Apr 30 2008
Recent extensive laboratory noise tests, performed on Soundproof Windows premier window products by the Western Electro-Acoustic Laboratory (WEAL) in Santa Clarita, California, have shown significant reduction of noise levels. This range is well over the norm for all window products. Approximately 60 standard tests involving different window configurations were executed over a period of three days. A leading window manufacturer's windows were used as the primary window; testing was also performed on Soundproof Windows' sliding glass doors.
The industry established method of measuring how much sound is stopped by various building products is called STC (Sound Transmission Class). STC ratings are used for windows, doors, walls and most building materials. For windows, typical STC ratings range from 18 to 33, and most window companies are very happy if they can achieve 39 to 40. Soundproof Windows tested at a remarkable range of 43 to 57, which comes as no surprise considering recent enhancements to their product.
"With this new STC data, we can definitively state that our soundproof windows will solve your noise problem," says Randy Brown, president of Soundproof Windows. "Your walls may still be a problem, but the window noise will be stopped, which is the main source of most noise."
A recent customer had a severe noise problem with traffic noise. After receiving his soundproof windows, he wrote in: "I am very happy with my windows. I was getting a lot of traffic noise, it was impossible to sleep without earplugs. The first night after the installation I had a nice sleep without earplugs. It almost completely cancelled all traffic noise. It is a strange feeling to see cars pass by my windows and not to hear anything."
At the Icon Hotel in Houston, Texas, Soundproof Windows were installed in every guest room. "We've gotten some very positive feedback and look forward to working with other hotels to enhance the guests' stays. It's a lot easier attracting guests to a quiet environment," said Don Handlin, Chief of Operations. In an effort to "go green", many hotels are also looking at these secondary windows simply to help reduce energy costs. "Up to 50% energy savings after adding Soundproof Windows is being reported in many cases," Handlin added.
Soundproof Windows will be at the American Institute of Architects convention next month, May 15th through the 17th, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.