Neighbours who like karaoke? MRT noise keeping you up? Barking dogs interrupting your Zoom calls? To effectively block all that noise that comes in through your windows, there are 3 critical factors you need to consider.

1. As most noise travels through air gaps, good hardware and fit is essential.

In noise reduction, the most important factor is precision. For a soundproof window, we’re talking about the precision of its profile and hardware. Your best strategy is to choose a patented groove window system; it provides the lowest degree of error in fit when windows are closed and thus, the smallest possible air gap.

What is a patented groove window system? How is it different from the groove systems you may be using at home?

A patented groove system consists of hardware and profile from a single supplier. Precision engineering ensures that parts are made to fit each other and that the degree of error is the smallest. When done well, air gaps are as small as a hairline gap. Parts are custom made and so, cost more than other common groove systems. Globally, there are only a handful of such suppliers, including Aluk and Schuco.

The normal groove window systems that you see in most homes are supplied by several suppliers using general parts. Window/door fabricators mix and match different parts using different types of materials. This usually means inconsistent quality and a poorer fit. This approach also has a higher degree of error and greater air gaps, leading to noises passing through.

How well does it reduce noise?

A patented system can block as much as 70% more noise than the groove system you may have at home.

2. Quality of materials determines longevity, fit and noise proofing ability

Aside from precision, the quality of materials is critical in soundproofing. The optimal choice is high quality industrial grade aluminium. This extremely durable material does not degrade over time and can last for as long as 10 or even 20 years. It is also the best material when it comes to precision fit and quality.

High quality industrial grade aluminium will ensure that the window profile retains its structure and that its fit – specifically, its alignment from casement or moving parts - does not deteriorate over time. Its superior noise blocking qualities and durability will prevent buyers’ remorse from kicking in.

Heard that uPVC is a better material for soundproofing? Let us bust the myth here. Or book an appointment via +65 8666 8734 for a demo at our showroom.

3. Choose Double-Glazed Acoustic Laminated Glass

The largest component in all windows and balcony doors is the glass. Glass comes in many types and in a variety of thickness. You may have heard of annexed glass, laminated glass or tempered glass.

So, what is the difference between these glass types and which is best for soundproofing?

Annexed glass is the glass typically available in the market and what is normally used in homes.

Tempered glass is a temperature hardened glass. However, it is not very safe as it shatters when broken.
Laminated glass is 2 layers of glass stuck together with a polyvinyl film in the middle. This helps to prevent shattering (picture your car’s windows) and hardens the glass by up to 5 times. In addition, it provides great soundproofing quality against lower frequency noises such as MRT and traffic noises.
Double-glazed glass is glass made with 2 layers of glass with an airgap. This air gap helps to reduce heat and noises, especially higher frequency sounds such as human voices.

Hands down, the best glass for soundproofing windows is laminated double-glazed glass. This is a combination of laminated glass and double-glazed glass and blocks out 90% of noises from most types of sources in urban environments.

Example of a double-glazed acoustic laminated glass providing the best soundproofing

You may have heard about soundproof curtains, blinds and window film. However, these don’t work with external noise especially if the noise is higher than 55 DB.

How noisy is your home? Simply download a noise meter reading app from the app store and send us your noise meter readings for a free soundproofing consultation (do describe the problems you face and include a picture of your current windows).