Does Double Glazing Really Block Street Noise? The Short Answer
Yes, modern double glazed windows and doors can reduce external commotion by up to 80%, making them one of the best ways to achieve a quieter, more peaceful home without major renovations. Double glazing windows and doors work by creating a thermal and acoustic barrier using two panes of glass separated by argon gas, combined with precision seals and high-performance frames. This structure disrupts sound waves and limits both sound transfer and heat loss.
If you’re tired of noisy neighbours and sleepless nights in Australia, double glazing offers a new, cost-effective, long-term solution to protect your comfort and energy efficiency. By upgrading your windows and doors, you’ll not only reduce noise but also lower heating and cooling bills and improve your home’s year-round liveability.
Key facts:
- Reduce external racket by up to 80%.
- Cut heat gain and loss by as much as 70%.
- Save up to 20% on energy bills.
- Create a more comfortable home environment in both summer and winter.
- Enhance property value with energy-efficient solutions for windows and doors.
Now, let’s explore how this works.
How Modern Double Glazing Reduces Noise
Double glazing blocks sound by combining mass, insulation, and professional sealing techniques. Each component of double glazed windows or doors plays a role in noise reduction.
What makes double glazing effective:
- Two panes of glass create a physical sound barrier.
- Argon gas between the panes reduces sound vibration and energy transfer.
- The sealed air gap acts as a buffer zone that absorbs sound.
- Different glass thicknesses (optional) disrupt different frequencies of sound.
- Thermal breaks and precision seals prevent sound leakage.
By using argon gas in the sealed unit, modern double glazed windows and doors enhance both sound reduction and thermal insulation. The result is a cooler home in summer, warmer in winter, and quieter year-round in Australia.
This layered construction, known as an Insulating Glass Unit (IGU), offers substantial benefits of double glazing, outperforming outdated single glazed windows and doors.
For maximum soundproofing:
- Choose acoustic-grade double glazed windows and doors.
- Opt for thicker panes with dissimilar thickness.
- Ensure professional installation service for new, airtight seals.
- Combine double glazing with insulated door and window frames for added performance.
Unlike air conditioning or temporary product solutions like curtains, high-quality double glazing offers permanent noise reduction and year-round comfort.
5 Reasons Your Double Glazing Might Not Block All Noise (And How to Fix Them)
Sometimes, homeowners in Australia install double glazing on windows and doors but still experience some sound issues. Here’s why:
- Incorrect Glass Type
A standard glass product may not absorb enough sound. Solution: Upgrade to laminated or acoustic-grade panes. - Small Air Gap
A minimal gap between panes limits sound reduction. Solution: Choose units with at least a 10mm air or argon gas gap for optimal performance. - Non-Acoustic Frames
Aluminium or timber window or door frames without insulation can leak sound. Solution: Specify thermally broken or insulated frames for your windows and doors. - Poor Installation
Gaps and faulty seals allow sound to bypass the glazing. Solution: Use certified double glazing installers to ensure an airtight fitting on your windows and doors. - Noise Source Type
Low-frequency sounds (traffic rumble) are harder to block. Solution: Use asymmetric glazing (two panes of different thicknesses) on your windows and doors to handle broader frequency ranges.
Even high-performance glazing on windows and doors needs proper specification to deliver maximum sound reduction. Contact Winsulation and find the best double glazing service in Australia!
Triple Glazing vs. Acoustic Glass: Which Actually Blocks More Sound?
Homeowners often compare triple glazing with acoustic glass. Which product is better for sound reduction?
Option | Noise Reduction | Cost | Ideal Use |
Triple Glazing | Good | Higher | Cold climates |
Acoustic Glass | Superior | Moderate | Urban environments |
Triple glazing adds a new third pane, increasing weight and complexity, but without proportional sound reduction gains compared to acoustic double glazing. In Australia’s climate, acoustic double glazing on windows and doors offers better sound control while maintaining energy efficiency.
Acoustic glass combines two panes bonded with a noise-dampening interlayer. When used within a double glazed unit, it significantly improves sound insulation on windows and doors without the drawbacks of heavier triple glazed products.
For most Australian homes, high-performance double glazed windows and doors using acoustic glass are the recommended choice for both energy efficiency and noise reduction.
When Double Glazing Isn’t Enough: Proven Upgrades for Maximum Quiet
In extreme cases, standard double glazing may not block all external sound. New, additional upgrades include:
- Secondary Glazing: Adding a second internal pane creates a deeper air gap for superior sound insulation.
- Laminated Glass: Incorporating sound-absorbing interlayers within the double glazed unit enhances acoustic performance.
- Window Plug Inserts: Removable acoustic panels offer a temporary yet effective noise-blocking solution.
- Acoustic Curtains: While not a primary barrier, they complement glazing solutions by absorbing residual sound.
These upgrades to windows and doors work particularly well in areas exposed to constant heavy traffic, flight paths, or industrial commotion.
Noise-Blocking Window Upgrades That Actually Work: Pro Tips from Experts
For the best noise-blocking results, follow these professional recommendations:
- Specify acoustic double glazing with varying thicknesses.
- Select frames for windows and doors with thermal breaks to reduce vibration and sound transfer.
- Increase the gap between panes to at least 10mm, ideally filled with argon gas.
- Ensure seals are fully airtight by using a professional service.
- Use acoustic-rated products for sliding, double sliding, awning, casement, or hinged door or window designs.
High-performance glazing products are only as effective as their installation. Ensure your glazing company offers comprehensive guidance from consultation to post-installation checks.
Choosing the Right Window Soundproofing Solution for Your Home: A Quick Guide
Selecting the best solution for your windows and doors doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Assess Noise Sources
Is your problem mainly traffic, neighbours, aircraft, or other urban racket? Low-frequency sounds need different solutions from high-frequency sounds. - Choose the Right Glazing Type
For a typical suburban racket: Standard double glazing with a 10mm air gap. For high commotion environments: Acoustic double glazing with laminated panels. - Select an Experienced Provider
Engage a specialist glazing company that offers consultation, product choice, and installation service under one roof. - Opt for Comprehensive Solutions
If needed, combine double glazing with acoustic treatments like secondary glazing or heavy curtains. - Prioritise Professional Installation
Poor installation undermines even the best glazing products. Always choose certified double glazing installers for peace of mind.
By following this process, you’ll benefit from real noise-blocking, energy savings, and enhanced comfort and energy efficiency without wasting money on ineffective products.
Transform Your Home Into a Quieter, More Comfortable Space with Expert Double Glazing Solutions
Can you really block out street commotion with double glazing? Yes—with the right product and expert installation, double glazed windows and doors offer one of the most effective ways to create a peaceful, comfortable, and energy efficient home.
From reducing heat gain and loss to lowering your energy bills and insulating against external commotion, the benefits of double glazing windows and doors are clear.
Winsulation offers tailored, Australian-made glazing solutions using advanced European-inspired technology. Whether you live in a busy city or a suburban area, our range of double glazed windows and doors can help you reclaim the peace and quiet you deserve.
To get started, contact our team for a free quote and discover how we can help make your home quieter, cooler in summer, and warmer in winter—while saving on energy costs year-round.
Ready for your upgrade? Contact Winsulation today for the best double glazing solutions for your windows and doors.