If you need to create a quiet space for a home recording studio, a home theater, or simply a relaxing sitting or work space, there are many acoustic insulation materials and techniques that can make soundproofing a possibility. By using a combination of proper construction and sound proofing materials, you can achieve a remarkable amount of reduction of sound transmission.
Principal number one: sound is transmitted through solid walls. Have you ever watched an old movie where someone puts a glass to the wall to hear a conversation in the next room? This works because the plasterboard sections on each side of the wall are fastened to the same wall studs. This means that both surfaces are acoustically coupled.
To avoid the problem of transmitted sound, in addition to installing acoustic sound insulation material in the wall between the studs, you need to offset the studs so that no stud is connected to both wall surfaces. Use a wider footer, such as a 2 x 6, and use the same standard centering for the studs, but with a gap of at least a few inches between adjacent studs that are connected to surface A and surface B.
Principal number two: sound is reflected by solid walls. To avoid reflected sound, use an acoustic insulation on the surface of walls that will absorb the sound. Generally, this type of non-reflective insulation consists of dense foam with an irregular surface that greatly resembles packing foam. The irregular surface will help to minimize reflections and give the room more of what is known as an anechoic property, which means it helps to eliminate echoes.
Depending upon where you have chosen to construct your room, you may need to consider adding sound proof insulation to the ceiling as well. If your construction project is in the basement, the insulation can be added into the area between the floor joists. Acoustic floor insulation can actually add quite a bit more comfort to your walking surfaces as well. To complete the job, add a drop ceiling again using acoustic tiles. Not only will this add another layer of sound reduction, it will enhance the look of your new addition.
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