How to Soundproof Windows

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Wood and glass window frames do not block much sound; noise commonly enters a room through windows. Changing the window to a double-pane glass reduces noise by 20 percent. Vinyl frames block 30 to 50 percent of outside sound. Making a removable "plug" is an alternative to buying a double-pane window and vinyl frame. Follow the steps to build a plug to make windows soundproof.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Include a Soundproof Mat

Step 1

Measure the window frame to determine the depth of the sill. Understand that the depth of the sill will be the thickness of the plug. Use 2 inch boards if the sill is 2 inches.
Step 2

Nail, glue or screw a box frame together to place inside of the window opening. Understand that 1/2 inch pine from a lumberyard works fine. Know that thin boards are acceptable, but 1/4 inch plywood is better for creating covering for the newly-made box.
Step 3

Use super sound proofing mat as a liner for the inside of your box. Select the thickness you prefer, but realize that more is better. Use layers of 1/2 inch mat to make 3 inch of thickness.
Step 4

Attach the mat inside the frame with staples, nails or contact cement. Get a Styrofoam block. Place the mat over it if your window frame is very deep and you want to fill the box with something other than soundproofing mat.

Fit the Plug Properly

Step 1

Ensure that the plug fits the window opening securely. Seal cracks that would let sound into the room.
Step 2

Realize that it will not matter the direction in which the soundproofing is inserted. Understand that if you place the plywood side in and the soundproofing side out, you can add more soundproofing mat onto the room side.
Step 3

Make sure the soundproof material is cut more than an inch larger than the space, to block sound that may enter through window frame and the edges of the plug.

Determine the Correct Number of Layers

Step 1

Attach cabinet handles to the plug to make it easy to hold, if you expect to remove it. Understand that handles help you grip the plug.
Step 2

Expect the plug to be lightweight enough for a weaker person to carry, if you use plywood and thin boards and your window frame is not large.
Step 3

Understand that using a soundproofing plug keeps the building cooler during summer and warmer in wintertime. Know that the window's thermal insulation property goes up considerably with a soundproof window plug.
Step 4

Realize that a 1 inch layer of super sound proofing mat is approximately R-5.5. Understand that a few layers will yield a high "R" number.

Take Drastic Measures

Step 1

Use drastic measures if the window allows large amounts of sound.
Add a limpid material to line the plug and increase the mass of the plug.
Step 2

Staple asphalt roofing tiles inside the box to decrease noise. Realize that the asphalt makes the box considerably heavier.
Step 3

Consider sealing the plug in place instead of making it stationary if the plug blocks all noise. Caulk around the edges to seal it and improve the soundproofing quality.

Comments

sohailgagai said

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on 3/17/2009 i dont understand the meaning of the plug can any body have this so i can get the picture pls help me , i really need help i cannot sleep .thanksalot waiting

AUDIOMIND said

on 8/27/2008 What places do you suggest purchasing a soundproof mat/plug?

on 8/27/2008 What places do you suggest purchasing soundproofing mats?

projectmgr said

on 8/13/2008 If these are bedroom windows on the ground floor, do not seal the plugs in if you need to escape in a fire emergency situation.

dralter said

on 1/5/2008 Or you could install another window behind the existing one. Use lots of caulk to make sure the windows are air tight. Preferably, you would want to use a high quality window with double panes and the windows should be spaced 3 inches apart.

http://soundproofingwithdave.com/2007/09/soundproof-windows.html