Why choose soundproof windows
A guide to get to know the best models of soundproof windows and learn how to choose them. To improve the comfort of your home or office, pay attention to the acoustic insulation of your windows.
Excessive exposure to loud sounds is one of the most significant environmental problems in our noisy urban areas. This is noise pollution, a widespread problem in Italy. According to a survey by the portal Homepal, in a city like Milan, more than 40% of citizens are daily exposed to noise above the threshold of allowed decibels.
Although little is said about noise pollution levels, a recent European directive requires European cities to commit to noise exposure maps and new noise plans. Excessive exposure to annoying outdoor noise can adversely affect quality of life and can cause health problems.
To understand the level of noise to which we are usually exposed, just think that the screeching of a tram convoy can reach 80 db, the noise of a barking dog is at least 90 dB and that of a construction site where a jackhammer is used, reaches 120 db.
To reduce noise pollution in indoor spaces, one of the most immediate remedies is to choose soundproof windows.
What factors contribute to the sound insulation of a window?
From a technical point of view, there are various factors that influence the good sound insulation of windows and it is precisely from the combination of these that the best performance can be achieved.
From the type of glazing and its thickness, to the number of locking points and the presence of more or less powerful seals. Insulation is also influenced by the material of the frame itself, which can be made of wood, aluminium, steel or PVC. But how do you choose the most suitable anti-noise window frames? This guide will help you to find out which are the best sound-insulated window solutions.
Requirements for sound insulation of windows with noise barriers
For the soundproofing of a window, the glass is the most important element as it consists of the 80% glass surface and the 20% frame and sash.
Glass for soundproof windows
For a window or door to perform well in reducing noise pollution, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the glass panes. For sound-absorbing windows, it is better to opt for a double glazing with triple glazing or laminated glass.
In order to be an effective noise barrier, glass must have certain characteristics. Such as adequate and diversified thicknesses between them. The diversified thickness is important to avoid the possible negative effects of resonance of the sheet.Whether the thicker glass is the one placed inside or outside, for sound insulation of windows, there is no difference.
The size of the air gap between the two panes of glass is negligible. Instead, what affects it more is the thickness of the glazing and the internal films, since it is the mass that blocks the noise.
The best soundproof windows are normally fitted with glass with acoustic plastic elements such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral), a plastic material, transparent and adhesive, used to join two laminated glasses. The one used for soundproofing glass is called "special" PVB, a film that is 0.50 mm thick and has an acoustic insulation power that is about 3 dB higher than traditional PVB.
Acoustically insulated windows: materials and systems compared
In order to guarantee the efficiency of soundproof windows, it is essential to choose a high-performance window. In addition to the glass, the construction characteristics of each profile influence the soundproofing performance of the window.
Technical characteristics for soundproof windows
The aluminium window frames are one of the possible solutions for soundproofing, but by analysing the intrinsic characteristics of the material itself, wood and PVC have a better soundproofing capacity.
At the same time, however, high quality aluminium systems are considered to be better, because thanks to their greater stability they are able to support glass of greater thickness and weight. The possibility of adding sealing gaskets on the frame and the presence of sponges inside the chambers further improve the acoustic insulation of the windows. aluminium windows.
The best models of aluminium soundproof windows
The main characteristic of aluminium is that it does not undergo deformation, is resistant to wear and tear and to atmospheric agents. The reference brand for this type of product is Schüco, a leading company in the production of aluminium systems.
The AWS 75.SI profile also provides thermal insulation and even more efficient processing thanks to Schüco SimplySmart technology. This system has a continuous central seal that acts primarily as thermal insulation, but also as an additional noise barrier. Above all, being inside the profiles, protected from the elements, it maintains its performance for a longer duration. In addition, with the addition of a perimeter gasket you can further improve its performance.
Discover the Schuco systems that best suit your needs: Aluser Design recommends the AWS 90 AC.SI system to its customers when it comes to ensuring adequate ventilation even in noisy environments. When the main priority is to ensure high security, the system we recommend is Schuco AWS 90 BR, a high-performance product that combines functionality and aesthetic qualities.
Guarantees of acoustic insulation are also ensured by the systems of AluK, an Italian brand that produces aluminium systems ideal for the acoustic insulation of windows, even of existing buildings, therefore suitable for renovations. Such as the 77 IW series which, guaranteeing a high level of thermal insulation, allows additional perimeter seals to be added to the system, improving soundproofing performance.
PVC soundproof window solutions
PVC is a material that offers solutions at more advantageous conditions and provides a good noise barrier.
A system for sound-absorbing PVC windows is ISOL PLUS G3, one of the most efficient models in terms of sound insulation. ISOL PLUS is the system with a double rebate seal and a central fin seal, which offers sound insulation up to 45 db.
Windows can also have mixed frames, in which case, one of the best solutions are aluminium and PVC windows. Such as Schüco LivIng Alu Inside, a versatile system equipped with the best Schüco technology, which involves the simultaneous extrusion of continuous aluminium strips inside the PVC profiles. EPDM seals can be added to this model, which raise the sound insulation parameters of the windows.
Soundproof windows: criteria for installation
Installation is just as critical for the performance of sound-absorbing windows. This is why it is important that it is done in a workmanlike manner.
Attention must be paid to the gap between the wall and the counter frame of the window. Therefore, during installation, the joints between the frame and the wall must be sealed with quality materials, suitable for insulating against noise and temperature changes. It is of fundamental importance for the acoustic insulation of the windows to avoid the presence of air passages.
Installation products must also be chosen to ensure an airtight seal. To do this, insulating materials must be used.
The most common insulator for the installation of windows and doors is sound-insulating polyurethane foam or, alternatively, self-expanding adhesive sponges.
Roller cover boxes
If the window is fitted with roller shutters, also pay attention to the shutter-covering boxes, the presence of which can negatively affect the sound insulation of the windows by creating an acoustic bridge. When these compartments are present, they must be suitably insulated using, for example, thermo-formed polyurethane or another suitable and certified material.
To improve insulation the belt slot should also be as small as possible, the alternative is to use a motorised system.
Soundproof windows and tax deductions
Replacing old window frames with new soundproof windows not only solves the problem of noise but also contributes to the improvement of thermal insulation, and allows you to obtain important tax deductions.
In fact, the best soundproof windows often have high thermal insulation performance that contributes to energy savings in the building.
If you are looking for quality windows discover our windows and doors.
Aluser, manufactures and installs quality building envelope solutions, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our technical consultants.