How to Soundproof Your Windows for a Quieter Home

Written by lyndon@orlandi.com.au in Windows

Windows are often the weakest sound barriers in a home. While concrete walls can stop noise, standard glass windows allow exterior sounds to enter freely. Luckily, several soundproofing methods can significantly reduce window noise infiltration.

Why Block Window Noise?

Common sources of window noise pollution:

  • Traffic – engines, trucks, horns
  • Aircraft flyovers
  • Construction projects
  • Barking dogs, loud neighbors
  • Trains, trams
  • Music venues
  • Yard maintenance – blowers, mowers
  • Pool pumps, AC units
  • Weather – wind, rain, hail

Excess noise leads to distraction, stress, and sleep disruption. Soundproofing improves relaxation, productivity, and wellbeing.

Rating Sound Transmission

The Sound Transmission Class (STC) system measures effectiveness at blocking airborne noise:

  • STC 45+ = very effective
  • STC 35-44 = effective
  • STC 25-34 = marginally effective
  • STC <25 = ineffective

Compare STC ratings when choosing soundproofing materials and products.

DIY Soundproofing Options

These straightforward DIY techniques reduce window noise:

Indoor Window Inserts

Dedicated window inserts block more noise than basic curtains.

  • Acoustic window film – Thin plastic sheets stick directly to glass. STC of 26-32.
  • Window quilts – Heavy quilted blankets hang over window frames on grommets or velcro. STC 22-28.
  • Plexiglass – Cut sheets to fit snugly in window frames. Glaze edges to seal. STC 27-32.
  • Plug-in panels – Rigid inserts placed in window frames like shutters. STC 32-38.

Use removable options like window quilts in bedrooms to reduce nighttime noise only.

Caulk and Weatherstrip

Sealing gaps prevents sound leakages along edges:

  • Apply acoustical caulk around window frames and casing. Special caulks contain noise blocking fillers.
  • Install compressible weatherstripping inside window stops and sills. Help seal out sound when closed.
  • Use metal-backed foam tape for temporary gap filling. Compresses to block gaps when windows are shut.
  • Ensure tight closure – adjust frame, tighten sash locks.

Soundproof Blinds and Shades

Certain window treatments block more noise:

  • Solid metal blinds with back insulation.
  • Cellular shades – honeycomb structure absorbs sound.
  • Blackout curtains – noise reduction drapes installed on substantial rods.
  • Multi-layered treatments – combine blackout shades with thick curtains.

Choose STC/NRC rated products made of dense materials engineered to block noise. Close fully for maximum effect.

Exterior Storm Windows

  • Glass or acrylic panels mounted in secondary glazing tracks over primary windows. Leave 1″ air gap between windows.
  • Prevent sound transmission and seal off air leaks around aging windows.
  • Offer added insulation. STC around 35-39.
  • Can be removable panels or permanently installed glazing.

Professional Soundproofing Options

For maximum noise reduction, consider higher-end professional installations:

Soundproof Windows

  • Laminated panes with internal noise-dampening layers and improved seals. STC 48-52.
  • Thick 3+ pane air gaps also help dissipate sound.
  • Can be custom ordered or full window replacements.
  • Pricey but offer meaningful noise reduction and energy savings.

Interior Storm Windows

  • Installed by contractors within existing window frames.
  • Use thick glazing layers and improved sealing.
  • Leave 1-4 inch air gap between existing glass and insert.
  • Achieve STC around 38-43. Half the cost of full window replacement.

Soundproof Curtain Walls

  • Heavy noise-absorbing curtain systems mounted floor to ceiling spanning multiple windows.
  • Overlap window area by 1 ft on all sides.
  • Combine mass-loaded vinyl barrier with sound absorption materials.
  • Effectively isolate and “decouple” windows from interior space.
  • Require professional design and installation.

These advanced solutions require greater investment but can cut noise by upwards of 50%.

Tips for Maximal Effectiveness

Follow these best practices:

  • Seal all gaps fully – sound leaks easily.
  • The more mass the better – heavier curtain fabrics, thicker glass.
  • Denser materials like acrylic block more sound than fabric or plastic films.
  • Absorption behind hard surfaces dissipates vibration – use soundproofing curtains over acrylic panels.
  • Larger air gaps improve performance – storms with 4 inch gaps do better than 2 inch.
  • Treat all windows in a room – inconsistent noise sources mean you need full coverage.

Layering different solutions like caulk, curtain panels, and interior storm windows leads to even greater noise reduction.

Letting exterior noise permeate through windows can make home environments loud, stressful and disruptive. Whether facing sporadic disturbances like aircraft flyovers or round-the-clock city street noise, unrestrained window sound transmission negatively impacts quality of life and health. Applying sound blocking techniques helps restore peace and quiet. With a combination of diffraction, absorption, sealing, and physical air gap barriers, you can effectively minimize unwanted window noise.

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