A well-designed home should be a haven from the outside world. Cocooned from unwanted and persistent noise, it should be free of sounds of traffic, planes, passers-by, or even neighbours.
Because there’s no doubt the wrong sound and noise can be the source of significant annoyance, it is becoming common for architects and building designers to consider the acoustic ratings for standard windows when specifying. Indeed, some projects now even include acoustic specifications.
For typical residential buildings, windows and doors are often seen as a weak element in regard to noise intrusion as ordinary glass and poorly sealed windows provide very little noise resistance. It is vital to ensure that the windows are well sealed and understand that glass type also plays an important role. Effective sound reduction requires a multi-faceted solution.
Sound is measured in decibels (dB) – the higher the rating, the louder the sound. Whispers are about 30 dB, normal conversation is usually about 60 dB, while heavy traffic might be 85 dB. Sounds at or around 70 dB are generally considered safe, while researchers have found that people who are exposed over long periods of time to noise levels at 85 dB or higher are at a much greater risk for hearing loss.
If properly designed and positioned, windows can play an important role in ensuring the presence of a comfortable sound environment within the building. Architects can ensure windows are positioned in a way to minimise noise transfer to or from neighbours. Using sound-absorbent building materials and insulation can also prevent noise issues.
Road noise affects a high proportion of Australians, and the problem is growing as traffic levels increase. A 2003 study indicated 20% of Sydney’s population were exposed to levels of road traffic noise that were well above those recommended by the World Health Organization for reducing annoyance and sleep disturbance.
It’s been a long-held belief that double glazing (insulated glass units - IGUs) are one of the most effective barriers against noise. But this isn’t necessarily the case.
Acoustic glass is a type of laminated glass with a resin-based interlayer which effectively dampens the transfer of sound waves. For most applications, acoustic glass represents an effective, lower cost method of reducing noise.
The main function of acoustic glass is to disrupt soundwaves. Whereas double glazing using standard insulated glass units aren’t as robust at disrupting sound and therefore as do not provide the most effective noise reduction.
For insulated glass units to be effective, an air gap of 50mmto 100mm needs to be provided. However, the incorporation of one or two panels of laminated glass provides excellent acoustic results.
Ultimately, the choice between laminated glass and double glazing will depend on the specific needs of the space, such as the type and frequency of noise that needs to be reduced. It is also important to consider factors such as cost, energy efficiency, and aesthetic preferences when choosing between these options.
Both acoustic glass and double glazing can improve acoustics in a room, but they work in different ways and their effectiveness depends on a number of factors. We can assist you navigate the best solution for effective noise reduction for your situation.
Image Credits:
Architecture: Goodwin Scarfone Belgiorno-Nettis
Build: Green Anvil Co
Photography: Katherine Lu
Location: Marrickville, Sydney NSW
