There are many reasons to soundproof a room. Maybe you want to set up a recording studio and need to block outside noise. Maybe you want to set up a home theatre with full surround sound and you need to keep the noise in.
To fully soundproof a room isn’t cheap and can mean remodeling part of your home. If you want to try some easier DIY options, check out these tips.
Windows
Most of the sound from outside comes in from the window. You can block a lot of sound by hanging heavy-duty soundproof curtains or heavy curtains with liners.
You can also block noise by using an adhesive sealing tape around the inner frame of the window. This will prevent sound from passing through any cracks or gaps where the window meets the frame.
Another option is to use a window insert. This is a pane of glass or acrylic that fits over the existing window and creates an airtight seal. You won’t be able to open the window anymore, but some inserts are designed to pop out if you only want to use them temporarily.
Doors
Doors are another major source of noise. If you can hear people talking outside while you are inside your lounge room, you probably have a large gap under your door that allows sound transmission. Try installing a door sweep and you will see a big difference.
If you have a room set aside for being noisy, like a home theatre, you can hang soundproof curtains over the door. This a quick and easy fix that can stop a lot of sound from getting in or out.
If you have internal doors with a large gap under them, use a draft stopper. There are some nice ones that fit under the door so they block air from both sides, and they remain under the door when it’s opened or closed.
Walls
To soundproof your walls the best way is to fill them with sound-dampening insulation and cover them with drywall.
This can be a big job. An easier method is hanging acoustic panels. These are boards of fabric that you hang on the wall to absorb sound.
You can also get acoustic foam panels that stick onto the wall if you want something more permanent.
If you want a multi-purpose room that can be used to block sound or entertain, then consider putting up bookcases on the open walls. This creates extra thickness that absorbs sounds and blocks noise from outside. It also gives you the benefit of a home library.
If you want a really quick fix, you can cover the walls with hanging rugs or even blankets. Hard surfaces reflect sound, so covering them with any absorbent material will help dampen sound.
Floors
Hardwood floors reflect sound waves and amplify noise so use a thick rug to dampen the effect. You can increase the sound absorption of a rug by putting a thick density pad underneath. This provides an extra layer of insulation between the rug and the floor which helps keep the room quiet.
If you have speakers or a TV sitting directly on the floor, you can place vibration insulation pads underneath or just put them on mounts. This will prevent vibration from travelling through the floor and carrying noise to your neighbours.
