ALL ABOUT SOUNDPROOFING.

From bedroom DJs to noisy neighbors, domestic noise pollution can be a real headache. Whether you're dealing with the thumping bass from a nearby DJ setup or the constant chatter of neighbors above, finding effective solutions for soundproofing is essential. In this post, we’ll explore the different options available for soundproofing and the best ways to approach your project.

Types of Noise Pollution

First off, it’s important to recognize that there are two main types of sound that need to be addressed: airborne sound and impact noise. Airborne sound comes from sources like voices, radios, and TVs, while impact noise is caused by physical activities like footsteps, chair scraping, or even hammering during DIY projects. These two types of noise require different approaches and materials to effectively block them.

Ultimately, soundproofing a room involves stopping or reducing sound waves from entering by using proper insulation and creating additional barriers for the sound to pass through. Since these different types of noise react differently to soundproofing methods, the best approach often involves using a combination of materials and increasing the density of surfaces wherever possible.

Building Regulations

Recognizing the stress that domestic noise pollution can cause, building regulations have established clear standards for soundproofing in new homes and renovations under Part E (Resistance to Sound). These regulations apply to both dividing walls and floors and also require internal insulation to protect bedrooms from noise pollution.

The regulations, which apply to England and Wales, are divided into two categories:

• E1 focuses on protecting against noise from neighboring buildings, including flats, terraces, and semi-detached homes.
• E2 addresses sound transmission within the home itself.

The regulations further categorize sound into airborne sound and impact sound:

For dividing walls or floors between homes, the minimum airborne sound resistance required is 45 decibels (dB) in new builds and 43 dB in conversion projects. This level should be sufficient to block normal levels of conversation, TV, and music.

Additionally, internal airborne sound resistance within any dwelling must meet a minimum standard of 40 dB. This applies to walls and upper floors between bedrooms and other rooms, excluding walls with doors and those leading to en-suite bathrooms.

Regarding impact sound, such as footsteps or dropped objects, the regulations specify a maximum transmittance level of 62 dB for floors and stairs in new builds, and 64 dB for conversion projects.

Soundproofing Walls

It’s much easier to soundproof a building or room if it was designed with acoustics in mind from the start. This allows for the selection of materials specifically chosen for their soundproofing qualities and provides opportunities to create additional space for insulation. Porous materials tend to absorb sound better, so when considering soundproofing during the initial construction phase, it's worth paying attention to the type of bricks or blocks being used.

If you're retrofitting an existing space, adding specialized sound-grade plasterboard during drywalling can significantly enhance sound performance by providing greater density, making it ideal for residential applications.

Dual Action Insulation

There are several excellent all-around insulation products that can be used in floors, partitions, and walls, such as mineral wool and fiberglass insulation. Acoustic Roll, for example, is a lightweight, flexible, resilient, and non-combustible glass mineral wool quilt that offers high sound absorption while also improving thermal and fire performance. Similarly, Rock Wool can be used for thermal, acoustic, and fire insulation in various applications, including floors, walls, roofs, and industrial settings.

Need Help?

If you're looking to soundproof your space on your own, there are numerous tutorials and video guides available online. Alternatively, feel free to reach out to your local Lords branch, where our friendly counter team will be happy to assist you in selecting the right products for your project. You can find the branch finder with contact details here.