When you live on a noisy street, near a highway, under flight paths, or other disruptive areas, finding ways to minimize exterior noise is a top priority.
After all, excessive noise levels not only damage quality of life – causing issues like sleep disturbances, irritation, and stress – but also hurt home resale value.
This makes sound dampening windows an attractive upgrade for many homeowners that struggle with acoustic issues.
But with so many noise reduction window brands on the market, all claiming advanced technologies, which option is truly the best?
Below, we’ll provide an in-depth comparison between two top soundproof window companies – the more affordable CitiQuiet versus high-end industry leader Cityproof.
Key Feature Comparison Table
While both companies make excellent soundproof windows, the distinction lies in just how much noise reduction ability (and investment) is truly necessary for your situation.
To help summarize key performance attributes, see the following feature comparison chart:
Feature | CitiQuiet | Cityproof |
Cost per Window Installed | $725+ | $1,350+ |
Glass Thickness | 1/4 inch | 1 inch + |
Glazing | Triple Pane | Quad Pane |
Glass Technology | Hybrid Acoustic & Laminated Layers | 100% Laminated |
Frame Construction | Composite Slimline Frame | Steel Reinforced Frame |
Noise Reduction Rating | STC 39 to 48 | STC 52 to 64+ |
DIY Friendly | Yes | Moderate Difficulty |
Warranties | 5 years parts/install + lifetime product warranty | Lifetime comprehensive warranty |
CitiQuiet Windows Overview
CitiQuiet is a subsidiary brand of well-known sound dampening window manufacturer Soundproof Windows, Inc.
Launched in 2007, CitiQuiet focuses specifically on affordable high noise reduction offerings compared to their upscale parent company.
Over 50,000 homeowners have chosen CitiQuiet to block external sounds based on strong consumer reviews.
Noise Reduction Approach
Rather than utilizing the most expensive quad glazing encased in heavy-duty solid frames common for premiumsoundproof window brands, CitiQuiet engineers developed patented alternatives achieving nearly similar noise blocking for roughly half the investment.
They accomplish this via:
- Hybrid Triple Glazing – Three panes utilizing both laminated and acoustic glass types strategically layered to optimize noise absorption.
- Slimline Frames – Composite frames with air-tight compression seals that balance weight, structural rigidity, and vibration dampening.
- Easy Installation – Light enough for simple drop-in installation. Can be DIY friendly unlike heavier competing windows requiring experts.
The result is CitiQuiet windows attenuating external noise exceptionally well while costing hundreds to thousands less than comparably rated products.
Cost
- Single Hung Window – Starting at $725 per window
- Casement Window – Starting at $850 per window
- Typical Installation – $150-$300 per window
Noise Reduction Stats
CitiQuiet utilizes advanced testing methodology to determine precise sound dampening capabilities via Sound Transmission Class (STC) and Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class (OITC) ratings.
Ratings span:
- STC Ratings from 39 to 48
- OITC Ratings from 34 to 44
These figures mean CitiQuiet windows can decrease exterior noise anywhere from 50% up to nearly 80% inside the home depending on precise configurations chosen.
Warranties
All CitiQuiet windows have both project-specific warranties covering installation and defects for 5 years in addition to their lifetime limited replacement product warranty.
Next let’s examine how CitiQuiet compares to premium brand Cityproof.
Cityproof Windows Overview
Cityproof is one of the most technologically advanced noise reducing window producers globally.
Rather than focus on affordability, they engineer products for maximum possible sound dampening.
The brand’s offerings commonly rank as the highest security, storm-rated, longest lasting windows available. Their attention to detail shows with over 50 patents protecting unique Cityproof innovations.
Used everywhere from recording studios to homes bordering deafening highways, over 500,000 buildings trust Cityproof windows as their acoustic barrier.
Noise Reduction Approach
Cityproof utilizes a no compromises approach focused exclusively at blocking exterior sound through:
- Quad Glazing Design – Panes featuring four sheets of glass bolsters noise insulation versus traditional double or triple glazing.
- Laminated Glass – Each pane contains noise dampening polymer interlayers further limiting sound transmission.
- Thick Glass Construction – Most configurations use 1 to 1 1/8 inches thick glazing for increased density. Weighs in excess of 20 pounds per square foot.
- Patented Frame Assembly – Steel reinforced frames eliminate vibration transfer and air leakage around glass perimeter through application of ideal sealing pressure.
- Simplified Installation – Frames include pre-applied trims, weather barriers, hardware attachments and more unlike DIY unfriendly competitor products. Easy drop-in replacement.
The result is the highest certified noise reduction ratings in the industry. No other provider exceeds Cityproof’s acoustic performance markers.
Cost
- Single Hung Window – Starting at $1,350 per window
- Casement Window – Starting at $1,700 per window
- Typical Installation – $350+ per window
Noise Reduction Stats
Cityproof utilizes both Sound Transmission Class and Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class metrics to benchmark capabilities with ratings spanning:
- STC Ratings from 52 up to 64+
- OITC Ratings from 47 to 59+
These exceptional metrics mean Cityproof windows can decrease loud exterior noises by 80% to nearly 95% inside depending on products selected.
Warranties
All Cityproof windows offer lifetime warranties covering both product and installation. Highly rated for delivering longterm noise insulation given overall robust construction.
Now that we’ve covered background on both brands, let’s directly compare product offerings.
Why Sound Transmission Matters?
Before diving into the CitiQuiet vs Cityproof debate, let’s briefly cover why blocking exterior sound matters in the first place.
As a homeowner, you are likely aware of just how disruptive unwanted noise pollution can be. However, the downsides actually extend far beyond simple annoyance.
Common issues from noise include:
- Difficulty falling & staying asleep
- Headaches and fatigue
- Irritability and quickness to anger
- Difficulty concentrating or working
- Social withdrawal and relationship friction
- Stress and even higher disease risks
Children, the elderly, shift workers, and those predisposed to anxiety or depression tend to suffer most from noise pollution.
In one survey, nearly 50% of responders felt their home’s noise issues negatively impacted health. Over 75% said excess noise created frequent lifestyle disruptions.
Clearly minimizing sound transmission matters!
Now let’s move the core topic – how CitiQuiet and Cityproof window upgrades may help.
Overview of Noise Reduction Window Capabilities
Specialized sound dampening windows utilize various technologies to limit noise passing through from the exterior.
While no solution blocks 100% of outside sounds, upgrading from standard single pane windows to noise reducing options makes a substantial impact.
Based on lab testing, cutting noise penetration in half is possible. Decreasing external sounds in the living space by 80% or more isn’t uncommon either.
The most sophisticated noise reduction window designs incorporate:
- Multi-pane glazing featuring two or more sheets of glass/plastic
- Investments in thicker laminate glass panes with polymer interlayers
- Advanced frame assemblies blocking noise leakage points
- Tight sealing systems inhibiting air (and sound) exchanges
- Optimized glass-to-frame coupling for minimized vibration transfer
- Resilient noise isolating hardware
Now that you know how soundproof windows achieve such impressive noise blocking, let’s compare offerings from CitiQuiet versus Cityproof.
Sound Dampening Window Buying Considerations
When deciding between the affordable efficiency of CitiQuiet versus no compromises approach of Cityproof, keep the following buying considerations in mind:
- Current Noise Levels – First, use a decibel meter app to benchmark exterior volume facing windows. Is noise levels extreme or more moderate? This helps determine necessary STC ratings.
- Noise Tolerance – Are you more impacted by disruptive noises than others? Your needed sound dampening may exceed what is “sufficient” for neighbors.
- Budget – What home upgrades fit reasonably within current budgets? Key is avoiding overspending by determining “good enough” noise insulation levels.
- Energy Efficiency – Increased glazing from these brands also enhances insulation against heat/cold. Don’t underestimate dual sound and energy benefits.
- Future Plans – How long will you stay in the home? Lifetime Cityproof warranties have more value for long-term owners.
- DIY Abilities – Soundproof window projects, especially heavier models like Cityproof’s, often benefit from professional installers despite high costs. Gauge your skill accordingly.
Carefully weighing factors such as these will lead you towards the ideal sound dampening window brand for your specific scenario.
Whether the additional investments required for the maximum noise reduction levels of Cityproof make sense or more affordable yet still highly effective CitiQuiet models better fit needs and budget comes down to personal situation.
Sound Dampening Window Costs Overview
Let’s briefly summarize what to expect investment-wise when upgrading to noise reducing window solutions:
CitiQuiet Soundproof Windows
- $600 – $1,100 per window – Basic installed costs
- $300 per window extra – If hiring professional installers
- $15k to $30k – Typical whole home window replacement
CitiQuiet windows cost significantly less than comparable sound insulation ratings from almost any other brand.
Cityproof Soundproof Windows
- $1,200 to $2,500+ per window – Basic installed costs driven by thick quad glazing, robust framing, heavy glass, etc.
- $350+ per window – Recommended to hire professional installation
- $50k+ – Typical whole home window replacement. Most expensive soundproof window solution.
Cityproof’s offerings match or exceed cost levels of all competitors while delivering radically more noise dampening per dollar due to smart engineering innovations.
Ultimately, both companies make excellent products. CitiQuiet maximizes price-to-performance while Cityproof focuses exclusively on maximum noise reduction regardless of price.
Additional Soundproofing Recommendations
Replacing windows with sound dampening models serves as the core foundation for reducing noise transmission.
However, for ultimate acoustic privacy in severely loud environments, further soundproofing investments help strengthen noise blocking including:
- Interior Solid Core Doors – Cut noise traveling room-to-room.
- Green Glue Compounds – Doubles wall material density lowering sound transfer when applied between drywall layers.
- Soundproof Drywall – Special dense sheets with viscoelastic damping layers decrease transmitted noises.
- Safe ‘N’ Sound Insulation – Sound absorbing batts/rolls block airborne noise via friction and absorption.
- Acoustic Caulk & Sealants – Seal all penetrations eliminating air leaks noise exploits.
- Soundproof Curtains – Layering window treatments boosts noise absorption.
Combining these secondary sound insulation products with upgraded noise reducing windows helps form an impenetrable exterior to interior noise barrier.
While obviously increasing project budgets, severely loud environments do often warrant going beyond just new windows alone.
FAQ – Sound Dampening Windows
The two most recommended soundproof window brands are CitiQuiet and Cityproof. CitiQuiet maximizes affordability while still delivering 50%+ noise decrease. Cityproof is the premium solution when cost is no object and maximum noise blocking over 80%+ is required.
The use of thick quad glazing and heavy-duty construction means Cityproof is the most expensive sound damping window option. Total installed costs typically span $1,200 to $2,500+ per window. Whole home window replacement often exceeds $50k.
Absolutely. Upgraded multi-pane glazing, improved framing, bonded glass, and enhanced sealing can decrease incoming noise substantially ranging from 50% to 95% reduction levels. Brands like CitiQuiet and Cityproof focus engineering specifically on sound insulation.
Experts agree, choosing noise reducing windows from reputable brands that specialize exclusively in sound dampening yields best results. Beyond CitiQuiet and Cityproof covered here in depth, further top acoustic window providers include QuietWindows, Peaceful Windows, Soundproof Windows, and Dynamat Extreme. Investing in leaders maximizes noise control.
The Last Word
In closing, both CitiQuiet and Cityproof make exceptional sound dampening windows well worth considering.
CitiQuiet windows clearly lead for delivering tremendous noise reduction at reasonable price points the average homeowner can afford.
Meanwhile, for those needing to fully eliminate extreme noises at any cost, Cityproof offers unrivaled acoustic insulation capabilities perfect for severe noise pollution sufferers.
We hope this detailed window soundproofing comparison helps point you towards the ideal solution fitting your unique scenario!