AMBICO acoustic glass fixed windows combine outstanding sound transmission loss with the appearance of standard metal commercial window products. Our entire range of acoustic windows is engineered to meet the unique requirements of building projects in a variety of demanding environments.
Testing of acoustic window units by independent laboratories complies with the most up-to-date standards on the continent.
Windows are available at Sound Transmission Class (STC) levels ranging from STC 30 to STC57. This rating system is an established way to determine how much sound is stopped by something. The higher the level, the less noise is heard. This system can be used for windows, doors, walls, and most building materials.
Windows can be manufactured as part of a custom glazed system suitable for integrating the interior fit-up or building envelope. This gives property owners the ability to customize options that are best for their needs.
Windows have been designed to accept readily available glazing provided as an integral portion of a fully complete window unit.
The unique materials used in these types of windows are meant to improve interior acoustics. Depending on where they are installed and what customers are looking for, AMBICO can provide various tints, one-way film, or custom-operable blinds that ensure privacy and allow staff to better focus on what needs to get done, enhancing overall productivity.
What is an STC rating?
STC stands for “sound transmission class”. It represents a method of measuring sound transmission loss through a barrier i.e. a door or a wall. The higher the STC rating the better the sound deadening property of the window assembly. AMBICO provides window assemblies from STC 33 to STC 57. Let us help you select an acoustic product that will meet your project requirements.
Are there a range of configurations for acoustic windows? Yes, acoustic windows are available in a wide range of configurations, ranging from four-sided fixed windows to multi-bank window units, to side lite and transom lite configurations in countless flavors. It is important to consult with the factory for larger assemblies to discuss when there is a need for mechanical joints in frames for shipping and handling.
Can acoustic assemblies be provided with glass lites pre-installed?
AMBICO has tested glazed acoustic windows that have achieved STC 57. Glazing material must be supplied based on the glass type and configuration tested during the independent laboratory testing. To avoid glass breakage during shipping and frame installation, glass will typically ship loose for field installation in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Is jamb depth important to acoustic window STC performance? Yes, as the jamb depth of the frame increases so does the air space increase between glass panes. This increase in air space will positively affect the acoustic rating. Therefore, it is important to consider the impact of jamb depth on acoustic performance and where possible maximize the jamb depth. Where jamb depth is fixed, solutions may be available by using thicker glass and/or changing glass configurations.
Are acoustic doors and frames available and are vision lites available within doors?
AMBICO manufactures acoustic door and frame assemblies that achieve STC 59. Glass lites of various sizes for doors can be provided. Acoustic glass is factory supplied and pre-installed in vision lites within doors.
What are the typical applications for acoustic windows?
This type of glass provides a high level of sound insulation, improving interior sounds by a significant amount of decibels. Acoustic windows filter out the sounds you don’t want to hear, and these materials are often used in music rooms and recording studios, hospitals, and classrooms.
How do soundproof windows work?
Sound travels both through the air and through objects. The glass used in these materials will often be made up of multiple pieces separated by a fixed soffit which creates air space between the glass panes. This air space helps to improve the overall acoustic (STC) performance. Depending on specific requirements, the glass used in each installation will vary widely. Having these building materials properly installed by the experts, such as our recommended installers, will ensure airtight seals and that your space will experience all the benefits of using acoustic windows.
What kind of STC rating should I get for my soundproof windows?
In order to accurately determine the STC rating that would be suitable for your purposes, it is recommended to bring in an acoustic engineer. These experts can consult with your architects so that they can best define the acoustic requirements of your project, where a higher acoustic performance may be required.
The glass on acoustic windows can include a unique coating ideal for those looking for increased energy efficiency. It can reflect heat off the glass and into the room in the winter and deflect hotter temperatures away from your home in the summer. It will also protect your furniture or carpet from any possible sun damage causing fading.
Curious about our acoustic window options? We’re here to help. Contact us to request a quote or learn more about these products.
