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Soundproof An Apartment Like a Pro: 11 Tried and Tested Methods

March 13, 2023
a Soundproofed Apartment Room including lighting bulb, wall arts and some gren plants

Are you living in a city with loud traffic, noisy party-goers, a busy street and loud neighbors? And you still finding how to soundproof an apartment room then you have come to the best place.

According to WHO Environmental Noise Source, In 2011, more than one million healthy life years were lost due to traffic noise pollution in the western part of Europe only.
There are many sources of environmental noise, including road traffic, railway traffic, and air traffic.

Furthermore, noise exposure can occur through a range of sources including wind turbines and listening to loud music, as well as.

Excessive noise can be annoying in addition, research shows that it increases the risk for IHD and hypertension, sleep disturbance, hearing impairment, tinnitus and cognitive impairment, with increasing evidence for other health impacts such as adverse birth outcomes and mental health problems.

Now you know guys, how much important to soundproof an apartment room or Condo. Don't worry we have a solution for soundproofing an apartment room.

soundproofing your apartment room or Condo

But did you know that sound proofing can be a big factor in apartment living. The most difficult part of living like this is not being able to sleep properly.

If you are having a hard time sleeping because of noise coming from your apartment, then it's time to do something about it.

Well, I'll explain how to soundproof an apartment room and how to keep it quiet and peaceful.

So That's why should you read this article, whether you’re living in an apartment or just want to block noise from your home office, soundproofing your apartment room can greatly improve the comfort and value of your space.

Fortunately, it’s not difficult to soundproof an apartment room or small Condo. all you just need are some basic materials, some time and patience, and these seven easy steps.

So Well, Why are you waiting, let's go to get it.

Top Consideration When Soundproofing An Apartment Room

When soundproofing an apartment room. so you need to know some consideration:

  • Decibel Meter: Decibel meters measure sound intensity. The highest number on a decibel meter is typically 160dB and anything over 85dB is considered hazardous to your hearing.
  • Measure Your Room: Before you start soundproofing an apartment room, measure the length and width of room that you want to soundproof so that you know how much material you will need. Then measure how much space there is between the floor and ceiling in each corner of the room so that you will know where to place the foam panels and how many panels you need for each corner. You want these measurements to be as exact as possible so that everything fits together correctly at the end of this process.
  • Identify your weak Spots: Before you start soundproofing, identify all the places that could be weaknesses for noise coming into or going out of your apartment room. Some examples include cracks around doors or windows, vents for appliances, gaps in the wall behind your bed where wires are running from one side of the room to another. You might also have traffic noise from outside or upstairs neighbors stomping around.
  • Don't expect miracles : If you want perfect soundproofing then you're going to need to spend some serious money. There are some affordable options available, but if you want something that will work for the long term then you need to spend more money. You can't just slap up some cheap foam or hang up some heavy curtains and expect everything will be fine.
  • Avoid Thin walls: If possible, avoid building rooms with thin walls because they'll make it easier for sound to pass through them. However, if you don't have a choice, install heavy-duty insulation to block as much sound as possible.
  • Do not use foam rubber: You won't get a good seal from soundproofing your room with foam. It can actually trap more sound than it absorbs, making things worse.
  • Ignore mattresses: People often think that thicker mattresses will help reduce noise levels in their apartment room but this isn’t always true. While heavier mattresses may muffle the sound better, there's no way to tell which type of mattress works best until you test it yourself.
  • Make sure everything is properly installed: If you're using something like acoustic panels then make sure they're hung correctly and sealed off from openings such as electrical outlets, windows or doors. Otherwise, it'll only take one opening for sound to pass through.

If you live in a noisy city like New York, it's hard enough to get a good night's sleep without added noise from the outside. Here are eleven steps that you can take to soundproof your apartment and make sure you'll be able to sleep peacefully at night.

1Install Soundproofing Panels or Curtains

women installing Panels or Curtains
Install Soundproofing Panels or Curtains

Soundproof curtains help reduce noise by an average of 10dB. It can be a bit of an investment, but they are well worth it if you’re really serious about soundproofing your apartment.

The curtains will also serve as decorations and block light from shining through the windows.

In addition to installing soundproof panels or curtains on the inside of windows, keep in mind that exterior walls and windows make up a large part of the outside surface area that is not protected by other means.

You may want to consider adding window films or additional insulation on these areas too.

2Place Rugs, Carpets And Pads On The Floor

round beige and brown wooden table and chair on carpets floor
Place Rugs, Carpets And Pads On The Floor

Place rugs, carpets and pads on the floor. One of the most effective ways of soundproofing a floor is by laying down carpets, rugs or mats.

This will help absorb and deaden any noise that might be coming from your feet or from other sources as you move around.

If you have an area rug, place it under your bed for added protection. Place carpeting in the high-traffic areas such as hallways and staircases.

Recommended reading:Soundproof A Floor Cheaply

3Install Soundproof Window Inserts

handyman installing window frame with drill inhouse
Install Soundproof Window Inserts

If you're planning on hanging out in your apartment a lot, you may want to consider soundproof window inserts.

These window inserts will block outside noise while still allowing fresh air and light into the room.

You can install them yourself with an easy peel-and-stick adhesive strip that's available at most hardware stores.

If you're really not sure about your installation skills, ask a friend for help or hire an expert.

4Soundproof a Bedroom Door

door handle and lock in bedroom
Soundproof a Bedroom Door

Soundproofing a bedroom door is a fairly easy task that can dramatically reduce the sound of outside noise coming into your room.

All you need is a few tools and some time. Follow these steps for how to soundproof an apartment room's door:

  • Measure the width of the doorway or archway leading into your bedroom, then measure and cut acoustic foam panels that are 2 inches taller than this measurement and 2 inches wider than this measurement.
  • Attach the door to the wall by screwing it in place with a drill.
  • Cut a piece of fiberglass insulation board and fit it tightly between the top of the door and the top of your doorway, making sure that there is no space for sound waves to escape through.
  • Drill holes through both sides of the door and install some door sweeps with screws or nails on both sides, which will seal off any cracks that may be letting sound waves in or out.

5Add Bookshelves

brown wooden organizer and bookshelves
Add Bookshelves

Another one way to soundproofing a apartment room, Add bookshelves, which will help control noises from outside your apartment.

Bookshelves can also be great for storing dishes and other knick-knacks.

You’ll still need soundproof curtains and a thick carpet to cover up extra noise. however, bookshelves will definitely help make your apartment quieter.

6Seal doors and windows or any cracks or openings

man sealing and installing window in room
Seal doors and windows or any cracks or openings

Another one way to soundproof an apartment room is by sealing doors and windows or any cracks or openings.

The goal here is to eliminate as much outside noise as possible. For example, you can seal cracks around the window or door with caulk.

You can also use weather stripping on the bottom of a sliding door so that it fits snugly against the frame when closed.

You should not have air gaps between the door's edge and frame when in this position. Seal off vents or other gaps in your walls if there are none present in your home already.

7Soundproofing Apartment Walls & Ceiling

soundproofed apartment walls & ceiling and brown wooden floor
Soundproofing Apartment Walls & Ceiling

Soundproofing an apartment is a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and materials, it can be a simple process. Here are some easy steps for soundproofing your apartment:

  • 1) Decide on the best type of wall material for your room.
  • 2) Seal all seams and joints in the drywall with a good-quality joint compound.
  • 3) Dampen the drywall by using a water-dampened cloth and then apply a thin coat of latex paint or sealant over top.
  • 4) Fill any holes or cracks in the plaster with spackle, then sand them down smoothly.

Recommended reading: Attic Insulation

8Hang Up Wall Art

gray curtain inside white room with hang up wall art
Hang Up Wall Art

The easiest and most cost-effective way to soundproof an apartment room is by hanging up a piece of art.

This will not only increase the amount of surface area in the room, but it will also absorb some sound waves.

The more surfaces you can cover with art, and art that is heavier (so it won’t fall), will help soundproof your room even more.

For people living in a shared building where they cannot hang anything on the walls, there are many different ways to hang art from the ceiling or attach it to the ceiling using velcro strips.

The most important thing to remember about hang art is that it must be heavy enough not fall and land on someone’s head.

9Use Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound

Use Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound
Use Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound

Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound is a sound-deadening material that can be applied in minutes.
It reduces sound transmission through walls, ceilings, and floors by as much as 35 dB. Use Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound as your go-to solution for soundproofing your home or apartment.

  • Step 1: Apply the green glue liberally over the area where you want to reduce noise Apply the green glue liberally over the area where you want to reduce noise.
  • Step 2: Carefully use an old cloth and spread out the adhesive evenly until it becomes dry. The coverage should not exceed three square feet of surface area per one tube of Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound.
  • Step 3: Allow 24 hours for the glue to dry. If you are using a second coat of Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound, allow 48 hours between applications.
  • Final Step: Enjoy your new quiet space.

10Reduce Reflected Noise

Reflected noise is one of the biggest concerns when soundproofing an apartment room. It's caused by sound waves ricocheting off hard surfaces in a room, such as walls and floors.

Here is some tips:

  • Reduce the amount of reflected noise is by adding more soft materials to the room, such as rugs and curtains. These materials will dampen the surface which will keep sound waves from bouncing back.
  • Install a floating floor. This will help you avoid the sound of your footsteps and other noises from being carried through the floorboards.
  • Put up wall-to-wall carpeting. This will absorb sound and make it much more difficult for noise from outside or from other rooms to enter your apartment room.
  • Fill in any cracks in the walls with insulation foam. Remember that these gaps can act as conduits for sound, so make sure you seal them off completely before moving on.
  • Put heavy drapes on your windows. Windows are some of the most common areas where sound from outside enters an apartment room, so adding heavy drapes will help keep out unwanted noise.

11Use Resilient Sound Isolation Clips

Use Resilient Sound Isolation Clips
Credit: amazom.com

Sound travels in many different ways, and it can be a real nuisance when you're trying to sleep, watch TV or have a conversation.

Resilient sound isolation clips are another one of the most effective ways to soundproof an apartment room.

They are very easy to install, too - all you need is some construction adhesive like Loctite Power Grab Construction Adhesive or PL Premium Construction Adhesive.

You can also use them for carpeted floors to stop squeaks that might come from walking on hardwood floors.

Wrap Up On How to Soundproof An Apartment Room

Noise pollution can be a major problem in your apartment. Whether it's from the neighbors upstairs, noisy cars passing by or just the hustle and bustle of everyday life, too much noise can wreck your peace and quiet.

Here are some tips to soundproof an apartment room above, so that you can get your life back and vacuum thoroughly before putting them back in.

It may take more than one go but if you’re persistent, you should eventually find success. You will also want to invest in some quality furniture pads and install new window treatments.

If these steps don't seem like enough for you, speak with your landlord about making improvements to the building.

If they don’t take your concerns seriously, consider moving out and renting elsewhere.

So If you like my effort here please feel free to share this blog post on social media and leave me feedback below. I want to know what you think.
Thank you

Frequently Asked Questions About Soundproof An Apartment Room

What is soundproofing?

The process of dampening or blocking sound from traveling from one area to another, usually through the use of insulation and special materials that don't transmit vibrations well.

How much does it cost to soundproof a apartment room?

It can range anywhere from $400-5000 depending on the size of the apartment room and the type of materials used for installation.

How do I soundproof an apartment room myself?

Unfortunately, The actual process of soundproofing is often simple, but it's rarely pleasant because most of it involves filling up air spaces and blocking possible cracks that let noise through with more solid material like wood or masonry. The best way to get started is by keeping in mind a few basics while shopping around and considering your budget: -You'll need quality materials- If you're on a tight budget and have enough time on your hands, you may be able to find affordable materials like cork board or mineral wool insulation online. and you can also follow our 11 easy steps for soundproofing your apartment room.

How much time will soundproofing an apartment room take?

It depends on how many people are helping you, but most professionals say it can take anywhere from 1-2 days per room.

What can I do if I don't have enough money to soundproof my apartment room?

Unfortunately, It's nearly impossible to soundproof an apartment room on a shoestring budget. so that you can at least lessen the noise level inside.

What should I buy first when soundproofing my apartment room?

Start with a solid floor since that's one of your biggest priorities as far as blocking noise goes. and then move on from there, depending on how much time you have and how much money you want to spend.