Most noise enters your home through your windows. You can replace your windows with sound-resistant ones, but many homeowners aren’t prepared to spend money to swap out their existing windows. There are other ways to block the sound though. We’ve researched soundproofing options and consulted experts to find effective solutions to reduce the noise. In this article, we’ll explain how to soundproof a window, the costs associated with this type of project, and when to call a professional.

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Why Soundproof Windows

There are many reasons to soundproof your windows. If you work from home, have a new baby or an ill family member, or are sensitive to noise, it’s reasonable to want peace and quiet. Being close to a busy highway, living in a loud city, or having a construction site nearby can make you feel like you can never escape the outside. Fortunately, there are many ways to soundproof your windows to decrease or even eliminate outside noise.

Check out the video below to learn some cost-effective ways to seal and insulate your existing windows from home technology expert Ross Trethewey and master carpenter Nathan Gilbert.

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How To Soundproof Your Windows

You can choose from several options to soundproof your windows, with some being more straightforward and affordable than others. We’ve detailed a few methods below to help you determine which is right for you.

Option 1: Acoustic Sealants or Caulk

If you live in an old house or one with poorly installed windows, soundproofing may be a matter of sealing cracks and crevices around your windows. These are common culprits for allowing sound in. Other soundproofing methods won’t block sound if you have cracks in your window framing. This do-it-yourself (DIY) method is easy and relatively inexpensive. Look for an acoustic sealant or caulk to close cracks. Conventional caulking will harden and eventually crack, whereas an acoustical caulk will remain flexible for years. 

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Option 2: Window Inserts

Soundproofing window inserts are an effective way to block out noise. These glass panels are installed in a window frame about 5 inches in front of the interior face of the window. Inserts made of laminated glass, which consists of two layers of glass with a layer of plastic in between, are more effective at sound reduction. This likely isn’t a project you can do alone, so you’ll need to hire an installer. One window insert can run you anywhere between $250–500, depending on the size and style of the window and your location.*

*Cost figures in this article were sourced from various home improvement reports, including Home Advisor and Angi.

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Option 3: Noise-Reducing Curtains or Blinds

If you want a less expensive option, noise-reducing curtains, blinds, or shutters can make a noticeable difference in the amount of outside sound you can hear. Wood absorbs noise because of its porousness, so wooden shutters can go a long way toward reducing sound. Insulating blinds or honeycomb cell shades may be even more helpful. You can install curtains yourself for $20–400 per window.

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Option 4: Carbon Absorption Panels

Installing carbon absorption panels is a simple DIY option. Much like a foam plug, which is a foam board you can fit into your window frame to block noise, carbon panels can be placed in front of your windows as a sound barrier. The difference is that carbon is a higher-quality material that can absorb more sound than foam. You can quickly remove carbon panels whenever you don’t want your windows covered.

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Option 5: External Storm Windows

You can soundproof your windows by a installing a storm window—a win-win if you live in an area with turbulent weather. Having that extra layer of glass will decrease outside noise while increasing your home’s energy efficiency. The thicker the glass and the tighter the seal, the more noise reduction you’ll get. This isn’t a job you want to try on your own; hire an installation company for the best results. Storm windows typically range from $90–$400 per window.

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Option 6: Double-Pane Windows

Replacing single-pane windows with double panes is effective, but it’s a more expensive and cumbersome process. Pre-2000s homes are more likely to have single-pane windows that offer less of a noise barrier. Newer homes are typically built with double-pane windows, which consist of two layers of glass with air in between. This could be a worthwhile investment: Many window professionals recommend double panes as the best window soundproofing, while others say that window inserts are more effective. Expect to pay anywhere from $300–$2,100 per window depending on the window style and size.

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DIY vs. Professional Window Soundproofing

While there are methods you can do yourself, such as putting up noise-reducing curtains or caulking around your window, others are best left to the professionals. Installing glass or permanent soundproofing materials should be done by pros to ensure you get the right products installed correctly. Plus, you’ll likely get a warranty to protect your investment.

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Our Conclusion

If your budget is tight and you just want a quick fix, curtains, blinds, high-quality acoustic foam, carbon panels, or window caulking are all fast, affordable methods to reduce noise. 

If you want a more dependable and effective solution, we recommend professionally installed window inserts or storm windows, or replacing your windows altogether. These methods are more likely to block out the noise of traffic and other distractions. Check out our top recommendations for window replacement companies if you want to invest in new windows, or review our guide to cheap window replacement companies to keep costs low.

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FAQ About Soundproofing Windows

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