Are There Windows That Have Sound Insulation as Well as Thermal Insulation?

Sound and Thermal Insulation

• The elements that contribute to a window's sound-deadening qualities include the frame in which it is built, the glazing or glass coatings, the composition of the glass, distance between glass panes and the seals used to keep the glass airtight. The thickness of the glass, the gas charge and its low-emissive energy rating define its thermal qualities. Low-E windows contain a metal or metal-oxide coating that reflects heat from the surface of the window.

Glazing

• Windows that have both sound and thermal insulation have at least two, if not three, panes of glass. Single glazing refers to windows with only one pane of glass, which are not as efficient as double- or triple-glazed windows. In windows with double and triple glazing, manufacturers use spacers inside to create distance between the multiple panes. Secondary glazing or retrofit glazing refers to the addition of a second pane of glass to the inside of the home and existing single-paned window to add sound and thermal insulation qualities to the not-so-energy-efficient window.

Dual-Paned Windows

• Dual-paned windows used for thermal insulation usually have an air gap between the panes. This gap is filled with air or a gas such as argon to contribute to the thermal insulation of the window. But adding argon gas does not add to the window's sound insulation qualities. When the dual-pane window contains laminated glass that sandwiches a sheet of poly vinyl butyral or PVB between them and tight seals in a well-made and installed frame, it provides both sound and thermal insulation qualities. Laminated glass is the type of glass used for safety applications in autos for windshields and in homes with windows near doors.

Benefits of Safety Glass

• When you choose to have safety glass installed in your dual-pane windows – you reap both sound and thermal insulating benefits. Safety glass, or laminated glass, has other benefits as well. The glass does not break in the same manner as regular glass does, as it is not as brittle with the PVB layer between the layers. When safety glass breaks, it stays in its frame. It takes a lot of effort to remove broken safety glass. Because of this feature, it also provides added safety against thieves who break glass to get inside your home. It blocks 99 percent of the ultraviolet rays found in sunlight from entering your home as well and has better sound transmission loss.