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The Sounds of Silence
by Wendy Croix
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
If you live on a busy street, near a schoolyard, or amid roaring air- conditioners, don't despair. You can significantly lessen the noise pollution in your life by choosing the right replacement windows or by making foam soundproofing "plugs" for your existing windows.
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Noise: A Health Risk
If outside noise intrudes on your sleep, chances are you know you're anxious or irritable. But did you know that noise can also give you indigestion or make your blood pressure rise? Chronic noise exposure leads to chronic tension. But there's no need to suffer.
Change Your Windows, Change Your Life.
Choosing low-noise replacement windows can significantly shield you from exterior noise pollution. You can get 70% noise reduction, if you replace a single pane window with a double or triple pane window with a Low-E glazing and argon gas insulation. All American claims its Magna Windows with Hi R+Plus reduce sound transmission by as much as 300% over single pane windows. Shutters on the outside and drapes on the inside block more noise and insulate dead air space, adding more peace and quiet.
Foam Soundproofing
When all else fails, or when you have an especially noisy bedroom location, install foam window "plugs." (If you've used interior or exterior storm windows, then you know that a plug can dampen as much as 90% of exterior noise.) Block summer noise pollution with a removable soundproofing plug made of Super Soundproofing Mat. It comes in 4' wide rolls and is sold by the foot. Cut the Mat to fit your windows snugly. You'll need to glue it to a backer board for large windows. Be sure to leave some dead air between the plug and the window for extra sound reduction—and enjoy the sounds of silence.
About the Author
Wendy Croix, Ph.D. is a creative writer, freelancer, and self-confessed home improvement junkie. She's also a professor with more than twenty years’ experience in the field of education.
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