Noise pollution findings prompt call for housing providers to prioritise acoustic window upgrades

The European Environment Agency (EEA) has warned that millions of residents across Europe are exposed to harmful noise levels, prompting REHAU to call on housing providers to consider acoustic performance when upgrading or building homes.

According to the Environmental noise in Europe 2025 report, more than one in five Europeans are affected by transport noise, with road traffic identified as the main source. The EEA links prolonged exposure to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, sleep disturbance and impaired cognitive development in children.

REHAU UK’s chief executive officer, Martin Hitchin, said windows play a vital role in protecting residents. “In many regards, windows are the make-or-break component when it comes to keeping out noise,” he said. “This can be a particular challenge for social housing developments, which are often in urban areas where noise levels are higher and many vulnerable people occupy them.”

Government funding is already available to support such upgrades. The £1.29bn Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund is enabling housing associations to deliver energy efficiency improvements including new windows, insulation and heat pumps.

Practical examples show the benefits of acoustic upgrades. In County Durham, homes near a busy road and industrial estate achieved noise reductions of up to 40dB through acoustic glazing and trickle vents. A separate scheme near Heathrow Airport met a 41dB rating by working closely with suppliers to integrate acoustic performance into the retrofit design.

Hitchin said third-party expertise can help housing providers achieve cost-effective solutions that deliver both thermal and acoustic benefits. “Whether upgrading social housing or building new homes, windows are vital to long-term resident health and wellbeing,” he added.