I had a similar experience, though I went straight for acoustic windows after researching their STC ratings. Curtains can dampen high-frequency sounds like voices or traffic hiss, but they're pretty ineffective against low-frequency noises—think buses rumbling or distant construction. Acoustic windows typically have laminated glass and better seals, significantly reducing noise across the whole frequency spectrum. Like you mentioned:
"Didn't notice the heating savings at first, but now that you mention it, my thermostat definitely isn't working overtime anymore."
That's partly because acoustic windows usually come with improved insulation properties—better frames and airtight seals mean less heat loss. It's a nice dual benefit.
Totally agree on acoustic windows being the better long-term solution. I went through something similar when I bought my first place downtown. Initially, I tried heavy curtains thinking they'd be enough—big mistake. Sure, they muffled some of the chatter from people walking by, but the deep rumble from garbage trucks at 5 AM still woke me up every single morning.
After a few months of frustration, I finally bit the bullet and upgraded to acoustic windows. The difference was night and day. One thing I'd add though: make sure you pay attention to installation details. Even the best acoustic windows won't do much if they're poorly installed or if there's gaps around the frame. I ended up sealing around mine with acoustic caulk afterward, and it noticeably improved performance.
Also, about the heating savings—spot on. My energy bills dropped noticeably after installation, probably due to fewer drafts and better insulation overall. It's one of those upgrades that feels pricey upfront but pays off in comfort (and sanity) pretty quickly.
Good point about installation quality—I learned that the hard way. Initially, I thought acoustic windows were overrated, but after dealing with city noise myself...yeah, they're worth it. Glad to hear it's paying off for you.
I was skeptical about acoustic windows too, but after some digging, I realized installation makes or breaks it. Did you notice a big difference right away, or was it gradual? I'm still debating curtains vs windows...leaning towards windows now though.
"Did you notice a big difference right away, or was it gradual?"
For us, the change was pretty immediate. Honestly, curtains barely dented the street noise—it felt like putting a bandaid on a broken leg. Windows were pricier but totally worth it...my sanity thanks me daily.
"Honestly, curtains barely dented the street noise—it felt like putting a bandaid on a broken leg."
Haha, that's exactly how I'd describe my experience too. I was skeptical about acoustic windows at first—seemed like marketing hype—but after staying at a friend's place who had them installed, it was like night and day. Made me realize how much ambient street noise I'd just gotten used to over the years. Curious though, did you have to replace all your windows or just the ones facing the street? That seems like it'd make a big difference cost-wise...
- Had a similar experience—tried thick curtains first, minimal improvement at best.
- Eventually bit the bullet and upgraded just the street-facing windows to acoustic glass; massive difference immediately.
- Didn't bother with the quieter sides of the house—saved a decent chunk there.
- Funny thing is, once the traffic noise was gone, I started noticing other random sounds inside my house... fridge humming, clocks ticking—guess there's always something!
"Funny thing is, once the traffic noise was gone, I started noticing other random sounds inside my house... fridge humming, clocks ticking—guess there's always something!"
Ha, that's always the way it goes. Acoustic glass is definitely the way to tackle street noise effectively. Just a quick tip—sealing gaps around windows and doors with acoustic caulk can boost your results even more. Small details add up!
Haha, isn't that always the case? Once you fix one noise, another pops up. I'm actually wondering—do acoustic windows really make a huge difference compared to curtains? I went with thick curtains first (cheaper option for me as a new homeowner), and they're okay-ish... but now you've got me thinking about sealing gaps too. Is acoustic caulk easy enough to apply yourself or does it get messy fast? I'm not exactly handy, lol.
"Is acoustic caulk easy enough to apply yourself or does it get messy fast? I'm not exactly handy, lol."
- Acoustic caulk isn't too tricky—just use painter's tape to keep edges clean.
- Windows definitely outperform curtains, but sealing gaps first might surprise you with how effective it is.
- Did mine last month... noticeable improvement and pretty budget-friendly.