Noise Reduction Technical Data and Results

Proven Results

Noise pollution is one the biggest problems faced in the cities today, particularly in a high-density living. Unwanted noise can be responsible for sleep loss and lack of concentration. This can lead to a deterioration of health through increased stress levels, headaches, high blood pressure and loss of hearing.

Noise penetrates windows through leaky seals or vibrations through the window structure. To reduce noise, a window should minimise air infiltration, hold enough weight to limit vibration and allow a large air cavity. This cavity, or air gap, is the key to secondary glazing.

Expert Advice:

CSIRO Research by John Davy shown an air cavity can effectively enhance sound insulation performance. The larger the air cavity the more noise the window system can reduce. Results show a wide air gap of 100-125mm will improve sound insulation by an average of 7dB(A) more than windows with a narrow gap of 8-13mm.

Window or Glass Door Type	Total Glass Thickness (mm)	Air Cavity Thickness (mm)	Sound Insulation (dB)
Single Glaze 3mm	3	0	23
Single Glaze 6mm	6	0	27
Double Glaze Narrow Gap	9-12	8-13	31
Double Glaze Wide Gap	9-12	100-125	38

The human ear is less sensitive to low frequency sound. According to a study released by the CSIRO, the human ear needs a change of 3dB to detect a difference in noise levels and the human ear perceives a change of 10dB as a doubling or halving of the noise level.

If you double the thickness of glass in a window the noise level will decrease by 3dB the least amount possible to make a difference. If the glass is laminated there is no perceived difference in noise reduction.

National Acoustic Laboratory Testing:

Working with the principles of noise transfer, Magnetite® and Soundtite are designed for high performance, which is achieved by combining air tight seals with the ability to maximize an air cavity and the flexibility to vary glazing thickness to suit. Magnetite® is excellent at reducing general noise such as busy roads, commuter trains and noisy neighbours. Whereas, Soundtite works well to combat low frequencies noise such as garbage truck, freight trains or airplane during take-off and landing.

Test Code	Material Tested	Rw*	Improvement
ATF 707 (test window)	Aluminium sliding window, 3mm float glass with mohair seals	23	N/A
ATF 709	Test window, 100mm air gap and Magnetite System (4.5mm acrylic panel)	35	52%
ATF 1507	Test window, 100mm air gap and Magnetite System (10.0mm acrylic panel)	39	70%
ATF 817	Test window, 100mm air gap and Soundtite (6.38mm laminated glass)	41	78%

*The Weighted Sound Reduction Index (Rw) is a measure for sound insulation performance of a single building element such as windows. The higher the Rw rating, the better the sound insulation.

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How does heat travel through windows?

1. Conduction
Heat moving through an object (i.e. heat will travel through an aluminium, or steel frame more easily than through a timber or PVC frame).

2. Radiant heat
Heat from the direct sun. It can pass through space until reflected or absorbed.

3. Convection
Heat flow resulting from air movement e.g. either 'natural' convection - warm air rises, or 'forced' convection - a breeze by a window, both can result in a draught by a window.

4. Infiltration
Air leaks around the frame, around the window sash and through the gaps in the movable window parts.

When evaluating your options to improve the thermal performance of your windows, the following double glazing key performance criteria should be considered:

U-Value (Uw) represents heat transfer through a window, irrespective of direct sunlight. The lower a window’s U-Value, the better the insulation performance.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) measures the solar energy that passes through glazing. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat is transmitted through a window.
Air Infiltration or leakage measures the rate at which air passes through gaps in window joins and seals. The lower the air infiltration, the better a window’s energy performance.

The Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) Thermal Performance

Aluminium Frame Windows

Glazing Type	Cooling Stars	Heating Stars	Cool%	Heat%	Uw	SHGC
Single glazed 3mm clear glass*					7.4	0.77
Single glazed 3mm clear glass & 4.5mm Magnetite			35%	59%	2.9	0.67

Timber Frame Windows

Glazing Type	Cool%	Heat%	Uw	SHGC
Single glazed 3mm clear glass*	20%	28%	5.5	0.69
Single glazed 3mm clear glass & 4.5mm Magnetite	37%	61%	2.6	0.66
Single glazed 3mm clear glass with Solartite** and 4.5mm Magnetite	76%	45%	1.8	0.20

*WERS standard typical industry window
**Solartite is a range of high performance window film. The window tested above has Solartite’s low-e film.

Magnetite vs Traditional Double Glazing – What the experts says

Winter - the ideal situation is to let in as much of the sun's heat and then trap it inside to maintain a comfortable environment in your home or office. This will also significantly reduce heating costs and saves you money. The ideal window for winter will have a high SHGC to let the sun's heat in and a low U-Value to prevent the heat from escaping. Clear windows without shading films are better suited for winter climates.

Compared with traditional double-glazing, Magnetite’s double-glazing solution can provide better results during winter or for cold climate areas such as Canberra, the Adelaide Hills and Blue Mountains.

Magnetite's clear acrylic window panels allow the direct heat from the sun's rays to enter the building and once inside, Magnetite's superior magnetic seals retain the heat, giving Magnetite an advantage over conventional operating windows.

Glazing Type	Cooling Stars	Heating Stars	Cool%	Heat%	Uw	SHGC	AI
Double Glazed 3mm clear glass/12mm air gap/3mm clear glass IGU (Insulated Glass Unit)*			40%	55%	3.0	0.61	5.0
Single glazed 3mm clear glass & 4.5mm Magnetite			37%	61%	2.6	0.66	0.5

*WERS standard typical industry window

Summer - the ideal situation is to minimize the heat coming in from outside and prevent the cool air inside from escaping through the window. This will make your home more comfortable and reduce your air-conditioning costs. The ideal window for summer, or for a large west-facing window, will have a low SHGC to limit the heat from the sun's direct rays, as well as, a low U-Value to prevent the heat in the air outside from moving through the window and warming the cool conditioned air inside. It is better to have a shading film on the first (outer) glass pane to limit the heat that enters the double glazed unit.

The combination of Magnetite retrofit double glazing and Solartite outperforms the traditional insulated glass unit for hot climate. Magnetite fit over an existing window with reflective film will give better summer heat control than a double-glazed window with supertoned glass.

The Magnetite system stops the conduction and convection of heat better than glass windows giving superior results for summer conditions. Combined with a film or a shading device, Magnetite is the ideal solution for the hot Australian conditions.

Glazing Type	Cooling Stars	Heating Stars	Cool%	Heat%	Uw	SHGC	AI
Double Glazed 5mm Supertoned glass/6mm air gap/5mm clear glass IGU (Insulated Glass Unit)*			54%	425%	3.30	0.461	5.0
Single glazed 3mm glass Solartite** and 4.5mm Magnetite			73%	38%	2.4	0.19	0.5

*WERS standard typical industry window
**Solartite is a range of high performance window film. The window tested above has Solartite’s low-e film.

Click here to view pdf version of Magnetite WERS test result.

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Enjoy up to 70% noise reduction with Magnetite secondary glazing solution

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View Technical Data

Soundproof & Noise Reduction Windows

Windows are typically the greatest source of noise penetration in a building. Soundproofing windows or doors is a reliable way to reduce noise and improve comfort. The most effective way to achieve effective noise reduction is to add a secondary system into existing windows or doors, that stops air leaks and has a large air cavity to buffer the noise.

Magnetite's retrofit double glazing systems provide effective noise reduction for windows or doors in your home or office. Both Magnetite and Soundtite are designed to maximise the acoustic air cavity, minimise the noisy air leaks and come in various thicknesses to soundproof doors or windows against vibration. Designed to be installed on the inside of the window sill, our system is virtually invisible from outside. This makes Magnetite's solutions ideal for strata units, semi-detached or stand-alone homes as well as office environments. Whether it is noise from traffic, trains, neighbours, or air craft, Magnetite has the right solutions. Call or email us today for a free window assessment.

Read more about Noise here.

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Enjoy up to 70% thermal improvement with Magnetite secondary glazing solution

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View Technical Data

Window insulation for all year-round thermal comfort

Windows are one of the largest contributors of heat gain and loss. They can account for up to 49% of heat loss in winter and up to 87% of heat gain in summer. Our solutions improve the entire window performance; glazing, frames, and seals, creating thermally efficient windows.

Our retrofit double glazing, Magnetite uses an optical grade acrylic glazing which is up to 6X more thermally efficient and up to 18X stronger than glass. Magnetite framing creates a thermal break from your existing frame while its airtight magnetic seals eliminate draughts. These features allow Magnetite to maintain a comfortable room temperature for year-round thermal comfort. Our thermally efficient windows will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. Magnetite can be complimented through our range of Solartite window films, to transform your standard glass window into a high-performance double-glazed window system. Whether your home is too cold or too hot, Magnetite has the right solutions. Call or email us today for a free window assessment

Reduce condensation on your windows

Magnetite can also help reduce condensation appearing on existing windows. Our thermally efficient windows can limit mould from building up. Less condensation can protect the health of your family and prolong the life of window furnishings and sills. Read more about Condensation here.

Check out our recent projects on how Magnetite reduces condensation.

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Double Glazing Existing & Old Windows

Our systems are designed and tested to fit existing glazing in your home or office. Magnetite can double glaze existing and old windows while retain the character of period and heritage properties. Our systems have minimal impact to the inside of the property and will not affect the aesthetic of a window from outside. Magnetite's optical grade acrylic and Soundtite's clear laminated glass will maintain crystal clear views through your windows. Magnetite's retrofit double glazing systems are an ideal thermal insulation and soundproofing solution for strata unit and heritage-listed property as well as newer, modern buildings. With a range of products, Magnetite can provide the best acoustic and thermal solution for your home or office.

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How Magnetite’s secondary glazing is retrofitted?

Our secondary glazing systems are retrofitted to the inside of existing windowsill, creating optimal air cavity to provide the best results for noise reduction and thermal insulation.

Installation of Magnetite discreet subframe allows an acrylic panel to be magnetically attached to the inside of the existing windowsill. Magnetic seals ensure a secure and airtight seal around the inside of the window, minimising draughts. The new Magnetite retrofit double glazing creates an air cavity between your existing window and your Magnetite panel which acts as an insulation barrier against noise and temperature. Depending on the configuration of the existing window, we can adjust the size of the air cavity to maximise acoustic insulation, thermal insulation or both. Watch how Magnetite works

Similarly, Soundtite secondary glazing system can be designed to slide horizontally or vertically to match your existing sliding window or door. All sashes can be made to slide for ease of cleaning and operation.

Double glaze existing windows in your home or office for soundproofing and year round thermal comfort. Call or email us today for a free window assessment.

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We aim to exceed our customer’s expectation of comfort

At Magnetite, we strive to deliver customer service excellence. This takes the focus off of the product and back to the customers’ problem and solution. While you need a product to solve your acoustic or thermal concerns, it is the delivery of the correct products that ultimately provide the solution and desired expectation.

Our aim is to exceed our customer’s expectation of comfort. Comfort in service, comfort in value, and comfort in performance. We assess your windows and doors, design the best retrofit double glazing solution and deliver the result through a customised installation.

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Magnetite Service and Value = Cost effective Double Glazing

We understand it is important for you to receive reliable, timely and efficient service. Delivering service excellence is built into our processes and it starts with your first contact. We are committed to respond to enquiries within one business day, to help answer your query and book a free, no obligation window assessment. No need to wait all day for a trade. A free in-home assessment is booked with exact times of appointments, so you can plan your day. Our knowledgeable and experienced consultants will arrive within 15 minutes of the time or call to update you on any delays.

Where possible a quote is delivered on the spot or, for more difficult jobs, within a day of the assessment. All quotes are fixed price so you know the final price to expect.

When you decide to go ahead we book in a date for the installation well in advance so you can plan your schedule. All customers are asked for their feedback at the end of the job to help us continue to deliver the best service, which you deserve.

Our commitment to service, combined with our products high performance, ensures we deliver the highest value which means you get a cost-effective double glazing solutions. Improving your existing glazing as opposed to removing existing windows, allows us to offer cost-effective double glazing results without the expense of comparable replacement double glazing windows. Magnetite's double glazing systems are independently tested and proven to deliver the best result for soundproofing and thermal insulation. With over 25 years’ experience in the window industry, you can take comfort that we stand behind our product and support you long after the installation. We commit to this by offering a 7- year warranty on all installations.

We are proud of our success and you can take comfort knowing our recognition and achievements

Service Excellence, Australia Business Awards 2019
Best Use of Windows and Doors in a Commercial Renovation, Australian Window Association Design Awards 2015
Product Excellence, Australian Business Awards 2011
Best Value Product, Australian Business Awards 2009

Convert your existing windows
into energy efficient windows

Double glazing existing windows can improve thermal insulation, making your windows more energy efficient. This means you can save money, by reducing energy bills for heating or cooling. Magnetite retrofit double glazing convert your standard, single glazed window into energy efficient windows without having to replace the existing windows.

Magnetite's solutions will create energy efficient windows in your home or office by enhancing your existing windows performance. Magnetite, retrofit double glazing transform your window into the best energy efficient window for winter performance and can be enhanced with the addition of Solartite, high performance window films, for optimal summer performance.

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6 Star thermal improvement

Magnetite has been independently tested by WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme) to demonstrate an improvement in the window thermal performance by over 70%. Converting your existing windows into energy efficient windows using Magnetite's solutions can dramatically reduce your heating and cooling bills. The magnetic seals eliminate draughts and help maintain a more comfortable and stable indoor temperature reducing the reliance on artificial heating or cooling. This will bring a faster return on investment, allowing you to lower your overheads and reach your savings targets faster.

Magnetite has been designed and developed with government assistance to help improve the sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint of Australia's existing building stock. Our retrofit double glazing is a sustainable investment with no fixed term that offers a range of energy and environmental benefits. We take our commitment to retrofitting and the built environment seriously. Magnetite is a proud member of Ecospecifier, WERS, and has a Green Star accredited professional on the team to provide an industry perspective to our clients. Check out our recent projects on how Magnetite creates building efficiency through the best energy efficiency windows.

Make your windows perform for you and the environment. Call or email us today for a free window assessment.

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Tailor to your needs, ensuring optimal performance and aesthetic

In addition to outstanding performance, the wonderful advantages of Magnetite's retrofit double glazed windows are its convenient and fast installation and that it is custom fit to your window and door for best results.

Your window installation is tailored to suit your needs, ensuring optimal performance and aesthetics. The air cavity is optimised to ensure we maximise the soundproofing, thermal insulation or both. Our custom window systems can be fitted to all types and shapes of windows and doors. Buildings may shift and move over time which means the windows will not be perfectly square. We achieve the best results for you by creating a custom window for your building. Often this will require minor adjustments onsite to ensure the best fit and results.

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Custom made to match your existing windows and door

Our systems are custom made to match your existing glazing function and design. Magnetite window installation can be designed to fit any fixed or moving panel windows including sliding windows, casement windows, double hung windows, awning windows, multi-pane windows, sliding doors and bi-fold doors.

Magnetite comes in three models to choose from to suit your existing windows or doors, the Magnetite Classic - removable panels which is ideal for double hung and timber windows, Magnetite Easyglide which is ideal for sliding windows and ease of use, and Magnetite Slider for larger windows and sliding doors.

Magnetite slimline frame is designed in a range of 6 colours to match any decor. The discreet framing and optical grade acrylic panels of Magnetite maintains the aesthetic of a window.

Soundtite can be designed to slide horizontally or vertically to match the existing aluminium window function and design. It comes in an aluminium frame which can be anodized or powder coated to match your existing aluminium windows.

As a member of the Australian Window Association our window installations comes with a 7-year warranty on workmanship. This warranty extends to our components so you can also be confident that the optical grade acrylic glazing will not yellow or craze and your view and natural light will be maintained.

Double glazing your existing windows and doors for soundproofing and all year round thermal comfort. Call or email us today for a free window assessment.

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Noise Reduction Technical Data and Results

Proven Results

Expert Advice:

National Acoustic Laboratory Testing:

How does heat travel through windows?