I worry about my neighbours because sometimes I get home too late to be polite and put the washing machine on, and I frequently record the Audio EXP podcast after midnight.
Pretend I could afford to make changes. Would soundproofing the room be worthwhile?
I asked a contact at AcousticShop, and they think so! Surprised? A spokesperson said,
Soundproofing really makes a difference for content creation, and aside from minimising issues with your neighbours, it can help the quality of your recordings. When you’re in the middle of creating content, you want to be able to focus and allow your creativity and energy to shine, without holding back or worrying about the noise travelling. A soundproof setup gives you that freedom to create without boundaries and enjoy yourself more fully.”
Okay, I can’t do much about the kitchen, but gaming and content creation across the country have transformed home spaces – bedrooms, basements, even closets – into creative studios, and house plans haven’t taken noise into account there.
The washing machine is loud, but noise can start even from clicking controllers to sudden bursts of enthusiasm or frustration. Sound travels – and it can lead to awkward conversations or complaints from housemates, neighbours, or worse.
The good news? Setting up a soundproofed space doesn’t have to break the bank or become a massive project. With a bit of effort, you can improve the audio quality of your recordings and keep the peace with those around you.
In conjunction with Merford Group company, here’s a guide we put together!
Soundproofing vs. Sound Absorption
Let’s lay out a couple of terms to make this easier: soundproofing and sound absorption. Soundproofing focuses on keeping noise from escaping (or entering) a room, while sound absorption reduces echo and enhances sound quality within the room. A soundproof room helps the people around you, while sound absorption helps your audience by making your audio clearer.
Sound can slip through nearly any gap – walls, floors, windows, even tiny cracks under doors. Identifying weak spots and reinforcing them will help contain sound where you want it.
First Things First? Room Check.
Take a moment to listen around your space. Are there thin walls, hollow doors, single-pane windows, or bare floors? Play some sound or speak normally and see where it travels. This simple check can save time and money by revealing exactly where you need to focus.
Start with the Walls
Wall soundproofing is usually the first target since it’s easy to modify and often the main source of sound leaks.
- Acoustic Foam Panels: These won’t fully block sound from escaping, but they improve your room’s internal acoustics, making your recordings sound more polished. They’re affordable and quick to put up.
- Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV): This dense material can be installed under drywall or behind panels, effectively blocking sound. It’s popular with people serious about soundproofing.
- Heavy Curtains or Blankets: For a low-cost option, hang thick curtains or blankets on walls. They may not look professional, but they’ll absorb some sound.
Seal the Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are major culprits when it comes to noise leakage.
Many interior doors are hollow-core, which means they barely block sound. Replacing them with solid-core doors is a good option, though it’s not the cheapest. If that’s out of reach, try adding a door sweep at the bottom and some weatherstripping around the edges.
For windows, soundproof curtains can block a surprising amount of noise. Window inserts, which are custom-fitted panels, are another option if you need more serious sound insulation. Finally, sealing any gaps with acoustic caulk can make a noticeable difference.
Don’t Forget the Floor
Floor soundproofing is especially useful if you’re in an apartment or shared space, where noise often travels downward.
Adding a thick rug with a dense underlay absorbs sound and adds comfort. Even a small rug can make a big difference on hard floors. Noise-reducing floor mats are also available and can dampen impact sounds – a big help if you’re prone to moving around a lot while streaming or gaming.
Ceiling Soundproofing in Apartments
If you have neighbours above, soundproofing the ceiling can also help.
- Acoustic Ceiling Tiles: These tiles can absorb sound and are fairly easy to install.
- Suspended Panels or Baffles: For serious soundproofing, consider “cloud baffles” that hang from the ceiling to help absorb sound. They’re more common in studios but can have a noticeable effect if your space allows it.
Easy and Budget-Friendly Soundproofing Hacks
Soundproofing can get expensive fast, but there are a few budget-friendly hacks if you’re just starting out.
Layer blankets or thick towels over walls, doors, or even windows to add some sound absorption. You can even make your own soundproof panels: grab some plywood, foam, and fabric for a DIY project that absorbs sound and looks a bit more polished than blankets alone.
Wrapping It Up
Soundproofing your space doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing project. Start with these basic steps and see how your room feels. Test it out: play music, record a short video, or stream a sample session to check if any sound is still escaping. Small adjustments go a long way in improving sound control for both your recordings and your relationships with those around you.
Once you’re set-up, you’ll be able to focus on what matters: creating, gaming, and sharing your passion with an audience. Soundproofing is one of those behind-the-scenes efforts that makes your space more than just a room but your creative sanctuary.
Photo by WillSpirit L.N.
Let us know what you think in the comment section below.
