Soundproof Windows

As cities grow larger and more dense, soundproof windows are becoming more attractive.  I suppose before we can talk about them, we should talk about what qualifies a window to be "soundproof".  Adams Home Windows considers any window with the same sound measurements of a brick wall to be "soundproof".  If we can agree that it wouldn't make any sense to install a window that is more sound-efficient than the wall that surrounds it, we should be able to agree that you're likely to always hear SOME sounds from outside.

Sound efficient construction material is measured by STC rating. A brick wall has (aprox) a STC rating of .37 - .39

There are a few companies who provide "interior mount" windows that greatly reduce the amount of sound that travels from outside to inside.  You may have to install them yourself or find a local installation crew to do the work but these windows achieve the .39 STC rating that you're looking for.  These windows do NOT replace your existing windows.  Since they are installed INSIDE your house, there are two major problems with these windows.  First, your blinds or interior shutters will need to be moved because the new Soundproof Window will be in the way.  Second, cleaning the glass is very difficult because they require that you uninstall them completely.  Think of them like an interior storm window (but much higher quality).  And they are expensive!

Another option is Soundproof Replacement Windows.  Using thick laminated glass, these also achieve the .39 STC rating, making them qualify as "Soundproof".  These windows actually REPLACE your existing windows and should not get in the way of your existing blinds or plantation shutters.  However, they almost always have Vinyl frames and might not look anything like your other windows.  The price of replacing ALL of your windows with Soundproof windows might be a little staggering, but Energy Efficient Windows will match them perfectly.  Don't think that EVERY window must be soundproof.

We have seen some of our customers use Theatrical Curtains to block sound.  Using thick, heavy material they are pretty effective but of course they also block light (which in a bedroom, might not be a bad idea).

        

$199.00 "Any Window Installed"

Nothing is more frustrating for a Reputable Window Installation Company than seeing "$199.00 - Any Window Installed" ads that are common in local newspapers. 

First, let me just say that the majority of these ads are "bait and switch" / sketchy sales tactics from window companies with horrible BBB ratings and high pressure salesmen.  But lets proceed under the assumption that these are actual legitimate offers from reputable companies.  In order of importance to the window company, these are the three factors of the $199.00 price:

1. Profit (If the Company goes out of business, your workmanship warranty goes out of business) - This $66.00 ($199 divided by 3) will not budge.  The salesman earns a portion of this, so the real profit amount is certainly less...
2. Cost (Window, Caulk, Trim, Shims, Screws, etc...) - If you have never seen a $66.00 replacement window, simply walk through your nearest manufactured housing development (mobile home park).  There is NO quality $66.00 replacement window.
3. Labor (Remove and haul away old windows, Install new windows, Caulk / Finish) - You'll have to reduce this $66.00 in order to buy better windows.  Do the best installers work for less?  Or do they work for companies who pay them what they are worth?

Check with the Better Business Bureau, Angies List and your local Chamber of Commerce and refuse companies with horrible reputations.  Get at least 3 estimates to familiarize yourself with typical practices / pricing for your area.  My final tip is this: ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS!!!  Really!  Ask every question that you can think of.  Ask questions even if you don't care about the answers.  The idea is to test the knowledge of the salesman.  Would a knowledgeable / honest salesman work for such little profit when other companies would pay more?  Will your salesman take your phone call after you've paid? 

This is the simple math behind the "$199.00 Any Window Installed" ads.  These numbers can be argued and divided differently, I suppose.  But one thing is for sure... you've found the cheapest possible option for your most valuable investment, your house.  You've found "bottom of the barrel".