Can You Hear Me Now?
Dear Glass Detective,
What is soundproof glass?
Steve
Wakefield, MA
About Soundproof Glass
Dear Steve,
Thank you for contacting the Glass Detective with your question asking what soundproof glass is. I would like to begin answering this by changing the term from “soundproof” to “sound reducing” or “sound-absorbing”. Depending on the level of sound being generated, there really is no practical “soundproof glass”. This term is similar to “bulletproof glass”, which is also a misnomer.
There certainly are glass assemblies that can greatly help in the reduction of sound transmission. There are also framing systems that are used in combination with sound reducing glass. Sometimes the right glass is installed, but the right frames are not.
Typically the glass assemblies being used for sound reduction are made using multiple layers of glass (often in varying thicknesses) and are laminated together with PVB interlayers. Having been involved with a number of airports and office glazing projects next to railroad tracks and highways, I can absolutely verify that the right glass approach will work when it comes to sound reduction or elimination. What I will suggest is that you identify a good glass contractor in your area and work with them to determine exactly what would be best for you and the installation application you are considering. Glass.com can help with this. Simply submit your project specs to help@glass.com. I hope this is of some help to you and thank you again for calling an audible to Glass.com.
Sincerely,
The Glass Detective.
