fair that you shell out a few extra bucks to preserve your sanity at home. Therefore, you need to weigh in the pros and cons and chalk an appropriate budget for noise reduction that ticks all the boxes.