Double Glazing Windows - New Build

MOPI

Hi I have moved into a new build property built by David Wilson Homes and as standard in the property there are double glazed windows installed. I have ensured that all vents etc are closed in the window and that they are properly shut, however I am experiencing significant levels of noise filtering through the windows. I realise this is very subjective, but to provide some context I can hear my neighbour coughing (quietly) in their back garden, when I am lay in my bedroom on the back of the house and it sounds as though they are in the room with me! Also I am able to hear every word that is being said when neighbours are in their back garden, even when they are talking at a conversational level. Prior to moving into this property I lived with my parents where we also had double glazed windows and I never experienced this level of noise disruption.

I have had several friends/family visit my property, all of which have stated that the windows allow as much noise through as old single paned windows.

I have contacted David Wilson Homes, who have been very dismissive of the whole thing and stated that there won't be anything wrong with the windows as they will be the standard fitting across all sites. Whilst I realise that its not an easy issue to resolve as its not as obvious as a physical fault I am struggling to sleep at night due to the smallest of noises.

Does anyone have any help or advice regarding this matter? Do double glazed windows all have a stated noise reduction level or anything of a similar nature? Should I be pursuing this matter further with David Wilson Homes or are they likely to just be very poor quality windows?


Thanks in advance!

Doozergirl

It's probably to do with the way they were fitted rather than the window quality. I'd run your hands near to the outside walls, perhaps look for a draught.

MOPI

Hi thanks for your response, I have felt around the whole window but I can't feel any draft, which would be evident given the recent bad weather in the UK. I really don't know if there is anything I can do about it but it just seems particularly bad, as if there is no window there almost!

Furts

Volume house builders, and yours is one of these, drive costs and quality down to the absolute minimum. Consequently your windows are likely to be poor quality and poorly fitted.

Are the windows the same as those installed in the show home? If so, you have entered a contract with knowledge of what you will receive so it is difficult to now complain about the quality, or specification.

Coming onto the fitting, you have rights under your NHBC Warranty. However you can only complain about issues if you can identify the problem. Since you appear unable to identify this you require the help of a Clerk Of Works, or Chartered Building Surveyor. This will cost, but that is something all consumers should factor in when buying a new home.

Without professional help you will have to admit defeat, and live with matters. This explains why DW are showing total disinterest in your issues.

Kiran

Furts is correct with what he has said, it is worth checking the spec of the show home to yours, even some of the national companies do this when selling. Bring one spec window and install another. Not withstanding that, even a poor double glazed window should not let that level of sound through. Is there lots of plastic trim around the windows inside or out? This can stop the air but it won't be much of a sound insulator if they haven't foamed around the frames. As a guide UPVC frame up to 3m should only have 10mm gap for fitting. In the world of house bashing it's not uncommon for the bricklayer to oversize a bit extra on structural openings to avoid coming back to amend the openings if they are too small. Also, the people that looks after quality on housing sites generally aren't that bothered as long as it can be hidden for handover to the client.