Noise-reducing glass is designed with a special laminate coating on one of its glass panes. This coating helps to soak up more sound waves as they travel through the glass, reducing the amount of noise that enters the room.

We are surrounded by noise, and coping with it is unavoidable. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to understand about selecting and installing window soundproofing film. 

Window Soundproofing Film

Different varieties of windows exist, each with its layout and design. The soundproofing of a window is affected by its layers or material and the window type (for example, a skylight).

An inside layer sandwiched between two layers of window soundproofing film blocks exterior noise and keeps your internal environment noise-free, allowing you to study, sleep, and work better. This layer, often known as the core layer, greatly reduces the quantity of noise perceived.

The window soundproofing film will help keep sounds from your home from reaching the outside world. This will increase your privacy and ensure that no one will overhear your confidential discussions by accident.

Most people will have a single-layer window, in that case the film will be stuck on one edge to reduce noise. Professional-grade window soundproofing film is difficult to come by and might be prohibitively expensive. You can still lessen noise from outside by making your DIY film.

Sound Transmission Class (STC) is high in this picture. It refers to the material’s ability to reduce sound. It will render all the soundproofing methods obsolete. Some high-end soundproofing films for windows include an added feature to let you listen to music within the room rather than being disturbed by any external noise.

Nonetheless, this is a cutting-edge device that you won’t find in the general home improvement stores. 

What is the use of a Window Soundproofing Film?

Window soundproofing film can instantly transform your regular glass windows into soundproofing glass, solving the noise problems for many people.

You may reduce noise with soundproofing film if your concern is noisy neighbours, traffic noise, or unwanted and disturbing noise.

Soundproofing film has three key polymer layers to offer adequate sound insulation. The core lamination layer is sandwiched between two external polymer layers, preventing outside noise vibrations from entering your home. External noise will be absorbed by the polymer’s first layer, while it will be blocked by the second. 

Window films and other soundproofing material keep sounds from inside the home from escaping. This is ideal for adding more privacy to any room with a glass window.

How to install a Soundproofing Film?

If you can’t get any professional-grade soundproofing film for windows, you could always go with a less expensive and far more convenient DIY alternative.

Plastic vinyl or environmental PVC films are easy to install and offer an additional layer to the windows that minimise the strength of sound energy passing through it.

These soundproofing films for windows that are also reusable mainly use static cling attaching methods. These, contrary to the adhesive films, can be easily removed and readily stored when not in use.

More Reasons to Install a Soundproofing Film in a Window 

Aside from considerably decreasing noise in a home, soundproofing glass for a window can also provide the following advantages:

• Home Privacy is Improved: A few soundproofing films for single-pane windows and laminated glass feature reflective or tinted designs to keep prying eyes out of your house, business, or room.
• Save Money on Energy: Noise reduction with soundproofing window films can also help keep the interior temperature from increasing when it becomes hot outdoors. Unlike the double pane or triple pane windows, single-pane windows let a lot of heat in. A tinted window frame can assist in maintaining a cooler indoor environment temperature and boost energy efficiency by acting as an added insulation for heat.
• Protection for Skin: With a window film for noise-blocking, coated with UV layers of protection, you may change any current window in the house or workplace to shield it for blocking UV rays from harming your skin.
• Contemporary Exterior Design: Have the windows adorned with patterned window film to block noise for a more modern appeal in your house or business. Choose from plain reflective window panes for a clean look or colourful patterned panes for a pop of brightness.

How Do You Choose the Best Noise-Canceling Window Film?

The following elements should be considered while looking for the right window films for noise-blocking for any house or office:

• Material: Always look for a window film with numerous polymers layers and a core lamination that blocks noises.
• Window Types: There are various window types that may or may not require or perform effectively with standard soundproofing films. Acoustic and storm windows are two examples of windows that don’t require soundproofing. Another item to consider is the glazing on the windows. For example, any double-pane window may not need as much acoustic films or panels as a window with a single pane.
• Noise Level: Soundproofing film alone may not be sufficient to suppress outdoor noise. Conventional soundproofing films can only reduce noise by about 5 dB. If you experience noise levels greater than 100 dB, you should use acoustic caulk, acoustic curtains, or other soundproofing materials in addition to the regular window film.
• Noise Absorption Rating: STR ratings can help you identify the best soundproofing materials in the market. Sound Transmission Class (STC) refers to how manufacturers determine a material’s capacity to decrease sound.

Alternatives to Consider

Despite the advantages of adding a window film for noise-blocking, the cost can be prohibitive.

If you want to soundproof the windows while being on a budget, there are a few inexpensive options available that can be installed without the aid of any professional.

1.      Plugs for windows

To make a tighter seal, use window plugs for noise-absorbing around the window frame.

Just measure the dimensions of the window frame and fit this material in place. It is critical to ensure that your house has no holes or openings through which sound can enter.

2. Sealants

Consider obtaining a sealant if you only wish to close the spaces that permit the external noise to enter the house. This product is suitable for doors as well as windows.

This sealant adheres nicely, but it also stretches rather than tears with time. As a result, you don’t have to be concerned about cracking walls or windows.

When purchasing sealants, ensure to use an acoustic sealant. Acoustic sealants differ from ordinary caulk sealants as they are composed of some material that is rubber-like and does not harden when dry.

It is also not flammable and adheres firmly to any construction material because it is based of latex. If that wasn’t enough to persuade you, it was also built to limit the transmission of sound.

3.      Curtains for Noise Reduction

Sound reduction curtains are an option if you don’t even mind placing them to block off the noise. The dense and thick material used to make these curtains can help you achieve the serene ambiance you desire in your house.

This is an inexpensive method of soundproofing the windows. Even though the thick fabric would not completely soundproof the windows, it will help in deadening the noise by absorbing echoes in your home.

Polyester, satin, and velvet are common fabrics for such curtains. You only require an ordinary curtain rod for their installation, saving you money and avoiding a huge headache when beginning your DIY effort to soundproof your home’s windows.

The kind we suggest is a two-panel set, with the inner layer absorbing twice more sound as compared to the normal curtains. It comes in eight neutral colours, so you’re guaranteed to find one that matches your current decor.

My Recommendation

BDF S8MC Window Film Security and Safety Clear 8 Mil (24in X 12ft)

This is the film I have used and it works perfectly fine for soundproofing purposes and security purposes as well. It is a high quality crystal clear film that comes with 99 per cent UV Rejection.

Conclusion

While soundproofing your house, don’t forget about the windows, as they are among the weakest points for allowing noise in. Although we often focus on areas such as the entryway or the walls, the windows are an important element to consider when purchasing noise-reducing materials or accessories.

Check out a few of the goods recommended in this article because they have proven effective for many people. You can secure a calm living place if you target all of these locations.