Whether you’re living on a busy road, under a flight path, or next to lively neighbours, outside noise can seriously disrupt your comfort at home. One of the most effective ways to block out this daily disturbance is through uPVC double glazing — a modern window solution that’s not just about thermal insulation, but also noise control.
At Forever Green Windows, we often get asked: “Will double glazing really reduce noise from outside?” The short answer is yes — and here’s why.
What is Double Glazing and How Does It Work?
uPVC double glazing involves two panes of glass separated by a spacer, with the gap between them filled with air or an inert gas such as argon. This design acts as an insulating barrier — not only against temperature changes but also against sound waves.
When sound travels from outside, it hits the first pane of glass. The air or gas-filled cavity between the panes slows down the vibrations, and by the time the sound reaches the second pane, much of its energy has already been lost. This significantly reduces how much noise enters your home.
How Much Noise Reduction Can You Expect?
While results can vary depending on the window configuration, standard double glazing can reduce outside noise by around 30 to 40 decibels (dB). For context, this can take the noise of a busy road from a loud, constant hum to a much softer background sound that’s far less intrusive.
This reduction can make a noticeable difference in:
Bedrooms – for uninterrupted sleep
Home offices – for better concentration and fewer distractions
Living areas – for more enjoyable downtime and conversations
Homes near airports, railways, or construction zones
Factors That Influence Sound Insulation
Not all uPVC double-glazed windows are created equal. The performance of your windows will depend on several key design factors:
1. Glass Thickness
The thicker the glass, the better it blocks sound. Using two panes of different thicknesses (asymmetric glazing) can help absorb a wider range of sound frequencies.
2. Gap Between the Panes
A larger gap between the glass panes allows for better sound insulation. Standard gaps are around 12-16mm, but some acoustic glazing setups increase this for greater noise reduction.
3. Laminated or Acoustic Glass
For homes in especially noisy environments, laminated acoustic glass can be used. It features a special sound-dampening interlayer that significantly reduces the transmission of sound.
4. uPVC Frames
The type of window frame also plays a role. Our uPVC frames not only provide excellent thermal insulation but also help reduce vibrations and seal out noise more effectively than traditional timber or aluminium.
Is Double Glazing Soundproof?
It’s important to set realistic expectations — double glazing is not completely soundproof, but it’s highly effective in reducing everyday noise to a comfortable level. For most households, the difference is immediately noticeable.
If you require maximum noise reduction, we recommend combining double glazing with:
Acoustic glass or triple glazing
Proper installation with airtight sealing
Additional soundproofing measures like heavy curtains or wall insulation
Other Benefits of Double Glazing
While its noise reduction capabilities are impressive, double glazing comes with a host of additional benefits:
Improved thermal insulation – keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter
Lower energy bills – less reliance on heating and cooling
Enhanced security – tougher to break than single-pane windows
Reduced condensation – helps prevent mould and window damage
Increased property value – modern, efficient windows are a big plus for buyers
Why Choose Forever Green Windows?
At Forever Green Windows, we manufacture high-quality uPVC double-glazed windows tailored to your home and lifestyle. Our products are backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty and made with decades of experience and innovation behind them.
Whether you’re building a new home, upgrading an existing one, or tackling a noise problem head-on — our expert team is here to help.
Ready to Enjoy a Quieter Home?
If you’re looking to reduce noise and improve your home’s comfort, double glazing is a smart and stylish solution.
Contact Forever Green Windows today for a free consultation and personalised quote. We’ll help you choose the right windows to block out the noise and bring peace back into your space.
