How to Soundproof a Room for professional musicians and dubbers who need perfect room soundproofing environments. Soundproofing is, in many cases, a must: to get along with the neighbors – and avoid disturbing them with amplifiers, fitness equipment, and other annoying sounds – and to find the right concentration in the home office. What are the affordable and efficient methods for room soundproofing? Find out if and when you can opt for DIY.
Soundproofing Techniques
Multiple solutions exist to shield an environment from external noise and prevent the spread of internal sounds. The choice depends on the budget and the specific need: is the goal to protect privacy or avoid neighborhood disputes? Shield the sound of the electric guitar or the vibrations produced by the DJ set? Let’s explore how to soundproof a room and the required materials, depending on the specific case.
Insulate doors and windows- Pay attention, first of all, to the fixtures and try to “plug” every possible crack. For the door, you can use a simple draft excluder or a wooden shim. If you want, you can use sound-absorbing curtains to insulate the windows or, even better, install high-performance seals and glass.
Use insulating panels- How to soundproof a room without spending a fortune? The cheapest option is to install acoustic panels in full view. Depending on the use – walls, floor, or ceiling – they will have different characteristics and costs.
Make a double partition- This technique essentially consists in building a double wall against the wall and is particularly suitable for soundproofing the bedroom. However, it is a rather demanding and expensive masonry work.
Use furniture to soundproof- A quick way to insulate a room at no cost is to place shelves, bookcases, sofas, and other furniture in strategic places. Creating extra thickness along the walls – and at the corners of the room – allows you to deaden sounds (of course, without providing complete sound insulation).
What materials to use?
Did you ask your friend how to soundproof a room and he suggests you use egg cartons to soundproof the rehearsal room? Unless your goal is solely to correct echo – and to attenuate reverb – you’d better choose reliable materials: here’s an overview of the most used.
Drywall- Plasterboard panels are by far one of the most popular solutions for room soundproofing. Plasterboard sheets are also available in a coupled version with materials characterized by specific performance, such as rock wool: widely used in construction for acoustic and thermal insulation of internal walls, thanks also to its fireproof properties.
Polyurethane- This material is also used to make the classic adhesive panels, available in DIY stores. Another option is polyethylene foam plates. In general, sponge and resin sound-absorbing panels are useful for shielding medium-high frequencies. For the acoustic correction of low frequencies, on the other hand, it is possible to use the so-called bass traps to be installed in the corners.
Wood and cork- Both are natural and ecological materials: it is the winning choice for those who are attentive to the environment and to their own well-being. Wood, in particular, allows valuable applications from an aesthetic point of view and, in addition to being very breathable, boasts excellent performance in terms of climate regulation.
Soundproofing a room: where to intervene
Are you tired of hearing the trampling coming from upstairs? Do you like organizing noisy parties and don’t want to spoil your neighbors’ sleep? Here are some suggestions for how to soundproof a room for various parts of the room.
The ceiling- The neighbor who walks in heels is a great classic: unless you force her to install a soundproofing carpet to effectively insulate the ceiling, you will have to contact – needless to deny it – a specialized company. If the goal is to muffle sounds a bit and improve the acoustics of the room, you can opt for decorative sound-absorbing panels, which come in various colors, shapes, and materials. In the case of environments with high ceilings, among the possible design applications – in addition to the panels installed in adherence – there are the so-called suspended double-sided “baffles”.
The floor- Do you love training with the rowing machine or the treadmill? It is very likely that your passion for fitness is not appreciated by the neighbors, especially in the evening. How to soundproof the floor in a do-it-yourself version? A “smart” way is to use an anti-vibration rubber mat similar to those used in the gym. Alternatively, you can use super-compact antibacterial cork. A more professional method is to install the soundproofing mat between two plasterboard panels: even in this case, however, it is advisable to consult a professional.
The walls- As we have seen, one of the most valid solutions for insulating the walls is to commission the bricklayer to build a double partition. Obviously, there is no shortage of cheaper options: such as the application of pyramid-shaped adhesive sound-absorbing panels (or “turtle”). Ready to use, they are very simple to shape, lay, and remove if necessary: green light to do it yourself!
Why rely on professionals?
Relying on professionals for room soundproofing is crucial to achieving optimal results. Professionals have the expertise, knowledge, and experience to assess your specific needs and recommend the most effective solutions. They understand the intricacies of sound transmission and can accurately identify the weak points in your room. Professionals can provide high-quality materials and precise installation techniques and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. DIY methods may fall short in providing the desired level of sound insulation and may waste time, effort, and resources. With professionals, your soundproofing project is in capable hands, ensuring a quiet and comfortable space.
Winding it up
Finally, how to soundproof a room is vital for reasons like neighbor relations, privacy, and a suitable environment. Opting for professional assistance is highly recommended for achieving effective results, despite the availability of DIY options. Professionals have the expertise and resources to provide superior sound insulation and enhance privacy levels. Their knowledge and experience can make a significant difference in creating a space that meets your specific needs and preferences. By relying on professionals, you can maximize the benefits of soundproofing and enjoy a quieter and more peaceful environment.
