There are many reasons why you might want to reduce noise transmission from one area of your property to another without obstructing the flow of light between them.
Which is why homes, businesses, and public buildings often turn to glass partitions, doors, and windows to create sound-resistant barriers that also help spaces to feel brighter.
However, the effectiveness of this design depends on the type of glass used and the level of noise pollution you’re trying to block. Here’s a quick guide to how glass can help reduce sound transmission, which glass is best for the job, and where you can install it.
How can glass help to reduce noise pollution?
Depending on its thickness, glass can help to muffle sounds by deflecting and absorbing some of the energy as the sound vibrations pass through, making the noise quieter on the other side.
Its sound insulation properties can be increased by making the glass thicker, adding an interlayer between two layers of glass, or increasing the spacing between two layers of glass.
This is why double glazing and laminated glass are so frequently implemented in environments such as urban homes, transport hubs, and public, commercial, or educational facilities.
For glazing to be 100% soundproof, it would need to have a top Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of 65. Most glass that is used for ‘soundproofing’ has an average STC rating between 35 to 55 – for comparison, a single-pane glass window would likely be rated 25.
In other cases, sound reduction is simply noted in decibels (dB). For example, conversational noise is around 40 to 60dB and traffic on a busy road might exceed 70dB – you would therefore want glass that could reduce this by at least 30–40dB to a more tolerable level.
Reducing uncomfortable levels of noise is the key to creating a peaceful environment, which helps to decrease stress and improve concentration during the day and quality of sleep at night.
What type of glass is best for reducing noise?
Standard float glass is the most basic type available, and while its insulation can be improved with proper sealing, its sound reduction capabilities are minimal. If you want to reduce noise pollution with single-pane glass, it has to be thicker toughened glass.
Double glazing is a popular option for windows, as it features two panes of glass with air or inert gas filling the gap in between them, which helps reduce sound transmission up to an STC rating of 40. However, this method is on the expensive side and typically for exterior use.
An alternative to double glazing is laminated glass, which features two panes bonded together by a resin interlayer in the middle. Despite being thin and transparent, this interlayer – usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) – is effective at blocking sounds.
This type of glass also provides extra safety and security, as the interlayer holds the panes in place even if they shatter. Toughened laminated glass is even stronger and better at reducing sound transmission, especially when thicker panels of toughened glass are used.
The best glass for insulating against noise pollution depends on where you plan to use it, but in many cases, toughened laminated glass – sometimes called acoustic glass – is the best option.
As an extra benefit, laminated glass can insulate against heat transmission as well as sound transfer – helping to keep interiors warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Where can you use noise reduction glass?
Noise-reducing laminated glass can be used in all manner of scenarios, from residences to offices to public buildings. When used for full-height partition walls, doors, and windows, it can help to maintain a relaxing and productive environment.
With various thicknesses available, you’ll need to calculate the right size for your installation – for example, the reliable glass suppliers at The Glass Warehouse offer toughened laminated glass in thicknesses ranging from 10.8mm to 32mm, so you’re sure to find a suitable size.
Best of all, they can cut your glass to bespoke measurements and shapes, accounting for any cut-outs or drilled holes you might need to mount the glass effectively.
Suitable for glass walls, doors, balustrades, and even floors, your home or business can enjoy decreased noise pollution with properly installed toughened laminated glass.