This is a question we get asked quite often, and more often than not, when people begin to try a DIY approach to soundproofing their homes or studios, they end up spending money and material that is not needed, or the material is put in the wrong spaces in the studio or home.
The first step in solving any noise problem is to identify where the noise is entering your environment.
Studies of hundreds of offices and homes show that a far greater amount of noise comes through the windows, not the walls.
While many people spend thousands of dollars on “soundproofing” the walls of their buildings, laboratory studies show that more than 90% of all the exterior noise comes in through doors and windows.
Walls are almost never the problem. Chances are that’s true for you too.
Replacing Your Windows
Wait, stop! You don’t have to replace your windows, and we’re sure you’ve heard this from us before, but it’s the most important part of our soundproofing process.
New windows may provide some improvement, but very few windows are designed specifically to reduce noise. You could go through all of the time and expense of replacing your windows and never really solve the noise problem or reach the desired level of peace. Which is even more frustrating the problem itself, most times.
And while we do back dual pane windows, and they are great for handling heat and cold, they aren’t effective at solving noise problems.
First things first, check the STC Ratings.
When you’re comparing how effective a window is in stopping sound, look for the STC rating. (STC stands for Sound Transmission Class.) The higher the number, the more sound is stopped.
A typical rating for standard windows is between 26 and 28. A typical rating for a Soundproof Window over a dual pane window is 48 to 52 or even higher. That’s nearly double the noise reduction.
Much of the noise that comes through windows enters through broken window seals. With age and the normal slight movements that occur in your home when temperatures change, all conventional window seals eventually fail.
Don’t be deceived. Make sure you’re getting complete information when comparing windows. Confirm that the STC numbers provided are for the complete window, not just the glass.
Solving your noise problem is easier than you think.
The next step is to talk with someone who can answer your questions and help create a solution that’s ideal for you. Call us toll-free at 877-438-7843, or fill out the Free Estimate form, or send an email to sales@soundproofwindows.com. We look forward to hearing from you.