If you live in a noisy neighborhood or near a busy highway, you may feel like you've tried every trick in the book to minimize loud noises that disrupt the peace in your home.
Many homeowners overlook one small (but extremely beneficial) upgrade that can significantly impact the noise levels in their homes: laminated glass.
Below, we'll explain what laminated glass is, how it works, and why it is an excellent investment in a double- or triple-pane window system to dampen disruptive noises and achieve a serene, quieter home environment.
What Is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is made of a thin interlayer of resin (or plastic), usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB), which is bonded between two panes of glass. It is popularly used in window systems for safety and noise-reducing purposes.
Laminated glass was initially created with safety in mind (safety glass). It is less harmful than traditional glass because the plastic layer prevents the windowpane from shattering into pieces when it's broken. This shatterproof property is why laminated glass is used in car windshields and roof windows (sloped glass applications). It also makes windows more secure since they're harder to break into.
Laminated glass also serves another purpose that makes it appealing to homeowners: noise reduction. Noise-reducing safety glass, called acoustic glass, often has a thicker, plastic layer between the sheets of glass to muffle loud sounds more effectively.
How Does Laminated Glass Reduce Sound Transmission?
So, how exactly does laminated glass work?
Plastic absorbs sound waves, while glass reflects them. This means the plastic film between the two glass layers in a sheet of laminated glass will be more effective at muffling loud noises than a traditional glass sheet. Also, the thicker the plastic film is, the more effective it is at dampening sound waves. This is why acoustic laminated glass tends to have a thicker layer of PVB than safety glass.
The interlayer of laminated glass is visible. However, it can only be seen clearly when viewed from the edge of the glass, so it will have no effect on the view from your windows. Some acoustic glass has a slight tint, which can actually shield your home from the sun's rays and help improve the overall efficiency of your window system!
What Is the Best Way to Maximize the Performance of My Laminated Glass?
While laminated glass can help with sound reduction, it is not a foolproof solution for noise reduction, nor can it guarantee making your home sound proof. It's important to note that windows and doors are not the only factor that can affect noise levels in a room. The thickness and quality of the walls, the presence of insulation, and the type of furniture all play a role in how loud or quiet a room can be. Additionally, external factors like the proximity to traffic, nearby neighbors, and weather conditions also affect noise levels.
Laminated glass works best when also used in tandem with these additional noise-reducing window features:
Multi-Pane Window System
A multipane window system is significantly better at dampening soundwaves than a single-pane window system.
The additional panes of glass in a dual- or triple-pane system are cushioned with dense gases to slow the speed at which soundwaves travel and, therefore, muffle noises before they reach inside. Better yet, you can install just one pane of laminated glass in a multi-pane window system and a pane (or two) of standard glass to get the same performance at a better value.
Glass Thickness
Glass panes with varying thickness levels can help dampen sound waves at different frequencies.
A double-pane window system with two thickness levels will muffle different types of sounds, from the shrill pitch of a car horn to the dull hum of a lawnmower or vehicle engine.
Professional Installation
Windows that aren't installed correctly using specialized methods can end up with gaps and cracks that provide zero protection against sounds, even with laminated glass!
When investing in replacement windows, choose professional installation from a reputable, local company like North Georgia Replacement Windows. Not only will your windows help reduce loud noises, but you'll also enjoy other benefits like enhanced energy efficiency, added curb appeal, and long-lasting weather performance.
| Guide to Common Window Problems - Outside Noise |
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| If you enjoyed this article, check out more information in our comprehensive guide outlining all you need to know about window sound dampening and handling loud noises through window installation. Read the "Guide to Common Window Problems - Outside Noise" |
Enhance Moments of Tranquility in Your Living Spaces with Window Replacement from North Georgia Replacement Windows
Laminated glass in a window system installed by a professional contractor, like North Georgia Replacement Windows, is a recipe for the quiet, peaceful home environment you've been craving—even in a noisy and busy neighborhood!
Our local team would love to help you upgrade your current windows with durable, beautiful, noise-reducing Infinity from Marvin® fiberglass windows.
Explore the versatile options we offer with our window and installation services, and learn what makes Infinity from Marvin the superior option for replacement windows in Georgia!
