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Advertising supplement provided by Marvin Windows and Doors

Method and Quality of Weatherstripping

Adding weatherstripping or taking steps to ensure its high quality is often associated with energy efficiency, but this also improves acoustical performance. Weatherstripping and the amount of pressure applied to form an effective seal controls the air tightness of the joints in a window frame. High quality weatherstripping and sealants provide superior sound-flanking paths than lower-quality products. But to maintain quality, manufacturers’ directions must be followed for field-installed systems.

Frame and storm panel

Frame construction also contributes to the sound transmission class of the window or door. Any window or doorframe that allows air to seep into the building will also allow noise to enter. But finding a window with a high STC rating and low air infiltration is not a guarantee sound will not be transmitted into the building. The wall in which the window is being installed must be soundproofed and the opening around the window must be properly sealed.

One of the principals of reducing sound transfer is to eliminate any chance of setting up a standing wave in a product. This can be avoided by using components of unequal length so noise cannot travel through the assembled window or door and affect its STC rating.

Including a storm panel can increase air space and reduce sound transmission. Using thicker and/or heavier glass will help the various lights of glass in a window vibrate at different frequencies, therefore disrupting the sound transmission. To accurately gauge performance, however, field tests should be conducted.

Installation

Even when the right product is chosen, sound attenuation can be greatly affected by installation. Even if a window is built to the highest STC rating possible, poor installation and problems integrating with other building systems can drop a window’s STC 40 rating to an “apparent” STC 30 and creates opportunities for water and air infiltration problems as well. It is vital, therefore, for manufacturers’ installation instructions to be followed.

The Beauty of Silence

Cushioning sound in non-residential structures can improve the lives of thousands of business owners, employees, students, teachers, administrators and all types of visitors. Solving this issue is part of the art and science of designing structures that offer comfort and beauty for those who enter them each day. And, the many beautiful door and window options that improve sound attenuation can help bring an air of quiet dignity to any structure.