Soundproofing your Windows with Window Treatments

Every day we hear so much noise coming into our homes from the outside—everything from cars and trains to music, loud talking, and dogs barking. Unwanted noise from the surrounding environment can keep us up at night and interrupt our peace and quiet.

What can you do about unwanted noise? One way you can fight back against unwanted noise is by soundproofing windows. This guide explains what environmental noise is, the different ways noise can be reduced, and covers several window options that are available. Read on to learn more about noise pollution and how you can soundproof your windows.

What is Noise Pollution?

Environmental noise, also known as noise pollution, can be annoying as well as disruptive. What is noise pollution, exactly? Noise pollution is unwanted or harmful noise coming from outside that negatively affects living things.

Noise pollution can be very harmful and affects many people and other animal and plant life, too. Unfortunately, we humans cause a lot of noise when we are doing things outside. What can be done to combat all of this noise?

Thankfully, there are some measures you can take to reduce sounds coming in from outside. Some methods are good for reducing noise, and some are good for absorbing noise. What’s the difference?

Reduction vs. Absorption Soundproofing

Noise reduction and noise absorption may sound like they mean the same thing, but there is a difference. Noise reduction works by stopping sounds from entering a space. Typically, we hear noise through air, and noise reduction works by blocking air from outside from coming in. Reduction in soundproofing keeps sounds out and can be an effective method for fighting unwanted noise.

Noise absorption, on the other hand, helps reduce noise by absorbing some or all of the sound that already exists in a space. Sound-absorbent materials take in and trap noise, which results in less noise in your home. Both reduction and absorption work but are often combined for the best results.

Options for Soundproofing Your Windows

There are many different ways of soundproofing your windows. Some of these ways work by reduction, some by absorption. There are several different soundproof window treatments. The following section covers several effective products. Try one or several of the following options to help reduce the amount of unwanted sound in your home.

Double-Pane Windows

Double-pane windows are commonly recommended for reducing noise from outside. Double-pane windows have two panes of glass rather than one, so they are able to help with noise reduction. They work by blocking some of the sounds from entering your home.

Double-pane windows are a very expensive option, and they are not enough on their own to stop noise pollution from reaching you in your home. Thankfully, there are other options that work effectively and are much more affordable.

Thick Curtains

Using thick curtains on your windows is a tried-and-true method of reducing noise in your home. A good set of curtains act as a screen for windows and absorbs sound from outside, keeping things quieter in your space. Using curtains or drapes on your windows is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce noise pollution. Not only can thick curtains help reduce noise, but they can also help reduce your energy costs, as well.

Shutters

Shutters are an excellent option for noise reduction. Indoor shutters work as a soundproof screen for windows. They are very effective against environmental noise, especially if constructed from good-quality wood. Shutters are easy to use, stylish, and work by helping to block out sounds. Indoor shutters are a simple, affordable, and attractive way to reduce noise in your home.

Blinds

Blinds are another simple and affordable way to reduce unwanted noise. Blinds work by absorbing noise, similarly to curtains. Blinds are effective and look nice, too. They can also help reduce your light and heat bills, too. A good set of blinds reduces sound from outside and are an affordable option.

Cellular Shades

Another great way you can reduce unwanted noise in your home is by installing cellular shades. Cellular shades are window covers made of many fabric cells that work like an accordion when opened or closed, working as a soundproof window screen. These window coverings have the added benefit of reducing your light bill! Cellular shades are an attractive and affordable way to reduce outdoor sounds from making their way into your home.

Storm Doors and Windows

You can also install storm windows and doors on your home to help reduce unwanted noise. Storm windows and doors are very effective against noise pollution. They work by blocking a lot of the sound from entering your space. Storm windows are wonderful for use on an outdoor patio or a screened-in porch and work with your existing window to help block sounds. When used in this way, you can enjoy the outdoors without dealing with all of the unwanted environmental noise.

Solar Shades

Solar shades are another great option for reducing noise pollution in your home. Solar shades work to reduce noise by absorbing some of the sounds. Solar shades are a wonderful, affordable option for soundproofing your windows. These shades are attractive and can help reduce harmful sunlight, as well as reduce your light bill. Try installing solar shades to help you enjoy peace and quiet in your own space.

In Closing

In this guide, we covered what noise pollution is, different methods for reducing it, and several different products you can utilize to fight it in your own home. Hopefully, you find this information about soundproofing windows useful.

Consider having one or more of these options professionally installed on your home. At Screenmobile, our professional installers can help with all of your soundproofing needs. Our services include:

• Window screens
• Shades and blinds
• Window shutters
• Storm windows and doors
• Custom solar screens
• Motorized shades and blinds

Screenmobile has the noise reduction products you need to enjoy the peace and quiet of your home. Visit our website and complete this form for a free estimate, or find the nearest Screenmobile location today!