Soundproof Curtains or Soundproof Windows?

Aren't Curtains Cheaper? You are probably thinking that soundproof windows are going to be expensive and it might be much more cost effective just to buy some lined, heavy-duty curtains. After all, you already have windows. So all you really need is something to block out the noise, right? Not necessarily. In most cases, soundproofing windows will be your best solution. But soundproof curtains do have a role.

The Real Costs:From a budget perspective soundproofing curtains may be cheaper initially but over the long haul they'll actually end up costing you more money. Better quality soundproof curtains may even cost more than soundproofing windows. Curtains need to be replaced every few years as they become worn and faded. Decorating trends come and go and each time you paint the room or get new furniture you'll have to change the curtains, too, to match the décor. And keep in mind that curtains aren't going to provide nearly as much noise control as windows.

Energy Considerations: Soundproof windows are usually made of double-pane glass to help block the noise. As a side benefit, that air space between the panes helps prevent heat loss in the winter and will help keep your home cooler in the summer. So while you might have to initially spend a few more dollars for soundproofing windows, you will definitely end up saving money on your energy bills all year round.

Increasing Your Home Value: People are becoming more and more aware of soundproof window treatments and they add value to your home. On the other hand curtains are a personal choice and usually add little to the resale price of a home.

Increased Security: Double-pane windows are typically include at least one pane of toughened or thicker glass which adds extra security. They also stand up to strong storms and definitely act as a deterrent to thieves. Contact your insurance company and you may even qualify for a discount on your insurance policy for installing more secure windows.

The Effectiveness of the Soundproofing: Of course the main reason you want soundproofing windows is because they're much better at blocking outside noises than ordinary curtains or windows. Properly designed soundproofing windows can block up to 95% of outside noise. Traffic, barking dogs, even your neighbor's teenager blasting his music at 2 am can be things of the past when it comes to a good nights sleep. It's a two way street because soundproof windows will also stop your teenager's loud music from bothering the neighbors.

So while soundproof curtains might seem initially like a more economical solution, as a homeowner you need to take a look at the bigger picture and the level of soundproofing you require. No doubt there will be added construction costs and the costs of the windows if you take the soundproof window approach but in most cases soundproof window treatments can be installed right over your existing windows and often the cost difference, when compared to proper soundproof curtains, is minimal.

Soundproof Curtains Do Have a Place: There are a wide variety of curtains available that block or absorb sound. Choose the right type and you could be sleeping like a baby. Choose wrong type and you've just wasted your money.

What Exactly Are Soundproof Curtains? As you might expect soundproof curtains are supposed to block noises that would otherwise come through the window from outside the room or home. If you live in a high-traffic area and the noise from all those cars whizzing past keeps you from sleeping at night or overpowers the TV, then you could use soundproof curtains to help block that type of noise from entering your room.

Curtain Variables: Soundproof curtains vary in quality and price depending on the thickness of the backing and thicker backing means better noise control, as well as a higher cost. One way to judge the quality is to hold the curtain up to the light. If you can see light through them then it's definitely not going to block much sound.

What Makes Sound Absorption Curtains Different: A lot of people look for soundproof curtains when what they really need is sound absorption curtains. For instance, if you have a large room that echoes you don't really need to block any incoming noise but you do want to muffle, or absorb, the sounds in the room. Sound absorption materials and curtains are frequently used by musicians in the home or in recording studios to keep the loud noises from escaping the room and again, to cut down on echo. And for those who have a home theater, sound absorption curtains are often used in conjunction with soundproof curtains to both block incoming noise and keep the sound within the room.

How to Buy Soundproof Curtains:If you're thinking you're going to have to sacrifice appearance for soundproofing, don't worry. Today's curtains come in a wide variety of styles and decorator fabrics to blend well with any décor. If your noise problem isn't too severe you may be able to get by with simple blackout curtains. However, the main purpose of blackout curtains is to block light. While they do also block some noise, it's more of a side benefit. Look for fabric with a tight weave and a rubber polymer coating on the back and importantly an assigned NRC (Noise Reduction Coeffecient) rating. The higher the rating the more soundproof your curtains. For even more sound control look for remote controlled soundproof curtains which you can use to line windows and walls if necessary. These are heavy-duty sound blockers that also absorb sound and can be opened and closed by remote control or according to the sound levels.

By Craig Williams

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