All manufacturers of plastic profile for windows care about its sound insulation properties. In addition to several chambers, they equip their window systems with rubber seals that ensure airtightness and protection against sound waves. However, all these measures are meaningless if the installed glazing unit does not provide protection against noise.
The main source of noise in the city is ground transport and railways that pass through its territory. However, even five years ago, there were significantly fewer cars in cities than there are now, and street noise has become several decibels louder. While an increase in volume from 75 to 80 dB may seem insignificant in numbers, this difference is very significant for the human ear.
Several methods have now been developed to improve the soundproofing qualities of windows. The simplest way is to increase the amount of glass in the double glazing unit. Each additional pane of glass serves as a new barrier to street noise. The chambers between the glass further contribute to its reduction. However, if multiple panes of glass of the same thickness are placed at an equal distance, resonance arises in them under the influence of sound waves, and the effectiveness of the protection decreases. Therefore, it is necessary to resort to other measures.
Increasing the thickness of glass, especially the outer one, greatly improves sound insulation. Along with the thickness, its weight increases and sound vibrations are transmitted to a lesser extent. The difference in thickness between the outer and inner glass should be at least 30%. This means that if the inside glass is 4 mm, then the outside should be 6 mm. The natural vibration frequencies of these glasses differ, so the likelihood of them resonating is very low.
Another measure to increase the sound insulation of a double-glazed unit is to change the width of the chambers. With each additional millimeter, the air layer provides better protection against the penetration of unwanted sounds. Different chamber widths in a double-glazed unit, as well as in the case of glass thickness, prevent resonance from occurring.
Applying polymer films, or using triple glazing with a layer of special resin, also greatly improves window sound insulation. The glass becomes heavier and thicker, and the film or resin layer helps to dampen vibrations caused by sound waves.
Using some of these measures individually or in combination will help you improve the comfort of your home, eliminate external noise that interferes with both work and leisure.