How to Sound Proof an Apartment
Whether it's you who has a noisy apartment or your neighbors who are disruptive, soundproofing an apartment can head off potential problems. Apartment soundproofing techniques aren't ideal solutions, because renters can't tear down walls to insert deadening materials and probably aren't allowed to permanently attach things to the walls. Only apartment owners can take down Sheetrock on walls and insert commercial soundproofing. Use some or all of these suggestions to make your home a little quieter. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Carpeting
- Bookcases
- Acoustical tile
- Shelving
- Baskets
- Picture rail
- Quilts
- Drapes
- Drop ceiling
- Acoustical spray
- Egg cartons
- Scarves
Instructions
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Lay carpeting on the floors with a thick padding under it. This will deaden both the sounds you make and sounds made in the apartment beneath you.
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Build floor-to-ceiling bookcases with backs and fill them with books. Add padding or acoustical tile to the back of the bookcases.
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In a bedroom, install shelving with uniform sized cubbyholes, and put baskets on the shelves. Use the baskets for storing sweaters, craft materials and other items that will help absorb the sound.
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Hang a picture rail at the top of a wall and use it to display textiles and quilts. They'll add to your décor and cut down on some of the noise from neighbors.
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Buy heavy drapes and hang them on your windows to cut down on outside noises. Line them with blackout curtains for days you want to sleep in or for movie nights in front of the television.
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Install a drop ceiling or acoustical tiles, or use acoustic spray to cut down on noise from above. Egg cartons attached to the ceiling will also deaden sound. Create a North African theme by hiding the egg cartons behind colorful scarves.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult with your landlord before making structural changes to your apartment. Hard surfaces magnify sound. Cover them when possible.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Adesh Sookdeo
