3 Ways to Soundproof Joint Apartment Walls
by Guest Post on Aug 3, 2010
Sometimes overhearing your neighbors can be a bad thing, especially if it is during intimate moments or loud parties. If you live in an apartment, it can be difficult to combat the assault of noise on your domain, because of the remodeling limitations. Thankfully, there are a few ways that can help cut down on the oohs and aahs that seep through the common wall. With a little bit of home-improvement know how, a staple gun, and a hammer and nails, your joint apartment walls can be great sound barriers.
Intensive Soundproofing
If you are super handy, consider building a false wall about six inches out from the common wall. Frame up a wall using two-by-four lumber. Heavily insulate the space between the common wall and the new wall before hanging sheetrock. Attach the false wall to the existing wall with heavy screws and nails to prevent it from falling. Be sure that the landlord is on board with the project and does not mind having a false wall nailed or screwed into existing walls. This project is definitely not a novice do-it-yourself apartment dwellers project and could prove to be extensive if there is a lot of common wall space to cover.
Vinyl Barrier Foam Composite
If hearing the neighbors is so troublesome that you are willing to invest in quality soundproofing, one of the best materials to get is vinyl barrier foam composite. This excellent sound barrier attaches to the wall with nails and can even be removed if you move. It can be purchased at most large home improvement stores but can be costly if there is a large area to cover. The sheets of foam are hung on the wall and then the gaps are sealed with caulk. If the caulk is not applied, the sound will seep through the cracks and the wall will not be soundproof. One great thing about vinyl barrier foam composite is that it can also be applied to the ceiling if the noisy neighbor in question is upstairs.
Minimizing Sound
If the landlord will not allow nails or screws on the wall, and the noise is just too much, there are some inexpensive things that will help minimize the sound from the neighbors' apartment. Begin by repositioning your furniture. Move sofas, chairs, and beds away from the common wall. Place the television or stereo along the common wall to help block the sound from next door. Another way to filter some of the noise is to hang heavy drapes along the wall in question. The heavier the curtain, the more sound it will be able to block. Although this is not a way to completely block all noise, it will help to cut down on some of it. The more you can hang on the common wall, the more material is there to filter the noise coming through.
Soundproofing joint apartment walls is a tough project, because of the limitations of living in an apartment. The freedom to build new walls, hang soundproofing material and alter the living space just may not be an option. Be creative in working within the confines of the things that can be done to make the best out of the noisy situation.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
91437 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
72495 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
70969 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
51075 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
29934 Views
Latest Articles
Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home
Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...
on Oct 18, 2024
The Appeal and Longevity of Natural Oil Finishes for Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors exude warmth, character, and timeless appeal in any home. To preserve and enhance these qualities, choosing the right finish is...
on May 17, 2024
Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners
Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...
on Jan 25, 2024
Real Estate Development in Asian Cities
In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...
on Jan 25, 2024
Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower
Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...
on Jan 22, 2024
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates
Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 263
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 200
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 147
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
10 Ways to Invest Your Tax Refund at Home
Most people spend there Income tax refund on vacations and personal items. However investing your income tax check on home improvement can increase...
Home Decor Ideas and Benefits of Aluminium Window Installations
Decorating a home is a rewarding experience when you are equipped with some knowledge before the process begins. One of the goals of home decor is...
Benefits of Aluminum Windows for Homeowners
Aluminum windows have emerged as a popular choice among Australian homeowners, offering a compelling combination of energy efficiency and modern...
Increasing Your Homes Curb Appeal
In real estate, curb appeal refers to a property's visual attractiveness when viewed from the street or sidewalk. This is a term that is often used...
Five Ways to Save Money on Office Space
Starting a business of your own can be exciting, but you have to make sure you don’t go overboard with the spending. In the end, your goal is not...