The number one issue affecting the quality of life in NYC is excessive noise, according to a survey of New Yorkers. While a certain level of noise is to be expected in such a largely populated, relatively small area, the noise levels in NYC can be excessive: the sound levels at an East 34th apartment building measured 90 decibels, while Upper West side traffic is nearly 80 decibels. To put this into perspective, normal conversation is around 65 decibels on average and for every 10 decibel increase, the sound seems twice as loud to the human ear. The all-around noise in NYC can make it difficult for tenants in office buildings to conduct business over the phone or even in personal meetings.
Solution: Sound Control Window Systems
Although the city noise can never be truly silenced, it can be greatly reduced in a quick and inexpensive matter with the installation of a window system. Thermolite’s interior curtain wall retrofit system that has been tested to achieve an OITC of 33 and STC of 43, while our non-curtain wall system has been tested to achieve an STC of 49. With STC levels, higher numbers indicate less sound transmission. Common STC scores include:
- A typical 2×4 wall with insulation in a stick-built home: STC rating of around 36.
- Existing single-pane windows: STC rating between around 20.
- New dual-pane windows with standard glass: STC below 30.
Listen to an audio sample of the before and after results of the sound control performance of our RetroWAL™ curtain wall system.
Our sound control glazing is placed onto the inside of existing glass, which not only brings both the sound levels from both indoor and outdoor noise sources down to a comfortable level, but also at a much lower cost and installation commitment than replacement windows. Plus, RetroWAL™ is the first DIY commercial curtain wall installation kit so it can be put in during the time that works best for you, eliminating the need for disturbances during working hours.
Learn more about how our sound control window systems could help reduce the NYC noise levels in your building – contact Thermolite today! We are happy to give you more detailed, customized information about the best solutions for your sound control needs.
*Sound loss transmission test performed by Architectural Testing Inc.
The Thermolite engineering staff is an innovative structural, energy modelling, and implementation team that works to create unique window systems alternatives to traditional replacement windows. Our systems protect against blasts, hurricanes, and sound, while being energy efficient and quick and easy to install. We serve a wide range of industry buildings including government, military, historical, schools and universities, financial, health care, hospitality, and offices. Contact us today to learn how we could update your building’s window systems
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