Life in a metropolis can hardly be called quiet and calm. Being outside the house, you have to put up with this, and the modern city dweller is more likely to be surprised by the ringing silence than the usual hum of transport and technology. However, a noisy environment is unlikely to contribute to proper rest at home or concentration at work.
The level of sound insulation of premises mainly depends on the type of glazing of light openings, that is, on the windows and, in particular, the double-glazed windows installed in them. They will be discussed in detail below.
What is the difference between soundproofing double-glazed windows and ordinary ones?
In budget plastic windows, as a rule, single-chamber double-glazed windows are installed, the glass of which is of the same thickness, and the space between them is filled with dried air. The sound insulation properties of such products are much higher than traditional wooden blocks that were common in the recent past. But in some cases this is not enough, especially since modern technologies can significantly reduce the penetration of noise into the room by changing the design of the double-glazed window and its filling.
A sound-insulating double-glazed window consists of three or more glasses, the thickness of which is different.
To achieve an even greater soundproofing effect, increase the lumen of one of the chambers and fill it with inert gas. The use of special glass, such as triplex, also helps reduce noise penetration.
How effective is noise reduction?
External noise in the city or near highways with busy traffic can exceed 80 dB, and sometimes reach critical and even harmful values (the roar of the engine of high-speed motorcycles - 110 dB). For a relatively comfortable stay in a room, the background noise in it should not exceed 40 dB during the daytime and 30 dB at night. Such conditions can only be achieved if the window neutralizes at least half of the external sounds.
The degree of sound insulation depending on the type of glazing and the design of the window unit:
- Traditional wooden windows absorb less than 20 dB, while some of the noise penetrates due to the loose connection of the sashes to the frame. Regular single glass, 4 mm thick, provides an insulation level of 20 dB.
- Budget metal-plastic structures with conventional double-glazed windows (2 glasses of 4 mm at a distance of 16 mm) - 27 dB. A noticeable difference compared to the first point is achieved due to the greater tightness of PVC windows.
- An additional chamber in a double-glazed window increases the degree of noise resistance by only 1 dB (at the same distance and glass thickness). So a double-glazed window with two 10 mm chambers and three 4 mm glasses absorbs 28 dB.
- A more productive approach is to install a single-chamber double-glazed window filled with argon instead of conventional dehumidified air. Two 4mm glasses with 16mm spacing and Ar-fill provide insulation up to 32dB.
- A similar result can be achieved using glass of different thicknesses. The glass unit formula is 6/16/4, where 16 is the distance, and 6 and 4 are the thickness of the glass in mm, which reduces the penetration of external noise by 32 dB.
- Triplex (three-layer glass) combats sound most effectively. A single-chamber double-glazed window 4/12/9 absorbs 42 dB, if you add another chamber (4/10/4/10/9), this figure will increase to 44 dB.
Characteristics of glass and double-glazed units
Ways to increase sound insulation of an old window
A window made of any material loses its properties - sound insulation and tightness - during its operational life. There are several reasons for this:
There is a technical trick that allows you to save money and improve the sound insulation of an old PVC window: it is moved deeper into the room, and a new window section is mounted outside. Of course, this method is feasible if the window is in good condition and the opening is of sufficient depth.
To summarize, we can say that the “quietest” windows are created from individual decibels, and in total these little things give a good reduction in street noise - just a reduction, it is simply impossible to completely remove sounds.
Source: www.wikistroi.ru
Technologies for increasing the sound insulation qualities of windows
Modern companies working in the field of manufacturing window structures use three technologies to increase the sound insulation qualities of their products:
- Various glass thickness and camera clearance. The glass used in most translucent structures, due to its structure, does not transmit noise well and even reflects it. The problem is that ordinary silicate glass is a fairly elastic material that vibrates under the influence of sound waves, thereby transmitting them indoors. With the same thickness, each layer vibrates equally, resonating with each other. If the glass and the spaces between them are different, the resonance effect is noticeably reduced, thus increasing the absorption of noise by the window unit.
- Filling with inert gas. The propagation of sound directly depends on the density of the medium through which it is transmitted - the lower it is, the more noise is absorbed. The most rarefied medium, vacuum, does not transmit sound waves at all. But its use is impossible due to external pressure, which will simply destroy the vacuum glass unit. One of the properties of inert gases is the low conductivity of sound waves compared to ordinary air. Thanks to this, vibrations of the outer glass in a double-glazed window filled with such gases are transferred to a small extent to the inner glass, which prevents the penetration of external noise into the room. For example, when using a mixture of argon (70%) with sulfur fluoride (30%) it is possible to increase sound absorption by 4 dB.
- Use of special glasses (triplex). Reduced noise insulation by up to 60%, compared to conventional glazing, can be achieved using glass glued together.
Either a polymer film or resin-based components are used as a binder. In the first case, the thickness of the separating layer does not exceed 6 microns, in the second – 8 microns, which makes it possible to more effectively absorb noise. Compared to other soundproofing options, triplexes show the best results in the low-frequency range.
Advantages of a vent valve
A ventilation valve for installation on PVC windows is considered an ideal solution for ensuring normal air exchange in the room. It provides constant air circulation and has many undeniable advantages:
- ventilation is carried out with the window sash closed, which avoids heat loss in winter;
- ventilation is carried out in sufficient volumes and with a comfortable supply of air - under the ceiling, thereby eliminating the formation of drafts;
- when ventilating, noise, dust, fluff, and insects do not penetrate into the room;
- when using a ventilation valve for plastic windows, you can increase the service life of double-glazed windows, as it removes excess moisture and prevents the formation of fungi and mold on the frames;
- The devices are easy to install and do not require the use of special tools for installation.
Replacing double-glazed windows with noise-proof ones
It often happens that problems with external noise arise after the installation of PVC windows; completely replacing them is not a cheap undertaking. It is more economically feasible to replace the double-glazed window, leaving the profile intact. The fact is that the weakest area in the path of extraneous noise is the glazing, and not the profile of the frame or sashes.
Carrying out such a modification has a number of limitations related to the depth of the glazing seat in the profile.
For example, it will not be possible to install a multi-chamber double-glazed window into a frame where a single-chamber one was located. Basically, they practice replacing transparent filling with a similar number of chambers, but different in thickness of the glass and the spaces between them.
Pros and cons according to user reviews
The undoubted and only advantage of supply valves for windows is the ability to quickly do minimal ventilation in the apartment with your own hands. For example, in winter you are unlikely to drill external walls and install a wall valve, but you can easily do a window valve.
We list the disadvantages based on reviews of real homeowners who use air-intake devices (source – https://otzovik.com/reviews/pritochniy_klapan_air_box/):
- low efficiency;
- fragile plastic;
- noise and cold penetrate from the street;
- in windy weather there is blowing from the valve, the body and fittings freeze;
- It is blown even in the closed position, the air whistles through the cracks.
The number of positive and negative reviews is approximately the same. The conclusion is the following: ventilation valves really save you from stuffiness and mold, but they have a number of significant disadvantages. It is impossible to unequivocally recommend these devices for use.
Manufacturers
Both industrial enterprises and small private companies are engaged in the production of double-glazed windows. Some PVC window manufacturers also assemble double-glazed windows, but most of them work with large organizations specializing in the manufacture of glass and glass-related products.
- At the moment, the group of companies has ten factories, the total productivity of which exceeds 500,000 m² of double-glazed windows per month.
- The Oknasalut company, in addition to manufacturing various types of glazing from PVC profiles, produces sound-proof double-glazed windows. Cost from 1000 rubles per m².
- specializes exclusively in the production of double-glazed windows. It was founded in 1996 and currently has a powerful industrial complex. The cost of a two-chamber product with triplex is 2400 rubles per m².
Supply valve for plastic windows: price, functions, installation
supply valve on a plastic window
Modern PVC windows have excellent thermal insulation properties and do not allow drafts, street dust and extraneous sounds into the house. But the ideal tightness of window structures also has a downside: they prevent the flow of fresh air. As a result, the indoor microclimate is disrupted. Residents have problems with their well-being: drowsiness, headache. There is stale air in the apartment, which leads to the appearance and proliferation of mold.
How best to ventilate plastic windows
Ventilating plastic windows by opening the sashes is not always the optimal solution to the problem, especially if the building is located near a highway, railway, or on the lower floors in a busy area. In addition, when the window sashes are open, a draft is often felt, causing significant discomfort to residents.
Installing a fresh air ventilation valve on plastic windows will help to effectively ventilate the room without draft, noise and dust. Thanks to this compact device, fresh air enters the house even when the doors are tightly closed. As a rule, it is mounted in the upper part of the window frame, and can be either automatic or manually controlled.
The supply valve sucks cold air into the room, and pushes out the warm air out. Air circulation occurs due to the pressure difference. For the device to function properly, the house must have proper exhaust ventilation plus a sealed entrance door.
Installing a valve on PVC windows: advantages
Installing a ventilation valve on plastic windows provides a number of advantages:
Where to order a ventilation valve for a PVC window in Ozyory
In order for installation of ventilation on plastic windows to give the expected result, it is wise to resort to the services of professionals. Contact us by phone or through the form on the website and describe the problem. Our specialists will offer the optimal solution at an affordable price. The cost of supply valves starts from 500-1000 rubles. You can always check the price for a specific model by calling the company’s managers.
The most popular among our clients are Rehau window ventilation systems, which provide window ventilation in accordance with European requirements for energy efficiency of buildings. The mechanism reacts sensitively to increased wind pressure and opens and closes automatically. At the same time, heat loss is minimized, and a more comfortable and favorable microclimate is created for residents.
You can install a ventilation valve on either a new or an existing window. If your country house or apartment in Ozyory already has sealed window units and there are signs of insufficient air exchange, we will help solve the problem. Experienced craftsmen will perform installation work quickly, accurately and at a time convenient for you.
You may find it useful:
Plastic windows Rehau Delight
PVC structures made from the Delight Design profile are the choice of those who want to let more light into their home or office. And natural light is known to promote the production of serotonin (the hormone of joy) in the body.
Features of fixed windows
PVC windows without the ability to open and close the sash are called blind. They are ordered from us by private clients and organizations for glazing residential premises and halls in factories, technical areas, etc.
Ways to protect PVC windows
Find out how you can make plastic windows in your home and office safer. In this article we talk about the most popular ways to protect window openings from prying attention and uninvited guests.
Types of handles for PVC windows
Handles for installation on plastic windows are divided into products of different price segments: from economy to premium. Products with a lock are also available for the safety of children in the house.
It's time to change your windows to plastic ones
Are your windows damaged? There is a draft in the rooms, and the noise from the street does not allow you to sleep peacefully? It will help you. Manufacturing and installing new glazing from the manufacturer will be inexpensive.
Windows with sliding sashes
The sliding principle of closing and opening gives greater freedom to create the interior, creates a feeling of order and European style. You can order such windows in Ozyory from us.
Triangular shaped windows
It is believed that PVC windows in the shape of a triangle are most in demand for installation in attics and attics. We make structures for any objects in Ozyory. In production we use German profiles and European fittings.
Multi-chamber profiles
The translucent surface of window structures occupies more than seventy percent of the block, therefore it is the main one in terms of sound insulation. The remaining 30% is neutralized by the profile, which must also be taken into account if maximum absorption of external noise is required.
A high-quality profile is divided by internal partitions into isolated sections (some modifications include up to seven such sections).
In addition, some of the profile chambers may contain a special filler, which also has a positive effect on the soundproofing qualities of the structure.
Other common options for installing ventilation systems
In addition to the classic placement of supply and exhaust systems on the wall, there are a number of variations in the installation of equipment.
A room with a balcony is one of the most inconvenient in terms of ventilation, especially if it is a bedroom.
If the balcony is insulated, then to organize full air exchange it is necessary to make two holes: one between the room and the balcony, the second leads from the balcony to the street. The two openings are connected to each other by a heat-insulated air duct.
If, when glazing the balcony, not sealed PVC windows were used, but aluminum or wooden ones, then one hole leading to the balcony will be enough.
However, you need to remember the following:
- there should be no foreign sources of odor on the balcony;
- in summer, the balcony located on the south side gets very hot, so the temperature of the supply air becomes 5-10 degrees higher than if the air intake was made directly from the street.
Recently, new types of finishing have become widespread - hinged porcelain stoneware, metal, polymer and fiber cement slabs. This design is called a ventilated facade, because between the wall and the facade there is a layer with an air gap where ventilation occurs naturally.
When a house is lined with a ventilated facade, the installation of a recuperator or ventilator is carried out in two ways:
Sometimes you can hear recommendations not to drill a ventilated facade, but to limit yourself to a hole in the outer wall and take air from the space under the ventilated facade, but this cannot be done for the following reasons:
A hole in a ventilation façade made of a metal corrugated sheet or a fiber cement board is cut on site, without dismantling part of the façade.
In order to make a hole in a porcelain stoneware slab, it must be dismantled, cut a hole and put in place. If necessary, the outer grille can be painted in the color of the facade.
INSTALLATION IN A SLOPE
If local authorities do not give permission to drill holes in the suspended facade slabs, then you can use another installation method for the ventilation facade.
To ensure that the integrity of the slabs remains the same, it is necessary to drill a channel in the outer wall and the metal lining of the window slope on the street side. After that, the holes are connected to each other using a flexible air duct, and an air intake grille is hung on the slope. Thus, air comes from the street, and the facade remains intact.
There are common cases when there is nowhere to install the device. It is not allowed to drill into the facade of the house; the furniture in the room covers the entire outer wall or there is continuous glazing. There is a solution! In this case, you can install a wall valve on the windows by replacing part of the glazing with a sandwich panel on which the device itself can be placed.
If you do not want to lose some of the daylight, we recommend ordering a new double-glazed window with a special hole designed for installing supply and exhaust systems.
Often in one-room apartments there is another bedroom or dressing room. Although this design solution is considered popular, it is not very practical. The resulting room has no external walls or windows, which complicates the process of air circulation.
If you think about the problem even at the renovation stage, then this drawback can be easily solved and a comfortable microclimate can be created in the bedroom for permanent use.
To install compact ventilation in a “dead” room, you need to run a heat-insulated air duct from the nearest external wall along the shortest path, and then hide the pipe with plasterboard.
PODIUM AND FURNITURE STRUCTURES
There are situations when there is no hardware near the window to secure the equipment to the wall - furniture covers the wall, a high podium is installed, or heating risers are in the way. Don’t be upset, because even such a seemingly complex task can be solved. The ventilator can be mounted on the facade of a cabinet or podium, or placed inside a rack.
To implement it, it is necessary to lay a thermally insulated air duct route to the place where the device will be installed. The main thing is to supply electricity for a hidden connection.
It is worth taking care of the flow of inflow into the room located in the attic during the construction stage. However, this is often forgotten. What to do in this case?
How to choose the right sound-absorbing double-glazed windows
Before ordering soundproofing windows, it is necessary to analyze the intensity of external noise. The highest degree of absorption should be selected if there are active construction sites, busy highways or railway tracks near the building. It is necessary to assess the level of external sound during periods of its maximum intensity, for example, if there is a busy highway near the premises, the greatest noise from it will come during rush hours.
An important factor when choosing soundproofing glazing is the frequency range of ambient noise. To absorb relatively high frequencies, such as the human voice, a two-chamber asymmetrical double-glazed window (glass of different thicknesses and spaces between them) is sufficient.
Low frequencies (near industrial enterprises, railways and construction sites) are best neutralized by triplex, asymmetrically arranged with thick glass. The maximum effect can be achieved by installing double Finnish blocks with high-quality sound-insulating double-glazed windows.
Wooden windows using Finnish technology
The intensity of sound penetration is greatly influenced by the size of the glazing. As noted above, glass does not transmit noise well. Due to its rigid structure, it vibrates, relaying vibrations into the room. In large areas, these vibrations are much more intense than in small ones, therefore, when choosing windows, preference should be given to structures divided into small sections.
Lamination options
- High noise insulation of the classic five-chamber profile system ensures peace and quiet in your home
- Noise-proof double-glazed windows, through the use of glass and spacer frames of different widths, reduce sound transmission and dampen both low-frequency (traffic and transport signals) and high-frequency noise (road construction work, voices sounding through speakers, etc.)
- The soundproofing advantages of a multi-chamber profile and noise-insulating double-glazed windows will only appear in combination with well-chosen fittings
Additional sound insulation of windows
To increase the soundproofing qualities of light openings, it is not always necessary to resort to radical measures. There are a number of ways that will increase the degree of absorption of external noise without replacing already installed window units.
Acoustic film
At the moment, vinyl film is widely used, which increases the sound insulation of glass. For windows in which double-glazed windows are installed (single- or double-chamber), it is advisable to stick it on the street and indoor sides. This way you can increase noise absorption by 3 dB. There are more modern analogues, also made of vinyl, but thanks to innovative technologies their degree of sound insulation reaches 5 dB (as the manufacturers claim). There is no adhesive on the film - fixation on the glass is carried out with a spatula using water and soap.
Acoustic blinds and curtains
Sound-absorbing blinds or curtains are noticeably thicker and denser than their conventional counterparts. Insulation from external noise is possible thanks to vinyl, which is woven into the material of the product in the form of fibers. Modern manufacturers offer a wide range of shapes, colors and design solutions, so that the apparent roughness of acoustic curtains will in no way disrupt the harmony of the interior.
And how not to buy a placebo under the guise of “noise protection”
Noise of the big city
Transport problems are a real scourge of megacities. The construction of the 18th-19th centuries did not imply such a number of cars. Sometimes it turns out that new transport routes need to be built right among long-established neighborhoods. And if in a conditional Bangkok it would be easy to sacrifice old one-story shacks for the sake of highways, then this method is not suitable for million-plus cities like Moscow or St. Petersburg, with a mass of historical monuments.
Fact:
It is believed that in cities the main noise is airborne noise from traffic flow. So the comfort of living in an old house located along a busy highway is not only a problem of “harmful exhaust” and air pollution.
Either noisy or stuffy
Any recommendations and calculations that we will provide in this article apply only to a closed window. Once you open a super-quiet window for ventilation, there will be little left of its soundproofing. Therefore, the problem of sound insulation must be solved in conjunction with room ventilation.
On a large scale, this problem of “either noisy or stuffy” appeared when replacing windows in residential buildings along the third transport ring in Moscow. An attempt to pass off simply sealed PVC windows with double-glazed windows as noise-proof windows did not lead to anything. Residents had to open windows for ventilation, the sound insulation of which immediately disappeared. In houses without mechanical ventilation (windows do not take part in air exchange and can always be closed), only windows with special valves that provide high sound insulation in ventilation mode can be considered noise-proof.
