Need help!

9 years ago

I have posted before concerning our window replacement nightmare. We are still working to resolve this and we need more help. Summary of the situation is that we had our windows replaced after a storm. We are in a high end development and adjacent to the intersection of two highways. Prior to replacement, we had no sound issues when we closed and locked the windows (casement). We now have significant noise. We found out that ONE of the problems was the installation. As a test, one of the windows was reinstalled to see if that solved the problem. It did not. Complicating factor is that ALL windows were replaced so we have no way to compare new windows to old in terms of glass or construction. As suggested in this forum, we are going to look at our neighbor's windows, which should be the same as our old windows.
So, MY QUESTIONS are:
1- What equipment can we use to compare the amount of noise coming through our windows compared to the neighbors? (I contacted an acoustic consultant who was recommended and they charge $2000, so that is out of the question).
2- The acoustic consultant did mention one thing in our conversation that I am curious about. He said that some of the older wood windows (ours were vintage 1985) had more solid construction, so worked better to lower sound transmission. I then heard that the Marvin Ultimate Casement windows that were installed in our home have a part in the window that is hollow. Is that correct? (The contractor 'thought' that our old windows were Marvin. We now know that they were not, but still don't know definitively what kind they were.)
3- Are there any experts who can look at different types of windows and help us determine what the problem is and what we can do about it? We are willing to spend some money, just can't spend thousands.

It is really frustrating to not know where to turn and I don't know what we would have done had we not discovered this forum.

Thanks for your help.

Comments (7)

PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
9 years ago
There was a thread on here recently where a customer had a similar issue when they replaced their windows.

As far as the sound goes, there are a myriad of apps that will use either a tablet or smart phones microphone and will give you pretty good and at least comparable data.
beachbum2164
9 years ago
WoW
you do have the answers. yes there are Apps that have tuning meters which could help. Sharp or flat pitches etc.
also, I imagine decibel meters might be found as well.

my question on Windows is Marvin or Polar Seal (made here in Michigan) our contractor likes Jeld-Wen Sightline but i cannot find many good things about JW on the internet.

BTW spent some time looking at your posts and debate with Window Dog. fascinating to say the least. So I am perplexed as to best window for the buck. so many options, Marvin looks good, Aluminum Extruded vs Rolled Aluminum is another question. anyway, any comment is appreciated greatly. :) hope grammar okÃ¢ÂÂ¦. :)
Related Professionals
Cincinnati Window Contractors · Fort Myers Window Contractors · Lees Summit Window Contractors · Coral Gables Window Contractors · North Aurora Window Contractors · Spanaway Window Contractors · Wilmette Window Contractors · Conyers Window Contractors · Sweetwater Interior Designers & Decorators · Liberty Township Interior Designers & Decorators · Berkeley General Contractors · North New Hyde Park General Contractors · Carlsbad Carpenters · King of Prussia Carpenters · North Lauderdale Carpenters
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
9 years ago
What are you aesthetic requirements for the windows?

Do you want them to be wood interiors, wood-like construction, color, hardware, etc.?

Being in Michigan, you absolutely should be looking for a triple pane option so that might rule out some considerations.
beachbum2164
9 years ago
Thanks WoW for replying

wood interior, aluminum or vinyl or fiberglass exterior
standard double hung primed inside white outside.
looking at Marvin possibly Integrity or Jeld Wen sightline.
Michigan winters can be bad as in last winter, worst in 50 years. so expansion/contraction important.

just for bedrooms and bath. but two large picture windows with side casements. same finishes as above.
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
9 years ago
Expansion and contraction (even in Michigan) is a non issue in a well engineered window, regardless of material.

I would normally say something like the Marvin Integrity and make sure you consider a triple pane option there and Michigan is certainly worthy of that type of window.

This post was edited by windowsonwashington on Wed, Oct 8, 14 at 7:19
beachbum2164
9 years ago
that is exactly the way i am leaning.. Integrity looks good and it will work and hold up. Triple Pane nice but not available as you said and i can live with that. thanks for your help.
PRO
Out of the Woods Inc.- Window & Door Specialists
9 years ago
Integrity wood ultrex has a triple pane option.