Is there an efficient method of fighting traffic noise?

31
Aug 2015

Residing in a big city bustling with life is both attractive and convenient. However, it entails traffic congestion at any time of the day, polluted air, and noise that may result in hearing impairment. Installing windows with improved noise reduction might be a solution for the latter issue. Such windows ensure efficient protection against the outside noise, making your home an oasis of silence to which you will happily return after a hard day out.

 

R – A key parameter

While choosing proper windows, the Sound Reduction Index R should be taken into account, which indicates the effectiveness of the windows’ protection against the outside noise. The efficiency of sound reduction is dependent on the type of glazing unit. We do not mean here the glazing unit itself, though, but the type of glass, the thickness of the panels brought together, the presence of protective film, the spacing between the glass panels, and the gas presence in the unit. Another important factor is careful installation, as is always the case in the construction industry.

 

The measurement of noise levels in your neighbourhood

The acceptable noise level in residential rooms, according to European Standards, falls within the range of 30 ÷ 40 [dB] during the day and 25 ÷ 35 [dB] at night. Estimated values for various types of noise listed below illustrate these values in dB: The noise level that gets into the room is also dependent on the distance from the noise source and any barriers (e.g. trees) that could come in the way of the sound wave to the building. Taking into consideration the values listed above, you will be able to determine the appropriate R index value of our windows to guarantee the quietness of your home.

 

The solution is just around the corner

OKNOPLAST offers sound absorbing glazing with Sound Reduction Index R of 36, 39, 40 and even 50 dB. For the inhabitants of buildings located near busy traffic routes, such noise reduction values of the glazing are a perfect solution. The asymmetrical structure of the sealed glazing unit and laminated glass panels with noise protection film provide the high attenuation level. Low frequencies related to high traffic volume, as well as high frequencies generated by jet aircraft flying over at low altitude are efficiently silenced by the right glazing unit. The audible noise inside the building will sound like the source is located much farther away than it actually is. In addition, the noises of road works will not be heard—a jackhammer will sound like the distant, harmless buzzing of an insect.

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