How to Soundproof a Window: 16 Effective Cheap Methods

Soundproofing windows is essential when developing a home soundproofing system because most of the outside noise enters the house through the windows.

Whether it is highway traffic, drum room, birds chirping, or loud neighbors, any noise that creates noise outside the house enters the house through the windows and disrupts daily work.

We have shared some tips and tricks on how to soundproof a window. You can buy expensive things from the market for this and install them on the windows.

But if you have some DIY knowledge, you can use these tips to soundproof your windows very easily.

Let’s Start the Discussion.

Why Window Soundproofing is Important?

There are many reasons why a window should be properly soundproofed or new windows should be installed. These are –

1. Reduce Noise Pollution

Window sound insulation generally reduces external noise from city traffic, noisy areas, building construction, aircraft, or neighbors.

It is usually very important to reduce noise coming from busy streets or markets near the windows of houses in urban areas.

2. Sleep Quality

Soundproofing windows are a must for people or children who are sensitive to noise.

Excessive noise disrupts sleep, leading to fatigue, stress, and health problems.

3. Improves Productivity

A quiet environment enhances focus and concentration on any task, especially when working or studying from home.

Soundproofing your home windows prevents distracting noise from outside and increases work productivity.

4. Increases Privacy

A soundproof window not only blocks outside noise from coming in, but it also blocks inside noise from going out.

It is very useful for maintaining privacy in a personal or professional space.

5. Health and Well-Being

People who are constantly exposed to loud noises can experience stress, anxiety, and even hearing loss.

A quiet environment can help reduce stress levels and improve mental health, which is possible with well-soundproofed windows in a home.

Things Should Be Consider For Window Soundproofing

Properly soundproofing your windows can help you live in peace in your home. If you have tried various methods to soundproof your old windows, but they are not properly soundproofed, you should replace them with new ones. 

When shopping for soundproofing windows you should consider the things STC rating, sound level, budget, and glass quality.

Here we are discussing all the things in detail.

STC (Sound Transmission Class) Rating

Soundproof windows must meet certain criteria to achieve a high STC rating, unlike windows. The higher the rating, the more decibels of sound the window can block.

Typically, a home’s windows should have an STC rating of between 50 and 60.

Budget

Cost and effectiveness are important considerations when it comes to soundproofing windows. Therefore, it is important to choose the right option based on these factors.

Some affordable options available include weatherstripping and window foam panels that help soundproof windows without breaking the bank.

Glass Quality

To soundproof a window, a thick sheet of glass should be installed in the window. It is best if it is half an inch to 1 inch thicker than the glass.

In addition, to soundproof a window, a thin layer of vinyl can be placed between the two layers of glass to block sound even better.

Noise Level

The soundproofing of windows depends on the level of noise that enters through the windows of the house.

If the constant noise of the market enters through the windows, then single-pane windows can be used, while if the constant traffic noise enters through the windows, then double or triple-pane windows should be used.

Window Type and Materials

To properly soundproof a window, you need to know the type of window and the material it is made of. Sometimes, the type of frame the window is made of will determine how you soundproof the window.

If the window is made of wood, it can absorb more sound than vinyl.

16 DIY Methods for Soundproofing a Window

If you have enlarged the windows in your home to let in more light, more noise will enter the room. Then the need for window soundproofing is essential.

Here we will discuss sixteen types of soundproofing options so that you can choose the best method for your needs.

First, some simple methods are given and gradually more advanced techniques will be discussed.

The 16 DIY Methods are:

  1. Window Inserts
  2. Acoustic Caulk
  3. Weatherstripping Tape
  4. Acoustic Panels
  5. Soundproof Moving Blankets
  6. Soundpr1oofing Film
  7. Window Plug
  8. Soundproof Curtains
  9. Seal the Air Gaps
  10. External Strom Window
  11. Furniture Arrangement
  12. Replace the Existing Window
  13. Double Pane Window
  14. Fill in the Gaps or crack
  15. Thick Window Blinds
  16. Glazing Window

Each of these methods has its own advantages and you can choose the right option according to your particular needs and budget.

Window Inserts

One of the most effective ways to block out noise is with window inserts. These are usually made of laminated glass and have two layers of glass above and below the plastic layer.

They usually require a skilled person to install them. You can find these for between $200 and $250 depending on the size and type of window you have.

Pros

  • Window inserts are highly effective at reducing noise.
  • They are less expensive than double-pane windows.
  • You will get warranty protection from the installer.

Cons

  • Not suitable for shallow window sills.
  • They are a bit more expensive to install.

Acoustic Caulk

Acoustic caulk is a product for sealing gaps between windows and walls. Acoustic caulk is made of latex and it remains flexible rather than hard over time.

It does not shrink so it does not create new gaps. If you choose acoustic caulk for soundproofing, you will need to touch it up after a certain period.

Pros

  • You can use it yourself.
  • It is very effective.
  • It reduces your energy bill.

Cons

  • It does not completely block out sound.
  • It can be messy if you are not careful while applying it.

Weatherstripping Tape

Weatherstripping is commonly known as window jams. They are usually used on windows to control temperature, but they also help reduce noise levels.

Weatherstripping tape is usually made of silicone, foam, or rubber.

After cutting the weatherstripping tape according to the measurements of the window, it is applied to the window in such a way that it does not get wet in the rain or cause any problems after installing the window.

Pros

  • It takes very little time to install and you can apply it to many windows in the house.
  • You can install it very easily.
  • You can get it cheaply in the market.
  • It does not get messed up easily.

Cons

  • It is not a permanent solution.
  • Sometimes the sound may not be blocked.

Acoustic Panels

Acoustic panels are a product for controlling noise inside a house. They are made of fiberglass and act like a blanket.

They are quite thick, so professionals like to use them. Acoustic panels are a bit expensive and it is not possible to install them yourself, so you have to rely on others.

However, you can use them to soundproof windows, in which case you may have minimal success.

Pros

  • Very effective.
  • Helps reduce noise because they are a bit thick.

Cons

  • An expensive product.
  • It is not possible to install them yourself.
  • Usually not that attractive.

Soundproof Moving Blankets

Another thing you can use for soundproof windows is a soundproof moving blanket. Installing a moving blanket window takes very little time.

This moving blanket is usually used temporarily although it may not be aesthetically pleasing. These moving blankets are usually made of a heavy layer of woven wool, polyester, mineral wool, or fiberglass material.

That is why it is a bit thick and popular among people. If you know how to install them, they act like a curtain, but they may not completely reduce the sound level.

Pros

  • You may get mediocre results using this.

Cons

  • It may not be aesthetically pleasing.

Soundproofing Film

The soundproofing film is a very thin solution for soundproofing windows. It is a type of film that is very easy to install on windows and is very effective in reducing noise.

Adding too much to the windows for soundproofing is not a good idea, in that case, soundproof film is the best solution.

One of the biggest advantages of soundproof film is that it controls the heat of the sun and prevents people from looking in from the outside and helps people from looking out from the inside. Sound film is a thin product.

Pros

  • After installation, it helps in reducing noise.
  • It prevents people from looking in from the outside.

Cons

  • Due to its extra thinness, it is difficult to attach to the window.

Window Plug

If you are not getting the desired results even after properly soundproofing your windows, then window plugs are the best solution. You can use this plug temporarily in the part of the window where the noise is coming from.

If necessary, you can add some extra weight to the window plug and install it in the window. One major disadvantage of this is that when you use this window plug, natural light will no longer be able to enter the room.

Pros

  • This is a very effective window plug.
  • It is a temporary solution.

Cons

  • Window plugs are not a permanent solution
  • Installing a window plug requires time and effort.

Soundproof Curtains

Soundproof curtains are usually made of fabric, which not only helps block sound from windows but also reduces potential energy costs.

They are versatile and come in a variety of sizes and colors that can match any window covering and provide window soundproofing benefits.

Soundproof curtains completely cover the window and help block sound from entering around the edges of the window. This is a great way to soundproof your windows without spending a lot of money.

There are different types of sound-absorbing curtains available, such as acoustic curtains, velvet curtains, and blackout curtains. If you can’t find these types of soundproof curtains at home, you can find them online (amazon) for a low price.

Pros

  • It is available very cheaply.
  • A DIY project is possible.
  • It reduces drafts.

Cons

  • It may not match other curtains in the house.
  • Sometimes it is not possible to cut the curtains to the size of the window.

Seal the Air Gaps

Sound can enter the room through the tiny gaps in soundproof windows. Although the level of that sound is very low, if those air gaps can be closed, an effective solution can be found.

External Strom Window

If you live in an area that is prone to frequent high winds or storms, you may need an external storm window. The windows protect against damage and save energy during heavy storms.

These windows are often installed like permanent windows and blend in well with the exterior of the home. Storm windows typically cost between $200 and $500.

Pros

  • Storm windows increase energy efficiency. 
  • effective than DIY options.

Cons

  • Requires professional installation.
  • A little more expensive than other options.

Furniture Arrangement

We all know that noise, after entering the room, keeps hitting different surfaces and keeps traveling until it reaches the surface.

Therefore, if you can move heavy sofas or furniture from in front of or next to the window, it helps in reducing the noise.

If the furniture in your house is arranged properly to create a barrier to the sound after it enters through the window, then it will absorb all kinds of sounds and prevent that sound from bouncing around the room, which will result in reducing the echo of the sound.

Furniture arrangement is very easy. It does not cost anything extra. It is not very effective.

Replace the Existing Window

If you live near a high-traffic area or a noisy market or road, then an effective solution for blocking noise is to properly soundproof your windows.

If you want to add an acrylic layer to your old window and turn it into a double or triple-pane window, then it will be a bit expensive.

Therefore, if you use a new window instead of the old one, your cost will be reduced a lot and the overhead will also be reduced

Double Pane Window

A Windows add-on pane can control up to 50% of the volume, the problem is, it’s expensive.

Pre-2000s homes are more likely to have single-pane windows that offer less sound insulation.  Today’s new houses are built with double-pane windows.

Fill in the Gaps or crack

There may be small holes or small gaps around the window which some people may find a bit confusing. The age of the window may cause holes or gaps around the window.

It can also be due to the age of the window. Gaps can also form around old window panes and around window casings. 

So you should check around the windows and get the small holes or cracks repaired by a professional or you can do the repair yourself.

Thick Window Blinds

Honeycomb cell shades work well to block noise. The honeycomb shape of the blinds helps to insulate the windows not only from outside noise but also from extreme temperatures.

Alternatively, Roman fabric shades can dampen sound. And can add a pop of color to the room. They stay flat and their thick fabric can block sound.

Can do soundproofing treatment. For example, layering blinds with soundproof curtains dampens more noise in the house.

Glazing Window

This solution is cost-effective and efficient.  When you make the window’s primary layer a double-thickness glass window.

One may be around 6mm thick and another around 4mm.  These two barriers help to modify the glass sound waves.

For best results, you should make at least about 30% difference between the thickness of the first and second glazing glass.

Final thoughts

Finally, soundproofing windows reduces noise pollution and improves the quality of life. However, as a reminder, if one of the above DIY tips does not work, you can use two or more options in combination.

It depends on how much noise you are dealing with or how much your budget is.

I hope that by considering the budget, noise pollution level, type of noise, and type of window, you can make a great decision about soundproof windows and enjoy your peaceful life.

FAQ on How to Soundproof a Window

1. How to soundproof windows?

Ans. Soundproof by adding curtains to the windows and closing the windows at night. You close all window gaps during the day and you add foam weatherstripping tape.

2. How to soundproof windows cheaply?

Ans. Window plugs and soundproof curtains can be used to soundproof windows cheaply. These can soundproof your windows.

3. How to soundproof windows from road noise.

Ans. To soundproof the windows from road noise, install a thick curtain. When the traffic is too noisy, you turn them off. You add heavy furniture under or around the window.

4. Cost of soundproof windows?

Ans. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on soundproof windows. There are some inexpensive window soundproofing materials, such as acoustic caulk and foam weather seals, that cost less than $10 each. But you can make DIY clear acrylic sheet overlays for less than $100. However, window soundproofing custom-made acoustic windows can be a little expensive, with costs ranging from about $200 to $500.

5. Where can 100% soundproof windows be found

Ans. A 100 percent soundproof window can never be purchased because a soundproof window can only block 90-95% of sound, not 100 percent. So you can never buy a 100% soundproof window.

6. Which is more effective for soundproofing double-pane windows and single-pane windows?

Ans. Generally, double-pane windows are superior to single-pane windows and work better for soundproofing because double-pane windows have a higher STC rating.

7. How do soundproof window treatments help reduce noise pollution?

Ans. Sound-blocking window treatments such as thick curtains, blinds, and shades are useful for blocking a window sound and reducing noise pollution

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