External noise reduction solutions

I wasn't overly impressed with them the one time I used them. Build quality was just ok and I was kind of dumbfounded that the hollow frame was totally uninsulated (at least back then). But they will use any thickness glass you want (for a price).

If you are replacing your windows, most effective way without spending a lot of extra money is to go for different thickness glass with one side laminated. Call Marvin customer service and they will walk you through it include provide noise reduction data but wouldn’t give you the price. You can ask them about storm windows too. For existing windows, the best solution is an extra set of windows installed ok the inside.

There are also some very expensive German / Swiss windows on the market as well.

The windows that 300_Mercer refers to are effectively the same as the hurricane certified windows, which most of the better window companies make. There is laminated glass on the outside,ordinary glass on the inside. We installed Marvin ultimate hurricane windows in our apartment. The other things is that double hung windows create lots of gaps for air and noise. We installed "tilt and turn" single piece windows. Not remotely cheap (although about 1/3 the price of Bieber windows, which might be what 300 references), but the sound difference is enormous. Shutting the window is almost like closing an airplane door. As a bonus, if your windows present any security vulnerabilities, they also are quite difficult to break (in order to be Miami-Dade certified, they have to withstand a 2 x 4 launched at 40 MPH).

PGT also makes a very good hurricane rated window. That's actually a great idea using these windows in the city to reduce noise. We have pgt's in our home in Florida, even though the noise is not a problem made the house essentially like living in a sound booth!

How do you cool your place? I have a listing now with City Windows in it (I forget whether they're CitiQuiet or CityProof brand), and the second layer of windows is necessary because the unit is cooled using window A/Cs.

We used Panorama for 16 brick-to-brick replacements last year. They're custom made in the Bronx to whatever spec you want. We did laminated outside as mentioned upthread, don't recall the thickness offhand but the larger sashes are a few hundred pounds -- they're legit and the apartment is dead quiet.

Anyway, I'd highly recommend Panorama. This was in a landmarked district and they handled everything at LPC. Price was similar to if not slightly less than Marvin Ultimate, and you'll be supporting local manufacturing.

I'll also add that we used Marvin casements on a previous apartment -- beautiful windows but constant small (and annoying) issues with the hardware. I loved the unbroken expanse of glass but the simplicity of a double-hung has its upsides.

Thanks all! We have double hung which we are likely to keep and use window a/c units. has anyone got passive home recommendations?