How to soundproof bedroom?

[theo2]

Hi all,

I was hoping to get some help with soundproofing our master bedroom. We currently have a shared wall (James Hardie Easylap Cladding) with the neighbours living room.

Unfortunately we can hear their TV and music from the other side (mostly lower frequency). I purchased acoustic pinboards from bunnings but I am unsure how to best install it.

Thanks !

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @theo2,

Thank you for your question.

To start, you might like to check out How to soundproof your home from @Adam_W for some general information.

The James Hardie Easylap cladding on your shared wall doesn’t provide much sound insulation, which is why you're hearing your neighbour’s TV and music, especially the lower frequencies. While the acoustic pinboards you purchased will help absorb sound within your own room, they won’t be very effective at blocking the noise coming from the other side. For that, you’ll need a combination of mass, decoupling, and sealing to properly soundproof the wall.

Your acoustic pinboards can still be useful, but they will mainly help with absorbing echo and improving room acoustics rather than blocking external noise. For best results, mount them using Liquid Nails.

To reduce the noise effectively, the first step is to increase the mass of the wall to block sound transmission. This can be done by installing a layer of acoustic plasterboard, such as Gyprock Soundchek, adding mass-loaded vinyl over the wall and adding denser Soundshield Insulation to the inside of the wall.

In addition to adding mass, it’s crucial to seal any gaps where sound might be leaking through. Use acoustic sealant around all edges, power outlets, and anywhere there are small openings. Even tiny gaps can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your soundproofing efforts.

You should also consider placing thick curtains like you would see in a movie theatre against the shared wall to add extra mass. 

Allow me to tag @Nailbag, @TedBear and @Dave-1 to see if they have any other tips they can offer.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @theo2 

I really can’t add anything other than the excellent advice provided by @JacobZ as he’s really covered and explained all aspects very well. 

Nailbag 

[theo2]

Thanks for the suggestions JacobZ, really appreciate it. I am thinking of going down the MLV or acoustic plasterboard options. What would be the best way to install either of these options directly on the existing wall?

[TedBear]

Hi @theo2 , good advice from @JacobZ ... but don't forget the ceiling. That can be a significant source of noise transmission from one room to another. 

If there is noise still getting through after you've followed the advice already given, it would be worthwhile getting some more sound insulating batts (they are different to heat insulation batts; much denser) and laying them in the ceiling directly in contact with the plaster. (If it's a 2 storey with concrete ceilings then you can ignore this.)

[JacobZ]

Hi @theo2,

Soundchek must be installed following the Gyprock Residential Installation Guide, specifically page 75. You will have to identify the location of the studs using a stud finder, then use plasterboard screws and stud adhesive to fix the plasterboard in place.

For MLV, the manufacturer of the product will have a preferred method of installation for you. It will likely involve using a substantial amount of construction adhesive such as Liquid Nails, alongside mechanical fixings, likely screws, into the studs. Check with the manufacturer of your product to ensure the installation is covered by their warranty.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @theo2 

I really cant add to what @JacobZ has said, almnost thought I had something but @TedBear  filled that gap in. I do like the ide of hanging heavy curtains on a wall (think movie theater) to deaden the sound as its something thatcan be changed out easily enough if wanted.

Dave