Are Window Inserts Good for Noise Reduction?

​It is possible to keep your existing timber windows and still enjoy substantial noise reduction. Window inserts allow you to alter your current windows, instead of having to replace them, which is less expensive than installing a new double glazed window.

 

However…

 

You can enjoy excellent noise reduction benefits without inserts and keep your windows in tact.

 

With retrofit double glazing, you are essentially transforming your windows from being your greatest vulnerability to noise pollution into acoustically sealed, sound-dampening assets. No more listening to the never ending sounds of modern life. With the right window conversion, you can get the peace and quiet you want.

 

 

What Are Window Inserts for Noise Reduction?

 

Rather than having to replace your current windows with new double glazed windows, window inserts are installed directly into the existing frame of the window. A secondary glaze is attached to the current single pane of glass. While inserts can reduce some noise, there are problems associated with using this option for noise reduction.

 

One of the biggest issues with a secondary glaze is that you won’t be able to retain the original look and function of your windows, in particular sash windows which are often found in heritage buildings and period homes.

 

If you have a heritage building, you may need to use retrofitting instead of replacement windows or inserts in order to retain the heritage designation.

 

 

Even if your property isn’t technically heritage listed, only by retrofitting your windows can you keep the charm and character of your current windows.

 

Australia’s neighbourhoods are filled with beautiful Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian homes. It is through careful consideration when soundproofing windows that the aesthetic and architectural integrity of these buildings can be preserved.

 

 

Why Retrofitting Is a Better Choice Than Sound Dampening Window Inserts

 

 

Thermawood’s retrofit double glazing system for existing timber windows offers a much more effective option than secondary glazing.

 

This type of window conversion is becoming increasingly popular in Australia because of several key advantages, including better acoustic sealing, optimal moisture control and aesthetic preservation. Thermawood franchises use a unique, patented process that allows for a seamless window retrofit and superior noise reduction benefits of wooden windows. 

 

With a Thermawood retrofit double glaze, a small portion of the existing wooden frame is removed, as well as the old single pane of glass. Then, the double glazing system is installed into the existing timber window including the Thermawood patented drainage system.

 

 

What Factors Do Property Owners Need to Consider?

 

When soundproofing your existing windows, there are a few factors you need to keep in mind. It’s important to understand what is involved in each process and how your enhanced windows will ultimately look and perform once the inserts or retrofit have been installed.

 

 

How much noise reduction?

The biggest concern, especially if your property is located in an area with ongoing noise pollution such as street traffic, public transport lines or an airport, is how much of a difference will your window upgrade make in cutting down the noise?

 

Installing a secondary glaze will dampen the sound as the air space in between the current and new glass, plus the extra sheet of glass of acrylic, will make it harder for sound to travel into your home.

 

However, a secondary glaze may only make a satisfactory difference with more moderate noise pollution problems, such as noisy neighbours or occasional traffic. This is because often with a secondary glaze, the windows aren’t properly sealed.

 

Also, you won’t be able to tailor each window with the ideal combination of glass type, varying glass thickness and air space in order to achieve the desired results based on the specific decibel level and sound frequency range you are trying to dampen.

 

 

Will my windows still function properly?

This is a critical question that many property owners overlook until they’ve already spent hundreds or even thousands on secondary glazing. Particularly with sash windows, which operate with the use of sash weights, installing a secondary glaze can offset the balance and inhibit the function of your window.

 

As Thermawood franchisee professionals are often called in to work on heritage buildings, they have the experience, knowledge and the unique process to reweight the windows, resulting in seamless functionality.

 

 

 

What about the aesthetics?

How your windows look after soundproofing them is about more than just style preferences.

 

Changing the appearance of your windows can reduce the value of your property, not to mention the disappointment you may experience when your windows lose their unique character.

 

Secondary glazing has to be installed with magnets and tends to create a clunky appearance. Retrofit double glazing, on the other hand, allows for a seamless transition from original window to converted windows. You’ll have a quiet, well-insulated home, and beautiful windows.

 

 

Which type of window enhancement costs less?

The price of both types of window conversions are comparable. Without the need to tear out your current frames and install completely new windows, as is the case with new double glazed windows, both of these noise reduction options create less disruption to your property, and your budget.

 

Using the patented process developed by Thermawood, you can get optimal noise reduction benefits whilst also ensuring the long-term value of your property, without having to invest more money than you would for secondary glazing.

 

A soundproofing solution that works, won’t cost a fortune and looks attractive! You probably didn’t realise how easy soundproofing your windows could be.