Acoustic Glazing vs. Standard Double Glazing: How to Silence Street Noise for Good

If you live in a bustling town or near a busy road, you’ll know just how disruptive street noise can be. Whether it’s traffic, noisy pedestrians, or the hum of city life, constant noise pollution can seriously affect your home’s comfort and your wellbeing. At Leekes, we understand how important a peaceful home environment is for you and your family. That’s why we offer a variety of glazing solutions designed to help reduce unwanted noise, including acoustic glazing and standard double glazing options. But what’s the difference, and which is best for silencing street noise for good? Let’s explore.

Understanding Double Glazing and Acoustic Glazing

Standard double glazing involves two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar and a sealed air gap. This design provides improved insulation compared to single glazing, reducing heat loss and helping soundproof windows to some extent. Most uPVC windows and double glazed doors installed by reputable double glazing companies, including Leekes, use this technology as a standard for improving energy efficiency and security in homes.

Acoustic glazing builds on this concept but goes a step further by using specialised glass and construction techniques specifically designed to reduce noise transfer. This often involves one pane of thicker or laminated glass combined with different glass thicknesses on each layer, plus a wider air gap between panes to better absorb and block out sound vibrations.

How Effective is Standard Double Glazing at Noise Reduction?

Standard double glazed windows do reduce a significant amount of street noise compared to single glazing, as the double pane helps block and dampen sound waves. However, their ability to cut out traffic rumble or louder, low-frequency noise is sometimes limited. If your home faces a busy road or you’re near a noisy environment, noise can still leak through, leading to disturbances inside.

You’ll often find that traditional double glazing is very effective at reducing higher frequency sounds, like bird calls or shouting, but less so at stopping car engines, sirens, or construction noise. While double glazed doors provide an extra barrier, their performance against noise depends heavily on seals and frame materials, so choosing quality uPVC windows and doors is key.

Why Acoustic Glazing Could Be the Better Choice

Acoustic glazing is purpose-built for noise reduction. By using special laminated glass and carefully measuring pane thickness and spacing, soundproof windows fitted with acoustic glass can drastically reduce noise levels indoors, often by up to 50-60% more than standard double glazing. This is especially noticeable with persistent, low-frequency traffic sounds.

The laminated layer in acoustic glazing also acts as an additional barrier, trapping sound vibrations and preventing them from travelling through your windows. For homeowners seeking a solution to chronic street noise, acoustic glazing offers peace of mind and a more restful living environment.

It’s also worth noting that acoustic glazing doesn’t compromise on thermal performance. When combined with uPVC windows and double glazed doors from trusted double glazing companies like Leekes, you get improved energy efficiency without sacrificing quiet.

Is Acoustic Glazing the Right Choice for Your Home?

If you are dealing with consistent noise issues (near busy main roads, underneath flight paths, or close to commercial zones) acoustic glazing is a highly effective investment. It’s an ideal upgrade for homes where silence matters most, such as bedrooms, home offices, or living rooms.

On the other hand, if noise isn’t as much of a concern, standard double glazing still delivers excellent insulation benefits and a reduction in outdoor sounds compared to single-glazed windows.

For certain properties, triple glazing might also be worth exploring. Though primarily designed for improved thermal insulation, it can also offer additional soundproofing thanks to its third pane and extra air gap, but acoustic glazing remains the better specialist option for noise control.

Why Choose Leekes for Your New Windows or Doors?

At Leekes, we pride ourselves on offering a full range of solutions tailored to your needs. Our uPVC windows, double glazed windows, double glazed doors, and soundproof windows can all be customised to incorporate acoustic glazing for superior noise reduction.

With decades of experience as one of the UK’s trusted double glazing companies, we combine quality products with expert installation. Our team is on hand to advise which glazing type suits your home best, ensuring that you get the perfect balance of energy efficiency, security, and soundproofing.

Ready to Reduce Noise and Enjoy Peace at Home?

Don’t let street noise take over your living space. Whether you’re interested in upgrading to acoustic glazing or want to learn more about the benefits of standard double glazing, Leekes can help. Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your requirements and get a quote tailored to your home.

Visit our showroom or call us to speak to an expert about soundproof windows, double glazed doors, and all your home improvements. Silence the noise for good and create your ideal sanctuary, starting with the right glazing solution from our friendly team here at Leekes.

Contact us today to learn more and take the first step towards a quieter home.

Categories: Doors, Double Glazing, Leekes-Blog, Windows