No windows block all the noise from entering your home, but today’s replacement windows effectively reduce sound, making your interior a more tranquil environment. A window’s frame material and insulation contribute to sound reduction, but its glass construction has the utmost influence on the unit’s noise-reducing abilities. The thicker the glass, the better the sound reduction. And multiple panes with space between them also make a big difference in blocking noise from entering your home.
Let’s dive into the details and uncover the best noise-reducing replacement windows for your needs.
5 Tips on What to Look for in Noise-Reducing Replacement Windows
1. Install Multiple Panes to Gain Sound Reduction Inside Your Home
If your house currently has single-pane windows, upgrading to double- or triple-pane windows will significantly lower the amount of sound that can make its way into your home. Installing windows with multiple panes will also turn out favorably on your energy use, utility bills, and indoor comfort level throughout the year!
Note: Going from double-pane to triple-pane glass won’t change the amount of sound reduction too much, so opt for investing in thicker panes—like laminated glass. Another sound-reducing option is a window with dual panes that combines different levels of glass thicknesses in each pane.
2. Choose Laminated Glass for Maximum Sound Reduction
Laminated glass can effectively decrease noise infiltration, making your home a more serene place to unwind. Their composition (glass-vinyl-glass) makes them more effective at sound dampening than other glass options. The rigidity of them lowers the vibration of the glass and therefore decreases sound’s ability to pass through the glass. Often, only one pane of glass in a window will be laminated.
3. Invest in Sound Transmission Class (STC) Upgraded Glass for Optimal Results
When multiple panes of glass are the same thickness, they vibrate at the same frequency, making it easier for sound to pass through them. The good news is that Andersen Windows’ Sound Transmission Class (STC) upgrades are made of glass panes with different thicknesses. They are engineered specifically to reduce sound and ensure you enjoy less infiltration from street noise, heavy equipment, or even barking dogs.
4. Place the Most Sound-Reducing Windows Where They Matter Most
Your bedroom, baby’s nursery, home office, or other spaces where quiet is most needed should be where you place the highest performing sound-reducing windows in your home. After all, a good night’s sleep will ensure you have the most productive and enjoyable days!
5. Include Additional Elements That Help Sound Reduction
Anything that helps block air will block noise as well. Weatherstripping, window sealing, caulking, window film, and proper installation of replacement windows are all vital to the noise reduction you desire in your home. Professional installation is a key to long-term sound dampening. If replacement windows aren’t properly installed, noise, moisture, and outdoor air will all make their way into your abode.
How to Compare Sound Performance While Shopping for New Windows
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
This value focuses on the transmission of sound within your home—like music, TV, and the voices of your friends and family. The higher the STC number, the better the sound dampening.
- STC under 30 – This represents the sound you hear through dual-pane windows.
- STC of 30-35 – This is even more sound dampening, so you hear less noise from outdoors.
- STC of 36-40 – This rating indicates a high level of sound reduction, so even loud conversations going on outdoors will hardly be noticeable inside your house.
Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class (OITC)
This focuses on the sound coming into your home from the outdoors—like the noises from planes, vehicles, and heavy equipment. The higher the rating, the better the noise reduction.
Relish the Peace and Quiet with Sound Reducing Replacement Windows
You deserve to unwind in a peaceful atmosphere, and noise-reducing replacement windows contribute to a calming environment where you can reboot, relax, and refresh yourself in the quite of your own home. At Porter Family Exteriors, we are an Andersen Certified Window Contractor, ensuring you get precision installation of their premium replacement windows. Choose from a variety of window frame materials—from vinyl to aluminum-clad wood, and get the ideal window style for your space—from popular casement and double-hung windows to picture windows and more.
Learn more about how our window services can bring a greater peace and quiet to your space while safeguarding your home from the elements.
