The main thing you have to do is to block or cover the areas that sound is traveling in from. This can be spaced from the bottom and tops of the doors and windows. Also, fix down or mount shaky items. The roof is a tricky area if you’re trying to block out noise from the top. The floor is much easier to deal with and doesn’t require much effort. Of course, the thickness of the walls plays a big part. Empty spaces that are opposite to where the sound is traveling in from need to be covered. You could add additional layers which can be costly and require a lot of work.
Some people prefer the sound of loudspeakers or maybe you just can’t get used to headphones. If you’re living in close proximity to others then your loud music can become a sore point for your neighbors. Maybe you’re on the other side of a noisy neighbor and want to get some peace and quiet. Or when you’re recording sound maybe recording a video for your channel you quickly realize that the noise around you that you don’t pay any attention to can be picked up on your recordings and no one wants that.
If you’re renting an apartment like I am you’re not going to want to spend much money on soundproofing or maybe you’re just looking at a cost-effective way of deadening outside noise. Here are a few things you can do to get some quite quickly and easily.
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Start from the ground up
One of these is getting and installing a door sweep. It’s not only great to block out noise but it also insulates the room better which can save you a ton on your heating bill. It’s also inexpensive and usually really easy to fit in. There are also a variety of types you can choose from as long as they are thick enough for blocking out the sound. You can also seal the edge of the door or gasket the frame to create an airtight lock. This is easily achieved with rubber or foam strips that are self-adhesive and placed around the inside where the door meets the frame.
Next, the windows…
The next thing to look at is the windows. Check for gaps to see if there is any airflow or drafts. Sometimes even sealing the smallest crack can make the difference. If the windows are not closing properly or you find cracks you should use acoustic caulk as a sealant to fill those gaps. Also, check the frame of the window itself as the gaps may be between the wall and the window frame.
Blackout curtains can make a huge difference. You can use these on the window or anywhere in the room to muffle out any outside sounds. Try position these against the walls that the sound is coming in from. These can cost from $30 upwards. The nice thing is you can take these with you when you leave.
The walls
Soundproofing a wall should be approached as a management process where you can use different methods and materials to achieve the desired result. Using a combination of methods may be more practical than just focusing on one. Creating an air-tight seal, adding mass, and isolating your walls can be done to deal with the sound coming through.
Furniture can be used to block out the sound that travels through the walls. Overstuffed couches are the most effective but any sofa you have can be used. The right position can make this more effective so if possible place your furniture against the wall from where the sound is traveling in through.
A well-placed bookshelf stacked with your favorite books does wonders in blocking out the sound. It really makes a big difference and if you have a home office you’re probably going to need some space for your books anyway.
Wall hangings that are thick can serve more than just a decorative purpose. These can make a great addition to your soundproofing artillery. The more weight you have the better the absorption of unwanted outside sounds. Place these against any blank spaces on the walls. You could use blankets to serve the same purpose.
Through the floor
If you are getting noise traveling through the floor then a thick rug with felt lining can make the room just that extra bit quieter. Of course, this is less effective if you have concrete floors but for wooden floors and neighbors below you, this can make the difference. Every bit counts and improves your peace and quiet.
Recording
If you’re setting up your room for recording then an isolation shield is a must. This will help you block out unwanted sound picked up by your microphone. They’re not very big and usually sit on your desk with your microphone in the center or you could put them on a stand. Preferably a speaker stand does the trick if you’re going to be standing. Try and get a fold-up one which can save you space when you’re not using it just fold it up and pack it away. They cost around $60 for a decent quality one.