How to Soundproof Concrete Walls
As a homeowner, you want to be able to have areas where you can relax and unwind. If you have considered soundproofing areas of the home, the basement is a great choice. Because concrete is a popular building material, you most likely have concrete walls in this area of your home. So, how do you soundproof concrete? Is it a simple process? In general, concrete offers soundproofing properties, but there are also steps you can take to provide even more soundproofing for a quiet space in the home.
Options for Soundproofing
When it comes to soundproofing concrete walls, you have options. First, adding a layer of drywall can help. By fitting a layer of drywall to an existing wall can help to achieve soundproofing. This option is also cost-effective because it is a DIY project and does not require taking down the existing wall.
With this option, you will add density and absorption to the room. However, the overall decrease in sound transmission will be minimal.
Another option is to decouple the walls. With this method, you will create an air chamber between the walls. Walls are built with spaces where the air can trap noise which will prevent sound from vibrating on the other side of the wall. The most popular way to complete this method is to create a room within a room.
Basically, you already have four walls, so create walls away from the existing wall to enclose the room. This creates the space needed to help with soundproofing the room.
Lowering the Resonant Frequency of the Concrete
Yet another option you have is to lower the resonant frequency of the concrete. You can do this in two ways. First, you can increase the mass of the wall. Having plenty of mass makes it more difficult for the wall to vibrate, which means better sound absorption. For the best results, insulation can be added, but air must be allowed within the cavity to provide absorption.
Soundproofing materials can also be used to lower the resonating frequency of a concrete wall. This process includes adding a layer of drywall and then following that with soundproofing compounds and sealants. Once completed, you have a nice barrier that helps to create a soundproof space.
One of the best ways to have a soundproofed space is to consider the options when constructing a home. If you are purchasing a home that is already built, you will need to consider the space and how soundproofing elements can be added. For the most part, the easiest solution is to add drywall for additional thickness or soundproofing materials.
If you feel out of your element in considering options for soundproofing, you can always consult a concrete expert or contractor. Having a professional inspect your home and provide suggestions can help you find the right option for soundproofing spaces in your home. Once a plan is in place, you can get started with the project and soon have a space that is soundproof, blocking out all noise from the outside world.
