As the city of Melbourne emerges out of lockdown, noise in the inner suburbs has been increasing dramatically with traffic resuming back to normal. Over the past 18 months, Melburnians have become used to quiet streets, short travel times, and an overall ‘sound-proofed’ life. This increased quietness has allowed people to achieve better sleep quality, relaxation, and enjoy ‘quarantining’ at home (for the most part). 

Research shows that lockdown traffic would have been up to 70% less than it was pre-pandemic, meaning the total amount of noise from roads was significantly lower. Air traffic was also down by approximately 70%, meaning those who lived close to airports or under flight paths have enjoyed a quieter home for the past 18 months.  

While most residents are enjoying their re-found freedoms, many still wish parts of lockdown such as the low noise levels and shorter commuting times remained.

Shutterstock photo ID: 1102636463

 

Noise Levels Post-Lockdown

While accurate noise data comparing lockdown levels against normal living is not readily available, it's abundantly clear that noise has increased significantly. Those that live around busy nightlife areas such as Fitzroy, Carlton, and Prahran are experiencing steep increases in noise with clubs and bars reopening into the late hours of the night. Many in the northern parts of Melbourne and inner-city areas are seeing an increasing number of planes flying overhead. And, while much of Melbourne begins the commute to work again or attending more social activities, many properties with front-facing windows to major roads are victims to the noise of frustrated commuters.

Why Low Noise is Important

Low noise levels play an important part in rest and relaxation.

Coming out of lockdown can be a stressful process as everything suddenly springs back to normal, tasks quickly pile up, and combined with the Christmas mayhem work feels like it is in overdrive. It's important to be able to switch off properly after a busy day without having to hear the revving engines and honking horns from tired commuters outside your home.

Many studies have shown a significant relationship between higher levels of stress caused by noise and the effects on someone's long-term health. Investing in sound-reducing solutions cannot be understated both for your physical health and peace of mind. For this reason, it’s important to take proactive steps to reduce noise and soundproof your home.

Proactive Steps to Reduce Noise

There are many methods of reducing the amount of noise in your home. Earplugs are one of the easiest methods to combat the increasing noise in Melbourne, however, it may be uncomfortable and could potentially damage your ears.

The most effective method of reducing noise levels and increasing property value is to install double-glazed window solutions. By retrofitting your existing windows with another pane, the noise levels reduce significantly within the entire house. Testing shows that noise reduction could be up to 70% through the window. Magnetite’s unique retrofit double glazed window systems can effectively soundproof your windows by creating an air gap that prevents noise from entering your home. The best part about Magnetite retrofit double glazed windows is that it is quick to install and more cost-effective than replacing your window with new double-glazed windows.

Magnetite also offers a more traditional secondary aluminium window solution, Soundtite which is perfect for soundproofing homes with existing aluminium sliding windows or doors. t The Soundtite soundproofing solution allows homeowners to install an additional aluminium window internal to their existing window to reduce noise.

Soundtite comes with acoustic glass and acoustic seals for the best soundproofing solution. The unwanted noise that comes through windows and doors can be greatly reduced, with minimal change to the aesthetics and window functionality. Soundtite is available in various glass thicknesses depending on the level of soundproofing required.

Speak to our friendly Magnetite Melbourne team today and receive a free quote for installing a soundproofing window solution in your home today to regain that lockdown quietness.

Rate this item
(0 votes)
Magnetite Australia

Magnetite Australia is specialises in providing acoustic and thermal insulation for existing windows and doors. Our double glazing systems have been independently tested by the National Acoustic Laboratories and the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) in line with National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) regulations.

As Seen on:
Selling Houses Australia
AGWA Certified
AGWA 2020 Member
Energy Certified
Partner WERS
Product Review Award
PRAlogo
Business Award
Business Award