How to Soundproof a Shared Wall in an Apartment

Living in an apartment offers many conveniences, such as proximity to work, entertainment, and amenities. However, one of the most common challenges for apartment dwellers is dealing with noise from neighbors. Whether it’s the sound of footsteps above, conversations next door, or the hum of appliances on the other side of the wall, noise can severely impact your comfort and quality of life.

One of the most effective ways to combat this issue is by soundproofing your shared walls. Soundproofing a shared wall is not only about reducing noise—it’s about enhancing privacy and creating a peaceful living environment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about soundproofing shared apartment walls, including the causes of noise, the science behind soundproofing, and the best methods for reducing sound transmission between apartments.

Understanding Noise Transmission in Apartments

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Before diving into the various techniques for soundproofing, it’s important to understand how noise travels through shared walls. Noise can be broadly categorized into two types: airborne noise and impact noise.

Airborne Noise

Airborne noise is the type of sound that travels through the air and can be heard through walls. This includes:

Conversations: Speech, television sounds, and music.
Appliances: The hum of washing machines, refrigerators, or air conditioning units.
Traffic: Noise from cars, motorcycles, or street sounds.

This type of noise can travel through walls, ceilings, and floors and is often the most intrusive in apartment buildings.

Impact Noise

Impact noise refers to sounds created by physical contact with a surface, such as:

Footsteps: Noise generated from walking or running.
Furniture Movement: Chairs scraping on the floor or tables being moved.
Dropped Objects: Items falling onto the floor or heavy items being set down.

Impact noise is typically more difficult to control because it involves vibrations that are transmitted directly through the structure of the building.

How Sound Travels Through Walls

Walls in apartments are typically made of drywall (gypsum board), which is not particularly effective at blocking sound. When sound waves hit the wall, they cause vibrations in the material, which then travel through the structure of the building. If your neighbor’s wall is thin or lacks soundproofing materials, these vibrations can easily pass through into your apartment, causing unwanted noise.

Additionally, many apartment walls have gaps or spaces around doors, windows, and electrical outlets that allow sound to leak through. Properly addressing these gaps is crucial in the soundproofing process.

Soundproofing Techniques for Shared Walls

Now that we have a basic understanding of how noise travels, let’s explore the most effective techniques for soundproofing a shared wall in an apartment. These methods vary in complexity, cost, and effectiveness, so it’s important to consider your budget, available space, and the level of noise you’re dealing with.

1. Use Acoustic Panels or Foam

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to reduce airborne noise is by installing acoustic panels or foam on your shared wall. These materials are designed to absorb sound waves and prevent them from bouncing around the room.

Acoustic Panels

Acoustic panels are made from sound-absorbing materials such as foam, fiberglass, or mineral wool. They are typically mounted on walls or ceilings to improve room acoustics and reduce sound transmission.

Effectiveness: Acoustic panels are excellent at absorbing high-frequency noise, such as voices, TV sounds, and music. However, they are less effective at blocking low-frequency noise like thumping footsteps or bass from speakers.
Installation: Acoustic panels can be easily mounted using adhesive strips or screws. They come in various sizes and designs, so you can choose a style that fits your decor.
Cost: Acoustic panels vary in price depending on the material and brand, but they are generally affordable, with most panels costing between $30 and $100 each.

Acoustic Foam

Acoustic foam is another popular soundproofing material. It works similarly to acoustic panels by absorbing sound waves and reducing their reflection.

Effectiveness: Acoustic foam is particularly effective at absorbing mid to high-frequency sounds but may not block low-frequency noise as effectively. For maximum soundproofing, consider combining acoustic foam with other materials.
Installation: Acoustic foam can be attached to walls using adhesive strips or by mounting it in frames. It’s easy to install and doesn’t require any professional help.
Cost: Acoustic foam is relatively inexpensive, with most tiles costing around $10 to $30 per square meter.

2. Add Mass to the Wall

Adding mass to a shared wall can significantly reduce the amount of noise that passes through it. The more mass a wall has, the less sound it can transmit. This technique is especially effective at blocking low-frequency sounds like footsteps and bass.

Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)

Mass Loaded Vinyl is a dense material that can be installed directly onto a wall to block sound. It’s flexible and can be cut to fit the size of your wall. MLV is particularly effective at reducing low-frequency noise.

Effectiveness: MLV is highly effective at blocking sound because of its density. It can block both airborne and impact noise, making it one of the most effective soundproofing materials available.
Installation: MLV is typically installed by attaching it directly to the wall using nails or adhesive. It can be installed under drywall or on top of existing drywall for added mass.
Cost: MLV can be quite expensive, with costs ranging from $2 to $3 per square foot. However, its effectiveness makes it worth the investment for those serious about soundproofing.

Double Layer Drywall

Another effective method is to add a second layer of drywall to the shared wall. This additional layer increases the mass and helps to block sound from passing through.

Effectiveness: Adding a second layer of drywall can help reduce both airborne and impact noise. For even better results, consider using a specialized soundproofing drywall like QuietRock, which is designed to block sound.
Installation: Installing a second layer of drywall requires removing your current drywall and attaching the new layer using screws or nails. You may also need to apply a soundproofing adhesive between the layers for better sound isolation.
Cost: Double-layer drywall is relatively affordable, with standard drywall costing around $10 to $15 per sheet. Soundproof drywall like QuietRock can cost upwards of $50 per sheet.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Even if you add mass and install acoustic materials, small gaps and cracks in your walls can still allow sound to pass through. Sealing these gaps is a crucial step in any soundproofing process.

Caulk or Acoustic Sealant

Acoustic sealants are specifically designed to block sound from passing through gaps and cracks. They are more effective than standard caulk because they remain flexible and prevent sound leaks.

Effectiveness: Acoustic sealants are highly effective at sealing small gaps around outlets, baseboards, and windows. They won’t block noise entirely but will significantly reduce sound transmission.
Installation: Simply apply the sealant around the edges of the wall and any gaps or cracks. Use a caulk gun for even application.
Cost: Acoustic sealant is relatively affordable, with prices ranging from $5 to $15 per tube.

4. Use a Soundproofing Wall Cover

Another option for reducing noise is to use a soundproofing wall cover, such as a heavy curtain or fabric wall hangings. These materials work by absorbing sound waves and preventing them from bouncing off hard surfaces.

Heavy Curtains

Heavy curtains made from thick, dense fabrics can block a significant amount of sound when installed on shared walls. These curtains are particularly effective at blocking airborne noise from the outside or from adjacent rooms.

Effectiveness: Heavy curtains are effective at reducing high-frequency noise but may not be as effective at blocking low-frequency sounds like bass.
Installation: Install curtain rods on the shared wall and hang the curtains over the area where the most noise enters. Ensure that the curtains are long enough to cover the entire wall for maximum effectiveness.
Cost: Heavy curtains can be quite affordable, with prices ranging from $50 to $150, depending on size and material.

Fabric Wall Hangings

Fabric wall hangings or tapestries can also help reduce noise. These materials are not as dense as curtains but can still absorb sound and improve room acoustics.

Effectiveness: Fabric wall hangings are more effective at absorbing high-frequency noise and can provide a more aesthetically pleasing solution for soundproofing.
Installation: Hang fabric wall hangings on the shared wall using nails, hooks, or adhesive strips. For better results, layer multiple pieces of fabric.
Cost: Fabric wall hangings can range in price from $20 to $100, depending on size and quality.

5. Install a Decoupling System

Decoupling is a more advanced and expensive technique that involves creating a gap between the wall studs and the drywall. This gap prevents sound vibrations from traveling directly through the wall structure.

Resilient Channels

Resilient channels are metal strips that are installed between the wall studs and the drywall. These strips absorb sound vibrations and help to reduce sound transmission.

Effectiveness: Resilient channels are highly effective at reducing both airborne and impact noise.
Installation: The installation process for resilient channels is more complicated and may require professional help. They are typically installed by a contractor during a renovation.
Cost: Resilient channels are an expensive soundproofing solution, with costs ranging from $3 to $5 per linear foot.

Conclusion

Soundproofing a shared wall in an apartment can be challenging, but with the right materials and techniques, it’s possible to significantly reduce noise and create a more peaceful living environment. Whether you choose to use acoustic panels, add mass to the wall, seal gaps, or install advanced soundproofing systems like resilient channels, each method offers its own set of benefits and challenges.

For best results, consider combining several of these techniques, depending on the type and severity of the noise you’re dealing with. Additionally, while some soundproofing methods can be installed as DIY projects, others may require professional help, especially when it comes to structural changes.

Ultimately, the goal of soundproofing is to improve your quality of life by reducing noise disturbances, enhancing privacy, and creating a space where you can relax and enjoy your home. By investing time, effort, and resources into soundproofing your shared walls, you can create a quieter, more comfortable living environment in your apartment.