Soundproof Windows & Doors
Singapore’s average outdoor sound level across the day has been measured at ~69.4 dB, which is above the NEA’s recommended daytime guideline in several neighbourhoods. That’s why homes near MRT lines, arterial roads, construction, or busy town centres often report persistent ambient noise. Soundproof Windows are for residents who live in such neighbourhoods or those who simply want their space a quiet and disturbance free environment and a much sought-after solution to reduce noise levels inside the home especially.
Common Reasons for Installing Soundproof Windows in Singapore
Some of the reasons why more and more Singaporeans are opting for Soundproof windows –
HDB/Condo unit is near to the MRT tracks, TV is inaudible when the train passes by
Apartment is next to the expressway and there’s constant noise from the vehicular traffic
HDB flat in a noisy neighbourhood, disturbance from coffee shop or playground in the vicinity
Block off loud sounds from construction activity in surrounding area
Owner is a music or entertainment artist and wants to privacy for himself as well as others
Have the right setting at home for meditation, yoga or exercising
Just have a quiet and peaceful home or office environment
How Sound-Reducing Windows Work
Sound travels through air gaps and rigid materials. To cut transmission, an acoustic window system combines:
- Mass + Damping: thicker/laminated panes to resist vibration
- Decoupling: a spaced cavity between panes (often argon-filled) to break transmission
- Sealing: continuous perimeter gaskets and tight tolerances so air (and sound) can’t leak
- Frames & Hardware: heavier frames and multi-point locks to maintain compression on seals
Reality check: “Soundproof” is a marketing shorthand. Expect meaningful reduction, not total silence especially for low-frequency rumbles (e.g., heavy vehicles). Good sealing and addressing other paths (vents, walls, doors) are just as critical.
Technicalities of Soundproof Windows
Noise suppression in Soundproof Windows is achieved by using double glazed glass in the window panels. These are effective in reducing the noise level to a great extent. Double Glazed Windows consist of two layers of sandwiched glass with a metal strip in between. So, instead of the single layer it’s a 15 mm layer (two 5mm glass sheets separate by 5mm metal strip in the frame). The price of such windows can be estimated based on the rate of $50 psf.
You can expect a noise reduction of 40% to 80% based on the height of your unit. Low floor units can typically expect noise reduction of up to 80%. For a land constrained and densely populated country like Singapore a research done by NUS shows that Singapore’s outdoor noise levels average 69.4 decibels against the World Health Organisation (WHO) noise pollution threshold of 65 dB.
However, performance isn’t just ‘two panes’: asymmetric glass thickness, laminated panes, cavity depth, and airtight seals make the biggest difference to what you actually hear at home.
Choosing the Right System
Match the fix to the noise
- Traffic/MRT hiss & honk: Asymmetric double glazing or laminated + cavity.
- Construction & drilling bursts: Focus on seals and thicker laminated panes.
- Neighbour/TV voices: Good sealing + laminated glass; treat doors/vents.
- Low-frequency rumbles (buses, compressors): Maximise mass + cavity depth, ensure frames are rigid and well-sealed.
Casement vs Sliding
- Casement usually seals tighter (compression on gaskets) → better acoustic performance.
- Sliding is convenient but harder to make ultra-airtight—ask for acoustic brush + interlock enhancements.
Retrofit vs Replacement
- Retrofit/secondary glazing can be ideal where replacement is restricted, or you want to keep the façade; ensure adequate air-gap and access for cleaning.
Other Benefits of Soundproofing
There are some other benefits to Soundproof Windows besides sound control. They are temperature control – Keeps the interiors cool on hot sunny day thereby reducing your aircon usage and electricity bills; extra safety and security on account of the extra thickness of the window glass; and eliminating the problem of foggy windows which may occur due to condensation.
Soundproof Glass Doors
Soundproof Doors (for Acoustic purposes) with double glazed panels are also installed as a noise stop solution for many homes. In the recent past, double glazed Sliding Glass Doors have been installed by Grilles N Glass for homeowners in order to control noise from nearby construction sites, aircon condensers of commercial buildings like hotels & malls.
As mentioned previously, higher level units will get a lesser amount of soundproofing than what a lower level unit will achieve.
FAQs
Will I still hear my neighbour’s bassy subwoofer or heavy-vehicle rumbles?
Low frequencies are hardest to block. You’ll cut a lot of mid-high noise; bass may remain faintly audible. Correct glass build-up, bigger air-gaps, and airtight seals help.
Do I need to treat vents and doors too?
Often yes. Anywhere air leaks, sound leaks. Consider acoustic door sweeps, tighter door frames, and re-thinking open vents to avoid negating the window upgrade.
Are condos quieter than HDBs?
Not always. Some residents perceive condos as quieter due to construction density and materials, but proximity to noise sources matters more than tenure type.
How do I compare options?
Ask for the exact glass stack (thickness/lamination), cavity, frame, seal type, and workmanship details. If available, request test data (lab or field) and see real installs.
What maintenance is needed?
Keep seals clean, avoid harsh chemicals on gaskets, and check closing pressure annually. Proper care preserves acoustic performance.
Soundproof Window & Door Contractor in Singapore
Unsure which configuration fits your block and MCST rules? We can advise on retrofit vs replacement, estimate real-world reductions for your unit’s noise profile, and guide HDB/MCST compliance. Since the last decade, Grilles N Glass has been a preferred Window Contractor among Singaporeans for implementing noise reducing windows and doors. Over the past few years we have helped many homeowners achieve peace of mind by soundproofing their residence.
We offer direct factory price with latest designs and excellent workmanship