How to Choose the Right Glazing for Noise Reduction

Tired of traffic noise, loud neighbours, or nearby construction disturbing your home? The right glazing can make a huge difference.

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’ve helped many homeowners across the North East reduce unwanted sound through smart window upgrades. Whether you live on a busy street in Heaton or near the Metro line in Gateshead, there’s a glazing option to help restore peace and quiet.

In this guide, we’ll explain how glazing affects noise, what types of glass are best for soundproofing, and how to choose the right solution for your property.

Why Standard Double Glazing Isn’t Always Enough

Many UK homes already have double glazing—but still suffer from outside noise.

That’s because not all double glazing is designed to block sound. Most standard units are built for thermal insulation, not acoustic performance.

If your windows use two panes of the same thickness with minimal spacing, they’ll reduce some noise—but won’t stop it entirely.

For true sound reduction, you need specialised glazing.

How Glazing Reduces Noise

Sound travels through vibrations. Windows block sound by using:

• Multiple panes of glass
• Varying glass thicknesses
• Wider air or gas gaps
• Acoustic interlayers

The more layers and differences in density, the more sound gets absorbed or deflected.

Best Glazing Options for Noise Reduction

Acoustic Double Glazing

Acoustic glass is specially laminated with a sound-dampening layer. It looks like regular glass but has an extra inner film that absorbs noise.

Combined with a wide air gap (16mm to 20mm), acoustic double glazing significantly reduces traffic, voices, and general street noise.

Best for homes on main roads or near schools, pubs, or bus routes.

Asymmetric Double Glazing

This uses two panes of different thicknesses (for example, 6mm and 4mm). The difference in density makes it harder for sound waves to pass through both panes.

It’s more effective than standard double glazing, and often used in combination with laminate or acoustic glass for extra noise control.

Ideal for mixed residential areas or properties near industrial sites.

Triple Glazing (with Caution)

Triple glazing adds a third pane, which can help with thermal insulation and noise reduction—if done correctly.

For noise, it only helps if:

• The panes are different thicknesses
• The gaps between panes are wide and well-sealed

If all three panes are the same thickness and spacing, the benefit is minimal.

Great for very noisy environments when combined with acoustic laminates.

Secondary Glazing

Secondary glazing involves fitting an extra pane of glass inside your existing window frame.

It creates a large air gap and is highly effective at blocking noise—often better than triple glazing.

It’s a good option for listed buildings or where window replacement isn’t allowed. It can also be removed or opened when needed.

Frame Type Matters Too

Even the best glass won’t help if the frame lets sound leak through.

Modern uPVC and aluminium frames are designed with multiple seals and thermal breaks. Timber frames can also perform well if properly sealed.

Check for:

• Tight-fitting joints
• Multi-point locks
• Good perimeter sealing

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we always pair acoustic glazing with high-performance frames for maximum impact.

How Much Sound Can You Expect to Reduce?

Here’s a rough guide based on glazing type:

• Standard double glazing: 25–30 decibel reduction
• Acoustic laminated glazing: 35–40 decibel reduction
• Triple glazing with acoustic layers: Up to 45 decibel reduction
• Secondary glazing: Up to 50 decibel reduction

To put that in context, a 10-decibel reduction feels like halving the noise level.

Other Tips to Improve Noise Insulation

Seal Around the Frame

Gaps around the window can let in as much sound as the glazing itself. Use acoustic sealant or get professional installation to ensure airtight fitting.

Use Heavy Curtains or Blinds

Thick, layered window dressings can help absorb sound inside the room. Use them alongside good glazing for best results.

Consider Ventilation Alternatives

Trickle vents and standard air bricks can allow noise to pass through. If noise is a big issue, consider acoustic vents or alternative ventilation systems.

Best Rooms to Prioritise

If budget is limited, start with:

• Bedrooms
• Living rooms facing busy streets
• Home offices or nurseries

We often recommend upgrading just the noisiest side of the house first to see the impact before doing the rest.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right glazing for noise reduction depends on your home, the source of the noise, and your budget.

If you want a quieter, calmer living space, acoustic glazing is one of the most effective long-term solutions. It’s especially helpful in busy areas of Newcastle where peace and privacy are hard to come by.

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we offer a full range of acoustic, triple, and secondary glazing options. We’ll assess your property and help you pick the best setup for your needs.

Book a free consultation and let’s create a quieter home together.