How To Soundproof Between Existing Floors in 7 Easy Steps

Do you have noisy upstairs neighbours? If you’re tired of hearing them stomping around, watching TV late at night, or having loud conversations, soundproofing between existing floors can be a great solution.

It can also help to improve your privacy, as it will block noise from travelling up and down between floors.

In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of soundproofing between existing floors, the best materials to use, and a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself.

We’ll also share some expert tips for maximizing soundproofing and answer frequently asked questions.

By following this guide, you can finally find relief from disruptive noise above and enjoy a more peaceful home.

Why soundproof between existing floors?

If you’re tired of hearing your upstairs neighbours stomping around, watching TV late at night, or having loud conversations, soundproofing between existing floors can be a great solution.

It can also help to improve your privacy, as it will block noise from travelling up and down between floors.

Benefits of soundproofing between existing floors:

• Reduces footfall noise
• Lowers voice transmission
• Lessons impact noise
• Improves sleep
• Increases privacy
• Non-disruptive project
• Cost-effective
• Makes shared living more harmonious

What materials work best for soundproofing between floors?

There are several effective options, including:

• Resilient channel: This metal furring channel decouples the ceiling drywall from the floor joists above, preventing vibrations from transmitting noise. The resilient channel is screwed to the underside of floor joists in a staggered pattern, then drywall attaches to the channel.
• Green Glue: This viscoelastic polymer compound dampens noise when sandwiched between two rigid surfaces. It can be used along with a resilient channel for maximum sound blocking. Apply green glue between drywall layers or directly onto the resilient channel before attaching drywall.
• Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV): This heavy, dense vinyl material contains barium sulfate or calcium carbonate to add mass. MLV blocks airborne noise transmission when installed underneath the drywall. Use 1 lb/sq ft MLV for optimal soundproofing.
• Acoustic insulation: Acoustic insulation like rock wool safely absorbs sound vibrations. Pack insulation into floor cavities before installing drywall and resilient channels to improve sound damping.
• Soundproofing underlayment: Placing soundproofing underlayment under the flooring upstairs reduces the impact noise heard downstairs. Underlayments like cork or rubber absorb footfall noise from above. This is installed after the ceiling soundproofing.

How To Soundproof Between Existing Floors in 7 Easy Steps

Having noisy upstairs neighbours can make life at home miserable. Fortunately, you can block the noise coming through the ceiling with these simple soundproofing steps. Follow this guide to finally find relief from the disruptive noise above.

Step 1: Prepare the Floor

First, remove any existing flooring or drywall from the ceiling. Inspect the underside of the floor cavity above for any cracks or openings that could allow noise to transmit. Seal these with acoustical sealant.

Step 2: Install the Resilient Channel

Screw resilient channel furring strips to the floor joists above in a staggered pattern. The channel will decouple the drywall from the joists to prevent noise transfer. Leave a 1/8″ gap between channel ends.

Step 3: Apply the Green Glue

Spread green glue viscoelastic compound over the resilient channel and between drywall layers using a notched trowel. This dampens vibrations for maximum soundproofing.

Step 4: Install the Mass Loaded Vinyl

Cut 1 lb/sq ft mass-loaded vinyl to fit the ceiling cavity. MLV blocks airborne noise so install it over the resilient channel before the drywall.

Step 5: Install the Acoustic Insulation

Place rock wool insulation bats on top of the mass-loaded vinyl layer. This absorbs any residual noise vibrations.

Step 6: Install the Soundproofing Underlayment

If possible, have the upstairs neighbours install a soundproofing underlayment like cork below their flooring. This reduces impact noise transference.

Step 7: Install the Finished Flooring

Screw 2 layers of 5/8″ drywall to the resilient channel. Mud and tape seams and corners then add your finished flooring.

Following these steps correctly results in significant noise reduction from upstairs neighbours. Consult a soundproofing expert if you need help with installation.

Say goodbye to noisy upstairs neighbours! Get started on soundproofing your ceiling today.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Soundproofing Between Floors

You’ve installed the basics like resilient channels and mass-loaded vinyl to soundproof between floors.

Now make sure you utilize these extra pro tips for optimal noise blocking from upstairs neighbours:

Seal Any Gaps or Cracks

Inspect the floor cavity and seal up any cracks, openings, or gaps with acoustic sealant. This prevents noise leakage which compromises soundproofing. Use sealant anywhere drywall, trim, pipes, wires, etc. meet the floor joists.

Use Acoustic Caulk Perimeter

Acoustic caulk around the perimeter seals the gap between the ceiling drywall and walls. This helps contain noise and vibrations for better sound isolation. Apply a continuous bead before installing base trim.

Add Rugs or Carpets

Rugs and carpets act as another layer to absorb footsteps and impact noise coming through the ceiling. Place large area rugs with padded backing over hard floors for extra sound dampening upstairs.

Install Soundproof Curtains

Soundproof curtains block any exterior noise that could penetrate the new ceiling. Look for heavyweight curtains lined with noise-reducing materials. Close them to seal in the quietness.

Consult a Soundproofing Expert

Get guidance from a soundproofing specialist to ensure proper installation and material selection. They can also advise you on additional soundproofing techniques like framing changes, isolator clips, double stud walls, etc.

With these supplemental sound-blocking tips, you can achieve full noise isolation from upstairs neighbours. No more disruptions – just peaceful quiet throughout your home.

FAQs

conclusion

Soundproofing between existing floors is a great way to reduce noise transmission from upstairs neighbors, improve privacy, and make your home more comfortable and enjoyable. There are a variety of effective soundproofing materials and techniques available, so you can choose the best solution for your needs and budget.

If you are considering soundproofing your floors, be sure to do your research and choose the right materials and techniques. You may also want to consult with a soundproofing expert to ensure that your project is successful.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• The benefits of soundproofing between existing floors include reduced footfall noise, lower voice transmission, lessened impact noise, improved sleep, increased privacy, a non-disruptive project, cost-effectiveness, and a more harmonious shared living environment.
• Effective soundproofing materials include resilient channels, green glue, mass-loaded vinyl (MLV), acoustic insulation, and soundproofing underlayment.
• Soundproofing between existing floors can be done in 7 easy steps: prepare the floor, install the resilient channel, apply the green glue, install the mass-loaded vinyl, install the acoustic insulation, install the soundproofing underlayment, and install the finished flooring.
• Expert tips for maximizing soundproofing between floors include sealing any gaps or cracks, using acoustic caulk perimeter, adding rugs or carpets, installing soundproof curtains, and consulting a soundproofing expert.

By following these tips, you can achieve significant noise reduction and create a more peaceful and enjoyable home environment.