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GOT A QUESTION?
Technical
Quick Tips to Contractors!
(c) 2008 Super Soundproofing Co |
Low-cost Interior Windows for Soundproofing for reducing sound passing through existing windows. The Magnitite windows started the trend toward a simple solution of trying to improve an existing windows thermal quality without large expenditures. While cheap and very successful, they still do not have the ability to cut down large amounts of sound because the clear acrylic panes are just too thin. The edging for these windows will not take a thicker plastic panel, nor would their magnetic trim be able to hold such heavy panels in place firmly. For maximum sound reduction, the plastic panels should be thick and heavy. They should be readily removable. They should not yellow from UV (Ultra Violet) sun rays over time. They should be relatively inexpensive to buy and make. They must fit well to eliminate sound leaks. How they work. To overcome these and other shortcomings and still be able to have a reasonably cost effective product, we introduce: MAGNETSEAL FRAMING for acrylic panels.. Start by taking your window measurements top, bottom and sides - for the plastic panel you need. (Which you can obtain locally from any plastics outlet. Look in the Yellow Pages under Plastics). Have them cut your plastic 1/4" or 3/8" thick panel to size. You need to decide whether to fit the flat sheet inside the edge frame of your window or over the face of the frame. We recommend fitting over the frame because it will block out a little more dead air space, which is what makes these types of windows work so well. Only an inch oversize of the opening is needed. Take your acrylic edge measurements and add them together to order enough steel "Mounting Frame" and our special "peel off adhesive backed" 1" wide Magnetic Tape for the job. To install a 1/4" or 3/8" acrylic (Plexiglas) panel in your window you will need 4 "L" shaped metal trim pieces and enough magnetic tape for attachment to around the edges of your acrylic panels. The trim and the tape are sold by the foot, so you only have to buy what you need.
Tips:
Notes: If you desire a window that will not yellow or pass UV in the very long term, ask for Museum grade acrylic. It will not yellow or pass UV for 20 years or more. (Regular acrylic will last 7- 10 or more years, depending on climate). Another of the advantages of using acrylic is that you can get it with tinting! Do not use polycarbonate or Lexan. Tips on your existing windows: They must not pass any air through any gaps or crevices. Caulk or otherwise seal them off. If need be, use some of our black foam, closed cell tape to make a gasket where they close. If you have steel frames, (not aluminum!), you can use the magnetic tape without buying our metal framing stock. The window will have to fit over and on the face on your frame. You'll need small screws to attach the L" shaped metal mounting frame, use the sheet metal type to attach to a metal frame and wood screws if PVC or wood. Construction adhesive can also be used. Double sided tape could be used with a small window, depending on the durability of the tape.
A good source of the Acrylic sheet is San Diego Plastics, 800-925-4855 They will cut to size and ship. (Min $75 order). Cast is cheaper and as good as the Extruded sheet for this purpose. Why not just use glass? Of course glass can be used and may even be cheaper. But consider this: The chance of breakage is far greater when installing and especially when removing the panes from the frame for cleaning, etc. For this reason, use safety glass as it has a plastic center/filler which reduces (but doesn't eliminate) the hazard of shatter and splinter effect if broken. Other options in sound control of windows Find out more. Please support us if you like the information and service we provide!
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