How to Soundproof Your Home or Apartment: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Noise from Noisy Neighbours, Traffic, and More

At The Acoustics Store, we understand how disruptive unwanted noise can be, whether it’s the sound of traffic, noisy neighbours, or trains. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new Protas Soundproofing Solutions – a range of products designed to help you enjoy a quieter, more peaceful space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of soundproofing, including practical solutions like acoustic underlays, wall barriers, and other soundproofing options that can make a real difference.

Common Noise Problems and Decibel Levels

To put the impact of different noise sources into perspective, here’s a look at typical noise levels from common sources:

• Road Traffic: Noise from busy roads averages around 70-85 dB. Without adequate soundproofing, this can feel as loud as a vacuum cleaner running constantly.
• Noisy Neighbours: Normal conversation levels are about 60 dB, but loud music or shouting can reach 80-90 dB, creating disturbances that carry easily through shared walls.
• Trains: Passing trains can reach 80-100 dB. For those near train lines, these sounds can become intrusive, especially at night.
• Airplanes: If you live near an airport, take-off noise can reach 100-120 dB, which is comparable to the volume of a rock concert.

Soundproofing can help reduce these noise levels significantly, transforming your space into a more relaxing, enjoyable environment.

How Soundproofing Works

Soundproofing primarily aims to block, absorb, and dampen sound energy, reducing the amount of noise that enters or leaves a space. Soundproofing materials achieve this by adding mass, absorbing sound, and creating barriers that help block sound waves. Here are some of the best soundproofing options for your home or apartment.

Protas Soundproofing Solutions

Our Protas range offers various solutions for soundproofing walls, floors, and ceilings, tailored to tackle even the most challenging noise issues. Here’s how each can help:

1. Acoustic Underlays: Perfect for tackling noise from below or above, acoustic underlays are installed under floors to reduce impact noise (like footsteps) and airborne noise. Underlays are ideal for those living in apartments or multi-story homes, where noise from footfalls and conversations can be a problem.

• How to Use: Simply lay the underlay beneath your flooring material, whether it’s hardwood, carpet, or laminate. This layer absorbs and dissipates sound, making it harder for noise to pass through floors.
• Tip: Choose a dense, high-quality underlay for the best results. In a busy apartment setting, a thicker underlay can reduce noise by as much as 20-30 dB, bringing traffic noise down to a tolerable level.

2. Wall Soundproofing Barriers: Wall barriers are essential for blocking noise from neighbours and external sources like road traffic. These barriers can be installed on shared walls or exterior walls to reduce the amount of sound entering a space.

• How to Use: Wall barriers, like our Protas Barrier, can be installed directly onto walls and covered with a finish such as plasterboard, TonusSlat or Tonus V-Groove to maintain aesthetics. They’re made of dense materials that block airborne noise, especially in high-noise environments.
• Tip: For maximum effect, add multiple layers or combine them with acoustic boards, plaster and our Survo Foam. This setup helps absorb and block sound, reducing noise by up to 40-50 dB, which is especially useful for blocking loud voices or music from next door.

Additional Tips for Effective Soundproofing

• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Sound can seep through even the smallest gaps around doors, windows, and walls. Use an acoustic sealant to block these paths, helping to improve your soundproofing efforts.
• Add Mass to Walls and Floors: Soundproofing materials with high density are most effective, as they add mass to your walls and floors. Consider adding mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) like our Protas Barrier, TecSound or double-layer drywall with a barrier inbetween in particularly noisy areas.
• Use Rugs and Curtains: Thick rugs and heavy curtains can absorb sound, reducing noise levels in your space. This is an easy and affordable way to add some soundproofing to rooms with minimal effort.

Soundproof Your Space with Protas

Soundproofing doesn’t have to be complex or costly, and with The Acoustics Store’s Protas Soundproofing Solutions, achieving a quiet, peaceful space is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re dealing with noisy neighbours, busy roads, or any other loud disruptions, our products are designed to help you find the calm within your home.

At The Acoustics Store, We’re Here to Help

At The Acoustics Store, we’re dedicated to guiding you through the process of soundproofing your suspended ceiling. Our team is passionate about helping you find the perfect solutions for your acoustic needs, whether it’s reducing noise, preventing sound leakage, or enhancing the overall acoustic quality of your space.

Our Expertise, Your Acoustic Journey

We’re eager to assist you in exploring the possibilities for improving your space’s acoustics. With our expertise and innovative products, you can achieve the perfect balance of sound and comfort. Don’t hesitate to contact us at info@theacousticsstore.co.uk or call to discuss your project.