Window Soundproofing Comparison Tool
Compare soundproof window types side-by-side. Select up to 4 options to compare STC ratings, costs, pros & cons
Select Window Types to Compare (Choose 1-4)
Click on window types below to add or remove them from the comparison
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Standard Double Glazing
Two panes of glass with air gap. Provides good thermal insulation but limited acoustic benefits due to small gap between panes.
STC Rating
28-34
Cost Range
£350-600 per window
Noise Reduction
Moderate (30-40%)
Installation Time
3-5 hours per window
Best For
Advantages
- Better than single glazing
- Good thermal insulation
- Reduces condensation
- Widely available
Disadvantages
- Limited acoustic performance
- Small air gap (6-20mm)
- Cannot install in listed buildings
- Moderate noise reduction only
Secondary Glazing
Independent window installed 100-150mm inside existing window. Superior acoustic performance due to large air gap and mass-spring-mass effect.
STC Rating
45-52
Cost Range
£400-1,200 per window
Noise Reduction
Excellent (75-90%)
Installation Time
2-4 hours per window
Best For
Advantages
- Superior noise reduction
- Preserves original windows
- Ideal for listed buildings
- 100-150mm air gap optimal
- Reversible installation
- No planning permission needed
Disadvantages
- Reduces natural light slightly
- Requires cleaning two windows
- Internal installation visible
- May reduce window opening
Window Inserts (Removable)
Acrylic or glass panels that press into window frames. Ideal temporary solution for renters offering good noise reduction without permanent installation.
STC Rating
38-45
Cost Range
£200-500 per window
Noise Reduction
Good (60-80%)
Installation Time
30 mins - 1 hour (DIY)
Best For
Advantages
- Removable and portable
- DIY installation
- No permanent alterations
- Lowest cost option
- Perfect for renters
- Easy to clean
Disadvantages
- Requires removal for window opening
- May not seal perfectly
- Aesthetic impact
- Not as durable as permanent solutions
Quick Decision Guide
Not sure which option is right for you? Use this guide to find your ideal solution
For Renters & Temporary Solutions
Choose Window Inserts - removable, affordable, and no permanent alterations required
For Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas
Choose Secondary Glazing - preserves original windows while offering superior noise reduction
For Maximum Noise Reduction
Choose Secondary Glazing or Laminated Acoustic Glass - both achieve STC 45-52 ratings
For Best Value
Choose Secondary Glazing - superior performance-to-cost ratio with excellent noise reduction
For Energy Efficiency Priority
Choose Triple Glazing or Secondary Glazing - best thermal performance
Not Sure About Your Current Noise Level?
Use our interactive decibel guide to understand and measure noise levels in your environment. Learn what 60dB, 70dB, and 90dB actually sound like with real-world examples.
Explore Decibel GuideStill Not Sure Which to Choose?
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