Reduce Noise Pollution with Replacement Windows

Living near a busy street, airport, or train tracks can make noise pollution a constant challenge. But it’s not just traffic—sounds from a nearby park, barking dogs, or noisy neighbors can all find their way into your home. Since windows are often the most vulnerable part of your home’s exterior, they’re usually the main entry point for unwanted noise. The good news? With the right features and sound-reducing technologies, replacement windows Portland, OR can greatly minimize outside disturbances and help restore peace and quiet to your living space. Here’s what to keep in mind. 

Measuring Noise Reduction

Most homeowners understand windows come with ratings from the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC) that measure energy performance. But few people know some windows also come with a rating for noise reduction. This measurement is called the sound transmission class (STC) and it will tell customers how well a window helps block outside noise. Standard ratings usually range from 18 to 38.

What Window Features Help Reduce Noise Transmittance?

Insulation and acoustic control often go hand in hand. That is to say, the features that help make your window more efficient often help make it more soundproof.

Window Style

Window styles with fewer gaps in the assembly are often more resistant to noise transmission. So sliding windows, single hung windows, and double hung windows will often transmit more noise than picture windows, awning windows, and casement windows.

Frame Material

In small part, the window frame material can also contribute. Highly efficient materials like wood and vinyl will absorb more sound. Aluminum window frames are likely to transmit more sound. That said, the frame is such a small area of the window, it doesn’t have as much impact on noise reduction. The glazing is where you will see the most impact.

Number of Panes

More window panes equal more noise reduction. Single-pane windows provide very little insulation and very little noise reduction. Double-pane windows are the modern standard. Two panes of glass provide better protection on both counts. As you might guess, triple-glazed windows provide the most insulation. But it is interesting to note, adding a third pane of glass does not do as much for noise reduction as you might think. Other glazing features provide better results for the price.

Space Between Glass

Another thing to consider is the space between the glass. More space often equates to more noise reduction. Unfortunately, windows do not give you a lot of room to work with. This is why manufacturers use inert gas fills between the panes of glass, so they can maintain a slimmer profile. It can increase insulation without the need for increased space.

Glass Thickness

Most insulated glazing units (IGUs) come with 3mm panes as a standard. Upping the thickness to 5mm can cut out more noise. But customers might also consider investing in IGUs with variable thickness. Having one pane of glass at 3mm and one pane of glass at 5mm means more acoustic control because the different thicknesses tend to block a different range of frequencies, thus canceling out a wider range of noise. Windows with different thicknesses on the glass can have an STC rating of 34 or more.

Laminated Coatings

Laminated and impact resistant windows seem to take the cake when it comes to soundproofing. The polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer has the density to significantly disrupt sound transmission. Most windows with laminated coatings can have an STC between 32 and 35.

Contact us to find out more about soundproofing replacement windows in Portland, OR. The experts at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors can help you find the best window products at the right price.