The Ultimate Guide to Double Glazing for Noise Reduction

Double Glazing for Noise Reduction

If you’re seeking information on reducing outside noise through your windows, you’ve come to the right place. The team at Swish Home Improvements are expert in this field and will guide you in choosing the best double-glazed windows for your needs. Whether you’re looking to eliminate traffic noise, aeroplane noise, music from a nearby venue, or just general outside noise, double glazing is the solution. Trust us to help you find the windows that will bring peace and quiet to your home.

What is Considered Noise Pollution? 

We understand that everyone’s tolerance for noise pollution is different. Only you know how much noise you can handle in your home or office; therefore, you can only determine your need for new double-glazed windows for noise reduction.

However, it’s important to note that noise levels of 70-125 decibels are considered high frequency. For comparison, a passing motorcycle can reach up to 100 decibels. Long-term exposure to noise pollution can also affect concentration, stress, productivity, communication, and sleep quality.

With more people working from home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the need for a quiet work environment is more significant than ever. In classrooms, double glazing can also help prevent distractions from outside noise.

To minimise noise pollution in your home, consider which areas allow sound to enter, such as through trickle vents, letterboxes, cat flaps, fireplaces, and keyholes. Poorly-fitted windows can also contribute to increased noise, so make sure your windows close properly.

What is the Science Behind Double Glazing? 

Are you curious about how double glazing reduces noise? Here’s a brief explanation. To minimise sound entering your windows, you need to enhance the barrier between the noise source and your ears. Swish Home Improvements offers three double-glazing solutions:

• Increasing the gap between window panes with double glazing.
• Making the windows thicker.
• Installing laminate soundproof glass with two layers of glass and an interlayer made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
• Our team will assess and determine the best option for your property.

Nature supports the efficiency of double-paned windows. Sound travels at 700 mph and reaches our ears as pressure waves. When these waves hit a single window, they pass through quickly, but a well-fitted window has no gaps for noise to penetrate. 

Swish Home Improvements’ double glazing features a sealed frame with multiple chambers made of different materials to stop sound. The Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating measures a window’s noise-reducing capability, rated in decibels and averaging 18 to 38. Our experts can determine the STC rating and offer advice.

How Much Difference Will Double Glazing Make? 

Upgrading your windows to single or double-pane glass may lower some noise transmission by 20-50%, but that won’t be enough for homes with severe noise problems. 

For noticeable improvement, noise reduction needs to be at least 75%. Some specialised windows used in recording studios can offer up to a 95% reduction, but they may not be ideal for homes. 

Moreover, double-glazed windows are often more robust in construction and secure because of the added technology.

How Much Does Double Glazing Windows Cost? 

The cost of double-glazed windows can range from £300 to £600, depending on several factors such as;

• Window size
• Number of windows
• Type of glass
• Window style

To get a more precise estimate, schedule an appointment with our experts for a property visit. Contact us today.

Contact the Window Specialists at Swish Home Improvements Today 

Double glazing is the solution if you’re looking for a way to reduce the amount of noise coming into your home. With many years of experience in the window industry, Swish Home Improvements can help you choose the best windows for Noise Reduction. We offer a free consultation to understand your needs better and find the perfect windows for your home. Don’t suffer from outside noise any longer; contact Swish today!