Here are the best soundproofing materials and resources for a WIDE range of soundproofing needs.
We’ve spent hours researching soundproofing materials so you don’t have to, and we’ve created this list of materials based on our research.
These materials can be used for several purposes from soundproofing a room to building a soundproof box.
- What materials are best for soundproofing?
- Best materials for soundproofing a room and walls
- Soundproofing foam
- Soundproofing Blankets
- Sound Absorbing Panels
- Resilient channels
- Acoustic caulk and sealants
- Soundproof room divider curtains
- Acoustic Partitions
- Soundproofing insulation
- Egg cartons
- Soundproof drywall or fake wall – Best for creating fake walls
- Soundproof paint
- Soundproof Wallpaper
- Best materials for soundproofing windows and doors
- Best materials for soundproofing floors
- Best soundproofing materials for podcasters and music producers
- Best materials for soundproofing cars and RVs
- What is a soundproofing material?
- Sound absorbing material vs soundproofing material
- Principles of soundproofing
What materials are best for soundproofing?
Identifying the best soundproofing materials can be a tough task.
Quite a lot of products are now being marketed as soundproofing materials.
However, not all of these products will help you to have a successful soundproofing project.
We have compiled a list of the best soundproofing materials you can get your hands on.
Do note that this is not an exhaustive list but one with just a few soundproofing materials that are guaranteed to set you up for success.
Here is a list of the best soundproofing materials:
- Soundproofing foam
- Soundproofing Blankets
- Sound Absorbing Panels
- Resilient channels
- Acoustic caulk and sealants
- Soundproof room divider curtains
- Acoustic Partitions
- Soundproofing insulation
- Egg cartons
- Soundproof drywall
- Soundproof paint
- Soundproof Wallpaper
- Soundproof Curtains
- Weatherstripping
- Door Seals and Sweeps
- Mass loaded vinyl
- Soundproof Floor Underlayment
- Carpets and rugs
- Anti Vibration floor mats
- Microphone shield
- Bass Traps
- Car Sound Deadener
- Sound Insulation Rolls for vehicles
- Vehicle Sound Deadening Spray
Best materials for soundproofing a room and walls
The best soundproofing option for walls and rooms without spending a huge amount of money is just to add mass to the walls, in the form of foam panels and blankets.
This is by far the cheapest and fastest way of soundproofing a room, and anyone can do it!
In general, there are a few types of soundproofing materials you can choose from for example:
- Foam panel type products (listed below) these are sometimes adhesive large foam panels you attach to surfaces
- Sound insulation bats: Wooden or sometimes plastic batons of material you can put in corners of rooms
- Architectural soundproofing materials: This includes things that are done to change the structure or makeup of the house or room, like changing the walls or adding insulation inside the walls themselves (These materials are almost always more expensive)
- Acoustic coatings and sprays: These are the more modern soundproofing solutions and are essentially spray on coats of rubber usually, and can be a very effective cheap soundproofing solution for a lot of rooms
Here are the best soundproofing materials in no particular order.
You can also find links for places you can buy these things as well.
If you’re looking for something else, you might find our list of the best sound DEADENING materials more useful.
It explains the difference between the two.
Soundproofing foam
Soundproofing foam or acoustic foam is one of the most popular items used for soundproofing walls.
These foam panels not only block out some level of sound but also improve the sound quality in a room.
Most of these panels are made from polyurethane.
Polyurethane is one of the best materials out there to reduce background noise and acoustic interference
Soundproofing foam or acoustic foam usually comes in various sizes, shapes, patterns and designs.
It is believed that the patterns on these foam panels can make a big difference depending on your soundproofing needs.
Some of the most common patterns are pyramids, wedges, mazes, waves, egg cartons, etc.
For easy installation, read this guide on how to hang acoustic foam without damaging walls.
Bubos Soundproof Wallpanels – Best for small to medium rooms
- NRC: 0.95
- Material: Polyurethane
- Dimensions: 12“x12“x0.4″
Bubos Soundproofing panels are some of the densest soundproof panels on the market with 230kg/m3 density.
Density is the factor that determines the strength of a sound barrier.
These Bubos panels are made from high-density and eco-friendly polyester fiber sound deadening material.
They are flame retardant, odorless and non-toxic so they are safe to use in your home and around children and pets.
Bubos panels come with an NRC rating of 0.95 which puts it among the best soundproofing foam panels you can find.
They are great for reducing and absorbing noise.
Installation is quick, easy and does not require the use of any special tools or materials.
Thanks to their lightweight and bendable nature, they are easy to shape and cut to size.
All you need to attach the panels to the wall are nails, spray adhesive or 3M double-sided tape.
They can stay securely attached to a wide variety of surfaces so you can use them in almost every room in your home.
Bubos soundproof wall panels are also corrosion and fade-resistant.
- ♬【Superior Soundproofing】Made of 230kg/m3 high density and eco-friendly polyester fiber, our…
- ♬【No More Worrying About Installation】No special tools or materials are needed for…
- ♬【Wide Applications】Excellent acoustic treatment for multiple occasions, not only for spot…
A2S Acoustic Panels – Best for home theaters and recording studios
- NRC: 0.90
- Material: Polyester fiber
- Dimensions: 2″ X 12″ X 12”
The A2S acoustic panels are one of the best when it comes to durability and quality.
Place them on walls, doors, windows, ceilings, floors and other areas in your home, studio or office to improve the acoustics.
These high-quality 2-inch thick sound foams feature a professional studio equipment technology design that allows them to have an NRC rating of 0.90.
They can mitigate SLAP, flutter echoes, waves and reverb to improve the acoustics in a room.
Best of all, they are SGS certified and rated Grade B on the fireproof scale.
This means that these panels will not fuel a fire but may help to reduce its intensity.
A2S acoustic panels come with adhesive stickers for installation.
All you need to do is apply the stickers to the back of each panel and place them wherever you want.
Do keep in mind that the adhesive stickers are best suited for use on smooth surfaces.
Try to avoid using them on rough surfaces as they may not keep the panel securely in place.
- Premium Soundproof Wall Panels — A2S 2x12x12 Soundproof Wall Panels covers areas up to 24 square…
- Easy Soundproofing Installation — Our premier sound absorbing panels are easy to install. Simply…
- State-of-the-Art Noise Reduction Technology — Designed to accommodate professional recording…
Soundproofing Blankets
Another type of product that can be used for soundproofing is soundproofing blankets.
Before soundproofing blankets, there were moving and packing blankets.
These products are similar in how they tackle sound.
Moving blankets have been used for many years for soundproofing.
This is because these products are thick, dense and heavy which makes it hard for sound waves to pass.
One of the biggest differences between moving blankets and soundproofing ones is that soundproofing blankets may come with grommets along the edges.
It all comes down to personal preference so you could either choose a moving blanket or a soundproofing blanket for your soundproofing project.
Sure-max moving blankets – Best for sound absorption on a budget
- Material: cotton batting with polyester binding
- Weight: 2 ¾ pounds
- Dimensions: 21.3 x 17.9 x 16.8 inches
The Sure-Max Soundproof Blankets are moving and packing blankets.
However, due to their thickness and size, they can be used for soundproofing.
These blankets are made with thick cotton batting and polyester binding
The thickness of these blankets helps with sound dampening since sounds have to travel through them before reaching your ear.
Suremax Blankets come in a pack of 12 so it should be enough for a small room or wall.
- Professional-grade: Oversized, 80″ x 72″ premium quality moving pads that provide exceptional damage…
- Superior cushioning: Constructed with thick, padded virgin cotton batting with polyester binding,…
- Durable: Weighing approximately 2-3/4 pounds apiece, these heavy-duty furniture blankets feature a…
Boxer Tools Grommeted Industrial Blanket – Best for dampening noise and vibrations
- Material: polyester
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Dimensions: 78″L x 72″W
The Boxer Tools Industrial Blanket is a multi-purpose blanket that helps to dampen noise and vibrations.
It has a metal grommet every nine inches on one side.
This way you can hang it easily if you wish.
If not, you can use them on walls or floors.
While they may not be the most attractive-looking blankets, they are quite efficient.
This blanket is made from industrial strength polyester and the filler material is a combination of polyester and cotton.
It is also double stitched so it will stand up to normal wear and tear better than other blankets.
- [DETAILS] Studio Sound Dampening Blanket. Color: Camouflage. Materials: Woven cotton. Dimensions:…
- [MULTI-PURPOSE] This woven blanket can be used to dampen sound, protect car interiors, upholstery,…
- [SOUND BARRIER PROTECTION] Reduce noise and echoing sounds with Boxer blankets. Reinforced fabric…
Sound Absorbing Panels
Some people don’t like the LOOK of the spiked and pointed foam panels we listed above. The reason the foam panels above are spiked is to better absorb the sound because the sound gets ‘trapped’ in between the foam wedges (They’re not just spiked for no reason).
Sound absorbing panels are almost as effective. A sound-absorbing panel that’s flat will still absorb WAY more sound than no foam panel at all!
ATS Acoustics Panel – Best for a professional look
- NRC: 1.0 out of 1
- Material: 100% jute
- Dimensions: 24x48x2 inches
The ATS Acoustics Panel is great for controlling unwanted reverb and echo.
They have a superior NRC rating of 1.0 out of 1.
When sounds are absorbed by this panel, they are trapped forever.
100% jute covers the solid internal wooden frame and gives the panel a pleasing aesthetic to match almost any decor.
This ATS Acoustic panel will reduce reflections from the hard surfaces in a room.
It is 2-inch thick which is great for sound dampening projects.
- Provides clearer, more enjoyable sound by effectively controlling unwanted reverb and echo.
- Superior sound absorption: NRC 1.0 out of 1.
- Attractive, textured fabric complements studios, auditoriums, and living spaces.
Resilient channels
Resilient channels are used to decouple your drywall from the internal structures of buildings.
They improve the soundproofing abilities of walls and ceilings.
If you want to add them to existing walls, you’ll need to strip the drywall and replace it with a new one.
The best time to use them is if you haven’t put up your finishing layer of drywall on your walls or ceilings.
After you add your soundproof insulation in the wooden grid inside your walls, you’ll need to screw the channels into the studs.
Usually, you screw them to the studs perpendicular to their direction but if you’re installing them on walls, then you’ll need to place them horizontally.
This way when you install your drywall, the screws will pass through the channels instead of the studs.
Installing resilient channels can be a bit tricky so if you’re aren’t sure about doing it yourself, hire a professional.
Auralex RC8 Resilient Channel – Best for reducing sound transmission through walls
- Material: Steel
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Dimensions: 96 x 2.38 x 0.5 inches
The Auralex RC8 Resilient Channel helps to reduce sound transmission.
It is made from 25 gauge steel and designed for durability.
This particular channel is used to hang drywall instead of attaching it to studs.
It should be installed horizontally at the bottom of walls with at least 2 inches or less in between.
You can hang up to 2 layers of 5/8” drywall as well as a layer of Auralex SheetBlok on the RC8.
It creates a ½” air pocket between the layers.
This mechanical decoupling will improve the STC rating of any wall or ceiling.
The RC8 comes with 24 8” pieces per box which are more than enough for one wall in a small room.
- Resilient Channel f Drywall – 8′ Lengths (24 count)
Acoustic caulk and sealants
Acoustic caulk can be used for sound dampening while sealants can be used when adding the finishing touches to your wall.
Acoustic caulk can also be used between layers of drywall or plywood to increase their STC ratings.
Acoustic caulk and sealants can both seal off or plug the space where air can pass through.
If air can pass so can sounds.
They can also be used for sealing cracks and gaps around doors and windows.
Check out more in the best acoustic caulk review guide.
Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound – Best used between drywall or plywood
- STC Rating: 56 in a drywall/single stud wall
- Compatible Material Wood
- Application: Needs a standard large size caulk gun
Green Glue is one of the best acoustic caulk on the market.
It can reduce both impact and airborne noises.
When used between two layers of drywall or plywood, it can add up to an impressive 9 STC points to any wall or ceiling.
You can apply Green Glue using a caulk gun for an easy and effective application.
This set comes in a pack of 12 29 oz tubes and covers an area of about 160ft.
- BULK 6 PACK GREEN GLUE & SEALANT – Trust the best in the business when it comes to soundproofing,…
- PROFESSIONAL QUALITY SOUNDPROOFING – Use Green Glue compound between layers of drywall or plywood to…
- SEAL AGAINST SOUND LEAKS – Use Green Glue acoustical caulking sealant for the finishing touches and…
Auralex Acoustics acoustical sealant – Best for sealing cracks and gaps around doors, windows, electrical box cutouts, etc
- STC rating: 53
- Type: Water-based sealant
- Tube Size: 20 oz
Auralex Acoustics acoustical sealant is a water-based sealant that can reduce sound transmission.
It can be used on walls, ceilings and floors.
When used correctly, it can achieve an STC rating of 53.
This sealant is paintable and meets ASTM C-834 standard for flame.
It comes in a 29 oz caulking tube which means you’ll need a larger than normal-sized caulking gun for applying the caulk where you need it.
- Stopgap Acoustical Sealant is a highly elastic, water-based sealant used for reducing sound…
- Stopgap is paintable and nonstinging
- meets ASTM C-834 standards for flame
Soundproof room divider curtains
If you have an open-plan house, then soundproof room divider curtains are a great solution.
It can be useful if your bedroom isn’t separated by a wall from other areas of the house.
These room divider curtains come in all different styles and sizes with grommets along the top edge.
You would need to set up a ceiling rod to install them.
Read more about soundproof room divider curtains in this best soundproof room divider curtains.
NICETOWN Room Divider Curtain Screen Partitions – Best for homes with open plan
- Material: Polyester
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 84 x 100 x 0.2 inches
The Nicetown Room Divider Curtain is soft, thick and heavy which helps with sound dampening.
It is made from triple-weave polyester and has 14 silver grommets at the top so it can hang from a ceiling rod(not included).
If you’re looking to create new spaces and don’t want to put up walls, this is a perfect option.
The material absorbs sound which provides one less hard surface for sounds to bounce and ricochet off of.
This Nicetown room divider can also block light and give you privacy whenever you need it.
- CURTAIN DETAILS: The room divider curtain’s fabric is super soft, thickness and heavy innovative…
- SPACE SOLUTION: Curtains can be a clever and temporary solution for creating new spaces without…
- MULTIPLE FUNCTION: Just draw ROOM DIVIDER CURTAINS shut when either side needs privacy, body shape…
Acoustic Partitions
If you’re looking to soundproof an office, acoustic partitions are your best bet.
These panels are the best option for separating cubicles or creating new spaces in open-plan offices.
Acoustic partitions are much like room divider curtains but are more suited for a professional setting.
S Stand Up Desk Store ReFocus Acoustic Room Divider – Best for an office setting
- Material: Polyethylene Terephthalate
- Weight: 16.57 pounds
- Dimensions: 23.63 x 14.63 x 62 inches
This Acoustic room divider is made from polyethylene terephthalate.
It is environmentally friendly and consists of 60% post-consumer sound deadening material.
This divider can absorb around 85% of sound to promote a quieter work environment.
There’s no need for special tools or attachments as this divider can stand on its own.
It can be used almost anywhere in the office where you need a private and quiet space.
- REDUCES NOISE: This premium room divider screen absorbs 85 percent of the sound that passes through…
- FREESTANDING: Our wall divider is supported by sturdy furniture feet, eliminating the need for…
- ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE: PET panel is composed of 60% post-consumer material.
Soundproofing insulation
The most successful soundproofing projects start from within.
During construction, you should include some type of insulation inside the wall and ceilings.
While the primary purpose of insulation is to prevent air from seeping through surfaces, it also helps with soundproofing.
Insulation also adds mass and absorbing properties to your walls.
Duct Insulation, 1-1/2In x 48In x 25 ft.
- Material: Fiberglass
- R-value: 4.7
- Length: 25 ft
This fiberglass insulation works great under floors and in between walls.
It has an R-value of 4.2 which means that it can resist heat flow.
This soundproof material for walls can keep heat in during the winter and cool air during the summer.
Installation is easy but you need to protect yourself when handling fiberglass insulation.
Wear protective clothing and gloves at all times.
- Price For: Each Material of Construction: Fiberglass Standards: ASTM C-411, ASTM C-1104, ASTM C665,…
- Length: 25′ Country of Origin (subject to change): United States
- Material: Natural stone and recycled material
- Pack of: 5
- Dimensions: 2” x 4” x 3” inches
This mineral wool insulation is a high-density board made with natural stone and recycled material.
It features a random fiber orientation to trap sound waves and kill vibrations.
ProRox provides great thermal insulation and has an R-value higher per inch than fiberglass.
This particular item is water-repellant and fire-resistant.
Installation is easy, the ProRox is simple to cut with a serrated knife for clean edges and a better fit during installation.
Egg cartons
You can use egg cartons but they won’t be as effective as the other items in this guide.
However, if it is the only thing you have on hand, it’s better than nothing as it can dampen the sound in the room.
The egg carton myth started because of the shape and appearance of egg cartons.
They look similar to some acoustic foam.
The egg carton shape enhances the sound deadening properties in acoustic foams.
IZO Acoustic Foam – Best egg-shaped foam
- NRC rating: 0.04
- Material: Smolder resistant
- Dimensions: 2″ Thick 12″W x12″L
The IZO acoustic foam features an egg carton shape to trap sounds better.
They are made from a smolder-resistant material so you can safely use them anywhere in the home.
The NRC rating of these foam panels is 0.40 and they are great for soundproofing, sound insulation and sound dampening.
Installation follows the same instructions as other foam panels.
- Size: 2x12x12 (6pack) Egg Crate grey
- PRODUCT IS SHIPPED AS 3 TILES, EACH TILE Splits into “2 WEDGES”. Once You Split – Each egg crate…
- Good for Recording Studios, Vocal Booths, Home Theaters
Soundproof drywall or fake wall – Best for creating fake walls
Adding drywall on top of an existing wall can be very effective in your soundproofing process.
There are five types of drywall according to their purpose.
Regular Drywall
This type of drywall is the cheapest you can find.
However, it is not the best when it comes to soundproofing.
If you do choose to use this, stuff the inner layer between the existing wall and drywall with some soundproofing insulation and place acoustic panels on the outside of the drywall.
Mold resistant drywall
If you’re soundproofing a room with lots of steam like your kitchen, this type of drywall is best.
Moisture resistant drywall
As the name suggests, moisture-resistant drywall is best for rooms where water can come into contact with the drywall.
The bathroom is a great place to use these.
Fire-resistant drywall
This type of drywall will not prevent a fire but it can buy you a bit of time in the event of one.
It is the best choice to use in garages and stairwells.
Soundproof drywalls
Soundproof drywall has a higher transmission class than the other types.
However, its effectiveness depends on the soundproofing methods you implement before installing it.
This type of drywall comes in several thicknesses and thicker is always better.
Soundproof paint
There’s quite a bit of doubt when it comes to soundproof wallpaper and paint.
Some believe that soundproof paint can improve the amount of noise in a room.
However, the results aren’t promising.
You can use soundproof paint to create a soundproof barrier before adding acoustic panels and others soundproofing products to your wall.
The reason why some people believe soundproof paint works is because it contains latex.
Rubber products are often the go-to for soundproofing around the house.
Latex, like acoustic caulk, settles into tiny cracks and gaps in the wall and maybe that’s why there is a slight reduction in sound transmission.
Hy-Tech Thermal Solutions Acousti Coat – Sound Deadening Paint – Best paint primer for walls
- Material: Water-based
- Application: brush, roller or hopper spray gun
- Size: 5 gallon
This sound-deadening paint helps to dampen ringing, echo and tinning noise in a room.
This is because it is a heavy-bodied, water-based flat latex paint with ceramic microspheres and sound-absorbing fillers.
This helps it to reduce sound transmission and provides insulating benefits as well.
This soundproof paint is environmentally friendly and non-toxic so it can be used anywhere in the home.
Application is easy and all you need is a brush, roller or hopper spray gun.
In the event of any spills, simply clean with just soap and water.
- Acousti-Coat is a thick, soft coating designed to act as a ‘sound sponge’. Deadens sound within the…
- Coverage is 50 square feet per gallon for the minimum two coats required. This means unless you are…
- ThermaCels included in this paint! This provides insulation properties as well. Do not add…
Soundproof Wallpaper
Soundproof wallpaper like soundproof paint has some effect but not very much.
However, people still use them since they do have some soundproofing properties.
These products are usually made from closed cell polyethylene foam which has some sound-absorbing properties.
Soundproof wallpaper is essentially very thin acoustic panels.
While they may not absorb sound as well as acoustic panels, they get extra points for style since they come in various decorative designs.
Art3d 3D White Brick Wallpaper – Best for stylish and decorative walls
- Material: PE foam
- Pack of: 11
- Covers: 64 sq. ft
These Art3d foam wallpaper can help to improve the acoustics in a room.
They are made up of a self-adhesive substrate topped with a Polyethylene material.
This wallpaper also adds a great look to your plain and boring walls.
They feature an adhesive backing and all you need to do is peel and stick on the wall.
- Extra large size faux brick PE foam wall tile, easy DIY, just peel and stick on wall
- 3D decorative soft foam brick wall panels, acoustic, anti-collision, safety and environmental…
- Comes in one box of 11 wall tiles in black color, covers around 64 square feet, size of each tile:…
Read this how to soundproof a room and how to soundproof a wall post.
Best materials for soundproofing windows and doors
A HUGE amount of sound escapes rooms through the doors and windows, and they’re often the ‘low hanging fruit’ when trying to soundproof a space because so much can be done to them!
You can get a coat rack on the back or a door sweep and panels for the surfaces of the door!
Soundproof Curtains
Soundproof curtains are thicker, denser and heavier than your normal curtains.
Many of them use triple weave technology which means they use three layers of woven materials on top of each other.
The middle layer may consist of high-density yarn or other material which is highly effective for blocking and absorbing sounds.
Soundproof curtains also have light-blocking properties so they work great as blackout curtains as well.
NICETOWN Noise Insulation Curtain Panels, Pair of Energy…
- Material: Polyester
- Dimensions: 84 x 52 x 0.2 inches
- Weight: 3.53 pounds
Nicetown Noise Reducing Curtains comes with 2 panels.
It is made from triple woven polyester and comes with a detachable felt fabric lining in the middle.
The detachable liner makes these curtain 2.5 times better at absorbing sounds than other types of soundproofing curtains.
These curtains can also block 100% of sunlight and UV rays and offer thermal insulation to balance room temperatures.
- READY MADE: 2 panels per package. Each Curtain with 1.6″ diameter rings measures 52″ wide x 84″ long…
- NOISE REDUCING: Detachable felt fabric liner in the middle which makes the effect of absorbing sound…
- 100% BLACKOUT: Curtains are made with 2 layers triple weave fabric and 1 layer detachable felt…
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping can be used around doors and windows to seal any gaps around the perimeter of your door or window frame.
It is made from various materials and comes in different shapes and sizes.
They all feature a peel-off layer in the back which makes installation easier.
Not only do they seal gaps to stop sound from passing through, but they also help with temperature control.
MAGZO weatherstripping tape – Best for around door and window frames
- Material: CR foam, Neoprene
- Thickness and width: ½ inch wide & ½ inch thick
- Length: 13 feet (6.5ft x 2 rolls)
MAGZO Weatherstripping Tape is made from CR foam and neoprene.
The high-density closed foam tape is solid and firm yet pliable for easy manipulation during installation.
Be sure to clean the surface before you install the tape so that the adhesive holds firmly.
The MAGZO Weatherstripping Tape is weatherproof, oil-resistant, corrosion-resistant, shock-absorbing, sound dampening and heat insulating.
- SIZE OF THIS FOAM TAPE – 1/2 inch W x 1/8 inch T x 16.5 ft L x 3 rolls. You can cut the single-sided…
- STRONG ADHESIVE – The door weather stripping adopts a stronger adhesive backing which ensures the…
- GREEN MATERIAL – The high-density self-adhesive weather stripping is made from harmless CR foam and…
Door Seals and Sweeps
Door seals and sweeps work hand in hand with weatherstripping tape.
While weatherstripping tape is great for sealing gaps around the perimeter of the door and door frame, door seals and sweeps seal the big gap under most doors.
Trim-Lok Soundproof door seal – Best draft stopper for under doors
- Material: EPDM foam
- Cross-section shape: D-shape
- Dimensions: 300 x 0.38 x 0.44 inches
Doors leak a lot of sounds as we’ve said before, and this strip is just what you need.
There are lots of brands of door strips out there, but this Trim Lok strip is very affordable but still made of good quality material.
It actually works as well (probably why it has so many good reviews).
You can order different lengths of this stuff, and it’s good for cars and RVs as well as rooms and normal doors.
This Trim Lok door seal also very easy to install which makes it a great choice, especially when the alternatives cost and take a lot longer to install.
- EPDM FOAM RUBBER SEAL: Trim-Lok D-Shaped Rubber Seal drowns out noise, eliminates vibration, and…
- MANY APPLICATIONS: Durable Trim-Lok Foam Seals can be used for marine, automobile, and home cases…
- WEATHER-RESIST: These rubber D-seals provide excellent resistance to water absorption, ozone,…
Suptikes soundproof door sweep – Best door sweep for gaps at the bottom of doors
- Material: Silicone
- Design: 3 layers
- Dimensions: 2″ W x 39″ L
The Suptikes Door Draft Stopper is great for sealing gaps under your door.
It can be used on gaps up to 1 inch and is easy to install.
This product can help against drafts, odors and noise as well as block out any light seeping in from under your door.
The Suptikes door sweep works on a variety of interior and exterior doors of different sizes and materials like wood, glass, metal, plastic and more.
Learn how to soundproof a window and how to soundproof a door by clicking the links.
- 【NO MORE GAPS】 – 2″ Width x 39″ Length, Fits Gaps up to 1 Inch. Self-adhesive door draft blocker…
- 【SAVE MONEY and ENERGY】- In winter and summer, draft stopper prevent the leakage of air…
- 【MULTIPLE PROTECTION】 – Guard against drafts, odors and noise; block out under-door light. Our…
Best materials for soundproofing floors
Sound dampening materials are things that aim to just add mass usually to the floor to make the sound bounce off and reflect back into the room.
This gives the dampening effect that reduces the amount of sound that escapes and enters the room.
The most common types of dampening materials are mats, sprays (usually rubber) and rolls of material.
Mass loaded vinyl
Mass loaded vinyl or MLV is great for adding mass to your walls, ceiling and floors.
It is fairly thin and flexible so it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk wherever you use it.
MLV’s primary purpose is to add mass to block out sounds completely.
It is very effective and one of the best products you can use if you hope to achieve the best soundproofing effects.
Soundsulate 1 lb Mass Loaded Vinyl MLV – Best for walls, floors and ceilings
- STC Rating: 27
- Dimensions: 4”x 25”(100 sq. Ft.)
- Weight: 1 pound per square foot(100 pounds)
Soundsulate MLV is great for blocking sounds effectively.
It has a standalone STC rating of 27 and when used on walls, ceilings or floors, the STC rating increases.
This MLV is thin and flexible which allows for use in almost all sound control applications without compromising space.
It can also be used over studs, joists or on suspended ceilings.
Soundsulate MLV works great as an acoustic wrap for machinery, equipment and ductwork.
- Use for soundproofing bedrooms, floors, basements, conference rooms, studios, apartments, machinery,…
- Made with the highest quality vinyl available for superior strength, durability and flexibility….
- STC rating 27, 1/8″ thick
Soundproof Floor Underlayment
Underlayments are like sound dampening materials that aim to add mass to floors to make the sound bounce off and reflect into the room.
This gives the dampening effect that reduces the amount of sound that escapes and enters the room.
Roberts Super Felt soundproof flooring underlayment – Best under engineered wood and laminate flooring
- STC Rating: 66
- Material: Felt
- Dimensions: 60 in. x 72 ft. x 3 mm
There are again lots of brands of this stuff but this Roberts brand seems to be the best.
This particular one is actually also a moisture barrier, making the whole room more efficient.
It specifically protects engineered and laminate flooring from any moisture from the subfloor.
This is a great for keeping heat in the room in winter as well!
The Roberts Super Felt Soundproof Flooring Underlayment can reduce noise and help cushion flooring.
It’s a very effective roll of underlay designed to dampen acoustic vibrations and sounds, making the whole room quieter and letting less sound escape or enter.
It is made from recycled fibers and this sound dampening material absorbs noise instead of deflecting it.
With an STC rating of 66 and an IIC rating of 67, this particular product can reduce both airborne and impact noises.
One roll of the Roberts Super Felt Underlayment covers 360 sq.
- For use with engineered wood and laminate flooring
- Provides cushion over concrete and wood subfloors
- 360-Feet square roll.The IIC and STC tests measure sound transference from an upper level room to a…
Carpets and rugs
Carpets and rugs much like moving blankets work by adding mass and density, therefore reducing the sound by absorbing some of it.
The more soft surfaces in a room you have, the less sound escapes or enters the room.
Gorilla Grip Ultra Soft Washable Area Rug – Best for floors
- Material: Faux fur
- Dimensions: 120 x 90 x 0.5 inches
- Weight: 12.47 pounds
The Gorilla Grip Area Rug is a high pile faux fur rug that can reduce and absorb sounds due to its plush nature.
The top layer features a thick shaggy material while the middle layer consists of foam.
The underside features a strong backing and comes with thousands of grip dots to reduce the risk of the rug slipping and slipping.
It is both fade and shed resistant.
This area rug can be placed anywhere in the home and keeping it clean is easy.
Simply vacuum regularly or machine wash as often as needed.
- Ultra Soft and Thick High Pile Shag: premium shag yarns and thick high pile are extra soft and…
- Grip Dots on Underside: rug features a strong backing with thousands of tiny, durable dots;…
- Plush High Density Foam Inner Layer: designed with an additional layer of high density foam for…
Anti Vibration floor mats
The mats are the perfect choice if you’re trying to minimize the sound coming from an appliance in the home.
They are usually made from foam or rubber and can be easily placed under washing machines, dishwashers, etc.
They reduce the number of vibrations that appliances can pass along the floor.
Some may be flat while others are shaped like small cups that act like slippers for the metal feet on your washing machine.
Learn more about washing machine anti vibration pads by clicking the link.
Rubber-Cal Anti-Vibration Washing Machine Mat – Best for reducing vibrations from home appliances
- Material: Recycled Rubber
- Dimensions: 4’ x 4’, 4’ x 5’, 4’ x 6’ (¼” or ⅜” thickness)
- Weight: 1.25 lb./square foot(¼” thickness, 2lb/square foot(⅜“ thickness)
Rubber-Cal Anti-vibration mat is made from recycled rubber.
It can reduce the number of vibrations that pass along your floor from your appliances to create a quieter home atmosphere.
Rubber is known to be a resilient and protective material that provides exceptional shock absorption
This Anti-Vibration Mat can disperse the vibrational energy evenly across the floor to dampen the noise.
It also helps to prevent damage to existing floors.
Rubber is strong and durable enough to withstand constant vibrations from your bigger home appliances.
This anti-vibration mat may lose its shape after being compressed under heavy machinery for extended periods.
Make your choice and choose from the 4, 5, and 6 feet mat with two thickness options; ¼” or ⅜”.
Check out this soundproof flooring post for more soundproofing materials.
- 3/8 inch thick anti vibration mat made from recycled rubber
- Designed to withstand heavy equipment as an appliance floor protector mat
- Tough mat absorbs washing machine vibration and isolates noise from washer and dryer equipment
Best soundproofing materials for podcasters and music producers
Podcasters have specific needs, and the chances are if you’re trying to get better sound for podcasting, you’ve looked into soundproofing your studio.
In this instance, you need to understand Hertz and decibels to get the best results.
Read more here in our what are hertz and what are decibels posts.
The good news is that you don’t always NEED to soundproof the whole podcasting room.
You can actually get great results just by getting a good mic, one of the best quiet keyboards, a silent mouse and then soundproofing or protecting the mic itself with these materials:
Microphone Shield
Monoprice microphone sound isolation foam shield – Best microphone foam shield
- NRC rating: 25 dB
- Material: Acoustic foam in the front and metal backplate
- Dimensions: 17.3″ x 15.4″ x 5.5″(when folded)
The Monoprice microphone foam shield improves the quality of your recordings by blocking outside noise from entering your vocal tracks.
It can reduce outside noise by 25 dB which means you’ll hear a 17% difference in volume.
This microphone shield features acoustic foam in the front and back metal plate.
It comes with a standard 3/8″ microphone threaded mount and includes a 3/8″ to 5/8″ thread adapter as well.
All assembling and mounting hardware come in the package so setting up is easy.
- Includes all assembly and mounting hardware | Branding/Logo on Product May Differ
- Dual clamp mount attaches to mic stands or booms up to 1.25″ diameter.
- Features a standard 3/8″ microphone threaded mount and includes a 3/8″ to 5/8″ thread adapter
Pyle PSMRS08 soundproof mic isolation shield – Best mic isolation shield
- Material: Thick wedge foam
- Included: Tripod base
- Dimensions: 13.2” x 7.2” x 15.6”
The Pyle PSMRS08 mic shield features 3 high-density noise-absorbing wedgie acoustic tiles.
These tiles block unwanted sounds from your recordings.
The shield significantly improves vocal audio flow by eliminating unwanted audio waves and vibrations.
It comes with a tripod base design for stability and features a universal standard ⅝” mic threading.
You can also adjust the angle, height and depth of the mic shield for maximum absorption.
- ELIMINATES UNWANTED NOISE: The Foldable Sound Recording Booth Shield features sound dampening foam…
- RECORD LIKE A PRO: Acoustic foam platform pads that block off outside noise such as air conditioning…
- THICK WEDGIE FOAM: Includes 3 high density noise-absorbing wedgie acoustic tiles that promote mic…
Best materials for soundproofing cars and RVs
There aren’t many options for soundproofing a car or an RV, but we’ll make sure to update this list as we find them.
Cars are tricky because there are LOTS of places sound could escape like all the vents, windows, ceiling, floors and panels etc.
The only real (easy) solution is to insulate the car panels which are typically quite thin and just made of solid metal.
Sound Deadener
Car sound deadeners allow you to enjoy the road.
They reduce the amount of noise and vibrations you hear while driving.
AmazonBasics Car Sound Deadener, 9.8″ x 15.7″ (34-Piece) – Best for sound deadening in vehicles
- Material: Butyl rubber compound based substrate
- Dimensions: 9.8 by 15.7 inches(36 sq. ft. total)
- Pieces: 34
Amazon Basic Car Sound Deadener creates a quieter and more comfortable in-car experience.
It is made from butyl rubber compound-based substrate that helps to reduce annoying vibrations and noises from the vehicle as well as the road.
This sound deadener comes with 34 pieces and features a self-adhesive backing for fast and easy installation.
- Car sound deadener (34-piece) for creating a quieter and more comfortable in-car experience
- Sound-proofing material (made of butyl rubber compound based substrate) helps reduce annoying…
- Strong self-adhesive backing for secure placement; reflective aluminum foil on the front for better…
Sound Insulation Rolls for vehicles
These rolls help to quiet road noises as well.
However, they are better for insulation than sound deadeners and help with heat rejection.
SoundSkins Pro car sound insulation roll – Best for vehicle insulation
- Material: Foam, Foil, rubber butyl.
- Dimensions: 79″ x 19″
- Coverage: 11 Sq. Ft
The SoundSkins Pro car sound insulation can reduce outside road noise with a single layer.
It is made up of 3 layers consisting of 3 different materials; acoustic foam, foil & rubber butyl.
The blend of these materials allows you to layer any panels in your vehicle to further reduce vibrations, loss of sound and improve heat rejection.
These large single sheets are easy to cut to size and install.
This insulation roll is both waterproof, heatproof and designed to stand the test of time.
- ✔ High-quality materials: Unlike other popular products that are made with toxic, hazardous…
- ✔ High performance: The SoundSkins Pro sound deadening mat is 4.5mm thick and has shown to reduce…
- ✔ Disaster Proof: SoundSkins Pro is waterproof, heatproof, and flame resistant. The material can…
Vehicle Sound Deadening Spray
Sound deadening sprays are great for reducing unwanted road noise and killing vibrations in the hard-to-reach places of your vehicle.
These include trunk interiors, fender wells, undercarriage, body panels, rear quarters, inside door panels and others.
All you do is spray it and wait for it to dry.
Design Engineering Spray-on Sound Deadener – Best for hard to places on your vehicle
- Color: Multi
- Fit Type: Universal
- Coverage: 20 sq. ft
Design Engineering Spray-on Sound deadener helps reduce unwanted road noise and vibrations.
Simply spray in the hard-to-reach place of your vehicle and enjoy a quieter ride.
It also acts as a thermal barrier and insulates against unwanted heat.
This spray-on sound deadener will not chip or crack.
It also helps to prevent rust and is paintable after just 6 hours.
A single can of this sound deadener covers about 20 sq. ft. and the more layers you add, the more sound deadening you achieve.
Design Engineering Spray-on Sound deadener can handle temperatures up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and can be applied to non-coated surfaces.
You can click the links to learn more in the best sound deadening for cars post or how to soundproof a car post.
- Reduce unwanted road noise and vibration, even in hard-to-reach places
- Won’t crack or chip; helps prevent rust
- Paintable in just 6 hours
What is a soundproofing material?
If you’re wondering what soundproofing materials are, here are some basics.
In this section, we’ll talk about what soundproofing materials are, how they work and how effective they can be.
First off, you need to understand sounds before you can understand how soundproofing materials work.
Sound is a type of energy and energy is a result of things vibrating.
Once created, that energy has to go somewhere.
In the case of sounds, the energy travels away from its source and makes objects and the air around us vibrate.
The energy then reaches our ears making our eardrums vibrate and we can hear the sound.
In other words, a sound starts at its source, travels through several different media then reaches our ears.
If you want to soundproof a room or wall, etc, you will need to stop the sound somewhere along its journey.
Interrupting the chain of events from the time a sound is created to when you hear it can significantly impact the level of sound that reaches your ear.
Soundproofing is the process of reducing sound pressure from the sound source to the receptor.
This is where soundproofing materials come in.
Soundproofing materials make soundproofing possible.
Several construction materials are believed to have noise reduction characteristics.
However, you need to pick the right materials for your soundproofing project.
Every soundproofing project is different and you’ll need to choose materials based on different transmission modes and noise frequencies.
Another factor you need to take into consideration when choosing soundproofing materials is where you are going to be placing them.
Let’s take a look at some properties of soundproofing materials that can help you decide which one is right for your project.
Sound absorbing material vs soundproofing material
There is a bit of confusion when it comes to soundproofing and soundproofing materials.
One of the most common misconceptions is that sound absorption is the same as soundproofing.
Unfortunately, that is not exactly true as sound absorption is one of the many elements of soundproofing.
The difference between sound-absorbing material and soundproofing material Is simple.
Sound absorbing material is used to improve the acoustics of a room while soundproofing material prevents sound from going in or out.
Sound absorbing materials help to reduce reverberations and the echoing of sounds already present in the room.
They cannot stop a sound from entering or leaving so they may not be the best for soundproofing on their own.
However, you can use both soundproofing and sound-absorbing materials if you want complete sound isolation.
Principles of soundproofing
Soundproofing may sound complicated and that is because there is a lot of misinformation that can create confusion.
There are just four soundproofing principles when you consider the physics of sound transmission.
These principles along with the techniques and materials used for soundproofing are more than enough to make sure your project is a success.
The four basic principles of soundproofing are:
Mass
Any material that is solid, heavy and thick will block sound.
Some people are annoyed by airborne sounds like voices.
If you are one of those people then you will find that this approach is the most effective.
You can use furniture to add mass to the walls if you’re not ready to purchase any soundproofing product.
This way you can test out how adding mass to the walls can help to block sounds.
If convinced, you can then try to Mass Loaded Vinyl under or over your drywall.
Do keep in mind that adding mass isn’t effective if you’re dealing with impact noises.
Damping
Damping sounds can be achieved with damping compounds.
These damping compounds have a unique property that allows them to convert sound energy into heat.
This stops the sound in its tracks and makes it disappear.
Green Glue is a perfect example of a dampener.
Silicone caulk and even some automotive soundproofing materials have similar properties.
For best results, the damping compound needs to be applied between two stiff panels like drywall or plywood which needs to be screwed together.
This is done so that when a sound hits your panels and damping material system, it triggers shearing forces between the rigid panels and creates friction in the damping layer.
This chain of events converts sound energy to heat thereby eliminating the sound.
Damping is the best method if you’re dealing with low-frequency noise.
Decoupling
Decoupling is the most effective method if you find that sounds are being transmitted through the structure of a building.
Introducing gaps in certain parts of the structure make interrupting sound vibrations so much easier.
The coupling is best done during the construction phase. It is possible to do it after but it is a far more complicated scenario because you will have to remove existing walls, floors or ceilings.
Resilient channels are best for decoupling your drywall from the structure of the building.
Resilient channels are effective at dealing with low frequency and impact noise.
This is because sounds will vibrate uselessly against the channels instead of passing through the walls.
Decoupling is highly effective but it requires planning and professional installation.
If you are going to have it done be sure to take your time and hire someone who knows what they’re doing.
Decoupling done right is great but having it done poorly can worsen low-frequency noise.
Absorption
The last soundproofing principle is absorption.
Absorption does play a role in soundproofing but it isn’t as effective as the other soundproofing principles.
While ineffective on its own, combining it with the other soundproofing principles will give you the best results for your soundproofing project.
You may be already familiar with some of the most absorbent soundproofing materials like acoustic foam.
acoustic foam comes in various sizes, shapes and colors.
They are best used to improve the audio quality inside of a room rather than blocking sound.
Just like acoustic foam, soft pieces of furniture can also work for sound absorption.
The four principles of soundproofing work independently but they complement each other well.
If you apply one of these soundproofing principles for your soundproofing project and are still not satisfied with the noise reduction, try applying another.
Combining one or more of these soundproofing principles will give you the best results possible.
What is the most effective and cost efficient way to sound proof a noisy shower water pump in a cupboard?
Hey Rick,
Given the potential dampness I’d recommend first trying to wrap the pump in Mass Loaded Vinyl.
If that doesn’t quite do it, you have a bit of space and some carpentry skills, I’d recommend building a small quiet box like you might for a noisy generator.
Again, I’d line that with MLV and seal it with Green Glue.
If you do go that route you’ll definitely see a good reduction in noise but be sure to check for heat issues since you’ll be trapping air; I would hope your pump is designed to be self-water-cooling but that might not be the case.
Hope that helps!