Soundproofing room can be DIY project or pro job

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There are several reasons you might want to soundproof a room in your home.

Perhaps you like being able to run a big sound system or you perform music that might annoy your neighbors (or family) if it got too loud. Maybe you just want to watch sports at full volume.

Whatever the case, you have multiple soundproofing strategies that can reduce vibrations, plug sound leaks and absorb noise.

Soundproofing works both ways. If you have a lot of ambient outside noise, a nearby airport or train track, or even loud family members who stomp on the stairs, these methods can make your space more peaceful and quiet.

Some DIY solutions are fairly basic and inexpensive methods to slow down sound. You can also professionally soundproof to give the best sound quality inside your space and promote domestic tranquility outside it.

DIY soundproofing A number of simple methods can scale back noise. Sound travels in a wave, though not quite like water. Different frequencies vibrate in different ways; when sound strikes floors, walls and ceilings, it then vibrates the air beyond them. And of course, it travels very well through unimpeded air. So you have two goals: seal up gaps and find ways to absorb the sound as it strikes surfaces.

You can purchase acoustic sealant from a hardware store and apply it to any gaps between your lighting fixtures, door casings and switch boxes. Just as caulk prevents air loss, this sealant keeps sound from sneaking through easy gaps.

Rugs, carpets and drapes will dampen noise. If you have a hardwood floor, simply adding a new rug or carpet will reduce sound travel and tie the room together.

If you want to try a solution that takes a bit more effort, add an extra layer of drywall to the room. Drywall is a dense material that stops noise, so it’s an ideal soundproofing solution.

Professional soundproofing

Soundproofing a room costs an average of $1,700. Most jobs cost between $1,000 and $2,400. The size of the room, the quality of the materials and the desired final look all affect the price. Ask a remodeling pro if they have specific experience with soundproofing before hiring them.

The best time to soundproof is during construction or remodeling.

Certain types of insulation, drywall layers and additional studs to support insulation can suppress sound effectively. You can also install acoustic underlayments or acoustic slabs below your floorboards. One big advantage of these methods: They don’t change the look of your room.

For the most effective soundproofing on the residential level, you can install mass-loaded vinyl for the floor and acoustic panels for all other surfaces. These are the ribbed and sometimes eggshell-patterned foam panels that do a great job absorbing and deadening sound. They absorb echoes and internally bouncing sound as well, making them ideal for clarity while recording.