Noise Comparison
Noise Reduction Percentages Can be Misleading
Noise reduction percentages can be misleading, and like statistics, can lie. The basic problem is the human ear. As the environment gets quieter, the ear becomes more sensitive to noise. This means that some of the noise reduction provided is lost.
- Soundproof Windows can reduce the current noise levels by 95% or by 75%, and both statements will be true: one is the instrument measurement, while the other is the perceived noise reduction.
Additionally, depending on actual noise levels, the noise reduction may be perceived as 100%.
- Double pane window sales people can say they stop the noise - and in some noise level environments they do.
They can also say they reduce the noise over 50% - true by instrument reading compared to a poorly sealing window.
It is very expensive to get a perceived noise reduction of anything beyond 20% with replacement windows. The maximum available perceived noise reduction still does not exceed 50%. These numbers will not solve a noise problem.
Soundproof Windows do significantly MORE for significantly LESS cost.
Table of Window Noise Reduction
The table below compares the STC Ratings of single pane windows and double pane windows to the STC Ratings of Soundproof Windows combined with single pane and double pane windows.
| Single pane window |
 |
STC Rating 25-28
Avg: 27 |
| Double pane window |
 |
STC Rating 28-35
Avg: 30 |
| Soundproof Window & single pane window |
 |
STC Rating 41-45 |
| Soundproof Window & double pane window |
 |
STC Rating 44-48 |
| Two Soundproof Windows & single pane window |
 |
STC Rating 50-58 |
How much Noise Reduction is Enough?
Our experience indicates that 75% noise reduction is sufficient. Our customers feel the noise reduction is very significant - and definitely enough to end the noise 'problem'. No more need to raise voices, adjust TV volumes, or tune out the noise.
Now you can sleep late, enjoy solitude, and reduce stress. In the rare events where the noise levels are really extreme or the sensitivity very high, we can install a third window and absolutely stop the problem - reducing the perceived noise levels beyond 95%. This is very seldom necessary: less than 1/2 of 1% of our customers elect to have a third window.