I have a 2 year old home that came with ANSI/AAMA/NWWDA 101/ I.S. 2-97 -- ASTM F588-97
Code- CPM Rating H-R35 - Series 40 Aluminum SH - MST 3870/4060 Windows. Not sure what this means but its a double pane window and they are pretty cheap quality.

Anyway, I live near a Freeway and the night time noise (motorcycles whizzing by at 100MPH) is sometimes unbearable. It really affects my sleep and sometimes I can't fall asleep without sleep medicine.

I want to go with a quality window that will provide sound proof and a heat barrier but I'm not sure what is best. I spoke to window salesperson and he suggested Triple Pane Krypton windows. He used a light/heat meter on the window and the window was allowing 250 BTUs to escape. They were kinda on the pricey side at $800 each installed. I have 2 windows to replace.

I installed a few windows with my dad as a kid but I'm not sure if I'm skilled enough to tackle this project.

Thanks for reading my post. Any insight is much appreciated.

JP

 

That's a lot of money. I've seen that light meter trick before too. The hardest part of replacing windows is the outside capping or trim. What kind of siding do you have on your house?
In the meantime, call a building supply, not Home Cheapo and get the price of a similar window. I would also look into a storm window that would go on the outside of the window you're replacing. I wonder if just one window, triple pane or not, is enough to stop the noise no matter how good it is.

 

I've got wood siding. Home depot has a deal for 3 windows for 1100 with there new home services. They are anderson windows. I'm contacting these cats tomorrow morning.....Soundproof Windows - Eliminate Your Noise Problem and Eliminates 95% noise, saves 50% - 80% energy, locks out 99% pollen, dust, dirt. Sound proof windows and Sound proof Doors solutions by Soundproof Window Treatments

 

Don't forget that Home Cheapo uses sub contractors so check with the Dept. Of Consumer Affairs before you hire them.

 

Showcase makes some nice vinyl windows.
I hv the hurricane rated ones and they are very sound proof !

 

Please don't go to big box for your solution. Those are probably cheaper windows than the ones you now have. I can't even buy Andersen 400 for that price, and Andersen 200 will not be any better that what you have.

My apologies to the moderators for sounding like I am picking on big box, but I am. They are selling this guy a bill of goods that is crap.

 

JoePrivate,

You have to realize that not all of the noise that you are hearing is coming through the windows. The biggest problem I see with the windows that you presently have as far as noise transmission is the aluminum frame. Go to a vinyl framed window and the noise will be greatly reduced.

Triple pane Krypton is overkill for your problem, and the extra $$ this guy is talking about isn't justified. By the same token, I agree with Just Bill -- there are much better places to buy windows than a big box store, and for about 10% to 15% more money, you'll get twice the window if you go to a glass shop. That's all those guys do is glass and windows (and related products) -- THEY know what they are talking about.

And Just Bill, I agree with what you are saying -- the big box store is trying to sell JoePrivate a bill of goods on this one, and what they are offering probably isn't going to make enough difference to justify the project.

 

All people at big box stores are not the same, but then, I cared about my customers needs. I was able to get the windows a customer wanted and needed with the STC ratings required for about 10% less than other quotes.

Andersen 400's with special glass in some cases, but it satisfied the city code people.

About $27,000 in windows and doors if I remember correctly. Not too bad for a home that went on the market for around $750, 000.

I wouldn't recommend that everyone go to a Box (since I don't work at one anymore...lol)...but they're not all bad. It all depends on the person doing the quote..IMO.

Yeah...I'll brag, I was real good...most aren't!

 

JoePrivate:

I purchased two Soundproof Windows 3 months ago and be aware that their windows work great for normal car traffic sounds. However, the deep Harley/Diesel Truck sounds go right through the windows. STC ratings really only measure sound through the window at specific frequencies (like common car traffic) - I am happy with the windows but a bit surprised that their "blocks 95% of noise" really means only common traffic noise emanating from stock cars (not modified exhaust systems, trucks, Harleys, etc.).

 

JoePrivate,

Replacing just 2 windows is not the answer and,unless you live in an extremely cold climate, triple pane and Krypton gas are a waste of your money.

Sound enters the house through everything -- windows, walls roof, doors, ... Window replacement goes a lot way towards reducing that sound as long as you do ALL of them. Replacing just two windows will make the room(s) that they are in slightly quieter, but you'll still get sound coming through all of the other windows, so it wouldn't make that big of a difference. And replacing ALL of the windows is going to have an impact on your utility bill that you will be very happy with. And it appears as though there is an income tax credit available on your Federal Income Taxes as well for making energy efficency improvemnets to your home. And there could be rebates available from your local utility company or companies.

I use EPI windows a lot. They are in the same price and quality range of Simington, Alside, etc. ALWAYS low-E glass. What brand you opt for will depend mostly on what's available where you're at.

Vinyl and fiberglass framed windows will do the most for you as far as reducing sound. Wood framed does about as well, but they come with a lot of maintenance. There are good brands out there that that don't cost an arm and a leg. Get out of the big box stores and go shopping!