Which windows are best for houses near the road

Which windows are best for houses near the road

Living near a busy road requires windows that combine good sound insulation, thermal performance and robust installation. Below are practical recommendations on glass units, frames, additional measures and installation details to reduce traffic noise, save energy and increase durability.

Key selection principles

• Soundproofing depends on the glass unit construction, the correct installation and additional barriers (roller shutters, external blinds).
• Thermal insulation matters for comfort and energy saving but does not automatically guarantee acoustic performance.
• Proper installation and sealing often matter more than choosing the most expensive profile.

Which insulating glass unit (IGU) to choose

• Single-chamber IGU (double glazing) gives minimal noise protection and fits secondary rooms.
• Double-chamber IGU (triple glazing) is optimal for houses near busy roads: more air/gas gaps and mixed glass thicknesses improve sound reduction.
• Acoustic (laminated) glass contains a PVB layer that damps vibrations and reduces low-frequency noise.
• Best combination: regular glass + laminated acoustic glass + gas fill (argon/krypton) + warm edge spacer — effective against both noise and heat loss.

Profile and chamber count

• 5–7 chamber PVC profiles provide better thermal performance and some acoustic benefit compared to 3-chamber systems. Chamber count improves thermal resistance; rigidity and thickness influence acoustic behavior.
• Reinforcement inside the frame is necessary for large sashes and long-term stability.

Seals and installation

• Dual sealing systems (at least two sealing lines) reduce air infiltration and airborne noise.
• Correct installation — the decisive factor for noise reduction. The mounting gap must be foamed and finished with elastic sealants; outer parts should be insulated with mineral wool where required.
• Openable sashes typically offer less sound reduction than fixed panels; focus on a high-quality IGU and tight seals.

Additional noise-reduction measures

• External roller shutters (aluminum with insulated core) significantly lower transmitted noise and improve heat insulation.
• Interior blinds and heavy curtains reduce reflected and high-frequency noise, but have limited effect on low-frequency vehicle noise.
• Proper finishing of sills, drip edges and façade joints prevents leak paths for sound.

Balancing acoustic and thermal goals with budget

• Budget option: choose a double-chamber IGU with mixed glass thickness and ensure professional installation.
• Maximum performance: laminated acoustic glass + two chambers + warm edge spacer + external roller shutters.
• Consider rated values: Rw (sound reduction) and Ug (thermal transmittance) when comparing products.

Recommendations by scenario

• Busy multi-lane road (noise up to ~75 dB): triple glazing with laminated or acoustic glass, plus external roller shutters.
• Moderate traffic street: double-chamber IGU with mixed thickness glass and a quality 5–7 chamber profile.
• Balcony/loggia: fixed (non-opening) units with good sealing and, if possible, an additional external barrier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is triple glazing always better for noise than double glazing?

Triple glazing usually performs better because of multiple air gaps and the ability to use different glass thicknesses. However, glass composition (lamination) and gap sizes matter as much as the number of panes.

2. Do blinds or curtains help with road noise?

They help with high-frequency noise and room acoustics, but have limited impact on low-frequency traffic noise. For significant reduction, use thick IGUs and external shutters.

3. Is professional installation necessary?

Yes. Professional installation with correct sealing and joint treatment is critical. Poor installation can negate the benefits of an advanced glass unit.

4. Can I have both energy efficiency and sound insulation?

Yes. Choose IGUs with low Ug and argon/krypton fill combined with laminated glass for acoustic damping. A warm edge spacer and quality profile help achieve both goals.

5. What matters more: frame or glass unit?

For noise, the glass unit (thickness, lamination, configuration) is the most important, but the frame, seals and installation are essential to maintain performance over time.

Conclusion

For houses near the road, the best results come from a combination: double- or triple-chamber IGU with laminated/acoustic glass, 5–7 chamber PVC profile, dual seals, professional installation and, where possible, external roller shutters. This approach maximizes sound reduction and thermal comfort.