Sounds can be an annoyance as they travel through your home at various stages. If it becomes too much of an issue, you may have to hire a contractor to fix the problem. To assist you, here are some common tips to help soundproof your home:
Types of Sound Transmission
Generally, there are two types of sound transmission that you need to alter to soundproof your home.
- Airbourne sound is transmitted during conversations, watching TV, or listening to the radio.
- The other type of sound transmission is impact noise. Examples of impact noise include common sounds you make while walking around your home, opening doors or windows, or dropping something on the floor.
Sound Reduction
While researching soundproof constructions, you’ll need to learn about sound reduction ratings. The efficacy is measured through the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating. The higher the STC rating, the more efficient the system is. Non-insulated walls usually have a poor STC rating. Adding batt insulation can increase the Sound Transmission Class by a few levels. STC ratings around 60 are considered good, and ratings in the 50s are acceptable, provided there aren’t many loud electronics used in the home.
Sound Direction
Sound enters your home through the walls, ceilings, and floors. In some cases, sound may come in due to cracks and mechanical systems. If you have issues with sound in your home, inquire about a commercial general contractor in the bay area.
Soundproofing Walls & Ceilings
There are a few affordable ways that you can help reduce sound transmission throughout your home. Consider insulating your ceilings and walls with mineral wood. Batt insulation is a slightly cheaper option but less durable. You can also opt to install multiple layers of sheetrock on each side of your home. While installing the sheetrock, you can add caulking such as green glue or a seal. If you add resilient channels, that will increase the Sound Transmission Class rating. If you have walls adjacent to high traffic areas, you can install a double wall. The project is expensive and shrinks the room’s floor area, but the STC ratings will rise.
Wall Boards
You can also add wallboards. Wallboards will help reduce sound transmission. Keep in mind, though, that wallboards are more expensive than standard drywall.
Cutting Impact Noise
Heavy carpeting can cut noise from above. You can also install pads and mats to help reduce sound transmission under wood flooring. For a more significant increase to the STC ratings, consider a plywood subfloor installation. There are multiple variations of subfloor layers that you can consider adding.
Other Soundproof Construction Tips to Consider
Opening windows and operating your HVAC system can also add noise to your home. Don’t overlook any scenario when you are moving things around. While you consider hiring a commercial general contractor in the bay area, remember that sound comes through the duct system. Sound-rated doors and windows may also be installed to block sound transmission through those openings. Proper sealing in the walls and floors can reduce noise. Heavy drapes are another option to help block sound around the windows.
Before utilizing any of these soundproof tips, remember that the general effectiveness of the installation depends on adhering to the contractors’ installation procedures. If you have any questions about soundproofing your home, the experts here at Proforma Construction will assist you. We will guide you through the construction process.