Sound Control

Yesterday, I had a client ask me about sound control. (thanks Stow). Over the years I've done a few projects involving serious sound control including a Film/TV editing and recording suite. There are some new products and techniques out there that are covered in this video from JLC TV. The important thing to remember is that a wall assembly with drywall or plaster on each side acts like a drum and can actually amplify sound from one room to another. Eliminating this "drum effect" is the technical goal of all sound deadening efforts.

You can get much deeper into this topic if you're interested but here are some quick and easy tips:

Vinyl Sound Barrier Sheet Material

• Fill the wall with fiberglass or cellulose (duh)
• Split the studs with a saw kerf down the center (you can leave a few inches of attachment at the ends)
• Install vinyl sound barrier before drywall or gypsum lath, this is a very dense yet flexible material with extraordinary sound-deadening qualities. Can be expensive and hard to find.
• Use sound-attenuating drywall clips
• For a DIY solution install foam weatherstrpping  between the stud and the drywall or gypsum lath
• Use special soundproofing drywall (generally available at home centers)
• DON"T use metal studs!

There is more product information at any of the links above. One stop sourcing for a lot of products and sound-proofing information here.