How to Soundproof a Wall: A Complete Guide

1. Understanding Soundproofing

Sound travels in two ways:

• Airborne Noise: Sounds like voices, music, and television that pass through the air.

• Impact Noise: Vibrations from footsteps, doors slamming, or furniture moving.

To block noise effectively, use a combination of absorption, mass, decoupling, and damping techniques.

2. Materials Needed for Soundproofing

• Acoustic Insulation (Mineral Wool or Fiberglass Batt Insulation)

• Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV)

• Resilient Channels or Sound Isolation Clips

• Double Drywall with Green Glue Compound

• Acoustic Caulk and Sealing Tape

• Weatherstripping (for doors and windows near the wall)

3. Steps to Soundproof an Existing Wall

Step 1: Seal Air Gaps

• Use acoustic caulk to seal gaps around outlets, baseboards, and cracks in the drywall.

• Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switch plates.

Step 2: Add Mass to the Wall

• Apply Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) directly to the wall before installing another drywall layer.

• Use soundproofing panels or dense soundproofing blankets to absorb sound.

Step 3: Install an Additional Layer of Drywall

• Apply Green Glue Soundproofing Compound between the existing wall and a second layer of drywall to dampen vibrations.

• Secure the second drywall layer with screws and seal edges with acoustic caulk.

4. Soundproofing a New Wall (Best Method)

If you’re building a new wall, use these techniques for maximum noise reduction:

Step 1: Install Acoustic Insulation

• Fill wall cavities with mineral wool insulation for better sound absorption.

Step 2: Decouple the Wall

• Use resilient channels or sound isolation clips to create a separation between the studs and drywall, reducing sound vibrations.

Step 3: Add Multiple Layers of Mass

• Attach MLV or double layers of drywall with Green Glue to prevent noise transmission.

Step 4: Seal All Gaps

• Apply acoustic caulk around the edges, outlets, and joints to ensure no air gaps.

5. Additional Soundproofing Tips

• Use thicker curtains and soundproof window inserts for added noise reduction.

• Place bookshelves, tapestries, or padded furniture against the wall to absorb sound.

• Add a door sweep or weatherstripping to reduce sound leakage from doors.

Need Professional Soundproofing?

Proper soundproofing requires expert installation for the best results. If you want a quieter home or office, contact ProHands Handyman. We offer professional soundproofing services tailored to your needs.

📞 Call or text: 818-401-7766
📍 Serving Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, and surrounding areas.

Contact us today for a free estimate and enjoy a quieter space!