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Is the noise from Ottawa’s bustling streets, busy neighborhoods, or nearby construction sites creeping into your home? Whether you’re working remotely, raising little ones, or simply craving a little peace and quiet, outside noise can quickly turn your sanctuary into a source of stress. 

The good news? You don’t need a complete renovation to enjoy a quieter home. With the right soundproof window coverings, you can transform your space into a calm, more comfortable retreat — all without compromising on style.

Let’s walk through how soundproof window coverings work, which types offer the best results, and how you can choose the right fit for your Ottawa home.

How Do Window Coverings Reduce Noise?

Windows are the most vulnerable spots in your home when it comes to letting in sound. Glass is thin and offers little resistance to sound waves. But when you install specially designed window treatments, they act like noise-canceling cushions—absorbing sound and reducing the echo that makes rooms feel chaotic.

Just as soft furnishings like rugs and upholstered furniture help quiet a space, window coverings can make a dramatic difference to how much noise you hear.

Best Window Coverings For Soundproofing

Not every window covering is made with noise reduction in mind. If you're serious about blocking out sound, you'll want to focus on options that do more than just look good—they should function as an effective barrier against noise.

Honeycomb (Cellular) Shades

These shades are uniquely built with small air pockets (like a honeycomb), which help trap air and reduce sound transfer. Their structure makes them a solid choice for sound insulation and thermal efficiency.

Best For:

• Home offices
  
• Bedrooms
  
• High-rise apartments facing busy streets
  

Blackout Shades

While they're primarily designed to block light, blackout shades also add a dense fabric barrier that muffles sound. They're not 100% soundproof, but they can noticeably reduce noise levels.

Best For:

• Media rooms
  
• Nurseries
  
• Day sleepers and shift workers
  

Heavy Curtains Or Drapes

The heavier the fabric, the better it performs in sound absorption. Opt for multi-layered curtains or rich materials like velvet and suede for the best results. Want more sound control? Combine them with blinds underneath.

Pro Tip: Floor-to-ceiling curtains that extend beyond the width of your window offer the best coverage and noise reduction.

Ideal For:

• Living rooms
  
• Shared walls in condos
  
• Older homes with drafty windows
  

Interior Shutters

Made from wood or faux-wood, shutters form a rigid shield over your window, reducing sound vibrations. They're a great choice if you're looking for a clean, minimal look with acoustic benefits.

Best For:

• Front-facing rooms
  
• Libraries or studies
  
• Stylish yet functional design needs
  

Can Window Coverings Really Help Block Sound?

Absolutely. While no window covering can completely eliminate outside noise, the right product can significantly reduce it—especially when used in combination. Considering windows are one of the largest openings in any room, adding an insulating layer over them goes a long way in cutting down on sound infiltration.

Where Should You Use Soundproof Window Coverings?

Think about areas where peace and quiet matter most:

• Bedrooms – for uninterrupted sleep
  
• Home offices – for better focus during meetings or work
  
• Media rooms – for immersive sound experiences
  
• Nurseries – to keep babies calm and well-rested
  

Best Combo For Maximum Sound Control

If you're really looking to step up your noise-blocking game, layering is key. Using multiple treatments together creates a stronger barrier between your home and the outside world.

Top Recommendation:

 Cellular Shades + Heavy Blackout Curtains

Why it works:

• Cellular Shades trap air in their pockets, reducing sound and enhancing insulation.
  
• Blackout Curtains use thick, densely woven fabric to muffle sound and block light.
  

When used together, they not only dampen external noise but also prevent echoes and reduce sound bouncing around inside your room. For best results, install curtains that extend beyond the window frame and reach from ceiling to floor.

This combination is ideal for:

• Downtown condos
  
• Suburban homes near busy roads
  
•  Homes with shared walls

Quiet Comfort Starts With The Right Window Treatments

Ready to reclaim the peace and quiet in your Ottawa home? At Sun Blinds, we specialize in window coverings that look beautiful and perform even better.
If you're looking for high-quality, stylish, and effective window blinds in Ottawa, our expert team is here to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. From energy-efficient honeycomb shades to luxurious blackout drapes and classic shutters, we offer solutions tailored to your space, your style, and your noise concerns.

Read More: Window Coverings That Work For Coastal Living In Canada