07/08/16

Peace of mind – using uPVC windows to shut out traffic noise.

As urbanisation continues to grow and our cities’ growth corridors are frequently located along major transport routes, buildings will increasingly need to be built or retrofitted to reduce the effect of nearby traffic noise. This can be done through improving insulation of walls and/or windows.

Double glazing windows is one of the most effective barriers against unwanted outside sound, and when combined with uPVC window frames, can reduce perceived noise by up to 80 percent, or as much as 45 decibels.

The science of noise abatement is based upon the interruption of noise travelling from the noise source to a particular receptor, for example the most exposed façade of a nearby building. Sound is measured in Decibels (dB) with a logarithmic unit, such that a 20dB noise is actually 10 times louder than a 10dB noise. Therefore, reducing noise by as much as 45 decibels will have a huge impact on your peace and quiet at home or in your office.

It sounds simple, but the requirements for effective, acoustic insulation are demanding. An effective acoustic barrier needs to be a continuous face to the noise source with certified sound transmission loss capabilities. Double glazing achieves this by accommodating a variety of glass thickness and types allowing the window unit to reach high acoustic control requirements. Using two (or more) layers of glazing increases noise reduction at most frequencies, but by how much also depends on the space between the two panes. Sound insulation is improved further with larger air spaces between the glazing units, from about 20 to 100 mm. Combine this double-glazing with an effective barrier frame material such as uPVC and excellent acoustic insulation is provided by the whole window unit.

uPVC windows can be readily retrofitted to provide an effective, low maintenance yet highly durable noise barrier. Ongoing exposure to loud noises – like outside traffic, overhead planes or noisy neighbours – can continually disrupt concentration and increase general stress levels. Noise reductions of up to 40-45dB may improve sleep, decrease stress, improve a work environment and concentration, and add re-sale value to your home.