7 most common mistakes when soundproofing an apartment

Soundproofing an apartment is a topic that people often decide to address when they start to get bothered by noise from their neighbors. However, many invest money in the wrong materials and the result then does not meet expectations.

Let's look at the most common mistakes when soundproofing an apartment and what really works.

1/ Confusing soundproofing and acoustic treatment

This is by far the most common mistake. Many people think that acoustic foam will automatically stop noise from their neighbors. In reality, however, classic acoustic foam primarily:

• reduces echo within the space
• improves the acoustics of the room
• dampens sound reflections inside the space

However, it does not significantly stop the penetration of loud noise through the wall.

However, if your goal is also to improve room acoustics, the following are suitable for this:

These panels help eliminate unpleasant echo and improve the intelligibility of speech and music.

2/ Covering too small an area

A common idea is that just sticking a few panels behind the TV will solve the problem of excessive noise. However, acoustic treatment only works effectively if there is sufficient coverage of the area. For smaller rooms, it is ideal to cover approximately 20 - 40% of the problem areas.

A very popular solution is, for example, these larger panels:

A thicker profile helps absorb mid and high frequencies better.

3/ Ignoring low frequencies

Bass frequencies are the biggest problem in soundproofing. It is the rumble from a subwoofer or home theater that is transmitted through walls the most. Ordinary thin foam does not cope well with bass. At low frequencies, the following helps:

• greater material thickness
• combination of multiple layers
• separation of structures
• bass traps in the corners

So if you have a more powerful subwoofer at home, it is a good idea to also think about the acoustic treatment of the room to reduce rumble and resonance as much as possible.

4/ Incorrect placement of panels

Another common mistake is randomly placing panels without thinking. The most effective placement is:

• at the first reflection points
• opposite the sound source
• in the corners of the room
• on the ceiling above the sound zone

The following work very well, for example:

Their pyramidal or "chocolate" profile helps break up sound reflections and reduce unpleasant echo.

5/ Cheap gluing and poor installation

Even a high-quality panel can work poorly if it is not installed correctly. These are common installation mistakes:

• using ordinary superglue
• using double-sided tape
• installing on a dusty surface
• pressing the foam too hard

It is advisable to use a special contact adhesive for installing acoustic panels:

Spray contact adhesive will ensure a firm hold without damaging the foam structure.

6/ Exaggerated expectations

This is very important.

It is important to remember that regular acoustic treatment:

• will improve comfort in the room
• reduce echo
• limit the spread of some sound
• make listening to music and spoken words more enjoyable

However, if you really want to stop noise from neighbors or to the neighbors, the first thing to do is to solve:

• construction separation of structures
• floating walls
• mineral wool
• drywall systems
• anti-vibration elements

Acoustic foam is a great addition, but it is not a substitute for complete sound insulation.

7/ Choosing a material that is too thin

Thin 2 cm panels may look good, but their effect is limited. For a home office, gaming room or studio, you should take into account the following parameters:

• 4 - 7 cm thickness
• combination of different profiles
• larger panel areas

Thicker panels that can absorb a wider spectrum of frequencies are offered as a suitable solution.

So what works best when soundproofing an apartment?

So let's summarize. The best results in soundproofing a room are achieved by a combination of:

• acoustic panels
• proper placement
• sufficient coverage
• quality installation
• realistic expectations

If you want to improve the acoustics of your home studio, office, living room or gaming room, quality acoustic foam is an excellent first step and addition. You can find a complete range of acoustic materials in our e-shop www.bsacoustic.com.