Usual Disclaimer - I'm Phil Lewin, VP of technical marketing of Vinyl Window Designs Ltd. and a member of numerous NGO and other industry advisory bodies
See my comments below. You have clearly done some good homework already.
See my comments below. You have clearly done some good homework already.
olabreche wrote: ↑ Hello window experts,
I am looking into replacing all of the windows on our detached cottage. We live right under the main flight path to Montreal Trudeau airport. We want to increase both thermal insulation and soundproofing. So far we are considering fiberglass and aluminum frames due to greater structural stability, durability and soundproofing capacity. We want to go triple glazing to get the biggest thermal insulation and comfort but are concerned that the soundproofing offered by triple glazing may not be much better than our current double glazed units. After much reading on this subjet is looks like double glazing with large airspace and different glass thickness or laminated glass works better. However, we would like to stick to triple glazing for the moment. My questions are:
1. Would a triple glazed unit with a decent overall sealed unit thickness (like 1''1/2) provide more soundproofing than typical double glazed unit? Will I notice a difference in practice?
Yes.... and no. It will make a significant difference but as you'll have no way to compare the result to an alternative solution, you may not be able to "notice" the difference to be completely sure.
2. Would it make sense to consider different thickness in one of the triple glazing panes? Installer is suggesting to use glass thickness of 3 mm, 4 mm and 3 mm respectively to block different frequencies. Again, will it make a difference in practice vs the regular triple glazing with equal thickness?
Absolutely correct - Good on your installation company for knowing this.
3. Aluminum or fiberglass? Aluminum windows I am considering have thermal breaks and great performances and would be cheaper than equivalent fiberglass windows. Any soundproofing difference between the two types? What about durability?
The glass is 85% of the window. The fibreglass is probably better, but the key is the glass, not the framing material. Also, a proper installation is critical. keep in mind that other factors of the home will effect the result.
Thank you for your help!