How to Soundproof Windows: 11 Tips for a Quiet Home
With these noise-canceling tips, you’ll ask yourself, “what neighbors?”
Living next to a park is great when you want to walk the dog or take the kids out to play, but those endearing barks and squeals turn annoying when it’s time to work or wind down for bed. If noise overtakes your peace, you might want to look for ways to block noise from your windows. Here’s how to soundproof windows around your home.
Understanding Sound Transmission Class Ratings
Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings measure the soundproofing quality of different materials, like windows, shades, or curtains. STC ratings range from 25 to 65.
STC 25: Normal speech is audible; applies to most single-pane windows
STC 35: Loud speech is audible; applies to double-pane windows
STC 45: Loud speech and music is mostly inaudible; applies to a double-pane window with an insert
STC 50: Loud music, including bass, is mostly inaudible; applies to a masonry wall
STC 65: Commercial soundproofing level
To gauge how effective your windows will block noise, look at the STC rating. The most effective noise-canceling windows have an STC rating of 35 or higher.
Why Soundproof Your Windows?
Soundproofing your windows can lead to a more peaceful home, better sleep, and more privacy. You’ll hear less from the neighbors and the street and be able to relax more easily. Many soundproofing solutions also insulate your windows. Your home can maintain a more consistent temperature while lowering your utility bills.
How Much Does It Cost to Soundproof Your Windows?
The average cost to soundproof windows is $900 per window, but the cost can range from $10 to $1,500, depending on your chosen solution. You can seal your windows with acoustic caulk or add self-adhesive foam tape for under $40 while replacing a window can cost anywhere from $280 to around $1,500 per window. Look for a solution that meets your soundproofing goals and fits your budget.
If you live in the flight path of a major airport, some local governments will partially or fully cover the cost to soundproof your windows. Usually, the homeowner has to agree to a sound inspection in order to quality. Check your local airport authority or housing commission for more details.
How to Soundproof Windows
You can reduce the noise that comes through your windows by upgrading them. Or, learn how to soundproof windows without replacing them. No matter your budget or the condition of your existing windows, find a solution that works for you.
1. Upgrade to Double- or Triple-Pane Windows
If you need a long-term solution to noise pollution, consider replacing your existing windows with double- or even triple-pane windows. These windows offer better noise reduction compared to single-pane windows.
Single-pane windows have an STC of around 26 to 28, which won’t block conversational sounds. Double- and triple-pane windows have similar STC ratings of 34 to 41, which can bring the sounds of someone talking down to a lower, indiscernible murmur.
Double-pane windows cost between $280 and $1,500 per window and may reduce noise by 38% to 43% compared to single-pane windows. Triple-pane windows cost between $300 and $2,740 per window and offer similar soundproofing qualities as double-pane windows. You can also opt for noise-canceling windows that block out 95% of street noise. Window replacement costs $400 per window on average.
2. Use Acoustic Caulk
A handy household product for many projects, you can caulk your windows yourself for better sound (and temperature) insulation. Acoustic caulk costs about $10 to $40 a tube, making it a quick and inexpensive DIY solution.
Remove existing caulk from the window frame.
Apply a thin caulk line to the gaps around the window frame, where it meets the interior wall.
Recaulk about every five years for optimal soundproofing.
3. Hang Soundproofing Curtains
Another simple solution to tackle yourself is to swap your sheer curtains for stately soundproofing curtains to help reduce noise. Soundproof curtains cost about $50 to $100 and can also double as blackout curtains when pulled shut. Soundproof curtains offer an STC rating of about 20 to 26.
4. Attach Acrylic or Glass Sheets
Attaching acrylic or glass sheets to the outside of your windows can help minimize unwanted noise, like chatty neighbors at a late-night bonfire. Acrylic or glass sheets won’t be as effective as double-pane windows, so don’t expect this to silence a driver who loves to rev the engine in their muscle car when they hit the straightaway.
But if you’re okay with sacrificing a bit of your aesthetic integrity, these sheets are a less expensive alternative—just make sure you buy acoustic-grade or laminated glass.
5. Add Glass Window Inserts
To make any old window noise-canceling, install glass inserts into your window frames. Here, you’ll place the insert in front of the interior glass panel of the window. The insert creates an airspace that keeps noises from entering a room. This unique solution can offer an STC rating of about 49 and may reduce noise by up to 80%.
6. Put Up Noise-Dampening Shades or Blinds
Swap out existing shades, shutters, or blinds with noise-dampening alternatives to reduce noises from windows. Paired with soundproofing curtains, it’s an ideal solution for soundproofing bedrooms and home theaters.
7. Consider Acoustic Foam
For a more temporary solution, try fitting acoustic foam over windows that are especially susceptible to noise. The foam tiles will block your views when set in place and removed as needed. They offer a low-cost solution for quieter online meetings—just take them down when the meeting finishes to let in the light.
8. Build a Window Plug
A window plug can reduce noise with a little elbow grease. A more advanced project, the plug fits snugly into the interior window frame to block light and sound when needed. Bonus points: it also helps boost your home’s insulation.
Measure the window height, width, and depth.
Cut a plywood or MDF board and a soundproofing mat to the height and width of the window.
Cut acoustic foam to the window’s measurements or slightly larger for a tighter seal.
Glue the soundproofing mat to the wood board.
Glue the acoustic foam to the soundproof mat.
Attach handles to remove the plug from the window easily.
9. Apply Self-Adhesive Foam Tape
Similar to caulk, self-adhesive foam tape offers insulating and soundproofing qualities to window frames for only about $10 to $20 per roll. The thick foam tape is best used as a short-term solution, as it can be hard to remove the longer it sits on the window frame.
10. Install Storm Windows
If installing new windows isn’t in your current budget, consider adding storm windows over your existing windows to help reduce outside noise. Storm windows will reduce noise by about 10% to 35%. Best of all, these barriers won’t block your view like curtains or blinds do, so you can still enjoy your view—only this time, you’ll enjoy it in silence.
11. Add Weather Stripping
Weather stripping helps to seal the gaps around your windows and provides insulation. The strips prevent air leaks, lowering utility bills and outside noise. Self-adhesive seal strips are easy to install along the edges of your windows and don’t require specialized tools. You can also install more permanent weather stripping made of metal, rubber, or plastic. Look for weather stripping that’s the right thickness for your window gaps and coordinates with the style of your window.
Taking Care of Your Soundproofed Windows
Once your windows are soundproof, make sure they continue to keep clamor out. Here are the best tips for maintaining your soundproof windows.
Check your windows annually for leaks and sealant issues. Use caulk to repair any leaks and gaps immediately.
Clean your window tracks and lubricate them once every three years to maintain function.
Apply or replace weather stripping and acoustic caulk as needed.
Consider soundproofing your doors or adding insulation to your exterior walls to block out additional sounds.
Clean your windows once or twice a year to keep them crystal clear.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Applying acoustic caulk, adding self-adhesive strips, or using window inserts are easy DIYs that can dampen unwanted noise. More dramatic solutions, such as window replacements, should go into the hands of a pro. While installing new windows on your own can save on labor costs (about $100 to $300 per window), an incorrect install can lead to expensive damage. Windows are moisture entry points that can leave your home vulnerable to potential mold growth. Find a local soundproofing contractor to ensure your windows (and home) hold up to any weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
The least expensive way to soundproof windows is by applying acoustic caulk or self-adhesive foam strips around the edges of your windows. Both solutions cost around $40 or less, depending on how many windows you soundproof. To apply acoustic caulk, remove existing caulk and recaulk with a soundproofing product. To install foam strips, remove the plastic backing and place it along the window’s edges.
You can soundproof your apartment windows by applying self-adhesive foam strips or using window inserts. These soundproofing solutions are temporary. You can remove them without damaging the window or window frame. They’ll block out noise from your neighbors, the street, or the city. You can also put up noise-dampening shades or curtains to dampen outdoor noise.