DIY Affordable Soundproofing!

Problems with noise? Surrounded by a family that loves to play their music a little too loud? We understand, and we’ve got your quick-fix and affordable solutions that will last!

SEAL THE ROOM

Sound is acoustic energy that travels in the form of a wave, or soundwaves as we know them. Our goal is to reduce the distance these soundwaves can travel. One simple way to do this is to try to seal the room more thoroughly than it already is. The best way to do this is to try to create as close to an airtight seal as we can around doors.

If you read our previous blogs on weatherproofing you may know where this is headed, we’re talking about creating a Neoprene Stripping seal around the door frame. This creates less space between the doorframe and door when closed. Here is a quick how-to on creating that seal:

• There are 3 sides to the doorframe that will require Neoprene stripping, we will call these sides 1, 2, and 3 as indicated in the following images.

For sides 1 and 2, apply the stripping as follows:

1. Ensure the inner lip of the doorframe is completely cleaned and free of debris.
2. On side 1: Peel back some of the Neoprene backings and lightly begin applying the Neoprene at the bottom of the doorframe lip. Ensure the Neoprene is lined up correctly. Once lined up correctly begin peeling the backing and applying along the entirety of the lip. Apply moderate pressure to ensure the stripping has completely adhered to. Once you have reached the upper corner of the doorframe, use the utility knife and carefully cut the Neoprene to size.
3. On side 2: Repeat the steps of application from side 1.

For side 3, follow these steps:

1. On this side of the doorframe, the Neoprene will be applied to the part of the frame containing the hinges, NOT on the lip, as done for sides 1 and 2. Repeat the application process.

SOUND ABSORPTION

While we can prevent traveling soundwaves to some extent using this sealing method, we must also account for the soundwaves that travel through the walls. A great way to address this is by using a sound-absorbing material, which will deaden vibrations produced by the soundwaves.

For sound absorption, Cork is amongst the most popular materials. RisingHippo Cork is an excellent insulator of both heat and sound, in fact, a 3mm insulation of cork can block up to 10 decibels of sound. There are many ways you can install cork to create this soundproofing effect. If you are very concerned about sound, we do recommend cork wall paneling. The unique look and insulating benefits make it a fun and sustainable interior decorating choice. However, if a full cork wall is not ideal for you we also recommend cork wall tiles.

Some easy ways to DIY cork tiles include: 

• Using old cork trivets
• Creating your own shapes from cork sheets
• Painting your cork tiles with fabric paints

Check out this blog on Cork Crafting to get more ideas on creating cork wall art, serving dual purposes in design and insulation.

REDUCE VIBRATIONS

Subwoofers are popular with music aficionados, large speakers that play the lower-pitched sounds like the bass. However, anyone who has been around these knows that they can be very loud and create strong vibrations. These vibrations themselves can shake the walls and floors, making a lot of noise. To avoid this phenomenon, we recommend a few solutions.

First, we can use the excellent insulator we talked about previously, Cork! To cushion the vibrations, place a simple cork pad underneath the speaker or subwoofer. Cork is elastic and excellent at deadening vibrations.

If the cork is not your preference we can also recommend attaching neoprene to the bottom of the subwoofer. Use this RisingHippo Neoprene, cut a piece that will fit the bottom of your subwoofer, and stick it directly on. Neoprene will provide some cushioning force as well.

Combine these methods for the best results!