Acoustic windows: how to reduce noise with high-performance glazing (Quebec guide)

High Performance Acoustic windows

Acoustic windows: how to reduce noise with high-performance glazing is a key question for many homeowners in Quebec. Whether it's road traffic, neighbors, or urban noise, understanding the acoustic performance of windows in decibels (dB) allows you to choose glazing that is truly suited to your environment and tangibly improves your quality of life.

Summary

1. Why choose acoustic windows in Quebec?undproofing windows: understanding decibels (dB)

2. Rw, C and Ctr: which indices to look for depending on the noise

3. Types of high-performance acoustic glazing (PRESS GLASS)

4. Table: Acoustic performance according to noise type

5. Why does the installation influence sound insulation?

6. Conclusion: Choosing the right acoustic windows

Why choose acoustic windows in Quebec?

In Quebec, homes are increasingly exposed to noise:

• roads and highways,

• tourist traffic

• densely populated neighborhoods,

• Working remotely and an active family life.

Windows are often the most vulnerable point in a home's acoustic envelope . Installing high-performance acoustic windows reduces outside noise and significantly improves interior comfort.

Soundproofing windows: understanding decibels (dB)

The sound insulation of windows is measured in decibels (dB) . The higher the value, the more effective the window is at reducing noise from outside.

Sound perception rule

👉 A 10 dB reduction corresponds to a perceived noise level approximately half as loud. That's why a few decibels of difference can completely transform your daily experience, especially at night.

Rw, C and Ctr: which indices to look for depending on the noise

Rw – Sound insulation index

Rw represents the overall ability of a glazing to block noise over a standardized frequency spectrum.

C – Mid-frequency noise

Factor C is relevant for:

• voice,

• human activities,

• residential neighborhood.

  
  

Ctr – Low-frequency noise

The Ctr factor is essential for:

• road traffic,

• trucks,

• highways,

• continuous low-pitched noises.

  
  

How to read values correctly

• Rw + C → neighborhood noise

• Rw + Ctr → road traffic noise

Types of high-performance acoustic glazing (PRESS GLASS)

PRESS GLASS acoustic glazing is designed to improve sound insulation thanks to:

Asymmetrical glazing

Different thicknesses of glass that break the transmission of sound waves.

Acoustic laminated glass (VSG)

An integrated acoustic film that absorbs some of the vibrations and effectively reduces noise.

Optimized acoustic double glazing

A combination of asymmetry, space between panes and insulating gas for increased performance.

Table: Acoustic performance according to noise type

Which index should be prioritized?

• Road noise → Rw + Ctr

• Neighborhood noise → Rw + C

Environment	Priority index	Target performance
Quiet street	Rw	≥ 30 dB
Urban district	Rw + Ctr	28 to 32 dB
busy boulevard	Rw + Ctr	30 to 35 dB
Very noisy road	Rw + Ctr	32 dB and above

Why does the installation influence sound insulation?

Even high-performance acoustic glazing can lose much of its effectiveness if:

• The airtightness is insufficient.

• The perimeter insulation is poorly executed.

• The chassis is poorly fitted.

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👉 Noise follows the same paths as air. Professional installation is essential to achieve the advertised acoustic performance.

Conclusion: Choosing the right acoustic windows

Choosing high-performance acoustic windows means investing in:

• everyday comfort,

• sleep,

• concentration,

• the long-term value of the property.

  
  

In a context where peace and quiet is becoming a real luxury, acoustic windows represent a concrete and sustainable solution.

VST remains a leader in high-performance windows and do not hesitate to make an appointment for a consultation info@vsteuro.com before making your choice.