01 Jan Ways to Reduce Noise in any Room

Noise from outdoors, or even from other apartments, can easily penetrate homes to disrupt entertainment and a restful night’s slumber. What many don’t realize is there are multiple ways to reduce the noise in any home. Even though many of today’s construction materials are designed to minimize noise levels, older homes weren’t designed with those options, but there are ways to compensate.

Carpeting

One of the most cost-efficient ways to dampen noise is with carpeting. The material also serves as a means of insulation for a warmer floor. Combined with a thick pad underneath, carpeting is good at absorbing sound transmission.

Cork

Cork is an excellent acoustic option as an underlay to mitigate sound. It has the advantage of being sustainable, eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and it’s naturally resistant to mold. Cork is the first choice of recording studios to eliminate background noise.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

When installed with a sound-insulating layer, it’s an excellent buffer against sound. It’s offered in tiles and planks that can emulate porcelain and hardwood flooring.

Rugs and Pads

For those that are stuck with their existing floors, area rugs are the best option. A rug alone won’t have the same impact as other materials, but does provide some protection against unwanted sounds. When using an area rug, be sure to add a thick rubber pad. It increases the ability of the rug to mute sounds and helps the rug stay in place.

Rubber

Many aren’t even aware that rubber flooring exists. It’s typically made from natural tree rubber or a combination of synthetic materials – usually recycled tires. Available in interlocking tiles, it’s excellent for absorbing sounds and resisting static electricity. It’s also resistant to water, stains and mold.

Wood Plastic Composite

Known as WPC, it’s waterproof, easy to maintain and durable. It’s sound mitigating ability stems from its backing layer and it also protects against mold.