Is Acoustic Glass Worth It?

What Is Acoustic Laminated Glass?

If you want to reduce the noise in your home or office, the type of glass you use matters. Single-pane windows offer the least protection from unwanted noise. Double-pane windows are a little better, but are only 2-4 points better on the STC scale. Storm windows are designed to reduce the impact of high winds and heavy rains, not noise. So, is acoustic glass worth it for noise reduction? Let’s start with how it’s made.

What Is Acoustic Laminated Glass?

Acoustic laminated glass is windshield glass, which consists of two glass panels with a membrane layer between them. This ¼ inch thick glass increases the ability to block annoying sounds from outdoors.

Plus, the membrane between the glass layers helps minimize sound vibrations. It’s similar to touching a ringing bell to stop it from vibrating. When it stops vibrating, it stops ringing.

Does Acoustic Glass Work?

Our acoustic grade window inserts reduce sound by an average of 85%. They block up to 75% of low-pitched noise (traffic, air-conditioning compressors, etc.) and up to 95% of high-pitched noise (bus brakes, pool pumps, etc.).

Is Acoustic Glass Worth It?

Compared to acrylic, acoustic glass has more mass and stops more sound. It also doesn’t yellow like acrylic.

We used to offer both acrylic and glass acoustic window inserts. But 95% of our customers reported being happy with acoustic glass, compared to only 70% with acrylic.

Why Do We Need an Air Gap Between the Insert and the Window?

To achieve additional sound reduction, you need a sound trap. A sound trap is created by installing the acoustic insert at least two inches from the existing window. Sound traps generate an interference area where the sound waves passing through the existing window bounce off the acoustic insert and collide with the incoming sound waves. This reduces the power of the incoming sound waves.

Purchase Custom Acoustic Panels for Your Windows

Why hire experts rather than DIY?

Sun & Sound Windows is a full-service provider. We measure, manufacture, and install.  We take full responsibility for our work with a warranty for materials and workmanship.

Our team usually installs your custom acoustic-grade window inserts in one day, without the mess. We can also create a custom size and shape to match the look and feel of your current window. This is why it’s approved for historic homes.

Ready to get a good night’s sleep and a productive day’s work at home? Talk to our experts for a free estimate for custom acoustic window inserts.