7 Ways To Soundproof Your Windows

Neighbourhood sounds can be annoying to deal with when you want to relax. Sounds like roaring engines, loud neighbours, barking dogs, music, and construction noises can make it very hard to get a good night’s rest and to shut off after having a tough day. 

Most of the noise that gets into your home comes in through the windows because sound waves can easily travel through these thinner solid barriers. There are quite a few different ways to soundproof your windows. In this guide, we are going to explore seven great methods that can help you create a perfectly quiet home interior.

• Install Add-On Double Glazing

Add-on double glazing is the most effective window soundproofing solution which also reduces heat loss (and gain). It is commonly used by businesses and residential properties because it is functional and budget-friendly. 

This soundproofing method involves installing an additional glass pane over your current window frame. The process is very quick and mess-free because the old window pane doesn’t have to be removed and the look of your windows is not obscured or altered in any way. Opening windows can still open with great ease and you will maintain great visibility. 

Many people prefer add-on double glazing over double glazing because it offers nearly perfect results at a much more affordable price. It’s also much quicker and easier to install and unlike double glazing, poses no risk to your building’s structural integrity since the old frames are not removed.

• Install Double Glazing

Double glazing has historically been a popular choice with homeowners. It is also well known for its ability to reduce noise and heat loss in a building. 

Installing double glazing involves removing your old window frames and installing new windows. These window frames are designed with two glass panes and a space of 12 – 16mm in between them. The empty compartment between the layers of glass is also sealed tight and filled with a special type of gas which is helpful for blocking most sound waves. 

Despite these benefits, this option is not as effective as Stop Noise add-on double glazing for a few reasons. The main one being that Stop Noise, an Australian-made product, is the market leader when it comes to sound proofing windows as it is the thickest and heaviest product on the market. Another major reason is affordability. Double glazing installation is more costly as the materials and gas are expensive plus the installation method is time-consuming and messy. Double glazing also involves more maintenance since the glass panes can form a leak which may reduce their efficiency.

• Get Your Windows Laminated

You can also choose to get your windows laminated. This process involves sticking a layer of laminated film on your current window pane. These window films come in different forms and can even offer UV protective benefits. They will also increase the STC value of your windows by up to Laminated windows can be a good and affordable strategy but usually don’t offer enough soundproofing results. The layer of film also needs to be replaced every couple of years and UV-blocking films tend to make your home interior look a lot darker. 

• Seal Air Gaps Around The Window

This is an easy soundproofing method that you can do all on your own on just about any type of window. Buy some soundproof window caulk and cover any gaps that might be visible between the glass and window pane or around the window pane. By sealing these gaps off with acoustic caulk, you can keep annoying drafts out and your home might be a little bit quieter. 

• Hang Soundproof Curtains

Soundproof curtains can be a great option for bedrooms because they are very helpful for blocking out the sun. These curtains are made from soundproof fabric and are easy to hang since they are compatible with your current curtain rods. There are not too many design or colour options available since acoustic curtains are a rare find but they can help enhance the acoustics of your windows. 

• Make A Window Plug

If you are great at DIY projects then you can always try to make a window plug. Grab a piece of wood and cut it to the exact size of your window. Add a couple of handles so you can easily lift the window plug and fit it inside the window frame. Wood has great soundproofing effects but this window solution might not look the best and it can be bulky to move around. 

• Install A Fiberglass Panel

You can also make your own window panel from fiberglass. Cut the fiberglass to size and stick some acoustic foam sheets on top of the panel. This type of panel is light enough to move with ease and it will offer great soundproofing results. 

Stop Noise Today!

It is clear that out of all of these soundproofing solutions, add-on double glazing is by far the best. Contact Stop Noise now to find out more about this soundproofing method or to get your windows treated.