Architectural Design: Soundproof Windows to Solve Noise Problems

In residential, commercial, and mixed-use building projects, architects, engineers, and designers can be challenged by excessive noise intrusion through windows, which allows more outside sound to penetrate than walls do. This affects sleep, work, and peace of mind, and is a particular problem near urban areas, airports, railways, transportation hubs, or other high-traffic locations.

Today's building developers and buyers are not only sensitive to noise pollution but also have advanced tools such as the National Traffic Noise Map, which is updated annually. Created by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, it allows users to view the noise generated by a particular neighborhood.

To proactively address noise issues, building and engineering professionals must address the fact that windows, not walls, typically account for 90 percent of exterior noise penetration. However, traditional single-pane and dual-pane windows are not actually designed to reduce noise.

Fortunately, design professionals are discovering how to quickly and easily solve noise problems in new and retrofit projects by economically soundproofing the most problematic windows (facing traffic, etc.) within a few hours. The technology is derived from the recording studio and is designed to minimize noise. Extensive testing and retesting have refined the design resulting in excellent Sound Transmission Class (STC) results.

By adding soundproof windows in the building design only behind the windows that need soundproofing, architects can maintain the same look for all windows in a project. After the completion of the project, if the noise needs to be further rectified in some areas, it can be increased according to the actual noise level. 

The soundproof windows are also designed to significantly reduce air infiltration, increase thermal insulation value, and block the sun's UV rays, contributing to improved comfort and energy savings.

 

Standard single and double-pane windows have STC ratings ranging from 26 to 32. The higher the number, the more noise is blocked. The myth that double-pane windows are more noise-reducing mainly stems from air leaks in older single-pane windows. While different glasses have different benefits at different frequencies, dual-pane glass is similar to single-pane glass in terms of sound transmission. 

Double pane replacement windows are designed for thermal insulation, but not sound insulation. While the new window seals can reduce some noise, the two panes of glass in a dual-pane window are separated by airspace and sealed in a solid glass unit. Like a drum, this causes the two pieces of glass to vibrate together. This drum effect destroys the noise reduction benefits of dual-pane windows.

Instead, more and more architectural design and engineering professionals are finding solutions to noise problems for their clients by recommending more modern soundproofing techniques.

 

Window soundproofing in residential or commercial buildings can also increase comfort by reducing airflow through existing window weatherstrips, while significantly reducing energy costs.

In fact, adding a second window provides an extra layer of insulation with better insulation values than the best low-E, argon-filled double-glazed windows. For single-pane windows, this can reduce heating/cooling losses by 77% or more. Added insulation blocks unwanted air seepage around and through window seals and can reduce the heating-cooling portion of your energy bill by 15-30%. 

Since the method uses laminated glass, 99% of the sun's UV radiation is also blocked.

When building designers and engineers seek to protect their clients from excessive external noise in new or renovated buildings, economical soundproofing of main windows as needed can provide a competitive advantage in design and function. Not only does this approach provide more peace and quiet within the home or workplace, but it also reduces heating-cooling-related energy costs and increases comfort.

The above briefly introduces the benefits of soundproof windows. If you want to buy soundproof windows, please contact us.

ROPO is a professional custom door and window manufacturer. For 16 years, ROPO has produced various uPVC doors and windows and aluminum doors and windows for more than 25 countries and regions in Europe and America. The main products are made of uPVC and aluminum. Our products are very suitable for our different customers. We always ensure that these products are available to consumers at the right price.