Noise is one of the problems that most affects the quality of life in many urban areas of Malaga. Traffic, bars, terraces, building work and nightlife can make it difficult to get a good night's rest. Changing your windows for PVC systems with good acoustic glass is one of the most effective ways to reduce noise and gain comfort in your home.
In this article we explain how PVC windows help to insulate against noise, what type of glass is recommended, in which rooms it is advisable to prioritise this type of solution and what you should take into account when requesting a quote.
Why noise comes through the windows
In most flats, windows are one of the weakest points in terms of sound insulation. Older window frames often have poorly sealed frames, simple glazing and poor sealing, allowing sound from outside to enter easily. Even small cracks and gaps can cause noise to leak in.
When a modern PVC-U window with good glass and correct fitting is installed, the closing of the opening is improved and sound transmission is significantly reduced. It is not just about the glass, but about the whole: profile, joints, fittings and sealing to the wall.
How PVC helps reduce noise
PVC is a material with very good insulation properties when designed in multi-chamber systems. The profile itself is made up of different air compartments that make it difficult for sound and temperature to pass through. In addition, PVC windows incorporate high quality rubber seals that ensure a tight seal when the sash is closed.
Add to this a professional installation, with proper sealing between the window and the wall, and the result is a much more airtight system than an old window. By reducing air infiltration, the noise pathway is also reduced. That's why many people notice an immediate difference as soon as they replace their windows.
Recommended types of glass for sound insulation
Glass is the other major player when it comes to noise. To improve sound insulation, acoustic laminated glass is often used, which includes a special butyral film between two sheets of glass. This film helps to dampen vibrations and reduces the passage of certain sound frequencies.
Another strategy is to combine different thicknesses in double glazing (e.g. 4/12/6 instead of 4/12/4), which makes the assembly more effective against a wider range of frequencies. The exact choice of glass will depend on the level of external noise and the exposure of the façade. In the service of PVC windows We study each case in order to propose appropriate configurations.
In which rooms should sound insulation be prioritised?
If the budget is limited, it is advisable to prioritise the most noise-sensitive rooms first. In a flat in Malaga, it usually makes sense to act in this order:
- Bedroomsare the rooms where noise has a direct impact on rest. Improving insulation here is usually immediately noticeable.
- Living room or main roomespecially if it overlooks a busy street, bars or entertainment areas.
- Work or study areaif you telework or need to concentrate, silence becomes essential.
In kitchens, bathrooms or other less sensitive rooms, somewhat simpler solutions can be chosen if it is necessary to adjust the investment, although it is always advisable to maintain a minimum level of quality in order not to create weak points.
PVC windows vs. aluminium for sound insulation
Both PVC-U and modern aluminium can offer good levels of insulation, but in terms of acoustics PVC-U tends to have an advantage, especially in the mid-range. Its multi-chamber profiles and high air tightness make it very effective in reducing noise, provided it is combined with appropriate glazing.
In the Oknovent catalogue we also work with aluminium windows The use of high-performance materials is therefore considered for each project, so that each project is considered as to which material best meets the needs of insulation, design and budget. In many cases, a combination of PVC in bedrooms and minimalist aluminium in large living room windows can be a balanced solution.
Other factors influencing the outcome
In addition to the type of window, there are other aspects that affect the final sound insulation:
- Status of the wallVery thin or poorly insulated walls may continue to transmit noise even if the window is improved.
- Roller shutter drawersThe use of a single model or a higher quality integrated roller shutter system is another common weak point; it is worth considering stand-alone models or integrated roller shutter systems.
- Balcony doorsif the living room has a large old sliding door, it can become the “weak link” in the ensemble.
Therefore, in an acoustic improvement project, it is important to analyse the façade as a whole and not just the individual windows.
How to know if you need to upgrade your windows
Some common signs that the windows have been cut short are: a feeling of hearing practically everything that happens in the street, difficulty sleeping with the traffic or the terraces below, or the need to turn up the volume on the television so as not to lose detail. It is also common to notice draughts around the frame when it is windy.
If you identify with these situations, getting an assessment from a specialist company can help you confirm whether changing your windows will have the impact you expect. At Oknovent we carry out this analysis on a personalised basis, explaining what improvements you can expect in your specific home.
How to request a quotation for PVC windows for noise insulation
In order to prepare an accurate estimate, it is useful to indicate which streets the house is located on, how many windows need to be replaced and which rooms are a priority. It is also helpful to take photos of the current windows, both from the inside and from the outside, to assess access and possible constraints.
From our service of PVC windows you can send us this information or request a technical visit. We will analyse the noise level, the characteristics of your floor and we will propose a solution with the right combination of profile and glass, so that you will notice a real improvement in your rest and daily comfort.