Glass partitions can enhance natural lighting and visual contact between workspaces; however, as the level of transparency increases, so does noise pollution, which could severely hinder productivity. The good news is that soundproofing glass cubicles does not necessarily compromise the aesthetics.

In this article, we look at how soundproofing can achieve the balance between privacy and transparency for your sliding glass cubicles.

Soundproofing Your Glass Cubicle

There are plenty of techniques available to preserve the visual and spatial benefits of glass dividers, adapted in conjunction with the noise pollution and privacy problems. Please see below for a few soundproofing methods:

1.    Install Acoustic Glass Panels

What it is:

Acoustic glass is specially formulated to minimize sound transmission. This type of glass is often laminated with a special interlayer that absorbs sound and impedes its ability to pass through.

Benefits:

• Cancellation of background noise and conversation not related to the work environment for employees.
• Enhances the soundproofing properties while still offering clear views to the outdoors.
• May be provided in the first-ever construction or after initial builds.

2.    Apply Soundproofing Film or Laminate

What it is:

Sound proof films or laminates are applied to glass partitions. This thin, clear layer helps to absorb sound so that the transmission of noise between cubicles is diminished.

Benefits:

• A cost-effective alternative to replacing glass panels entirely.
• Works very well for the reduction of mid to high frequency noises.
• Does not change the look of cubicles.
• Easy to apply.

3.    Incorporate Fabric or Soft Materials 

What it is:

Adding soft acoustic tiles or sound-absorbing wall coverings around glass cubicles can help diminish sound reverberation and block noise.

Benefits:

• Soft materials like felt, wool, and acoustic foam are excellent at sound absorption.
• It could be placed behind glass walls or on top of the ceiling to reduce noise from neighbouring cubicles or shared spaces.

4.    Seal Gaps and Edges

What it is:

Edges and gaps that occur between glass panels, doors, and even the frame of the cubicle can create sound leakage. Sealing these with special soundproofing seals or using acoustic caulk can seal these breaches.

Benefits:

• Ensures there is no sound leakage from the gaps, which is critical in an office setup which is densely packed office setup.
• Quick and easy to apply, an inexpensive way to improve sound insulation.

5.    Utilize White Noise Machines or Sound Masking Systems

What it is:

White noise machines, or integrated sound masking systems, produce a steady background noise that drowns out other distracting sounds.

Benefits:

• Equalizes noise in open-plan offices and decreases the intelligibility of speech.
• It can be adjusted to the frequency that is most effective for your office and home.

Conclusion

Glass cubicles give the office a sleek, modern feel, but the combination of glass and cubicles means fighting a privacy battle as well as an acoustic one. Consider acoustic glass and laminated glass, soft finish materials, sound-masking systems, and soundproofing materials, all to ensure that your glass office partitions work effectively and are visually appealing.

With the implementation of voice reduction measures here and there, your office can remain partially transparent to privately housed, more productive, and comfortable.