If you have thick, insulated walls, this will have little additional effect.
Use a panel that is mostly fiberglass with a thin Mylar perforated facing. These types of panels have the highest ratings in sound absorption values among almost all but the most expensive specialty tiles. They will give you far more bang for buck than any other on the market.
If you are improving on an existing wall, build a basic wall frame and attach it to the surface, anchoring it to the existing studs. Cover this with a new layer of drywall or sheetrock—or even multiple layers of drywall, for the best results. [5] X Expert Source Andrew PetersArchitecture & Construction Specialist Expert Interview. 24 November 2020.
Decoupling actually makes the wall worse at blocking low frequencies, due to the resonance of the wall. If the gap is only 1 inch (2. 5 cm) or less, a damping compound is highly recommended to fight this effect. [6] X Research source
A double row of studs, one along each interior side. This is the most soundproof method, but requires enough space to leave a gap between the two rows. A staggered row of studs, alternating placement along one interior side, then the other.
Sound clips are the most effective method, absorbing sound with heavy rubber components. Screw them into the studs, insert a hat channel, then screw the drywall into the channel. [8] X Research source Resilient channel is a springy metal channel designed for soundproofing. Screw this to the studs and drywall using offset screws. [9] X Research source This may improve high-frequency blocking at the expense of low frequencies. [10] X Research source Note that hat channels are not effective at sound proofing.
This is also sold as noise proofing glue or viscoelastic adhesive. Some of these compounds may take days or weeks to “cure” to their full potential. [12] X Research source
Fiberglass is cheap and fairly effective. [13] X Research source Try using spray foam or cotton batt insulation in your wall cavities to help block sound. [14] X Expert Source Andrew PetersArchitecture & Construction Specialist Expert Interview. 24 November 2020.
Water-based caulks are easier to clean up. If using a solvent-based caulk, check the label to make sure it won’t harm your materials. If the caulk doesn’t match the wall color, choose one that specifically says it can be painted over. Consider using normal caulk for the smallest cracks, since acoustical caulk is more difficult to handle.
You do not need to soundproof the floor if there is no room below you. Heavy concrete ceilings won’t benefit much from the additional mass of drywall and damping compound. Instead, add a drywall layer with an air gap in between, or fill the gap with fiberglass insulation.
Be sure to attach these to wall studs or other strong structures.
