The role of glass in acoustic comfort: Interview with Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain
Date: April 30, 2025
Acoustic comfort in the spaces we live and work in is no longer a luxury but a necessity. In an increasingly noisy world, having effective sound insulation solutions is key to protect our health, improve concentration and enhance the quality of life.
Aware of this reality, from Deceuninck Academia Colombia we have created spaces for training and conversation around this fundamental issue. In one of our most recent sessions, we delved into the role of enclosure materials in the creation of quiet and comfortable environments, with special emphasis on glass as the protagonist of sound insulation.
Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain, as a co-sponsor of the Deceuninck Academy in Colombia, played a key role in addressing the importance of glass in acoustic insulation. Today we spoke with Juan Carlos Cabra, Project Specification Manager at Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain, to learn more about his experience and the impact of glass on the acoustic comfort of spaces.
How was the experience of Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain in participating in the Deceuninck Academy and what were the main lessons learned about acoustics in glass?
These spaces have always been a great opportunity for Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain to share knowledge from the glass industry, but at the same time, continue learning from customers and the market. I think one of the main lessons we shared is that the STADIP glass (laminated) has a great contribution in sound insulation and will be a key element to support initiatives on noise issues in different regions of the country and now specifically with the Decree 582 for Bogota.
How do Deceuninck PVC systems complement acoustic glazing to improve comfort in spaces?
As I mentioned in the previous point, glass alone does not guarantee acoustic insulation, it must be accompanied by a good profiling and installation. The glass / PVC solution offers acoustic comfort in each of the spaces, generating important productivity benefits for the inhabitants, in Residential, Institutional, Commercial projects, etc.
What are the key characteristics that a glass must have to ensure good acoustic insulation in construction projects?
1. STADIP (laminated) glass is more effective for sound insulation.
2. The double glazing (DVH) is effective in acoustic insulation, as long as at least one of its faces is composed of STADIP glass (laminated).
3. Hermetic sealing: It is important to keep in mind that glass alone does not guarantee acoustic properties, it has to be accompanied by a good frame and a good installation.
4. Sound Insulation Rating (Rw): Look for glass with a high sound insulation rating (Rw), which is measured in decibels (dB). A higher Rw indicates better sound insulation.
When selecting a glass for acoustic insulation, it is important to consider the specific needs of your project and consult with an acoustical expert or an Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain specifier to determine the best option.
“Remember that not all projects have the same conditions and needs.”.
What are the main challenges and trends in the use of acoustic glazing in modern architecture?
* Generation of mandatory regulations to ensure the welfare of people.
* On our part (Industry) to support builders, architects, engineers, consultants, etc.. in the correct specification of products.
* Promote the use of certified materials in terms of product quality and specifications.
* The pandemic has taught us that we should be more concerned about the well-being of people in the spaces we occupy, and the end consumer will increasingly demand that builders provide good specifications for the materials used.
* Surely, just as tax benefits are currently generated for projects that demonstrate sustainability issues, energy efficiency, etc., in the future it could be considered that projects that meet these types of acoustic requirements, could be subject to this type of relief.
Acoustic comfort is an essential component in contemporary architecture, not only for its immediate benefits on quality of life, but also for its contribution to healthier, more productive and sustainable environments. The participation of Vidrio Andino Saint-Gobain in the Deceuninck Colombia Academy allowed to deepen the contributions of laminated glass and DVH systems in noise mitigation, as well as the importance of proper specification and installation to ensure optimal results.
From Deceuninck, we reaffirm our commitment to training and promoting solutions that respond to the new demands of the modern habitat. We will continue to work hand in hand with experts, strategic allies and the industry to move towards a conscious construction, where acoustic insulation is not an option, but a standard of well-being.
To learn more about Vidrio Andino Satint-Gobain visit www.vidrioandino.com
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