Is Soundproofing Effective?

‘Does soundproofing actually work?’ is a question that we get asked all the time. The short answer – absolutely! With the right soundproofing materials in the right places, you will no doubt feel the benefits that soundproofing can bring to the table.

Benefits of Soundproofing Your Home

There are so many reasons to soundproof your home as it offers an abundance of benefits that can improve your overall quality of life.

You could opt for lower quality soundproofing materials that will make upfront costs less expensive, however in the long run this is likely to cost more with materials offering less durability and long-lasting effectiveness. A higher price doesn’t necessarily mean better quality but being willing to pay a little more for better quality always a good idea when it comes to soundproofing.

More Privacy

Having more privacy is one of the biggest reasons people soundproof their home. When you soundproof your home, you no longer have to worry about neighbours being able to hear you, or you having to hear your neighbours.

Spontaneous karaoke moment with your spouse at 3am? Not a problem. Want to play the drums first thing in the morning? Don’t need to worry about waking the neighbours up. When soundproofing is done right, making noise stops being a concern.

"Soundproofing for privacy"

Soundproofing lets you go about your day without having to be worried about disturbing the people around you. It also means a quiet evening in won’t be disrupted by noisy neighbours or noises from the street outside.

Better Health

Soundproofing can do more than just reduce noise levels, it’s also incredibly beneficial to your health.

Improved Sleep

Most people need peace and quiet to get a good night’s rest and soundproofing can help you achieve the perfect environment to sleep in. Especially if you live on a busy main road, sleeping can be difficult but with soundproofing, you can reduce the amount of noise you can hear coming from outside and get better sleep. (Which is essential to good health and wellbeing!)

"Soundproofing improves sleep"

Easier to Relax

After a long, loud, and hectic day at work, being able to relax in peace at home is essential for letting your body unwind. Having a quiet environment that gives you chance to relax will help reduce your overall stress levels and improve your mental wellbeing.

Reduced Energy Costs

Some soundproofing materials such as acoustic insulation not only help soundproof your home but can also help reduce energy costs by insulating your home and keeping heat in.

Increased Property Value

Soundproofing has become much more popular and people looking to buy might be more likely to go for a house that’s soundproof over one that isn’t. Advertising having a soundproof room, or entire house, could give you a competitive edge on the market and increase the overall value of your home.

"Soundproofing can increase your home's market value"

Types of Soundproofing

There are many different types of soundproofing that work in different areas such as walls, floors, and ceilings to reduce noise transference and create quieter environments for you or those around you.

Underlay

Acoustic underlay is typically made from PUR or acoustic foam and is used under flooring to reduce impact noise (Impact noise refers to any noise caused by an impact such as footsteps, movement of furniture, or dropping objects). Whilst reducing the noise of footsteps, underlay can also act as an extra layer of insulation and comfort.

"Acoustic underlay for floor soundproofing"

Insulation

Acoustic insulation is typically used within walls to reduce noise transfer between rooms. The insulation is dense and adds an extra layer, making it harder for sound to pass through, therefore reducing noise transference.

"Acoustic insulation to reduce airborne noise"

Ceiling tiles

Ceiling tiles are more commonly used in commercial buildings such as offices, as they mainly work to reduce noise transference between adjacent spaces. This makes them ideal for ensuring more privacy in rooms by lessening ‘crosstalk’.

Cost of Soundproofing

How much soundproofing costs doesn’t have a one size fits all answer. The price depends on a multitude of factors that are unique to each home. Soundproofing can cost between a few £100 to a few £1000 but the cost is often worth it for the many benefits that soundproofing provides.

Do I Need Soundproofing?

Whether or not you need soundproofing is entirely up to you and your own personal circumstances. If you think you could benefit from soundproofing your home then you probably will! You don’t need to soundproof your entire house; you can save costs by soundproofing just one room or elements of a room to reduce the overall noise levels.