Improve the soundproofing of your home
Wouldn’t it be a relief to be able to relax at home without being disturbed by your teenage son’s latest musical achievements on his electric guitar or the construction work down the street? Good news: it is possible for the home renovator to soundproof a home and improve these unpleasant situations.
Before redoing all your walls and ceilings, be sure to check and see if your doors and windows are draught-proof: if air can get in so can sound. If you decide to change any windows, be sure to choose energy-efficient models. Ensure that the space between the frame and the wall is well insulated. Finally, install good quality draught-proofing around the windows, doors, and on doorsteps.
If your walls are thin or were built with resonating materials you could first try covering them with soundproofing materials, such as cork panels or acoustic foam stapled to the walls. These can be painted in order to harmonize them with the existing decor.
Maximum soundproofing means extensive renovations. Drywall will have to be removed and the spaces between the exposed beams filled with insulating wool at least 6 cm thick. Excellent results can be obtained by applying an acoustic sealant between each panel. You can also use high-quality acoustic panels that should be installed inside interior as well as exterior walls.
If the principal cause of noise is the sound of footsteps, think first about installing two layers of gypsum as well as a subfloor and an acoustic sealant. You won’t hear a thing for years to come!
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