What are Soundproof Windows?

Introduction

With the increased number of people doing business at home we are getting more and more requests regarding window noise. Windows can also be an issue for getting the proper amount of rest at night. Window noise can be something that affects work performance, sleep, stress levels, and in some cases overall quality of life.

Treating your windows can help with any and all of the above. There are a few options that can help, such as STC rated replacement windows, sound blanket coverings, or window seal kits. In this blog post, we will go over the ways to reduce the amount of noise coming through your existing windows without having to replace the entire window with an STC rated window.

What are Soundproof Windows?

“Soundproof” is really a relative term. For the most part, a window doesn’t have to be (and sometimes cannot be) completely soundproof to provide some relief. Generally, by adding some sort of mass or sound blocking material, you can significantly reduce the amount of noise coming through the existing window. Reducing the amount of noise getting through the window will exponentially reduce the overall noise level inside the room. Here is how Wikipedia defines “Soundproofing.”

Why are Soundproof Windows Important?

Soundproofing your windows can have many different effects. It can increase productivity in a home office setting because it will allow you to focus more clearly on the tasks at hand by reducing the outside distractions. It can help reduce utility costs in your home or office with the added mass/insulation you are putting onto the window itself. It can even make a difference in someone’s quality of life, as referenced in the customer account below.

Examples of Soundproof Windows

The first option for treating an existing window would be to cover the window with one of our PrivacyShield^® Dual-Sided Absorptive Soundproofing Blankets. These can be made to your exact dimensions and can include perimeter velcro to provide a tight seal around the window so that sound isn’t leaking through any gaps.

Bryan Belmore used the PrivacyShield^® Dual-Sided Absorptive Soundproofing Blankets to help treat a family member’s residence and was more than pleased with the result. “After installing the sound blankets the improvement in traffic noise was drastic. The quality of life has increased exponentially, bringing dignity to someone who truly deserves it. Mark Brock was exceptional from the start. I was impressed with every interaction. Emails were answered quickly and efficiently. I felt comfortable with asking any questions and discussing ideas with Mark. This was a very important project to me, and I felt that Mark cared to bring us to a satisfactory resolution. I am personally very grateful.”

Another option for Soundproof Windows would be the PrivacyShield^® Window Seal Kit. These are made to order to fit your exact window size. The advantage to this option over the PrivacyShield^® Dual-Sided Absorptive Soundproofing Blanket would be that it would still allow you to see out of the window without removing the treatment. These would provide a thermal and acoustic seal to any existing window. They are a magnetic frame with a ¼” acrylic pane set that can be mounted either within the jamb or on the interior wall surface of the window opening.

Curtains are used in conjunction with a PrivacyShield^® Sound Blanket in a residential window installation

The PrivacyShield^® Window Seal Kit is easy to install and remove.

Tips and Reminders for Soundproof Windows

When you are contemplating soundproof windows there are a few factors you want to keep in mind. A lot of times, replacing the window completely is not an option due to facility or budget restriction. Both of the options presented in this blog are going to be less labor-intensive than full window replacement and can help pay for themselves when it comes to thermal and acoustical benefit. When choosing an option, you’ll want to consider how often you will need to see out of or open the window and what (if any) effect your existing window treatment (blinds, curtains, shutters, etc.) will have on the option you choose.

Summary

Soundproof windows are an investment in your future. Whether it’s a financial benefit from increased productivity, better rest, energy savings, or just general peace of mind, you will have a noticeable improvement.