ᐅ How can you identify soundproof windows (Class 4)?

Created on: 13 May 2020 16:46
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Mbk84
Mbk8413 May 2020 16:46
Hello everyone,

According to our development plan, windows with sound insulation class 4 need to be installed on one side of the house, while the other windows have no soundproofing requirements.

By now, all the windows have been installed (we are building with a general contractor), but to us, all the windows look exactly the same. Even the ones that are supposed to have sound insulation class 4 don’t appear any different, thicker, or more solid than the others.

So here is the question: Is it possible for a layperson to identify this from the outside? Or what distinguishes these windows?

Of course, we paid a significant premium for class 4, but at the moment we are worried they might just be the standard windows. The general contractor, of course, says they are class 4.
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Bookstar
13 May 2020 20:58
You can’t see it directly because the windows just have a different construction. The total thickness is the same, only the individual panes are of different thickness. Also, there is usually an invisible film and possibly a different filling.

There are 2 ways to find out anyway:

1. By law, the window or the glass must have information about its construction. Check and compare sound insulation glass with non-sound insulation glass.
2. Tap the window with your finger. A soundproof window sounds much more muffled, while a standard window sounds more “tinny.”

Personally, I would recommend installing soundproof windows with class 4 rating in any house, no matter the location. It offers great comfort for a low cost.
Mbk8414 May 2020 06:44
Bookstar schrieb:

2. Tap your finger on the windows. A soundproof window sounds much more muffled than a regular window, which tends to have a more “tinny” sound.

Great, thanks a lot for the brilliant tip! Indeed, the soundproof windows have a very muffled sound, almost like tapping on a solid wall. In contrast, the standard windows sound quite thin and tinny. A huge difference, considering they look almost identical.

Thanks @Bookstar