Milgard Windows Reduce Oustside Noise Make You Feel Better at Home
Milgard Windows Reduce Oustside Noise Make You Feel Better at Home
Milgard Windows sound reduction makes your in-home experience more enjoyable.
When it comes to making your home feel more comfortable, noise reduction plays a crucial role. Whether you live in in a neighborhood where the houses are close together, near a highway, barking dogs, or school zone, excessive noise can be disruptive and impact your overall health. Fortunately, Milgard Windows are designed to significantly reduce noise, allowing you to enjoy a quieter and more serene living space.
The Science Behind Milgard’s Noise Reduction
Milgard Windows utilize advanced technology and innovative design to minimize sound transmission. There are two things to pay attention to for noise reduction: offset glass thickness and Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings.
Milgard Offsets Glass Thickness
One of the most effective ways to block noise is by using different thicknesses of glass within the same window unit. This is known offset glass glazing or thickness. Offsetting thicknesses disrupt sound waves as they attempt to pass through the glass of the window. By varying the glass thickness, Milgard Windows help to break up and absorb sound energy, significantly reducing the level of noise that enters your home. There are relatively inexpensive ways to reduce sound. Below we will talk about STC however its important know that the best sound dampening is when you put the thicker glass on the outboard panel. That being said this is the costliest in most cases because then you are paying a premium for the low e coatings. So, in most cases keep the outboard panel at 1/8 inch and thicken the inboard panel. Most of the time you are don’t lose any STC points but save a lot of money. Laminated glass is very good at blocking noise when it’s the inboard panel however its expensive. Consider using 3/16- or 1/4-inch glass and compare the STC ratings. You will notice that you probably don’t lose any or maybe one STC point. There is a white noise effect when living near a freeway. I have witnessed that 3/16 glass will have a very slight annoying hum. This same window with 1/4 inch did not. You can look up STC ratings at Milgard.com. You may notice some windows that have 1/8 over 1/4 may not be rated or that the STC is the same as 3/16. Take my 30-year window industry advice and choose the 1/4 inch. If its not rated it doesn’t mean it doesn’t reduce sound it just means it has not been tested. As for the STC being the same just remember the white noise situation I mentioned above.
Understanding STC Ratings
Windows are often rated for their ability to block sound using the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating system. The STC rating measures how well a material can reduce sound. The higher the STC rating, the more noise is blocked. Milgard has their windows tested by a 3rd party engineering firm.
- Standard single-pane windows typically have a STC or 20 to 24.
- Milgard Double-paned windows with standard glass have an STC rating of around 27-30.
- Milgard’s sound-reducing windows, which incorporate offset glass thickness 3/16, 1/4 or laminated glass, can achieve STC ratings up to 34 ins some cases.
In my experience you need to gain at least 6 STC points to feel better about your purchase. If you have noise issues and you already have dual paned windows then you need to go to a triple paned high STC window which can create issues because these windows are very thick and usually require a 6-inch wall or you can do the less expensive route by putting a thin dual paned window behind the existing window. Milgard Trinsic and Milgard Style Line are 2 7/8 inches thick and when ordered as a block frame (smooth all four sides) can most of the time sit right behind the other window. If you do this then you on sliding windows you will need to remover the lock and possibly the pull rail on the existing window. Where we have done this on project you could see cars drive by and there was little to no sound. Just remember bass sounds are passive and low frequency. The low tone of a diesel truck or music with heavy base is able to go through most windows and walls.
The Benefits of a Quieter Home
Reducing noise in your home is about more than just eliminating distractions; it can have profound effects on your health and attitude. Noise can increase stress levels, disrupt sleep in that very important REM 5 zone, and just make you feel unhappy. By choosing Milgard Windows with superior noise reduction features, you can experience:
- Better Sleep: A quieter bedroom promotes deeper, more restful sleep, helping you wake up refreshed.
- Enhanced Focus, Reduce Stress and Productivity: Whether you work from home, are retired, or just need a time out from the day-to-day stress then reducing noise may help you create a peaceful environment, help your overall wellbeing, and increase your productivity.
- Improved Home Value: When selling your home your home and its quite when potential buyers are looking you can increase your value. The key in selling a home is taking away negatives and noise negatively affects your home value.
Upgrade to Milgard for a Peaceful Living Environment
If noise is an issue, then investing in Milgard Windows noticeable difference. The innovative designs, high STC ratings, and offset glass thickness technology help create a tranquil indoor environment where you can relax, focus, and enjoy life without the constant intrusion of outside noise. Pay special attentions to the 1/8 over 1/4 offset glass STC ratings. You will probably find you get a high STC while not incurring a lot of cost.
About the Arthor:
Douglas Lopez
30 years’ experience installing Milgard Windows & Doors
AAMA Installation Masters LEVEL: RLC-1
Founder 1stWindows.com
