About DIY Soundproofing

If you are planning a DIY soundproofing project, you need to consider the type of space you are soundproofing and the materials needed for the project. There is a vast difference between muffling sound from a basement and a bedroom, and you will need to remove every possible method of sound traveling in order to prevent sound bleeding.

Basement Soundproofing

A basement can be an excellent entertainment area for a home. Not only does the underground location provide a retreat from the rest of the house, but also naturally muffles sound.

However, the underground location of the basement does not prevent sound from large screen televisions and surround sound stereo systems from flowing upstairs through upper level floors. Additionally, basements used for music practice can result in drums and instrument noise leaking through windows, doorways or other places without adequate sound proof insulation.

1. Doors

One way to insulate against sound is to pad the doors leading to the basement. This includes installing foam padding on both sides of the door. The door should be a solid core door rather than a less expensive hollow core door.

2. Windows

Many basements have small casement windows installed to allow light into the rooms. Unfortunately, they also allow sound to leak outside. Seal all windows with caulk to prevent noise from seeping outside. For additional soundproofing, cover the windows entirely with either a sound mat or with acoustical ceiling tiles.

3. Ceiling

One way to prevent sound from leading through the floor joists above is to drop the ceiling and install acoustical ceiling tiles on a suspended grid system. Sound mats can also be installed between the floor and the dropped ceiling for additional sound proofing, along with additional insulation for heat retention and as a sound barrier.

4. Flooring

Carpet is also another way to muffle sound from a basement. By reducing sound bounce, the sound remains contained within the room and the basement becomes quieter and more contained.

Bedroom Soundproofing

All of the same methods of soundproofing a basement can be utilized to control noise in a bedroom. However, these additional suggestions can also be utilized.

1. Windows

There are several different methods to control sound that may seep from a ground- or upper-level window. These methods include installing a double- or triple-pane window to replace a single pane window. Not only will noise from the inside of the house be reduced, but also outside noise to the inside of the house will be reduced.

Another method to control noise via windows is to install an acoustical noise-dampening plastic film to window glass. This material prevents sound from transmitting through the glass.

Sound control windows are another way to soundproof a bedroom. These windows have a frame that blocks sound, and they also are sealed to prevent sound leakage.

2. Walls

Another method to soundproof a bedroom is to install sound mats on the walls. Sound mats can be placed over walls as wall padding. Alternatively, cork can be placed on walls, which will prevent noise from traveling through the walls. Additionally, sound blocks can be installed in wall framing to break up noise and prevent noise travel.