In this blog, we will discuss all the related procedures and processes through which we will be able to soundproof sliding windows, conveniently and very cost-effectively.
It’s a straightforward process to soundproof windows because all you have to do is use a weather strip to seal the gaps between the frame and the window itself, and that’s it.
However, because sliding windows move, it becomes a little more complicated, and this might result in a whole new set of issues, such as ripping out the weather stripe.
But, before we begin, there are two principles that you must grasp, as most people confuse the two.
How to soundproof sliding windows?
I will be discussing the detailed process which will make you understand how to soundproof sliding windows cost-effectively in the following.
- The filling gap with green glue
- Apply High-Density Foam Tape
- Install Acoustic Putty
- Use Soundproof curtains
- Apply a window plug or barrier
Filling Gap with Green Glue
Soundwaves, as you may know, are very good at identifying weak areas to flow through. Windows, in most circumstances, have the lowest sound resistance. As a result, soundwaves enter via the windows regularly.
This is a typical issue, especially with older model homes or structures. The windows aren’t perfectly aligned on all sides.
More soundwaves can travel inside through windows with a lot of air gaps. When a window is improperly installed, it exposes the entire room to noise pollution.
However, it is critical to repair the air holes by sealing them. As a result, the soundwave will be blocked, making the room quieter.
Sealing the air spaces can be done in a variety of methods. Consider the following:
Green Glue
Noise-proofing with green glue Sealant is one of the most straightforward products for closing wall cracks and air gaps. It’s a soundproofing adhesive that works well and dries quickly.
You may believe that this is just ordinary glue. As a result, you might be inclined to fill the air holes using traditional adhesive. Traditional glue, on the other hand, is not something I advocate.
Instead, use a soundproofing adhesive like green glue or any soundproofing glue. This type of sealant does an excellent job of dampening the sound and vibrations that flow through the window. In addition to limiting leakage around the borders, they absorb sound itself.
Green glue is utilized in almost all soundproofing projects. Furthermore, for soundproofing the air gaps of the window, this is a simple and inexpensive soundproofing tool.
| Material Needed |
| green glue |
Apply High-Density Foam Tape
If you want a soundproofing material for your sliding window that is a lot easier to use, try High-Density Foam Tape.
The adhesive coating on this material makes it simple to apply to air gaps. It’s simple to install on the bottom of a vertical (up and down) sliding window.
Install Acoustic Putty
So far, the materials I’ve discussed have worked nicely on solid, even surfaces. However, while dealing with uneven and tricky surfaces, they may not be able to perform as well as you would like.
Fortunately, there are materials available that will suffice. Acoustic Putty is one of them.
As a tape, this acoustic putty would be used. It can be moulded to fit the surface or gaps that need to be filled. It will give a dense sound insulation layer if utilized appropriately.
This material is widely used to shield electrical boxes in large structures. The goal is to keep the noise contained within the box and make the electrical boxes silent.
So there you have it. You now have my short ideas on how to soundproof sliding windows. These are just some of the basic soundproofing materials you can use on your windows.
The good news is that, in addition to being simple to use, these materials are also inexpensive. These strategies may be ideal for you if you have a limited budget for your project.
| Material Needed |
| Acoustic Putty |
| High-Density Foam Tape |
Use Soundproof curtains
Assume you were able to reduce the volume using the prior technique, but you can still hear outside noise. The next thing you can do is add mass to the window’s surface.
The bulk I’m referring to is any soundproofing materials that could be hung on the window’s surface. Putting thick curtains on the window is the most effective for me.
Thick drapes perform an excellent job of absorbing and filtering noise from the outside. This type of mass soundproofing material will block and absorb sound from the outside before it reaches the interior.
The majority of the time, curtains are solely utilized for decoration. However, the capabilities of these materials go well beyond what you might expect.
Some drapes are specifically made to make a room or location silent for the best results. The only disadvantage is that they are dense and weighty. Choose the one with the most weight per unit area for the best results.
There are numerous advantages to using these curtains. They are: They have more mass and are denser because they have more mass and are denser because they have more mass and are denser because they are
Able to block light
Curtains that are heavier and denser are not only soundproofing but also regulate the amount of light that enters the space. You’ll probably want to keep the room gloomy if you’re working late at night and sleeping early the next morning. In this scenario, thick curtains could be beneficial
Energy efficient
Heavy drapes not only keep the noise and light out, but they also keep the temperature in the room consistent. As a result, these materials are energy-saving. If you have air conditioning, the curtains retain the cool air inside, boosting the amount of energy used.
If you want to put curtains on your sliding window, here are some that are made specifically for that purpose.
Noise Reduction Curtains
The Nicetown Blackout Drapes Panels for Bedroom are an amazing example of noise-reducing curtains. This material, in addition to providing soundproofing, also blocks around 99 percent of outside light. It also acts as a thermal barrier. These curtains are available in a variety of colours and will not fade over time.
The use of these curtains ensures a peaceful night’s sleep or day’s work. Not only that, but this curtain enhances the mood of your home.
Finally, you won’t have any trouble washing this curtain because it’s machine washable. They can be washed in the machine with a light detergent.
The triple weave design of these curtains adds to their weight, making them good in absorbing or blocking sound and insulating against heat.
The better the soundproofing and insulating properties of curtains, the more dense and bulk they have.
Acoustic Soundproof Curtains
The usage of acoustic soundproof curtains is another possibility. These curtains are more costly, but they are also more durable and effective. These drapes are designed to block around 90% of outside noise.
Even though these curtains are thick, they are simple to roll to the side if you require direct light or air from the outside. If you don’t purposefully roll the curtains to the side of the window, no light will be able to enter the room.
Apart from filtering light, the drapes also perform a better job of suppressing outside noise. This material’s main use is to soundproof the room by covering the window.
| Material Needed |
| Peacock Blue Soundproof Curtains |
| Vesta Heavy Weight Curtains |
Apply A Window Plug or Barrier
The most effective way to reduce distracting noises from outside your room is to use a window plug.
However, to use this technique, the plug must fit completely in the sliding window, closing all air gaps through which sound could pass.
The plug, like other window soundproofing materials, must be thick and dense enough to block the sound. However, keep in mind that the plug should be light enough to move around easily.
You might be asking how to construct a plug for your sliding window at this point.
Making a Window Plug
It’s quite simple to make a window plug. Don’t worry if you’re new to this; this part is specifically for you.
To begin, double-check all of your dimensions. “Measure twice, cut once,” as the old carpenter’s dictum goes. It’s critical to have the right length and thickness for this process.
To do this, you need the following material
| Material Needed |
| 2 Cupboard Handles |
| Soundproof Mat |
| Green Glue |
| Fiber Board |
Step One
As previously said, the first step is to measure the window frame to determine the depth of the window sill. The depth of the sill determines the thickness of the soundproofing mat. If the window sill is two inches deep, use a one-inch thick mat; if the window sill is four inches deep, use a two-inch-thick mat, and so on.
There are different types of acoustic mats available. These materials were created with the intention of soundproofing automotive engines.
When soundproofing sliding windows with this mat, all you need is the right size. The good news is that acoustic mats are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to suit your needs.
The window sill should be broader and taller than the mat. This is done to ensure that any air holes are filled. On all sides of the sill, I recommend at least a 1-inch overlap.
Step Two
The following step is to create a backing board for the window plug. Not only will this add to the plug’s mass, but it will also allow you to attach the handles.
The backing board should be the same dimension as the window sill. The acoustic foam will protrude one inch on both sides.
Step Three
You can now build and install the handle after the acoustic foam has adhered to the backing board. It will be easier to insert and remove the window plug from the window sill with the handle.
You may do this using a variety of materials. You can use the cabinet handles or straps as a starting point.
On the backside of the window plug, you can add an extra layer of acoustic foam if desired. However, this is purely a matter of personal preference.
Conclusion
Soundproofing sliding windows, or windows in general, isn’t difficult or expensive, especially since the two most critical procedures are caulking and weatherstripping, both of which are inexpensive materials.
The thing about soundproofing is that if any gaps are unfilled, no matter how minor, the entire effort will be for nought. So, either you go all in or you don’t go at all!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to soundproof sliding window?
We have discussed in detail all the relevant and money-saving ways through which we can soundproof windows efficiently in this blog. Sealing cracks, using curtains, installing window plugs etc.
Do soundproof windows work?
Yes! Regardless of your current window design, soundproof windows dramatically minimize noise. Please read our Noise Reduction Comparison page to see how Soundproof Windows work with your existing windows to reduce noise.
Are glass sliding doors soundproof?
Your home’s exterior doors are one of the structure’s weakest acoustic linkages. We can upgrade various types of outside doors, including glass sliding doors and timber hinged doors, to improve the overall sound insulation of the structure at Sound Barrier Systems.
How do you quiet a sliding glass door?
Using the vacuum’s brush or narrow nozzle attachment, vacuum the top and bottom tracks to remove loose dirt and debris.
Fill a bucket halfway with hot water and 2 teaspoons of baking soda.
Using a clean, wet cloth, wipe down the tracks and rollers.
Do double-pane windows reduce noise?
Dual-pane windows, often known as double-pane windows, aid in noise reduction. The greatest solution for suppressing noise is triple-pane glass. Pella Lifestyle Series triple-pane windows with an optional sound reduction package, for example, reduce noise by 52 percent more than single-pane windows.
How can I soundproof my windows without replacing them?
In simple terms, a window plug is anything you may make from the inside to “plug” into a window to prevent sound from entering or exiting the room. The window plug is detachable, which means you may remove it whenever you wish to let light and fresh air in via the window.
Sources
https://noiseplaster.com/windows
