Window solutions and traffic noise

Josiejump1975

I'm experiencing this issue in my new home and wondered if and how you got round it in the end? I don't want to waste money doing the wrong thing. Would really appreciate some help. I think I am going crazy!

Nihaonihao

Joining in on the problem. Three weeks ago we bought a house on a 30 mph A road. The house is sittting very close to the road with no driveway. When we viewed the house we didn't notice the noise was that bad. Early mornings and late evenings are the worst as cars are fewer and therefore go faster. I have moved to the smaller bedroom which looks to the back, but can still here the cars. The only way I can sleep is with earplugs. It is driving me crazy.
There is double glazing already which was installed 14 years ago, but looks in very good health. There are two trees infront of the living room window which seem to dampen the noise there a tiny bit, but the master bedroom is a nightmare.
We dont really want to replace the windows at the moment and not even sure replacing them would be a solution. We are considering secondary glazing as I am told that would be the most effective thing to do and thay it would "dramatically" reduce the noise We are getting quotes, but I wanted to hear from someone who has personal experience. Has anyone installed secondary glazing and found it to be really helpful?
Thanks

Dawn1966

Joining the discussion, same situation as above, we have good double glazed units in nice deep bays, wondering whether to get secondary units or not?

Fire_Fox

Dawn1966 wrote: »

Joining the discussion, same situation as above, we have good double glazed units in nice deep bays, wondering whether to get secondary units or not?

There are various types of secondary glazing, at various price points, that can be targeted or tailored to different goals. There is published research on how specific materials or gaps between panes affect thermal and accoustic performance.

Do consider how you balance ventilation with muffling sound year round. Do you want a fixed in winter, but removable in summer system? An opaque but adjustable product that shades in summer yet insulates in winter? Or a clear product that you enjoy the lovely bay window itself and the view out of it?

Professionally fitted window treatments and mature evergreen outdoor plants may be worth pricing up. Conversely DIY removable plastic glazing may be as good as anything the professionals can offer. It can also be less visually obtrusive.

Consider that the impact of the increased noise and thus your predicted needs will change over the next few months. A one trick pony could become a white elephant.

chr4

I have the same problem. I bought a property which was built about 13 years ago. The windows have trickle vents which I understand contribute to noise problems. The room on the second floor is less sheltered by other buildings and the noise from the railways is unbearable.Close distance to Gatwick does not help either.
I am thinking of getting a secondary window for this room. Are there any circumstances where you do need a planning permission for this in a fairly new house?

Dawn1966

From one of the companies I'm considering buying secondary glazing from.
6. Do I need planning permission?

Because secondary glazing is installed on the inside of your property – and can be removed if required, with no lasting effect – it doesn’t require any planning permission.

no1catman

I live on a four-lane (30 mph - was 40) dual carriageway in north Cardiff.
Moved-in 2007 - thought we'd get used to the noise (property probably 30k+ cheaper than in nearby side streets), but too easy to be aware of increased traffic from 5.30am onwards.
Already had double-glazing, but had a problem with the front upstairs bay windows interested to have them replaced.
Had a local d/g company come along for a chat on options etc. They suggested laminated noise reduction windows, said don't bother with triple glazing - laminated much more effective. We know because we did one like yours down the road at No ??
Thought 'oh aye, pull the other one'! So I went done there and enquired, yes they said, come in and see/hear. Window open, window closed - WOW what a difference.
A year ago, had the front windows replaced, then in June three in the side, and finally in October two more in the side.

Having an extra front door put in shortly, have stipulated laminated noise reduction glass - you do pay a premium but IMO worth it.

Dawn1966

Hiya No1catman,
Thanks that's really helpful, I'm not far from Cardiff, can I ask for the info on the company please and did you have new double glazing with acoustic glass, or secondary glazing with your existing windows? I've been quoted for acoustic DG with a 38db reduction, or secondary glazing with 6.8mm acoustic with a 50db reduction.

gday064

Triple glazing can help, it's not it's initial USP but I've found it to reduce outside noise and muffle it out. It is more expensive but I think it's worth it. Also noise reducing curtains and blinds can help! Look at companies that do the Heathrow noise reduction scheme - they do windows specifically made for reducing noise pollution. I'd rather spend more money to live in a comfortable house

no1catman

Dawn1966 wrote: »

Hiya No1catman,
Thanks that's really helpful, I'm not far from Cardiff, can I ask for the info on the company please and did you have new double glazing with acoustic glass, or secondary glazing with your existing windows? I've been quoted for acoustic DG with a 38db reduction, or secondary glazing with 6.8mm acoustic with a 50db reduction.

Not secondary. Took out the old, put in the new - also enabled me to increase the size of the ventilator/fanlight windows - making it easier to reach up and open.
In all honesty, don't know the technical spec., only the result. While noise hasn't gone away it's now more of a dull drone.

Used Inspire Windows - https://www.inspirewindows.co.uk/

HTHs