How to Install Sound Insulation Using Drywall
One of the best ways to prevent sound from entering or exiting a room is to install multiple layers of gypsum drywall. The thicker the walls and ceilings, the better. But keep in mind that drywall is very heavy. Before hanging multiple layers of drywall, verify that your home’s wall and ceiling studs can bear the load. You may have to add supports to your walls and ceilings. If you are unsure, ask a professional contractor to examine them. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Insulation
- Drywall-hanging tools (screw gun, utility knife, etc.)
- Long screws
- Soundproofing materials
Instructions
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Remove thin paneling and thin drywall. Thin materials allow sound to pass through walls and ceilings unimpeded.
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Install heavy insulation between the studs in the walls and ceilings. Choose fiberglass or rigid board insulation that is at least R-13, or buy special sound-resistant insulation. Ask for sound-resistant insulation recommendations at a high-end home theater store.
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Hang several layers of drywall. The thicker the walls and ceilings are, the more sound they will keep out. For example, the City of Chicago Residential Sound Insulation Program recommends installing a layer of 1/2-inch concrete board (also called Durock or tile board), followed by a layer of 5/8-inch drywall. Alternatively, purchase special sound-resistant drywall panels from a building-supply yard, but expect them to be more expensive than regular drywall.
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Cut the drywall to size with a utility knife, then hang the boards with screws. Use screws that are long enough to pass through the total thickness of all the drywall layers and also penetrate the studs at least 5/8 inch. Install one screw every 5 to 8 inches into every stud to ensure that the drywall is secure.
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Attach soundproofing materials over the drywall. For example, many recording studio engineers cover their walls and ceilings with noise-control materials, such as foam, heavy curtains or vinyl noise absorbers. These materials are best for trapping sound within a room. If your goal is to block external noise from entering, they may not be as effective.
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Tips & Warnings
Hire a soundproofing engineer for complicated projects, such as installing double walls with a gap in between. Although most projects can be done by beginners, the special equipment soundproofing engineers use will measure the exact decibel levels in your home. This allows them to make custom recommendations for the cheapest way to soundproof a room.
