Reducing the noise of planes from Heathrow with new double glazing
Love it or hate it, air travel is here to stay. If you’re a homeowner near Heathrow Airport, you might enjoy seeing the planes coming and going, and the convenient access to a major transport hub can be a benefit when it’s time to go on holiday.
Equally, you might detest the noise levels you’re subjected to, from very early in the morning to very late at night. Manufacturers are going to great lengths to try to make their planes quieter, but the increase in so-called ‘super jumbos’ may cause increasing noise pollution.
If you live under the Heathrow flight path, there is something you can do about the increased air traffic. New double glazing can help to seal out noise from low flying aircraft, and could help you to get a more relaxing night’s sleep and wake more refreshed in the morning.
The future of Heathrow
Heathrow Airport has several flight paths, many of which handle concentrated amounts of traffic. Planes are using some routes very intensively, and approaching at a shallower angle, which is increasing the amount of noise on the ground.
If a third runway is added at Heathrow, people east of the airport will certainly notice increased noise. Take-offs are the most noticeable, and if you’re not in a defined ‘impact zone’, the council won’t offer any funding to mitigate the increasing noise.
In terms of the comfort in your home, and the amount of aircraft noise you experience, things are certainly going to get worse before they get better.
How glazing helps
The way double glazing works is quite simple really. Double glazing seals out the cold air, and also helps to cut down on noise from the outside. There are three key elements that can help your double glazing to insulate you from plane interference.
The first is the gap between the panes. This is the spacer, and we’ll work with you to design windows with an effective noise reducing gap.
The second factor that cuts noise is a window that fits snugly in the wall. If your window has been badly fitted, tiny gaps or cracks will negate any benefit of the glazing. That’s why it’s important to use an experienced, professional glazing company who will measure and fit your windows.
Finally, the third factor is the gas between the panes in your sealed units. If you have old double glazing, any gas that was present may have leaked away over time. Modern sealed units filled with argon gas (or similar) will offer a noticeable noise reduction, as the gas will prevent sound being transmitted.
Getting a quote for new windows
As Heathrow traffic increases, it’s a good time to think about an upgrade to your windows. At Hamiltons, we have 40 years’ experience in designing glazing for homeowners in Surrey and the south east. We understand the distress that noise pollution causes, and we can design windows that offer some relief.
For a quote, without any obligation, please contact Hamilton Windows today. We’ll take a look at your existing glazing and offer recommendations for noise-reducing double glazing.
