Do your windows make your home noisy? Maybe you live close to an airport or a busy street or a school. No one likes to put up with too much outside noise. Luckily, window manufacturers take noise issues seriously. Now you have a full selection of upgrades, options, and technologies to help reduce unwanted noise pollution when you buy replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ. Here are just a few of the things to consider when figuring out what works best for your home and budget.
Improving insulation can often improve soundproofing as well. Thus, the standard double-glazed windows provide even more noise reduction than single-glazed windows. Triple-glazed windows do so as well, but the noise reduction alone often isn’t worth the cost of adding that extra pane of glass. Fortunately, there are several other things you can do to help reduce noise pollution.
An airtight installation complete with caulk and weather-stripping will help create a barrier to stop unwanted noise. This is just one reason why it is so important to check for gaps around the window frame and replace the caulk when it wears out or breaks down.
Window manufacturers offer unique variations of high-performance glass. They usually reserve soundproof glazing for double-paned windows only. These often feature a thicker, tempered inner pane of glass to help significantly block noise. These also improve safety and security because the glass stays intact if shattered.
If you are looking for excellent soundproofing then one of the best solutions is laminated glass. Laminated windows have an interlayer of plastic sandwiched between the panes of glass. This largely helps improve the strength and durability of the windows. It also helps reduce vibrations and sound transmittance. But keep in mind, adding laminated glass to replacement windows is considered a high-end upgrade and will increase the cost of the window replacement project.
Another option is to upgrade to retrofit replacement or inserts. This is when installers place the new insulated glass into the existing frames. This allows you to get upgrades without having to replace the entire window unit. This only works if the frames are intact and in good working condition.
Another, more affordable option would be window soundproofing film. This is a modern technology that works by sandwiching a strong lamination core with two layers of polymer. It works like soundproofing headphones, keeping the internal environment noise-free. Installing it on internal and external glass can significantly decrease noise transmittance.
Looking for a simple, cost-effective solution? You can always try a window blanket or soundproofing window coverings. These are often thick and dese window treatments that can block up to 100% of noise.
Essentially, anything you can do to better insulate and seal your windows can also work to help reduce noise. And when you soundproof your windows, you also improve energy efficiency. Those are just two reasons to consider upgrading with replacement windows in Phoenix, AZ.