How Much Do Soundproof Windows Cost?
Typical Range:
$300 - $1,500
Typical Range:
$300 - $1,500
Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.
Published November 3, 2022
Written by HomeAdvisor.The cost for soundproof windows is $900 on average, with a typical range between $300 and $1,500 per window. The cost varies depending on your method to soundproof your windows and the size and type of windows you have.
The simplest and least costly soundproofing option is window foam plugs, which you can order for between $25 and $75 per window and insert yourself. On the other end of the price range is removing and replacing your current windows with soundproof ones, with costs running anywhere from $300 to $6,000 per window, depending on the window type and design.
Average Cost | High Cost | Low Cost |
---|---|---|
$900 | $1,500 | $300 |
How much are soundproof windows? Size plays a significant role in soundproof window prices. For example, larger windows require more materials as well as labor. This will lead to higher total project costs.
Window Size in In. | Average Cost Range per Window (All-in) |
---|---|
Small (18 by 24) | $200 – $400 |
Medium (32 by 38) | $350 – $1,000 |
Large (44 by 52) | $600 – $1,800 |
Soundproof windows come in three main forms: double-pane, triple-pane, and laminated. Check out each type of window's core features and how much each installation costs.
Double-pane windows cost between $300 and $2,100 per window for materials and professional installation. These windows consist of two glass panes separated by a space filled with some inert gas—usually argon, xenon, or krypton—to provide thermal and sound insulation.
Installing triple-pane windows costs between $400 and $3,540 per window for materials and labor. These windows come with three panes of glass with a space between each pane that houses an inert gas. The addition of a glass layer with an insulating gap increases the level of thermal and sound insulation.
A laminated double-pane window costs about $950, while a triple-pane option will start at $1,000. These windows consist of two or more sheets of float or tempered glass with an interlayer of plastic sandwiched in between. They can absorb up to 95% of noise, depending on the framing materials and whether the windows are double- or triple-paned.
There are several ways to soundproof windows, with the price for each method varying significantly. At the low end of the price range, you can soundproof your windows with foam plugs or sound-dampening curtains. On the higher end, you can replace your current windows with soundproof double-pane, triple-pane, or laminated glass.
Soundproofing Method | Average Cost Range per Window |
---|---|
Window foam plugs | $25 – $75 |
Sound-dampening curtains | $50 – $200 |
Window inserts | $250 – $500 |
Full window replacement | $600 – $1,500 |
Window foam plugs cost between $25 and $75per window and provide a budget-friendly way to soundproof your windows. They're sponge boards that fit into your window's frame to block, reflect, and absorb sound. Window foam plugs don't require professional installation since they're easy to put in and take out as needed.
Curtains are another inexpensive window soundproofing option, costing between $50 and $200, depending on the thickness. Though not as effective as window inserts when blocking noise, they offer more versatility since you can put them in other places around the house as needed to dampen noise. When placed on windows, they also block light, making them more appropriate for use at night.
Window inserts cost between $250 and $500 per window and provide another reasonably priced way to soundproof your windows. It involves installing a new soundproof window within the existing window frame, typically on the inside. This helps filter more noise without incurring the cost of a full window replacement.
Most homeowners pay between $600 and $1,500 for a full soundproof window replacement. However, depending on the window type and design, costs can range between $300 and $6,000 per window.
Installing a complete replacement unit typically requires removing almost every window element. You'll also need to budget for the cost of replacing window frames, the trim, and sometimes even the siding. Full window replacements can be expensive, but it's a more effective and long-term way to soundproof your windows.
If you're planning to soundproof your windows, the two main expenses to budget for are materials and labor. The total for each expense varies depending on many factors, including the type of project and window design. See the cost breakdown below.
Material costs for soundproofing vary widely depending on the soundproofing method. For example, window foam plugs and curtains can cost less than $100, while replacing your current windows with new double-pane or triple-pane soundproofing windows can cost several thousand dollarsper window.
For a full window replacement, you’ll also need to budget for these material costs:
Framing: $100–$1,200
Window trim: $0.6–$30 per lin. ft.
Siding: $3–$12 per sq. ft.
Expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $800 per window for labor or about $50 to 200 per hour. Total labor costs for soundproof windows vary depending on the project complexity. Larger and more complicated window types like bay and bow windows will incur higher labor costs.
Labor rates can also vary greatly depending on where you live. Generally, expect to pay more if you live in an area with a high cost of living.
Other than the window type and soundproofing method, several other factors might factor into how much it costs to soundproof windows. Two big ones are the choice of insulating gas and the location where you're soundproofing windows. Below is a look at how each factor affects costs.
When installing double-pane and triple-pane windows, the type of gas between the glass panes (argon, krypton, or xenon) can affect the material cost of the window. The most affordable option is argon since it's more readily available, while Xenon is the most expensive option.
Xenon is the densest of the three gases and offers the best thermal and sound insulation. In addition, whole production costs can be very high. Krypton presents a middle ground between argon and xenon in terms of both price and insulation capabilities.
The location of windows can affect labor costs and, thus, total project prices. Windows that are harder to get to and work on, such as those located on upper levels, will incur higher labor costs than ground-level ones.
Window plug foam and sound-dampening curtains don't require professional installation. For these kinds of projects, you only need to budget for the cost of materials.
On the other hand, if you need to install new double- and triple-pane and laminated windows, consider hiring a local window installer near you. For starters, they'll have all the necessary tools to get the job done right. Remember that when it comes to working with sensitive materials like glass, experience matters. A pro will know how to handle the replacement process with care, ensuring there are no costly damages during the project. A professional installation will also often include a warranty for the work quality.
Yes, you can soundproof existing windows using foam plugs, window inserts, or sound-dampening curtains. These methods of soundproofing are relatively inexpensive and easy to do yourself. You'll need to budget for the cost of materials. However, complete window replacement is the way to go if you need a more effective and long-term solution for blocking out noise.
Whether soundproofing windows can increase your home value depends on the location of your home. Soundproof windows could increase your home's value if your home is in a noisy area near a busy highway or even an airport. Even in less noisy neighborhoods, they can be a major selling point and help your home sell faster if you decide to put it on the market.
Soundproofing a room costs between $1,050 and $1,730, or an average of $1,890. The exact costs depend on the room type and size and the type and size of the surfaces that need soundproofing, such as windows, ceilings, and walls. Prices could be as low as $300 for some rooms or as high as $5,000 for others. In general, budget between $10 and $30 per square foot to fully soundproof a room.