Oral Answer by Ministry of National Development on installing double glazed windows for flats near MRT lines and busy roads
Aug 18, 2015
Mr Arthur Fong: To ask the Minister for National Development whether HDB will consider
(a) installing double glazed windows for the bedrooms of flats that are to be built near MRT lines, expressways or busy trunk roads leading to and from expressways;
(b) retrofitting existing bedroom casement windows to double glazed windows; and
(c) including the retrofitting programme for flats built near noisy junctions or roads with heavy traffic.
Answer:
HDB flats are designed to allow for natural ventilation through open windows. HDB’s single glazed windows would reduce noise, when the windows are closed, although this reduces natural ventilation as well. We have no plan to retrofit HDB flats with double glazed windows as it is not necessary.
When planning HDB towns/estates, HDB would conduct noise modelling, with a view to locate and orientate the buildings in such a way as to help minimise noise to dwelling units. For example, multi-storey car parks would be located between blocks and MRT line/expressway to act as a noise buffer.
Residents who wish to install double glazed windows as an added measure, can apply to HDB and BCA for evaluation.