How to Soundproof an Apartment

Step-by-step guide to soundproofing your apartment, including the walls, ceiling and floor.
Do you have loud neighbors? Does the lady upstairs stomp around her apartment? Do the folks next to you play their TV too loud? Are kids constantly screaming and being rambunctious? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I will give you step-by-step do it yourself instructions on soundproofing your apartment.

The key to soundproofing an apartment is to block sound transmission. You will easily accomplish this with a product known as mass loaded vinyl barrier. More effective than a sheet of lead for stopping sound, vinyl barrier uses its weight (up to 2 lbs. per square foot) to stop sound transmission dead in its tracks.

The easiest and simplest way to soundproof your walls is to apply furring strips to the existing drywall and then apply the vinyl barrier. It is important that an air gap be left between the existing drywall and the vinyl barrier, as this will maximize the sound deadening properties of the mass loaded vinyl barrier. After applying the vinyl barrier to the furring strips, you want to seal up the seams using a silicon adhesive. This is a critical step, as sound will pass through any opening. Add another layer of drywall after you have applied and sealed the vinyl barrier to notice a dramatic decrease in sound transmission.

If you do not wish to use furring strips on the wall, you can use vinyl barrier foam composite that will provide you with the separation necessary for adequately blocking sound. The treatment above for walls may also be used for ceilings to keep sound out from the dear lady upstairs that stomps around her apartment.

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Comments

  1. Anonymous4:08 PM

    I am really happy I found this. My question is that I have a neighbor who plays his radio, bass heavy, and it comes through my wall to the point where it is unbearable. I am a renter and don't want to do anything permanent or EXTREMELY costly. It is just one wall, but it makes my life a living HELL.

    Do you have any less invasive ideas for soundproofing?

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