Do Soundproof Windows Actually Work? What to Know

You may have heard of a few possible qualities in modern windows and wondered if they were legitimate. The concept of soundproof windows is a good example – do soundproof windows really work?

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to serve as your one-stop shop for all things Pella windows, entry doors, exterior doors, garage doors, and more around Idaho and Utah, with locations in Boise, Salt Lake City, and St. George that allow us to serve the maximum number of clients in both states. We’re here to tell you that yes, soundproof windows are often immensely effective as quiet home upgrades – here are some of the features they often utilize and how they work, plus some ideal use cases for soundproofing your windows.

Panes and Soundproofing

When it comes to windows and general soundproofing qualities, the number of panes used tends to have a significant impact:

• Single-pane: Single-pane windows are the most common type of window found in homes. They consist of a single piece of glass and offer minimal sound insulation. They can be bolstered using certain features we’ll go over in a moment, but their base level of soundproofing is relatively low.
• Double-pane: As the name suggests, double-pane windows consist of two panes of glass separated by a small gap. This gap serves as an added layer of insulation against outside noise, making them more effective at soundproofing compared to single-pane windows.
• Triple-pane: For even better soundproofing capabilities, some homeowners opt for triple-pane windows. These are similar to double-pane windows but with an additional layer of glass and insulation between the panes. They offer the highest level of sound insulation of all the window types.

Features for Soundproofing Windows

Looking beyond the number of panes used, there are also a few specific window construction features that can be used to reduce sound passage:

Thicker Glass

For some homeowners, thicker glass is all that is needed to reduce outside noise. The thicker the glass, the more difficult it is for sound waves to pass through. Depending on the frequency of the sound, thicker glass can be effective in reducing noise by up to 50%.

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more layers of glass with a layer of resin in between. This creates an extra barrier for sound waves to pass through, making it even more difficult for outside noise to enter your home.

Gas Fills

Gas fills such as argon and krypton can also help reduce sound transmission through windows. These gases are denser than air and act as additional insulators, minimizing vibrations and reducing noise levels.

Air Tight Seals

Properly sealed windows can make a significant difference in reducing outside noise. Air-tight seals prevent sound waves from passing through small gaps and cracks, minimizing sound transmission. This can be achieved through proper installation and regular maintenance of windows.

Soundproof Window Film

For especially noisy areas, using soundproof window film can be an effective solution. This specialized film is designed to block out external sounds and reduce noise levels inside a room. It can also help with insulation and energy efficiency.

Double or Triple Glazed Windows

Another option for reducing external noise is double or triple-glazed windows. These types of windows have multiple layers of glass separated by air or gas-filled spaces, providing additional insulation and minimizing sound transmission. They are especially effective in blocking out low-frequency sounds.

Window Inserts

In addition to installing new windows, another cost-effective option is to use window inserts. These are custom-made acoustic panels that can be easily installed over existing windows without the need for any structural changes. They help to block out noise and improve sound insulation, without the need for a full window replacement.

Curtains and Blinds

Another simple solution for reducing noise in your home is to use heavy curtains or blinds. These can help to absorb sound waves and prevent them from entering your room. Look for curtains or blinds that are specifically designed for soundproofing, such as those made with thick materials or lined with acoustic foam.

Ideal Use Cases for Soundproof Windows

There are a few use cases that tend to be ideal when it comes to the kinds of features we’ve gone over:

• Near highways: No surprise here, but if you live near a highway or busy road, then soundproofing your windows is a great idea. The constant noise of cars and trucks can be very disruptive to your daily life.
• In large cities: Even if you’re not right next to a main road, living in the city can mean dealing with noisy streets at all hours. Soundproof windows can help create a quieter oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
• Near airports: Planes taking off and landing can create a lot of noise pollution, especially if you live near an airport. Soundproof windows can help reduce the sound levels and make your home more peaceful.
• In quiet neighborhoods: Even if you’re not dealing with constant traffic or airplanes, living in a quiet neighborhood doesn’t necessarily mean complete silence. Barking dogs, loud lawnmowers, and other outdoor noises can still disrupt your peace and quiet. Soundproof windows can help keep these noises at bay.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to help with all your window needs around Utah and Idaho, including soundproofing for any windows you require. Contact us today for these or other window and door services!