A busy highway, a nearby airport, a daycare center next door, a noisy neighbor with small children who cry a lot, for example, can all be reasons to feel sleepless, cranky, and without the peace and quiet you really miss. Even if you don\’t move in right away, soundproof windows and doors can solve this problem.
Insulation
This problem can be easily solved by replacing windows with insulated ones. This will completely silence some noises and at least partially reduce others. The difference between insulated and regular windows is up to 50 decibels, but they require perfect installation and proper sealing to perform this function.
1. Glass
The first factor affecting sound insulation is already the window glass. The thicker the glass, the better the insulation: 4 mm thick insulating glass is common, but 8-10 mm thick glass can also be purchased. For even greater soundproofing, choose laminated glass of 8 mm and 4 mm. In the case of double glazing, it is advisable to leave a larger gap between the glass.
2. Choice of material
If your home is in a noisier than usual location, for example near a highway, or in a busy area with many people, such as near an airport or school you should invest in thick glass, as well as double or triple glazing. Choose windows based on their insulating qualities.
3. Sealing around windows
Windows with three rows of seals are more reliable and soundproof than those with only one or two rows. The sealing must be structurally correct and, most importantly, fit correctly into both the wall and the window.
4. Proper installation
Of course, it all depends on proper installation and workmanship.