CAN CURTAINS, BLINDS OR SHUTTERS REDUCE NOISE IN YOUR HOME?
If outside noise is disturbing your peace, you may be wondering whether noise reducing curtains, acoustic blinds, or plantation shutters can help. While they won’t eliminate sound completely, some window furnishings are better than others at absorbing and dampening unwanted noise from the highway, your neighbours, or even Mother nature. Choosing the right soundproof window furnishings can create a quieter, more comfortable home while also improving privacy, energy efficiency and style.
Curtains, Blinds or Shutters? Which style will reduce the most noise?
If you’re wondering which style will be more effective at reducing the noise in your home, curtains will always be your best choice. With the ability to pair a heavier outer, decorative fabric along with an acoustic weave lining, the layering ability of curtains is just one of their strengths when it comes to noise control. The more dense, heavy, and multi-layered your curtains are, the better the sound absorption and reduction will be. Additionally, if you are looking for thermal and light control for your space, blackout and, or thermal linings can also be added, to ensure better comfort for you and your family year-round.
The ability to hang curtains high and wide, ensures better surround coverage of your windows, further absorbing the sound (and even the breeze) that may enter via the small gaps around your window.
While shutters and blinds can offer some sound absorption, they really cannot compare with the flexibility and density of curtains.
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Is total noise reduction possible?
It is important to understand that complete noise reduction isn’t always possible. Other factors such as your wall, roof and flooring materials will also be a contributor to noise entering your home. However, the right curtains can certainly make a difference to the sound entering your home through your windows.
You may also be surprised to learn that sound can enter via the gaps surrounding your windows. Having your windows and doors fitted with brushes and seals can also make a difference with noise control, particularly in old houses that are fitted with original timber windows.
Unwanted noise from traffic, neighbours, or even nature can make it difficult to relax at home and may even disrupt your sleep in the middle of the night. Whilst it isn’t usually possible to create total silence, multi-layered curtains can make a noticeable difference by absorbing and softening outside noise. As well as offering the benefits of improved thermal control and aesthetic within your home, professionally fitted curtains are most definitely an investment to consider in ensuring a more comfortable lifestyle for you and your family.
Thornton & Blake offer an expansive range of professionally made curtains, blinds and shutters specified by local, Blue Mountains Interior Designers who understand our unique climate and lifestyle. Learning how we can support your vision has never been easier, simply book an initial conversation using our online booking system for a no obligation telephone or showroom appointment.
