Tips for soundproofing windows in 119 series buildings

Introduction

119-series panel apartment buildings are common across Eastern Europe and Latvia. Residents often face street noise issues—traffic, yard activity, and neighbor sounds. This guide provides practical, effective advice for improving window soundproofing with an emphasis on PVC window solutions.

Why 119-series apartments are noisy

• Original windows were often single-glazed wooden or thin metal frames offering poor acoustic isolation.
• Narrow window niches and thin facade panels create sound transmission paths.
• Gaps around frames, worn seals and poorly finished reveals amplify noise ingress.

Understanding these weak points allows you to choose cost-effective measures rather than overpaying for unnecessary upgrades.

Choosing the right glazing and frame

• Frame profile: 5- and 6-chamber PVC profiles with 70–90 mm installation depth improve both acoustic and thermal performance.
• Glass type: laminated acoustic glass helps reduce impact and airborne noise.
• Mixed glass thickness: combining different glass thicknesses (e.g., 4 mm + 6 mm) helps break resonance frequencies.
• Cavity width: acoustic performance is best with cavity widths of about 12–18 mm.
• Triple glazing: effective in very noisy locations but heavier and more expensive.

Tip: Ask for certified acoustic ratings (Rw or STC in dB) from the manufacturer. Real-world improvement can vary widely depending on installation.

Installation and sealing — where results are made

• Proper installation often has a greater effect than the glass itself. Poor installation negates benefits.
• Remove old frames carefully and prepare reveals correctly or build new ones.
• Use high-quality EPDM or TPV seals that remain elastic over time.
• Fill the installation gap with foam and finish with acoustic sealant plus appropriate tapes: breathable tape outside, vapor barrier inside.
• Acoustic tapes and isolating pads between the frame and the wall reduce sound bridges.

Additional measures beyond the window unit

• Secondary glazing: adding an inner or outer secondary sash is cost-effective and often faster than full replacement.
• Reveals and sills: seal joints and add sound-absorbing materials inside reveals.
• Curtains and blinds: heavy acoustic curtains or dense roller blinds reduce noise peaks and work well in combination with upgraded windows.
• External shutters: roller shutters or solid exterior shutters lower noise and add security.
• Ventilation: ensure air supply with acoustic ventilation valves or recuperation to avoid needing to open windows.

Practical step-by-step plan

1. Assess current condition: window type, where noise comes from, and rough noise level.
2. Choose an appropriate glazing/frame solution balancing cost and benefit.
3. Prepare openings and remove old frames.
4. Install with acoustic seals, tapes and sealants.
5. Add secondary glazing or external shutters if necessary.
6. Test results and check ventilation performance.

Costs and timelines

• Replacing a typical apartment window with a PVC frame and standard double glazing: roughly 200–500 EUR per window depending on options.
• Acoustic glazing and high-quality installation add 100–300 EUR per window.
• Manufacturing lead time 5–14 days; installation for a few windows commonly takes 1–3 days.

FAQ

How many dB can I expect to reduce?

A well-chosen glazing solution with proper installation can reduce perceived noise by about 15–30 dB. Exact numbers depend on starting conditions and external noise frequency mix.

Do I need triple glazing?

Triple glazing can help in very noisy locations, but in many cases a high-quality double glazing with laminated glass and proper installation is sufficient.

Can I just replace the glazing and keep the old frame?

Replacing only the sealed unit helps, but if the frame is warped or damaged it’s better to replace the whole frame for a reliable acoustic seal.

Will airtight windows stop ventilation?

Install acoustic ventilation valves or micro-ventilation modes to ensure fresh air without opening windows and increasing noise.

Do I need permission for external measures?

Internal window replacement usually does not require permission, but external changes (exterior secondary glazing, shutters) may need building or homeowner association approval.

Conclusion

Soundproofing in 119-series apartments is achievable with the right combination of glazing, frame profile and professional installation. Secondary glazing and external shutters can add further noise reduction. For a precise plan and cost estimate, schedule a site visit and acoustic assessment.