How Much Does it Cost to Soundproof a Room?

The cost to soundproof one room generally includes $170 to $250 for new materials, $190 to $300 for professional labor and $20 to $36 in tools needed to complete the job, though the prices will be higher for larger rooms and more complicated projects. These cost estimates do not include the cost of removing existing insulation or modifying any existing structures or surfaces.

While the above estimates will give homeowners a good idea of what they can expect to pay to soundproof a room, the actual price will vary based on several factors. The quality of the materials, the experience of the company and the location of the project can all affect the price. The time of year the project is completed, the complexity of the project and the size of the project can affect the price as well. Homeowners should be sure to receive a signed quote, in writing, before work on the project begins so that there are no pricing surprises down the road.

The cost of the materials depends on the type of materials used, but it is generally measured in terms of length or number of pieces. For example, different pieces may be sold by the foot, by the roll or by the sheet. The cost of labor is generally calculated by the hour, though there may be a minimum requirement.

Room Soundproofing Materials

Room soundproofing can be achieved with a wide variety of materials. Some materials are more effective than other materials, and quality materials tend to be more expensive as well. Homeowners will need to assess their needs and their budget before deciding on the right soundproofing material for their homes. Here are some common soundproofing materials homeowners have to choose from:

• Textured Wall Panels: These panels are an easy way to reduce the amount of noise that travels through the walls of a home, apartment building or business.
• Carpeting: Carpet is great at absorbing sounds while still looking beautiful and homey. Installing carpeting is an easy way to prevent your noise from reaching the people living below you.
• New Windows: Old, leaky windows let in drafts and noise. Replacing your windows is an easy, convenient solution.
• Textured Wall Paint: Textured wall paint can provide almost as much soundproofing as an acoustic panel, but it is a fraction of the cost.
• Wall Hangings: Hanging decorative rugs and other tapestries on the walls can reduce sound transfer and add beauty at the same time.
• Soundproof Curtains: If the stray sound is coming from the windows, soundproof curtains are a great way to keep it out.
• Blanket Insulation: A product that is commonly used in home construction, blanket insulation can also be used to help prevent sound from leaking through the walls.
• Acoustic Underlayments and Mats: This material is used under a room's flooring to prevent stray sounds from bothering downstairs neighbors.
• Acoustic Slab: This dense and versatile material can be used to keep sound from escaping through the floors, ceilings and walls.
• Foam Panels: These panels may look similar to egg crate solutions, but they work significantly better.
• Resilient Channels: These metal rails collect and absorb sound so that it doesn't escape through the walls.
• Soundproof Drywall: Made out of gypsum board and steel-like materials, this soundproof material is great for keeping stray sounds out.

Uses for Soundproofed Rooms

Soundproofed rooms are most commonly found in apartment buildings so that tenants do not overhear every sound their neighbors make. They are also found in homes with drum sets because they allow the drummer to practice without disturbing the rest of the family. There are several additional situations when soundproofed rooms are helpful, however.

Soundproofed rooms can be used to give adults privacy whether they are living with children or other houseguests. They can offer privacy in business settings such as in banks, hospitals and counselors' offices, where confidential information is often discussed. Soundproof rooms keep a home free of outside noise from noisy neighbors, nearby airports, train tracks and highways. Soundproofed rooms also allow musicians and film makers to work without extraneous sounds in the background.

Advantages of Soundproofing a Room

The biggest advantage soundproofed rooms offer is peace and quiet. Whether the noise is coming from inside or outside the home, it is always nice to be able to retreat to a quiet place and relax when needed. Soundproofed rooms give homeowners privacy, and they allow them to go about their day without worrying about disturbing other family members who may be sleeping or relaxing. Soundproofed rooms also often add extra insulating value as well.

Disadvantages of Soundproofing a Room

The biggest disadvantage of soundproofed rooms is the cost, as soundproofing a single room generally costs hundreds of dollars. The installation can be inconvenient if the soundproofing is put in the walls after the home is already built, and it can be unsightly if soundproofing panels are to be installed on the walls in plain sight. Soundproofing carries the risk that wires in the wall will be cut. Soundproofing also prevents people from hearing sounds they want or need to hear, such as a child crying in the next room or a tornado siren going off in the vicinity.