Noise is an integral part of modern life. Busy streets, trams, neighbors or the noise of renovations can effectively disturb the peace in the house. Home, which should be a place of rest and recovery. The most common source of sounds entering the interior are windows. We often focus on their thermal parameters, forgetting about their sound insulation, which is crucial especially in larger cities. In this article we will look at how to effectively silence windows, what solutions are available on the market and which ones really work. If you want to know more, keep reading!
The World Health Organization (WHO) has been warning for years about the negative effects of excessive noise. Contrary to appearances, this is not just a nuisance and discomfort. Long-term exposure to elevated levels of sound has a real impact on our mental and physical health. Studies show that constant exposure to noise in excess of 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night can lead to a number of problems, such as:
Importantly, the negative effects of noise do not only affect adults. In children, too noisy environment negatively affects the learning process, speech development and the ability to memorize. Therefore, the silencing of rooms is not only a matter of comfort, but above all Investing in the health of the whole family.
Sound insulation of windows is their ability to suppress external noise and limit its penetration into the interior. A window is not just a sheet of glass. It is a complex system in which both panes, as well as window frame profiles, seals and mounting method. Each of these elements can act as a sound barrier or - on the contrary - as a “channel” through which noise easily enters the apartment.
The acoustic parameters of windows are measured in decibels (dB) and described by the coefficient Rw (weighted sound insulation parameter). In practice, this means the difference between the noise level outside and the one that reaches the interior when you go through the window.
For example:
You can read more about the Rw coefficient in our article: Rw factor: the key to effective sound insulation of windows and doors.
It is worth remembering that noise reduction is not just about “muffling” the sound. With good sound insulation, the most annoying frequencies can be eliminated, such as:
Thanks to this, acoustic windows significantly improve the comfort of living in the city, and are also perfect near airports, railway tracks or industrial plants.
The effectiveness of noise suppression is influenced by several technical factors. Contrary to appearances, the thickness of the glass alone is not enough - a window is a whole system in which every element matters:
Value Ct refers to high-frequency sounds, such as conversations or music, while Ctr takes into account low-frequency noises, characteristic of road traffic or railway communications. The lower the value of the correction indicator, the better a particular glass copes with the suppression of a given type of noise. Thanks to this, you can choose the right shaft package for a specific location. Another solution will work on a busy road, and another in a quieter area.
Only the combination of all these elements gives a real effect in the form of effective sound insulation.
Before deciding on a specific solution, it is worth diagnosing the problem. Not every noise is the same, and it depends on its intensity what actions will be most effective.
For comparison:
Already a difference of 10 dB is noticeably greater silence, because the decibel scale is logarithmic - reducing the intensity by 10 dB gives an effect similar to lowering the volume twice.
Window silencing can be done in a variety of ways - from simple and cheap solutions, to investing in new window joinery that gives the best results. The choice of method depends on the noise level, the location of the building, the design of the window, as well as the budget and the expected efficiency.
Replacing windows with soundproof ones is a solution for people who struggle with high noise levels, such as those living on a busy street, railway line or near an airport. Acoustic windows are equipped with:
The cost of windows with increased sound insulation parameters may be slightly higher than the cost of standard windows. However, they reduce the noise level by up to a dozen decibels more than the usual models, which in everyday feeling means a really big difference.
When deciding on windows with a higher Rw parameter, it is worth paying attention to the joinery made of profiles Veka SL82, Aluplast NeoLine, Gealan S9000 or Decco EconoLine
If the well packages have increased sound insulation, but the problem is leaks, it is worth looking at the seals and adjusting the window. You should also consider additional sealing solutions in the form of self-adhesive tapes or opt for professional sealing systems. This is a relatively inexpensive way that improves both acoustics and thermal insulation.
Outdoor roller shutters create an additional layer between the window and the external environment. This space acts as an acoustic barrier. Their tight fit to the frame, as well as the cassette mounted in the lintel, reduce the penetration of sound waves. Models with armour filled with polyurethane foam can reduce the noise level by up to a few decibels, which in practice makes a noticeable difference - especially for medium and high frequency sounds (e.g. conversations, music, traffic noises). An additional advantage of external blinds is the improvement of thermal insulation.
This is one of the easiest and fastest solutions. Thick curtains made of sound-absorbing fabrics are able to reduce the penetration of acoustic waves and reduce the reverberation in the room. They will not replace acoustic windows, but in combination with blinds or seals, they give a noticeable effect of improving comfort.
Ventilation in the apartment is an absolute necessity — it ensures the supply of fresh air and protects against moisture and the development of mold. The problem is that standard window diffusers often act as a kind of “acoustic hole”. Through the air gap, sound waves from the outside can penetrate almost unhindered, which negates the effects of even the best acoustic window.
The solution is acoustic diffusers, which combine two functions:
Their design differs from ordinary diffusers - inside there are special acoustic labyrinths and damping elements (e.g. sound-absorbing foam inserts) that disperse sound waves and limit their intensity. Depending on the model, such a diffuser can reduce noise by up to a few decibels, which in practice means a significant improvement in acoustic comfort.
You may also be interested in: What are insulated windows and what are their advantages? A guide for those who build a house and modernize windows.
Each of the methods of silencing windows works on a different principle and is characterized by a different level of effectiveness and cost. Choosing the best solution depends primarily on the scale of the problem, where you live and your budget.
it The most comprehensive and effective solution, especially for apartments and houses located in areas with high noise levels - near busy streets, railway tracks or airports. Acoustic windows, thanks special glass packages, PVB films and multi-chamber profiles with additional seals, can reduce noise by up to a dozen decibels more than standard models.
Their effectiveness is the highest in this group of methods, but and The biggest cost - is an investment for years that combines acoustic comfort with better thermal insulation. In the offer Comsta we will find joinery based on profiles with high sound insulation, e.g. Veka SoftLine 82, Decco EconoLine.
This method cheap, fast and often very effectiveif the problem is the leakage of the frames or poorly selected assembly, and the glasses themselves have decent acoustic parameters. Additional gaskets improve not only sound insulation, but also heat insulation. However, they will not work in case of high intensity noise — it is a complement to other solutions rather than a stand-alone method.
External blinds create an additional barrier between the window and the surroundings, which makes them a good complement to the replacement of joinery. They can reduce noise by a few decibels, especially in the midrange and treble. Their advantage over other methods is their multifunctionality: in addition to noise reduction, they improve thermal insulation and give sun protection. However, it is worth remembering that by themselves will not solve the problem of high noise - will work best in combination with acoustic windows.
It's a solution easiest and cheapest to implement. Thick curtains made of sound-absorbing fabrics reduce the penetration of acoustic waves and improve the indoor acoustics of rooms, reducing reverberation. However, the silencing is felt rather than measurable - compared to acoustic windows or external blinds, the effect is less. They work best as a supporting element for other methods.
it necessary complement for soundproof windows. Standard diffusers can weaken their effectiveness, which is why the choice of acoustic models is crucial. Thanks to special damping cartridges, they reduce noise penetration by up to a dozen decibels, and at the same time ensure proper ventilation of the premises. In practice, they are irreplaceable where replacing windows or sealing them could lead to moisture and mold problems.
It gives the best results comprehensive approach, that is, a combination of several methods adapted to the scale of the problem.
Even the most expensive and best-designed acoustic windows may not fulfill their function if they are installed incorrectly. Noise, like cold air, penetrates through the smallest leaks. Therefore, assembly is a key element of the entire process.
A good option is to choose a company that offers so-called layered assembly (warm) - it provides both acoustic and thermal tightness, and additionally increases the durability of the window.
Where to start silencing windows? Here is a practical guide that takes you step by step from problem diagnosis to effective solutions — tailored to your needs, technical capabilities and budget. No guessing, no wanderings.
First of all, you need to find the source of the problem. To do this, it is recommended to measure the noise intensity in the apartment:
You can also Consider a professional measurement (e.g. with a sound level meter).
Knowing what type of noise predominates (low sounds, human voices, horns) will help you choose the best method of suppression.
The next step is to take a close look at your windows.
This analysis is the key to the decision: whether it is enough to seal, apply additional elements, or whether you will need to replace the windows.
If the windows are in good condition, but the noise is still noticeable, it is worth reaching for supporting solutions:
These are quick and less expensive methods, which in many cases significantly increase the comfort of life.
If the noise is extremely bothersome and the carpentry does not meet expectations, you should consider replacing the windows. New acoustic windows with panes of different thicknesses and PVB film, multi-chamber frames and dedicated gaskets is the most effective sound barrier.
Even the best window will not fulfill its function without proper installation. When assembling it is important:
Mute is not a one-time operation - it is also a daily attention to detail:
Well-maintained acoustic windows can serve for decades — not only as a barrier against sound, but also as an element of thermal insulation and safety.
Silencing plastic windows is an effective way to regain peace of mind in an apartment located in a noisy area. The key to reducing outside noise is proper construction of carpentry — what matters is not only the type of glazing, but also the tightness of the profiles, the quality of the assembly and additional elements such as acoustic diffusers or external blinds. In the case of the elderly PVC windows, simple actions are often enough: adjustment of fittings, elimination of leaks. However, if the noise problem is serious, it is worth considering replacing the joinery with modern acoustic models, e.g. from the offer Comsta, which combines high insulation with durability and aesthetics. Well-chosen PVC windows can reduce noise by up to 40-50 dB, which in practice means a completely different comfort of everyday life.
Maintaining high sound insulation requires regular care of the joinery. Even the best mounted windows can lose some of their properties if we do not take care of them.
Also read: Building Energy Efficiency — Definition, Audit, Improvement [Practical Guide 2025]
Many apartment owners make basic mistakes that make silencing not bring the expected results. Among the most common are:
Being aware of these mistakes allows you to save time, money and avoid frustration.
Sometimes even the best acoustic windows will not completely solve the noise problem. This is especially the case when the sound source is very close or the building has poor sound insulation.
Such a comprehensive approach allows you to achieve full acoustic comfort - especially in modern apartments in city centers.
Not always. The thickness of the glass itself matters, but the application is crucial package of glass of different thicknesses and acoustic films (e.g. PVB). Thanks to this, the sound waves do not resonate in the same band, and the noise is more effectively suppressed.
Standard windows have insulation at the level of approx. 30 dB. Acoustic models can reach about 40 dB, which in the subjective feeling gives even several times greater silence.
No. These are supportive solutions that improve acoustic comfort, but are not able to stop high-intensity noise. They work best as supplementation of windows with increased insulation.
Yes, but it's a short-term solution. Adhesive tapes lose elasticity over time and peel off. If you want more efficiency and durability, it is better to invest in professional sealing systems.
Yes — the tighter the windows, the greater the risk of moisture and mold problems. That is why acoustic diffusers are so important, which combine quiet operation with proper air exchange. Nevertheless, despite their use, they worsen the parameter of sound insulation of the entire window.
It is practically impossible to completely silence it - even the best systems reduce noise, but do not eliminate it. However, it is possible to achieve comfortable level of silence, in which bothersome sounds will not interfere with sleep, work or rest.
Noise is one of the biggest problems of modern cities — it reduces the comfort of life, makes it difficult to sleep and negatively affects health. Therefore, the silencing of rooms, and above all windows, is an investment not only in comfort, but also in well-being and safety. The most effective solution remains replacement of joinery for acoustic windows (e.g. from the offer Comsta, based on Thermic or Passive profiles). In combination with Acoustic diffusers They allow you to achieve the highest level of noise reduction. In turn seals, blinds and acoustic curtains are supportive methods that further improve comfort, thermal insulation and interior aesthetics.
However, the key to success is not only choosing the right solutions, but also professional installation and subsequent care. Only then can you count on the fact that the investment in silencing the windows will really bring the expected results. If the noise problem is extremely large, it is worth going a step further and also thinking about insulation of walls, doors or floors, creating a comprehensive barrier against sounds from the outside.
Silence at home is a luxury, but with the right solutions — a luxury completely achievable.
Are you looking for a way to permanently silence your interior?
Bet on windows Komsta — designed for silence, energy efficiency and robustness.
Over 30 years of experience, modern PVC and aluminum profiles and individual fit for your home is a guarantee of an effective effect.
Check the offer Comsta or make an appointment with an advisor and choose the perfect windows for you!
