We live in a Victorian terrace in West London (Chiswick).

We recently moved in and find the aircraft noise (we're under Heathrow flight path) very noisy.

We have wooden sash windows. I'd like to replace them with something that retains the original look but reduces noise (as well as being more energy efficient).

Noise reduction is my main concern.

Dear Will,

Our double glazing comes with acoustic sealed glass units as standard. This spec is achieved by using different thicknesses of glass, including laminated, and is quite adequate for normal use.

We can also offer a "super" version of this spec using extra thick "barrier" glass.

However, aircraft noise is amongst the most penetrative with severe peaks of noise. So in addition you may wish to add a secondary skin on the inside, creating a sealed air gap several inches thick. This could be comfortable, for example, in the bedrooms. This second skin is quite discreet, normally with a frame hidden behind curtains.

There are offices at Heathrow right by the take-off point, which are so "sound proofed" that the aircraft noise is unnoticeable, so the noise problem can be solved, however severe. Simply, the correct spec should be chosen to match the problem.

Your local estimator can advise.

Yours sincerely

John