How to Soundproof Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are an excellent option for homes and businesses because they take up less space than traditional swinging windows.

However, if you have noisy neighbors or live in a busy area, these windows can be a nuisance.

With a few simple steps, you can soundproof your sliding windows and reduce the noise coming into your home or office. 

How to Soundproof Sliding Windows

There are a few ways to soundproof your sliding windows:

• Add insulation to the window frame
• Install noise-canceling window inserts
• Hang heavy curtains or drapes
• Sealing air gaps
• Installing a window barrier or plug

Add Insulation to the Window Frame

This method works by creating a sealed air pocket that absorbs some of the energy from outside sounds before they enter your home or apartment. You’ll need these materials:

• Weatherstripping tape (or any thick tape)
• Foam weatherstripping (or any foam insulation)
• Scissors and a knife for cutting the foam and tape to size.

The process is simple: 

1. Just cut the weatherstripping and foam strips so that they fit snugly around your windows.
2. then seal them with some extra adhesive or duct tape.

Install Noise-Canceling Window Inserts

If you desire something a bit more permanent than just adding insulation around your windows, consider installing some noise-canceling window inserts. 

These are made from heavy materials like glass and can effectively block out most exterior sounds without requiring any major construction or renovation work on your part. You’ll need these materials:

• Noise-canceling window inserts
• Screwdriver or drill
• Window sill (or a piece of wood to use as a replacement)
• Plywood (optional)

The installation process is pretty simple. 

1. Just measure the size of your window opening and order a slightly smaller insert. 
2. Once you have it in hand, remove the old sill or piece of wood and screw in your new insert using screws that come with it.
3. If you want to make things even quieter, consider adding a plywood layer before installing the insert for extra soundproofing power.

Hang Heavy Curtains or Drapes

If you lack money or time for a more permanent solution, hanging some heavy curtains or drapes can help block out exterior noises. 

These are usually made from thick materials like velvet and come in various styles, so there’s bound to be one that complements your home decor.

Sealing Air Gaps

A lot of the time, when we think about soundproofing windows, we think about making them more structurally sound – but there’s another aspect of this process that involves sealing up any air gaps around your window. 

In case you reside in a condo unit or an apartment building with shared walls, then the chances are good that some noise will still pass through even after all the work has been done on one side of the wall. 

So it’s essential to seal up any air gaps around your windows as well. You’ll need these materials:

• Duct tape
• Silicone caulk
• Window insulation kit (optional)

The process is simple: 

1. Use the duct tape and silicone caulk to fill in any cracks or holes around your window frames. 
2. Then install the window insulation kit if you want to create an even tighter seal.

Installing a Window Barrier or Plug

These are designed specifically to block out sound and can effectively prevent exterior noises from passing through your windows.

The installation process is simple: use screws to attach them securely at each end of the window frame, and then use adhesive tape or another type of sealant if necessary – it’s really up to you.

You’ll need these materials:

• Window barrier or plug (We recommend using an acoustic glass barrier for the best results)
• Screwdriver or drill
• Adhesive tape (optional)

The final step is to enjoy your newly-soundproofed windows—and take a break from all the noise.

Tips for Maintaining Your Soundproofed Sliding Windows

Maintenance tips for maintaining your soundproofed sliding windows:

• Regularly clean the glass surface with a non-abrasive cleaning product (e.g., vinegar).
• Do not use spray cleaners if possible as these may damage particular finishes on modern windows.
• Keep all moving parts lubricated to prevent wear and tear over time.
• Inspect the window barrier or plug for any signs of wear and tear and replace as necessary.
• If you’re using an insulation kit, make sure to replace it when it starts to lose its effectiveness.
• If necessary, re-apply sealant or adhesive tape every few months to keep them in good condition.
• Close your curtains or drapes when you want to get some peace and quiet. 

Benefits of Soundproofing Your Sliding Windows

• Blocks out exterior noise for a quieter environment
• Prevents sound from traveling between rooms and apartments
• Can be done cheaply and without any significant construction work.
• Comes in various styles to match your home decor.
• Helps preserve the privacy of your home.

Disadvantages of Soundproofing Your Sliding Windows

• May not be 100% effective in blocking out all exterior noise.
• Can be a bit of a hassle to install, depending on the method you choose.
• May require some minor construction work for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a way to block out exterior noise without having to replace your windows, then soundproofing them may be just what the doctor ordered.

It’s time-consuming to find a suitable method for your specific windows, but with a little bit of research, you’re sure to find something that works. 

And once it’s all said and done, you’ll be able to enjoy a quieter home environment without all the noise.