Well, in this post, I’ll walk you through the various aspects of soundproofing a window to help you make an informed decision.
Moreover, I’ve also included the costing to help you get an overall idea of the budget that you need to invest in the soundproof window project.
Since you’ve landed on this post, I’m assuming you’re in search of budget-friendly yet effective ways of soundproofing windows.
In my post on soundproofing doors, I’ve mentioned that the success of soundproofing a room depends to a large extent on how successfully the doors & windows have been sound-dampened.
As mentioned earlier, I prefer to work from home whenever I find it feasible.
A few years back, I took the decision to soundproof my home office, and it was me who planned the end-to-end execution of this project.
At the back of my mind, I was thinking of soundproofing the office in the most cost-effective way.
Since I had bought an apartment, I did not have a big budget to spend on the soundproofing project.
I was really impressed with the way the project was completed.
Definitely, the outcome of the project was quite impressive, and I’ll be sharing all the steps as it is, in this post, so stay tuned with us.
After I was done with soundproofing my home office, everything seemed to be perfect until I found out some noise popping in from the windows.
I was literally shocked to see some light rays coming into the home office through the window.
Without wasting a second, I decided to find out what went wrong.
Here, I would like to mention that I was quite happy with the outcome of the project, but definitely, there was room for improvement, and I was in no mood to miss it.
Not only it would help me to achieve the epitome of silence, but also, help me to professionally grow as a soundproof consultant.
The easiest and most affordable way to soundproof your window is by blocking it, but by doing so, you’ll not receive the sunlight.
On the other hand, if you want some sunlight to come into your room, then you need to be a bit tricky while soundproofing your windows.
Like most other people out there, I wasn’t too happy with my noisy neighbors.
I tried all the methods to stop loud music, dog barking, etc. from entering my home office.
But, I didn’t see the sunshine until I soundproofed windows & doors.
What most people don’t realize is that soundproofing doors and windows is very important.
Without any second thought, soundproofing windows in the correct way can reduce the amount of noise entering the room and vice-versa.
Even though I was an experienced soundproofing consultant, I learned a lot while executing my home office soundproofing project.
Trust me, I’m gonna vomit all the things that I learned during the process.
Just pick what works best for you.
All the steps mentioned are quite easy and cost-effective.
I’m sure that you can soundproof your window without any professional help.
Don’t worry, it will NOT consume a lot of your time.
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
How to Soundproof a Window Cheaply
It goes without saying that soundproofing a window can be cheap or costly depending upon the selection of the methods and soundproofing materials used in the project.
However, I would try to the best of my capabilities to walk you through the best practices of the soundproofing industries.
All our efforts will be paved off ONLY if you’re able to make an informed decision.
Seal the Window Completely
If you’re comfortable with blocking the window, then nothing can be better than this.
Block the window in such a way that there is no scope for the light to pass through it.
At the same time, I would advise you to keep track of all the gaps, cracks, and holes in the vicinity of the window.
On the other hand, if you want some sunlight on a daily basis, then you need to discard this method right away and move to the next one.
Trust me, sealing the windows is the easiest of all the methods that I’ve mentioned in this post, and of course, you can easily execute it on your own without any professional help.Let me share with you an experiment that I did with my garage window.
Yup, you GUESSED it RIGHT, I tried to block them using some insulation panels from Amazon.
These panels are quite cheap and anyone can afford them.
Using panels to soundproof the window can be quite tricky at times.
Even a small gap can completely spoil all your efforts.
So, be careful while cutting the soundproof panel.
It should fit the frame of the window without any gap.
I’ll agree with the fact that insulation panels aren’t visually appealing, but at the same time, they are cost-effective and high-performing sound-absorbing material.Well, to enhance the decor of your room, you can suffice the insulation panels with soundproof curtains.
Another feasible option would be to install a fiberglass soundproof blanket.
All you need to do is to cover the window with it.
In terms of performance, it wins the race against the panels.
Does it make sense?
Replace the Existing Windows With the Double Pane Windows
Replacing the existing windows with double pane windows is definitely a method that people on a shoestring budget wouldn’t love to prefer.
The first criterion to go with this method is that you’re READY to spend a good amount of money on a soundproofing window project.
Double-pane windows are good at sound insulation as well as thermal insulation.
They are capable of reducing up to 60 percent of the unwanted noise.
Once installed the double-pane windows will keep your room cooler in summer and vice-versa.
As a result, you can expect a decrease in your electricity bill.
You also have the option to try specialist soundproofed windows in place of the double-pane windows.
The only thing that you need to be very careful about is the window installation process.
In case, you’re NOT confident or well aware of the installation process, I would advise you to take professional help.
It is always better to play safe than be sorry later 🙂
Check twice for the gaps and cracks around the edge of all the windows.
I’ve seen people spending a good amount of money on double-pane windows but later ending up criticizing the product because it couldn’t match their expectations.
Can you GUESS what went wrong?
Yes, you hit on the target correctly, the poor installation was the main culprit.
I’ve explained to you what all I know about the double pane windows, and now the ball is in your court.
Add an Extra Layer to the Windows
So, if you found the last method to be a bit costly, then you try to add an extra layer of acrylic to your windows.
By doing so, sound waves have to pass an additional layer to reach your room.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot.
However, installation can be tedious and time-consuming, so be prepared for it.
First and foremost, you’ve to install a metal frame on your existing window.
Then, use magnets to attach the acrylic to the existing windows.
I would suggest that you should check twice for the gaps and cracks.
For the best results, the entire system should be airtight.
If you’re an avid reader of this blog, then I hope that you’ll be well aware of soundproof window plugs.
In case, you’re hearing this term for the first time, then don’t worry, we’re gonna discuss it later in this post.
The reason why I draw your attention towards a soundproof window plug is that the acrylic works in a similar way as a window plug.
Nonetheless, there is a major difference between acrylic and soundproof window plugs.
The former will behave as a transparent object and will allow light to pass through it.
On the downside, the acrylic method may not be the best bet when it comes to combating very loud noise.
This method will help you to combat unwanted noise to a certain level, but for the extreme levels, you need to try something more.
Wait, we’ll help you to combat even the loudest of the noise.
So, keep reading.
Install Noise Canceling Curtains
Noise-canceling curtains are one of the best ways to soundproof windows.
So, by blocking the noise, it prevents the external noise from entering the premises and vice-versa.
On the other hand, by absorbing noise, these acoustic curtains will help you to combat reverbs, vibrations, and echoes.
I recommend you use sound-deadening curtains along with other soundproofing materials to get the best out of them.
For example, a few of my clients had a problem installing foam panels for soundproofing windows because of the look & feel of the panels.
I just added an additional layer of the soundproof curtain to make the entire setup aesthetically appealing.
At times, you need to be creative to stay in the business:)
The acoustical drapes come with additional benefits as well.
It will add to the thermal insulation of your room.
Well, it means you’ll be able to save quite a few dollars on the electricity bill.
These heavy soundproof curtains will keep your room cold in a hot & humid environment and vice-versa.
There are some high-end curtains that claim to be 100% blackout.
In simple terms, you’ll achieve a room free of noise and sunlight without paying for the latter.
Nevertheless, you need to be quite tricky to achieve complete silence using these drapes.
Again, I’m reminding you, that these acoustic drapes alone aren’t enough to soundproof your window.
Rather consider it as a complementary method.
The soundproof curtains are made of sound-absorbing materials that can absorb any kind of noise.
Buy a noise-canceling curtain that has a grommet embedded into it.
If you’re planning to install soundproof curtains on your window, then the first thing that you need to do is to take the measurement of your window.
Once you’re done with the measurement, all you need to do is buy a drape that is at least 10 inches long and twice in breadth that of the window.
Install curtain rods at least 10 inches above the window frame.
I hope I’ve shared enough information about the soundproof curtains.
However, before moving to the next method, allow me to ask a question with you.
Let me check how informed are you on the subject.
What is Dynamat, and how much does it weigh?
Try Thick Material Blinds
The blinds function almost similar to the noise-canceling curtains.
Other than combating echoes, these blinds are capable of blocking noise to some extent.
If you’re looking forward to using blinds for soundproofing your windows, then I would recommend you install a blind that is made of thicker materials.
I can assure you that Calyx Interiors CordlessHoneyComb is one of the best blinds available on the market.
They haven’t exceeded my expectations when it comes to sound absorption but were definitely worth the money spent.
However, the main reason why I installed this HoneyComb in my home office (Check the Current Price On Amazon) was its capability to allow the necessary amount of light.
Otherwise, my home office would have been completely dark.
I preferred blinds over curtains because I was in search of some soundproofing materials that could allow some sunlight in my home office.
I haven’t changed the brand, I’m more than happy with the HoneyComb blinds.
Install a Barrier Panel
A barrier panel is nothing but a panel made of acoustic foams that helps to absorb noise as well as sound reflection.
If you’re NOT satisfied with the performance after trying a couple of the aforementioned methods, then the best thing that you can do is to install a barrier panel.
Trust me, I’ve been recommending this barrier panel (Check the Current Price On Amazon) quite a few times, and I’ve not found any problem with its performance.
The feedback is amazing.
The best thing about these barrier panels is that they come in various sizes, and you can select one that suits the dimensions of your window.
Buy one that can go past the surface and provide a good grip for air.
If the windows are REALLY troublesome, then nothing can be better than installing double panels.
I’m embedding a self-explanatory video for your perusal.
Hope it helps!
Seal all the Gaps
I’ve time and again mentioned that the success of soundproofing a window to a great extent depends upon the sealing of holes, gaps, and cracks in the vicinity of the window.
It is really important to seal even the smallest of the holes.
At times, it becomes really difficult to figure out small holes with your naked eyes.
In that case, you can perform an experiment to figure out even the smallest of the holes.
Don’t panic, it’s completely free and you’ll NOT be charged a single penny.
Close the room and switch off the light.
Ask someone to go to the other side of the window and flash a source of light on the window such as a torch.
You’ll find that the light rays are entering the room through the holes in the windows.
Take a marker and point out all the holes.
Now, you’ve all the holes, gaps, and cracks information, so simply go ahead and seal them using weatherstripping tape or green glue whichever you’re comfortable with.
I would suggest, you should pay special attention to the edges.
There is a high probability that there will be few gaps or cracks around the edge once the window installation has taken place.
I personally use this adhesive for sealing the gaps. (Check the Current Price On Amazon)
It really works up to the mark when it comes to window sealing.
Moreover, it is an easy-to-install self-adhesive seal strip and is highly durable.
I really admire its capability to perform well in any kind of weather which is NOT true with most of the products available on the market.
Another important thing is that you can easily cut it to fit whatever dimension you need.
Another feasible option is this window insulator kit. (Check the Current Price On Amazon)
The kit can help you to insulate around 3 to 5 windows.
Similar to adhesive tapes, they can be easily installed.
To add to it, rolls come in a variety of sizes.
Install DIY Soundproof Window Inserts
The DIY Soundproof Window Inserts can be easily made and installed.
A soundproof window insert is nothing but a simple frame that is designed to be airtight to your window space.
People also call it a window plug.
The material used for making window plugs is foam or sponge.
Noise-reduction window inserts are quite popular when it comes to soundproofing windows.
One of the reasons for the popularity of the window plug is that it can be easily plugged in and removed as per the requirement.
Among soundproof enthusiasts, window plugs are known as temporary soundproof solutions.
For example, you can plug in the frame when your neighbor is making noise, and remove it once the external environment is silent.
Depending upon the dimension of your windows, you can DO-IT-YOURSELF window inserts.
For smaller windows, you can use two inches of this soundproofed matting as well as acoustic foam to make a window plug.
The window plug can be made quite easily if you’ve done your basic rights.
You need to cut the foam material around 1 inch greater than the window, and this will allow you to push the foam into the frame.
As a result, you’ll get a snug fit.
On the contrary, if you’re making a window plug for 3 feet wider or more, then you’ll have to first make a frame.
Once the frame is ready, all you need to do is place the foam on it.
Remember, when you’re making a window frame insert, the first thing that you need to do is to measure the size of your window.
But, for smaller windows, a frame may not be necessary as the foam can easily stick to the window without popping up.
However, I always prefer to use a window insert frame irrespective of the size of the windows.
Using a window frame can help in the airtight sealing of the window.
So, now, you’re aware of the importance of the Noise Reduction Window inserts.
Moving further, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step method of making noise-reduction window inserts.
Making of Noise Reduction Window Inserts
First and foremost, you’ll need to have all the materials in place.
The list includes but is not limited to the wooden board, soundproof mat, soundproof foam/ acoustic sponge, and weatherstripping tape.
- Take the measurement of your window, and cut the wooden board accordingly.
- Try to cut the wooden board in such a way that there are no gaps. In simple terms, make it as snug as possible.
- Since you’ve got the window frame in place, you need to cut the soundproofing mat as per the size of the window frame.
- Use a soundproof adhesive such as green glue to stick the mat to the inside of the wooden frame.
- Now, cut the acoustic sponge in such a way that it matches the dimensions of the mat.
- Stick the acoustic sponge to the soundproof mat.
- Furthermore, attach the shell handles to the exterior of your DIY soundproof window inserts.
- As a result, you can insert and pull out the window plug easily.
- In case, there is any mismatch in the measurement at any stage of the DIY project, then you can use weatherstripping tape to seal any gaps. It will help the plug to fit snugly into the window.
Soundproof Window Costing
As a soundproof consultant, I’ve done quite a few soundproof window projects.
It goes without saying that the budget is one such parameter that can greatly influence the entire soundproofing project.
So, without further delay, let’s have a look at the soundproof window costing.
Soundproof Window Costing Table
| Material for Soundproofing Windows | Price |
| Soundproof Curtains | ~$25 |
| Curtain Rod | <$20 |
| Window Plug | <$50 for 2m * 1m |
| Weatherstripping Tape | <$15 |
FAQs
In my other article, I’ll be taking some frequently asked questions by my readers or the clientele. In case, you also have any queries or doubts related to the topic, then feel free to ask us in the comment section. We’ll be more than happy to assist you.
Will new windows reduce noise?
- Replacing the old windows with the new soundproof windows will definitely reduce tangible noise.
- The market is flooded with windows that have noise-canceling properties.
- You’ll be astonished to know that the new windows incorporate idiosyncratic technologies to decrease or eliminate unwanted noise.
How much does it cost to soundproof a window?
- The simple answer is it DEPENDS.
- However, you can soundproof a window for less than 200 dollars.
- In case, you want to replace the ordinary window with the soundproof window, then it will cost you in the range from $400 to $900.
Wrapping Up the Soundproofing Windows
Trust me, I’ve always enjoyed working on soundproofing window projects.
My home office project was quite interesting because I opted out of using soundproof curtains.
Rather I decided to go with Honeycomb blinds and window plugs.
Finally, I’m able to work from my home office peacefully.
Thankfully, I don’t have to spend lots of dollars.
Everything went peacefully.
Again, I’m repeating that soundproofing windows can NEVER block all the external noise.
To achieve the epitome of silence, you’ve to seal the window.
However, what is important is to find a solution that works best for you.
I hope now you’re equipped with sufficient knowledge to make an informed decision and simultaneously take action.
Soundproofing windows alone can’t take you anywhere.
You’ll have to consider soundproofing doors and other parts of your room such as the ceiling, floors, etc.
Which is your favorite method to soundproof a window?
Do you use any other method to soundproof a window than the one mentioned in this post?
Let us know your view in the comment section.
Last but not least, share this piece of information with your friends, colleagues, and the ones that are on the lookout for similar information.
After all, Sharing is Caring.
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