Noise is the number one complaint homeowners have about their neighbors. It’s also a common issue among households living near major roads. If outside noise is so loud that it’s starting to affect your day-to-day routines, a noise-reducing window replacement would be worth a smart investment.
How do windows block outside noise? And how do you choose a noise-reducing window for your home?
How Noise Reduction Works
To a certain extent, your entire home serves as a barrier against sound waves. The exterior can’t completely block out outside noise, but you can reinforce your windows to lower the amount of outside noise that makes it past your exterior.
Features of a Noise-Reducing Window
There are three ways a manufacturer can increase a window’s noise-reducing capabilities: increasing the glass’ thickness, increasing the space between window panes, or using laminated glass, a type of glass with a plastic layer placed between two panes.
Gauging a Window’s Noise-Reducing Capabilities
You can gauge a window’s noise-reducing capability by checking its STC (Sound Transition Class) rating. The higher the STC rating, the more noise a window can block. You should choose a window with an STC rating that’s equal to or higher than the typical STC value for its window type. For instance, if you need new single-pane windows, choose a window replacement with an STC value higher than 26 (or 27 for double-pane windows).
Need a noise-reducing window replacement? Renewal by Andersen®’s 400 window series is fitted with impact-resistant High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass with a sound-wave-blocking PVB interlayer. The 400 window series has an STC value of 34, which is well within the upper range of double-pane windows when it comes to noise reduction. To learn more about your options, consult one of the window contractors at Renewal by Andersen of Spokane.
Renewal by Andersen’s Signature Service
As part of our Signature Service, Renewal by Andersen of Spokane customizes each window and door replacement according to our customers’ design preferences. To schedule a free in-home or virtual consultation, call us at (509) 316-0680 or (253) 604-1268 or fill out this form. Talk to us today! We serve homeowners in Spokane as well as the surrounding WA communities.