Last updated: March 15, 2023 at 15:30 pm
Are you struggling to survive the noise outside your windows? Are the road noise and pathway chatter getting on your nerves when you try to unwind?
You’ve likely started to explore ways to minimise this noise. One of the most common recommendations when looking into ways to minimise the noise from outside is to install window inserts.
But do they work? Are they worth the investment? Here’s what you need to know.
IN THIS ARTICLE
What Are Soundproof Window Inserts?
Soundproof window inserts seal out noise by blocking any pathways for air to pass through.
Noise from outside travels through vibrations in the air, so by blocking it out, soundproof window inserts are able to dramatically reduce the noise that comes in from outside.
What Are Soundproof Window Inserts Made From?
Soundproof window inserts are typically made from a thick sound absorbing material like acrylic. Other materials that may be used are polyurethane foam, melamine foam, wool, rock wool, glass wool, or even cork.
Typically, window inserts will be made of something that still allows you to use the window as a source of natural light. This means that they’re usually made out a transparent material rather than an opaque one.
For some soundproofing, people may choose opaque soundproofing inserts (for things like music recording or podcast making) but these are usually for more specialist rooms and homes.
Average soundproof window inserts can be a good way to provide a home with acoustic insulation without having to detract from the stylishness or atmosphere of a room. They can make a huge difference if done well.
Are They Effective?
Whether or not a soundproof window insert is effective will often depend on the quality of the product itself. Generally, though, as long as you opt for a high quality insert from a company that is reputable, you should be able to trust that the soundproof window inserts will work reasonably well.
Most suppliers of soundproof window inserts will provide you with a rough estimate of how much noise they block out. They will typically be advertised as blocking out 30%, 50%, 70% etc. of outside noise.
4 Benefits of Window Inserts
Assuming that you are installing high-quality window inserts, there are a range of benefits that come with opting for inserts.
1. They Are Clear
As mentioned above, window inserts are clear, unlike things like acoustic paneling. This allows you to limit the changes to the room whilst still preventing as much outdoor noise as possible.
Where other panels will darken the room, decent soundproof inserts will allow you to keep your home light and airy, and soundproof!
2. Thermal Properties
A lot of noise from outside travels into your home or office through vibrations in the air. If your windows allow air in, then you’re likely to also be experiencing a draught through those same windows.
By installing soundproofing window inserts you can reduce (if not entirely remove) the draught. This will help to reduce your energy bills and make your home feel cosier, which is always an added plus!
3. Keeps the Windows Working
Soundproof window inserts work to remove sound from outside, but they also tend to allow you to continue to use your windows. With correctly installed soundproof window inserts you should still have complete access to your windows.
With some other soundproofing techniques, you are likely to lose access to the windows. These usually block the windows out and prevent them from opening, meaning that you lose all functionalities.
4. Cost Effective
Considering that soundproof window inserts are usually relatively inexpensive and will help reduce your frustration at the outside world, and will also help to reduce your energy bills, it is an incredibly cost-effective addition to your property.
For landlords, it will also benefit you by providing further incentives for tenants to rent with you. It will likely help to increase the value of your home when renting, and even when selling should that opportunity ever arise.
What Other Things Can You Do to Soundproof Windows?
If you aren’t sure about soundproof window inserts, or you can’t afford to get them yet, there are a few things that you can do to soundproof windows.
Place Furniture in Front of the Window
Placing some bulky furniture in front of the offending window will help to reduce the noise by getting the vibrations to pass through or bounce off surfaces, making the noise carry less through the room.
Use Sealant to Seal the Gaps
If there are gaps in your window frame or around the windowpanes themselves, filling them with sealant will do wonders to help reduce the noise coming into your home.
It works just like the window inserts do.
Hang Thick Curtains and Blinds
Thick curtains and blinds are a great way to reduce the amount of noise that comes in from the window.
It reduces the vibrations and prevents the noise from traveling or echoing through the room.
Conclusion
If you’re willing to spend on them, soundproof window inserts are a great way to dramatically reduce the amount of noise entering your home.
They’re easy to install and have a range of additional benefits, too!
