Highlights
Soundproofing a room typically runs $1,000–$2,700
The average cost is $1,838
Doors, windows, and floors can all benefit from soundproofing
Noise is everywhere, both inside and outside your home. And while some sounds are ambient, such as the refrigerator running or microwave beeping, other noises can cause interruptions in work, sleep, or just relaxing. If you are moving forward with a home remodel, it’s worth asking your contractor about the option of adding soundproofing to some walls. Since things will likely already be torn apart, a remodel or renovation is often the best time to include additional noise-reduction methods.
What is Soundproofing?
Soundproofing is a method used to block noise from either entering or exiting a space. While it can be difficult (and expensive) to truly soundproof a room, there are several ways to significantly reduce extra noise throughout your house.
Soundproofing Materials Options
When seeking to soundproof an existing wall in a home, there are several options to choose from. If you’re handy and comfortable working with the materials, it can potentially be a weekend DIY project. Otherwise, contact a professional contractor to install additional soundproofing methods. Here’s an overview of soundproofing material applications:
Drywall: Applying another layer of drywall over the existing wall can add extra soundproofing to a room. Some drywall brands offer thin-wall technology, which reduces noise without sacrificing floor space.
Insulation: Low-density cellulose insulation blown into the walls is a cost-effective way to increase sound absorption.
Mass Loaded Vinyl: Thin, rolled sheets of mass loaded vinyl (MLV) can be installed against existing drywall to absorb sound and decrease noise.
Paneling: Foam or fabric panels can be installed on walls as quick, less-permanent soundproofing methods to help muffle extra noise.
What Areas of a Home Can I Soundproof?
Start by determining where your problematic noisy areas are. Can you hear conversations through a wall or footsteps above you? Sleuthing out where the noise is coming from will help you determine which walls (or floors and doors) could benefit from soundproofing.
Entertainment Room
If extra noise interferes with your favorite TV shows, consider soundproofing the walls in the room that houses your entertainment area. Similarly, if loud video game sounds are traveling to other areas of the house, soundproofing can help others from hearing every time you level up.
Home Office
With many people continuing to work and learn from home, a quiet space is essential. Soundproofing the walls in a home office or multipurpose room can help reduce distractions and increase productivity.
Bedrooms
There’s nothing worse than being woken up suddenly by a backfiring car or other loud outside noise. Adding additional soundproofing to the bedroom walls can help everyone get a good night's rest.
How Much Does Soundproofing Cost?
The average cost to soundproof a room is $380 to $590. This cost breaks down to $170 to $250 for materials, $190 to $300 for labor, and $20 to $40 for tools.
Prices depend on the size of the room, where you live, the cost of materials, and how complex your project is. If you already have a contractor remodeling certain areas, they may charge less to soundproof walls or ceilings that are pre-drywall.
Additional Soundproofing Options
While soundproofing various walls throughout your home can help decrease the overall noise levels, it’s also worth considering additional measures and areas for further sound reduction.
Windows
Upgrading to double or triple pane windows can help prevent extra noise from entering your home. This can be especially helpful if you live close to train tracks or a highway. Another option is to add storm windows, particularly in the winter months. The average cost to soundproof a window is $300 to $1,500.
Doors
While you can purchase soundproof doors at many big box stores, there’s also an easier DIY trick. Adding weather stripping, or another soft foam stripping, to cracks or gaps along the door frame can make a difference in reducing noise. Depending on the method used, soundproofing a door can cost anywhere from $50 to $450.
Floors
The quickest and easiest way to create a sound barrier on floors is to add rugs or carpeting, which help absorb noise. Another option is installing mass-loaded vinyl, which creates a sound barrier. Soundproofing solutions for floors cost ranges from $100 to $1,000.
Seal Holes and Cracks
Both air and noise can escape through even the smallest cracks or gaps, so sealing them up is an effective way to soundproof. Apply caulk or putty to any visible cracks, then smooth the finish, and add a layer of paint if needed. Sealing holes and cracks yourself to add soundproofing runs between $15 and $75.
