Why Do You Need Soundproof Windows?

Do you live in a bustling, noise-polluted city with busy roads, construction sites, and train tracks to the left and right? You’re not the only one here, unless you decide to make a life-changing investment in soundproof windows for your home.

You want the city view but not the noise. This is where most windows fall short. Thanks to soundproof windows, you can now enjoy the peace and comfort of a quiet life in a city that never sleeps. This guide lays the foundation for a captivating introduction to what soundproof windows are, how they can improve your daily life, and how to choose the right ones for your needs.

What are soundproof windows?

They are also called “acoustic windows”; soundproof windows are a specialised window type made to reduce noise levels from outside significantly. Unlike standard windows, they incorporate multiple layers of glass and advanced sealing technology to create a barrier against outside noises. Their generality applies to a range of uses, including homes with families, apartments for individuals, or office premises, all for those seeking a quiet and tranquil space.

Windows named “soundproof” come under either of two categories, namely, noise reduction windows and noise-cancelling windows. The two are distinctively known for their different purposes; the former reduces the amount of noise that penetrates the space, while the latter cancels the noise to a certain degree. As they serve different purposes, they also differ in materials, technology used, and cost.

To make a point clear, as customers, you ought to know that there are no windows that are 100% soundproof, and such an objective is almost unattainable. But still, there are plenty of benefits to reap from a soundproof window. Let’s take a deeper look.

Why Noise Pollution Is More Than Just an Annoyance

Noise pollution is annoying to everyone, as we already know from experience. Yet, did you know that noise pollution can actually cause detrimental effects to mental and physical health? A 2022 Spring issue from “The Magazine of Harvard Medical School” reports that noise pollution is way harmful than we think, linked to hearing loss, hypersensitivity to sound, either causing or exacerbating cardiovascular diseases, sleep disturbances, mental health issues such as stress, cognitive impairments such as memory, attention deficits, and possible childhood delays.

Aside from its destructive environmental impacts, noise pollution disrupts the habitats of humans, just like animals. If you have children at home or are a WFH professional, you know how loud noises from outside can disturb and impact your productivity. While mitigating the issue at hand is tedious and requires serious attention, the best we can do is try to avoid the negative impacts of noise pollution.

Key Benefits of Installing Soundproof Windows

1. Noise Reduction

The science of soundproof windows comes down to a few concepts. The rule of thumb is that increasing mass will improve sound insulation. Walls made of brick and concrete have better sound insulation than those made of glass because they have greater mass. However, in the case of windows, glass provides transparency, allowing daylight to penetrate. Therefore, the need for greater mass in the instance of sound insulation takes on a technical spin by subjecting it to different types of glass made for insulation. Having determined something called noise source level rating in decibels, you can decide which window fits best with the insulation.

Without getting into the technicalities too much, remember there are two rating systems: the sound transmission class (STC) and the outdoor/indoor transmission class (OITC). What they do is determine insulation techniques, such as using double-glazed glass, installation features, and adhering to industry standards.

2. Increased Comfort and Privacy

Imagine the noise decrease and the comfort that soundproof windows can potentially bring to your home. These windows are gaining traction due to the noticeable benefit of decreased noise reception from outside, thanks to noise reduction techniques. Their ability to significantly reduce noise pollution allows for a calmer and comfortable indoor ambience with much-deserved privacy from all the unnecessary noise from outside.

3. Energy Efficiency and Temperature Control

Soundproof windows are environmentally friendly not only for noise pollution reduction qualities, but also for their energy efficiency benefits. An underrated but extremely advantageous characteristic of soundproofing is the energy savings that come with thermal insulation. Most double or triple glazing provides good thermal insulation, which acts as a temperature control during hot or monsoon periods. Due to low heat gain, less energy is consumed by fans, heaters, or air conditioning to heat or cool the house's interior, eventually reducing the costs of the monthly energy bill.

4. Property Value Enhancement

Think of the benefits mentioned above: noise reduction, comfort, privacy, and energy efficiency all in one. Now think of how much of a value-added investment this makes for your home one day. These niche qualities are what attract buyers, and it's a plus point since it's an urban location. Even without plans to put your property on the market anytime soon, over time, it can only enhance the overall value of your home.

FAQs – people also ask

●       Are soundproof windows really effective?

Yes, they are specially designed to reduce noise coming from the external environment into a building. The methods used to achieve this, such as double- or triple-glazed glass, insulated frames, and acoustic seals, are not typically found in standard windows. To compare, standard windows are made of a thinner mass with a single pane of glass and regular insulation, which easily allows sounds to pass through in a busy environment.

●   What’s the difference between soundproof and double-glazed windows?

Double-glazed windows are a method of soundproofing. They are soundproof windows consisting of two panes of glass separated by an air gap that helps configure and improve thermal insulation. The air gap rather acts as a barrier to soften sound waves coming from outside, and can be soundproofed by increasing the thickness and mass of glass.

●  Can you soundproof existing windows?

The answer is yes, you can soundproof an existing window. However, this process requires expertise on sealing, using the right materials, caulking, and changing the pane of the window. DIY methods can include easy ones, such as installing noise-reducing curtains or caulking around a window; however, the entire soundproofing process should be left to the professionals.

● How much do soundproof windows cost?

It is important to note that soundproof windows cost more than standard windows due to several factors. The complexity and technical details determine the cost of the window and should be discussed with the retailer. Additionally, the investment made is a worthwhile commitment to a better and comfortable living environment.

Things to consider before installing soundproof windows

The installation process plays a special role in the functionality and effectiveness of a soundproof window. Here are several things to know before going into the big job:

Type of Noise You're Trying to Block

Soundproofing effectively keeps away much of the noise, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the type of sound, or more precisely, the frequency of the sound. Most of the time, the intensity and volume of a sound are what concern people. Common low-frequency sounds include traffic noises and engines, which are harder to block off, while high-frequency sounds are human voices and music. The type of soundproofing in windows will determine which end of the frequency spectrum you want to block, but most windows effectively reduce a range of sounds.

Your Window Type & Frame Structure

Soundproofing often uses a range of materials, including laminated glass, double or triple glazing, and noise reduction frames made from vinyl or fibreglass. Designing a window also involves factors such as framing, structure, function, mechanism, and more. Here, your options are vast and range from a variety to choose from. Your preferred window type can either be fixed or sliding, made from aluminium, uPVC, or wood for a touch of elegance.

Budget and Return on Investment

It's important to consider whether your needs are met and list your budgetary considerations. Budgeting for a soundproof window involves considering the price, installation costs, and certain maintenance costs. The materials used and technology involved in constructing the window contribute to the costs and installation, hence exceeding the cost of a standard window. On the other hand, soundproofing windows is a good return investment as it increases property value.

Finally…

After a long, tiring day, nothing sounds better than silence. Simply, investing in soundproofing technology gifts you an unparalleled experience of coming home to a tranquil interior. The benefits of soundproof windows far outweigh the costs, including long-term benefits such as an environmentally conscious lifestyle, energy savings, increased property value, comfortable living, improved productivity, and overall better mental and physical well-being.

At SG Aluminium, we are driven to provide our customers with the best experience and achieve a standard of living. Take your home to new heights with us: book a consultation and find the specialised solutions for the right soundproofing option for you. Shut off all outside noise and relish the worthwhile investment.