Soundproofing A Room. A Simple Guide

Soundproofing a Room: How to Make Your Home Quieter and More Peaceful

There are countless ways in which unwanted noise can intrude on your home. Whether it’s the constant roar of planes overhead from a nearby airport, the rumble of passing trains, or simply the daily disturbances caused by noisy neighbours, these distractions can disrupt your comfort and peace of mind.

If you’re fortunate enough to live in your dream home, the last thing you want is for it to be spoiled by persistent noise pollution. Fortunately, soundproofing a room is an effective solution that can drastically reduce external and internal noise, without the need for drastic measures like moving house.

Before you get started with any soundproofing installation, it’s important to assess the key areas where sound tends to enter or escape. Here’s a breakdown of where to focus your attention and how to address each one:

Windows Soundproofing

Windows are one of the most common entry points for external noise. If your property still features single glazed windows, you’ll likely notice how poorly they perform in terms of sound insulation. Upgrading to double glazing is one of the most effective ways to start soundproofing a room, as it can significantly reduce the level of noise that gets inside.

Double glazed windows typically have a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating between 28 and 35, compared to just 20 for single-glazed windows. The higher the STC rating, the better the sound insulation.

If replacing your windows is outside your current budget, consider alternatives such as soundproof curtains or window inserts, which are designed to improve acoustic performance without requiring full window replacement.

Door Soundproofing

Doors are another key weak spot when it comes to noise intrusion. Many standard internal or external doors allow sound to pass through gaps or thin panels with ease. Upgrading to solid-core or specially designed acoustic doors can be a game-changer when soundproofing a room.

High-quality acoustic doors can reduce noise by between 34 and 55 decibels, depending on the materials used and the installation method. To maximise results, be sure to seal any gaps around the door frame using acoustic seals or door sweeps.

Wall Soundproofing

Walls can be surprisingly thin in many modern or older homes, often allowing noise to travel freely between rooms. This not only disrupts your privacy but can also make relaxation nearly impossible in certain parts of the house.

One effective way to reduce this problem is by adding extra layers of acoustic plasterboard or using resilient channels and insulation behind new drywall layers. The thicker and more dense the materials, the better they will be at absorbing and blocking sound. For more comprehensive results, consider a complete wall soundproofing solution, especially in shared walls or party walls in terraced or semi-detached homes.

Additional Soundproofing Tips

While windows, doors, and walls are the most obvious areas to address, there are a few more steps you can take when soundproofing a room:

Floor Soundproofing: Use thick carpets, underlays, or acoustic floor insulation to reduce impact noise and airborne sound between floors.
Ceiling Soundproofing: If you’re dealing with noise from above, such as loud footsteps or dropped objects, ceiling soundproofing solutions can help.
Acoustic Panels: Installing acoustic wall panels can help absorb sound and reduce echo within a room, which is especially useful in home offices or studios.

Conclusion: Create a Calmer, Quieter Home

If you’re happy with your home’s location and layout, there’s no need to let noise drive you to consider moving. With some thoughtful investment in soundproofing a room, you can transform your living space into a peaceful sanctuary, free from the intrusion of unwanted noise.

Whether you start small with acoustic curtains or go all-in with structural enhancements, every step you take toward reducing noise will bring you closer to a more comfortable, tranquil home life.

If you’d like help selecting the right solution for your space, feel free to get in touch with our soundproofing specialists at Acoustic Supplies – we’re always here to help.