Noise pollution can take its toll on your life especially when it comes to building a family home. This article will show you how soundproofing your windows can change that.
There are a lot of benefits of silence, especially inside your home. You are able to concentrate on tasks, you are less stressed, and you are more relaxed. While windows can bring so much space and light into a room, it can also bring in a lot of noise. Fortunately, there are some solutions to change that.
When it comes to sound-proofing windows, there are a number of things you can do to cut the amount of noise that flows through your window and into your household. However, before you take the first step in such a change, you must first consider a few things.
1. Check sound frequency
Consider what kind of frequencies of sound you are aiming to block out. Consider the area that you are in and what noise frequently surrounds you. Sounds with lower frequency like garbage trucks are a bit harder to address compared to a higher frequency sound, like a bird chirping.
2. Know the sound transmission class
When choosing soundproof windows, look at the sound transmission class (STC). The higher the STC number, the more sound a window is able to block.
In order for a window to cut sound and to raise its STC number, some window makers use thick glass and add some air space by putting more distance between the window panes.
Laminated glass is also used to further cut the amount of noise that comes in. One example is sound-proof sash windows, which come in sleek and modern design but have the ability to cut out loud noise.
3. Know your budget
Some manufacturers have windows that retail for up to $950, which already includes installation but the prices may vary depending on the features. Other manufacturers have 3-by-5 foot windows that retail up to $7,000 and are fitted according to the specifications of the architect. In other words, you will have to think of quiet windows as an investment.
More Tips on Keeping Your Home Quiet
If the cost of soundproof windows is something that you are a bit apprehensive about, there may be other things to consider when it comes to reducing the amount of noise that comes into your home:
Check for noise entry points
Sometimes, the amount of noise coming into your home may be due to the fact that there are gaps in your windows and leaks in the seals. Patching those up can make a vast improvement in the noise level of your home.
This tip also applies to other potential gaps or leaks, such as door gaps at the floor, cracks in the walls, or gaps in the ceiling.
Use noise absorbers
Fabric absorbs noise pretty well, so start by hanging thick curtains on your windows, installing rugs, or investing in fabric covered furniture. Another noise absorber is a potted plant, so you may want to try arranging some plants around your home to cancel out the noise.
Maintaining a tranquil environment in your home involves careful planning, a dash of creativity, and some financial costs to boot. However, these requirements can drastically turn your house into a piece of heaven that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.