Reasons To Soundproof Walls

Generally there are two reasons why you may want soundproof walls.  The first is that you want to keep unwanted noises out.  For example a neighbors television, the dog down the street, or even your own pool pump or air conditioner can interrupt your sleep making it difficult to be well rested and healthy.  The second reason why you may want soundproof walls is you may actually want to keep noise in.  For example, a young musician in the house wants to practice their instrument without disturbing their siblings.  Or perhaps, you like staying up late to watch TV, but the kids have a hard time sleeping.  Whatever your reason, the techniques listed below are sure to help.

How To Soundproof Walls

Whether you have a noisy neighbor you’d like to hear a little bit less of, or you don’t want to disturb your family when you enjoy you home theater, soundproof walls are the best way to make sure no sound can either enter or escape your room.  Unfortunately soundproofing walls isn’t as simple as throwing on a coat of special paint, or even using a certain type of insulation.  In order to effectively soundproof walls you must utilize several techniques to isolate your walls from the rest of the structure (studs, floor, and ceiling). This is accomplished using several methods, the most popular of which is called resilient channel.  Resilient channel attaches to the studs of your walls and uses as little material as possible to support the drywall on the studs.  Additionally, resilient channel allows you to float soundproof walls so that they do not transfer vibrations from the adjacent walls, floor or ceiling.

Other methods used to soundproof walls include using sound isolating adhesives such as green glue to sandwich two sheets of drywall together to make one thick and soundproof sheet of drywall.  These methods along with using the proper insulation, sealing receptacle outlets, and soundproofing your windows and doors will ensure you can enjoy peace and quiet for years to come.   Click here to read more details instructions about how to soundproof a room.

How Soundproof Walls Are Measured

In order to help us determine if our soundproofing efforts are working, a metric is used called the sound transmission class, to compare different soundproofing materials.  The higher the sound transmission class rating, the better that product will insulate your room from unwanted noise.  The average interior wall has an STC rating of just over 40 if well insulated, however using a few of the techniques above you can increase your rating to 60 or higher.  It is generally accepted that most noises are inaudible through soundproof walls with an STC rating of 50 or higher.