Can I soundproof my sash windows?
Noise from traffic, planes and the general hubbub from passers-by can disrupt your quality of life and get in the way of restful sleep or concentration while working at home. In summer, with windows open, the problem is naturally worse – but if you have wooden sash windows, you may find that you suffer even when your windows are shut.
Timber sash windows are undoubtedly aesthetically pleasing in terms of their design – but they don’t always tick the box when it comes creating a quiet home. Rattling sashes let in draughts, which can also bring the noise of the outside in. Many period home owners seek the holy grail of retaining their original windows yet reducing the noise they can hear from outside. We’ll explore possible remedies later – but first, here’s what’s happening:
How does sound pass through windows?
Noise carries easily through solid surfaces, like glass. Sound waves travel through the air and hit walls and windows in your home, making them vibrate. It’s the energy of these vibrations that is transmitted through glass, wood and other materials, in turn making the air in your home vibrate. This is the noise we hear inside. Sound waves also penetrate even the smallest of gaps and openings, so original sash windows with single glazing or gaps between the sashes can amplify the noise in your home, too.
My home is on a busy road – are soundproof windows a thing?
You may see ads for soundproof- and noise cancelling windows. But these simply don’t exist. However there is a range of effective ways to reduce noise in your home – let’s take a look at your options:
Double glazing
Adding double glazing to original sash windows is possible thanks to slim double glazing, which fits in timber frames. Ventrolla’s slim double glazing has krypton between the two panes – an inert gas that has a lower thermal conductivity than air. This not only keeps your home warmer but also gives your window a lower acoustic conductivity, for better sound insulation, as long as it is expertly fitted alongside draught-proofing (see below).
Secondary glazing
Known for being a good insulator of heat and great for security, secondary glazing is also effective at reducing noise pollution. Secondary glazing in standard 4mm float glass provides effective sound insulation, and by upgrading to thicker (6mm+) laminated or acoustic glass, the noise reduction can be enhanced even further. Ventrolla’s secondary glazing has been independently tested to reduce noise levels in your home by as much as 80%.
Acoustic glass
This special glass works by deflecting and dissipating the sound wave as it hits your window. There are different ways that this is achieved – it can be by adjusting the thickness of the glass, adding layers (or lamination) between the panes or by increasing the gap between the glazing. Ask our surveyors for more information about acoustic glass.
Curtains & shutters
Heavy blackout curtains in thick fabrics like velvet do a great job at keeping the light out of a room, and are also surprisingly effective at dampening sound. Equally wooden shutters can help reduce the noise you hear in your home. There are specialist products on the market but these may only be necessary in extreme cases of noise pollution.
Good quality installation
Having new windows installed or existing windows renovated by experts can help cut the sound you can hear from outside. Ventrolla’s high-quality hardwood sash windows are installed with the Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) as standard. This innovative draught-proofing system using Weatherfin is tested to virtually eliminate draughts and leaks, so as you can imagine, also helps to reduce external noise. In fact, it has been independently tested and proven to fall within the 6 to 10dB noise reduction range. So even if you have windows upgraded with double glazing or acoustic glass, the noise reduction will be minimal without expertly-fitted draught proofing, like VPSS. You can read more about Ventrolla’s technical expertise in this area here.
How much do soundproof windows cost?
The cost of acoustic glass, double and secondary glazing is dependent on many factors. Whether you need complete new sash windows manufacturing or new sash boxes, or require your existing windows to be renovated and restored. It will depend on the wood used, the finish you choose, your hardware, the size and design of the window, and how complicated installation is.
A free no-obligation survey by our experts will give you the chance to explore all your options – and will give you the benefit of our expertise in reducing the noise in homes on busy streets, near airports or in city centres. Contact Ventrolla today to arrange your appointment.
FAQs about soundproofing sash windows
1. Why should I soundproof my sash windows?
Soundproofing your sash windows can help reduce the amount of noise entering your home from outside, creating a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
2. What are the best methods for soundproofing sash windows?
There are several methods for soundproofing sash windows, including installing secondary glazing, using acoustic seals or draft excluders, adding sound-absorbing curtains or blinds, and filling any gaps or cracks with acoustic sealant.
3. Can I soundproof my sash windows myself, or should I hire a professional?
While it is possible to soundproof your sash windows yourself, hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done correctly and effectively. A professional like Ventrolla can also offer advice on the best methods for soundproofing your particular type of sash windows. Contact us today to discuss your project.
4. Will soundproofing my sash windows completely eliminate all noise from outside?
No, soundproofing your sash windows will not completely eliminate all noise from outside, but it can significantly reduce the amount of noise that enters your home.
5. How much does it cost to soundproof sash windows?
The cost of soundproofing sash windows will depend on the method used, the size and number of windows, and whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional