Picture a lazy Sunday afternoon in your favourite chair, looking forward to a good book, when all of a sudden, your neighbours raise a raucous party across the street. Nobody wants unwanted noise entering their home. Find out the best solutions for warding away unsolicited noise.
Windows & Doors
By double, or even triple-glazing your windows, not only do you get superior thermal and energy performance, but you also benefit from a strong sound barrier. This works remarkably well against streetside noise. The cavity between panes plays a pivotal role in dampening sound transmission. For doors, choosing a dense, solid core material is excellent for alleviating aural assault. Materials such as particleboard or MDF are a common core material, typically paired with a plywood or MDF outer layer. Rubber or foam stripping can seal the gaps for further noise dampening.
Curtains
For optimal acoustic performance, thick, dense, and large curtains are your best bet. Velvet, wool, and heavy linen are perfect for hampering noise. Blackout curtains perform well too, as a thick constitution is required for good light blocking. Consider larger sizes which extend from the ceiling to the floor.
Gap Sealant
Similar to typical caulk, acoustic sealants are also used for filling gaps, but their flexible composition allows them to continually block sound and vibrations instead of cracking over time. It can be applied around windows, door frames, and other openings to bolster your sonic defence.
The opposite can be just as important too – keeping noise from escaping is vital for maintaining privacy and security. For personal conversations, balanced acoustics, and immersive movie sessions, choosing the right acoustic solutions can enhance your day-to-day lifestyle.
Soft Furnishings
Who said noise suppression couldn’t be fun? Take your pick of carpets, furniture, and cushions to create a sound-absorbing environment. Rugs and floor coverings can soften footfalls while velvety pieces like ottomans can catch home-wide sounds. Accessories such as plushies and cushions can balance out your environment (and look good while doing it).
Acoustic Panels
Ubiquitously seen in recording studios, drama rooms, and behind content-creators, acoustic panels have found widespread popularity in the online landscape of today – and for good reason. Tailor-made for balancing sound, these panels are perfect for installing on hard walls and ceilings. Furthermore, you’re no longer limited to the same stripey black foam – their popularity has spurred countless materials, shapes, and designs so you can find the perfect fit for your style.
Buffer Furniture
No, we don’t mean muscular shelves and cabinets – but it does help to be bulky for this purpose. Want more privacy in neighbouring rooms? Placing large pieces of furniture against shared walls is perfect for adding an extra layer of sound dampening. Bookshelves and dressers provide ample density for noise reduction.
Whether you want to stop sound from coming or sound from leaving, there are always ways to bolster your privacy and maximise home comfort using the