There is nothing more annoying than having loud and noisy next-door neighbors.
If you have to constantly tell people “I can hear my neighbors through my wall” then you need to solve this issue asap.
Moving may be an option but let’s be honest, chances are you will encounter a noisy neighbor no matter where you go.
Since moving is out of the question, what are your other options?
One option that can solve your noisy neighbor problem is soundproofing your apartment or soundproofing your home.
If you are worried about how to soundproof your space, don’t stress.
Stay with me as I guide you on how to block noise from next door neighbors.
Renting will have some limitations as opposed to homeowners.
Let’s see how to soundproof a room from noisy neighbors.
You can also read here on how to soundproof a room from outside noise.
Soundproof Your Walls
The method you use to soundproof your walls will depend on if you are renting or if you are a homeowner.
As a homeowner, you may be able to remove drywall and add soundproofing materials between the layers to better block out sound.
However, don’t despair, if you are renting noisy neighbors soundproofing methods include:
1. Use acoustic foam panels
Acoustic foam panels are specially designed to absorb and dampen sound.
The main factor you need to take into consideration when purchasing acoustic foam panels is the thickness.
Choose one that is more than 2 inches thick.
These are great since you can easily remove them without damaging your wall.
Foamily Acoustic Foam Panels
- dampens sounds
- Improves sound quality
- Install easily
Available in various colors, the Foamily foam panels offer a stylish look while dampening sounds.
Not only can they dampen sounds but also improve the sound quality in the room that you use it in.
Each tile comes uncompressed and in prime condition, ready to install.
Use double-sided tape or spray adhesive when installing so that it doesn’t damage your wall when you remove it.
This pack of 6 covers 6 square feet with each tile being 1 square foot and 2 inches thick.
2. Hang large canvas paintings
A cheaper alternative that can help block some sounds is hanging art.
They beautify your wall and help by absorbing sounds.
What is more, is that you won’t be violating your lease in any way.
Wieco Cloud Tree Wall Art Oil Paintings
Enjoy this beautiful high definition Giclee painting across the walls in any room of your choosing.
This picture painting is printed on high-quality polyester that absorbs and reduces the transmission of sounds through walls.
The paint features 3 pieces each measuring 12×16 inches.
However, it comes in larger sizes if you want to go bigger.
You can install right out of the box due to the black hook already mounted on the wooden bar for easy hanging.
Homeowner methods are more on the expensive side but offer a permanent fix to noisy neighbors.
3. Putting up some Mass loaded Vinyl(MLV)
Considered the new miracle product in soundproofing, MLV can be used in walls, ceilings, and floors.
MLV is usually a viscoelastic weighted material that traps and blocks sounds.
Place it between the 2 layers of drywall and secure it by tacking or screwing the MLV on to your wall studs.
Renters can also use MLV directly on their walls as it usually has a suitable STC rating by itself.
However, to benefit fully, use it between the wall layers to kill sounds.
MLV is non-toxic and safe to use in your home.
Noise Grabber Mass Loaded Vinyl
Deaden sound waves with the Noise Grabber Mass Loaded Vinyl.
This MLV acts as a reflective barrier to stifle vibrations and muffle acoustics for some quiet time.
The flexible PVC material is odor-free which makes it suitable for indoor use.
This particular MLV has been independently tested and has a standalone STC rating of 26.
That rating goes up when used in between 2 layers of drywall.
This MLV comes in a 4’x25′ roll that covers 100 square feet and weighs 100 pounds.
To install, cut with a utility knife or sharp scissors.
Place the MLV against the studs in the wall.
It is recommended that you hang it horizontally to minimize the number of seams.
What this does is make it easier to attach it to the drywall with either caulk or tape per section.
4. Install an extra layer of drywall
Probably the most expensive way to soundproof your wall, installing an extra layer of drywall is your best bet.
Drywall is also known as plasterboards, gypsum panels, or sheetrock.
For soundproofing its best to go with soundproofing drywall like QuietRock but regular dry works just fine also.
Check your local hardware store for the drywall you want.
Soundproof Your Doors
Most doors now are made from thin materials and have a hollow core.
This is why your door does not help in any way to block out sounds.
Any cracks or gaps around the perimeter of your door also allows sounds to pass.
Another place sounds can travel through is the gap under the door.
Now a good option would be to replace the door with a solid core one.
If you are a tenant, then it’s unlikely, you’ll be allowed to.
In any case, this option is quite expensive as well so let’s see what else you can do.
If you are renting, do this to soundproof a door:
1. Use a door sweep
Door sweeps are used to block the gap under your door.
Anywhere air passes, sounds can too so it makes sense to block that gap.
BAINING Door Sweep
- Flexible silicone material
- 3 layer design
- Energy efficient
The Baining Door Sweep is made from a highly flexible and durable silicone material.
With the 3 layer design, the door sweep blocks sound, dirt, and dust
Additionally, it also helps to cut your energy cost in half by not allowing any air to escape.
This door sweep measures 39 inches long and can cover up gaps to 1.5 inches.
To install cut to size and apply via the 3M VHB adhesive backing.
For the first 24 hours after installing try not to open and close your door often.
Give it some time to stick and hold properly so that it does not fall off.
Homeowners can do this to soundproof their doors.
2. Apply insulating foam sealant
Use insulating foam sealant around the perimeters of the door to seal gaps and cracks.
Sealants are usually vinyl or neoprene strips that block air from passing thus eliminating sound transmission.
While it may not seem like a big deal, you will notice the difference when you’re done.
Great Stuff 157906 Insulating Foam Sealant
- Creates an airtight seal in gaps and cracks
- Water-resistant
- Paintable
Fill seals and gaps greater than 1 inch with Great Stuff Insulating Foam Sealant.
This sealant expands to take the shape of any crack or gap to form an airtight and water-resistant seal.
The sealant has a smooth finish that is sandable and paintable so it doesn’t look odd on your door.
It works great on both indoor and exterior doors that are exposed to weather elements.
Available in a 24oz can with a straw applicator, it is ready to use right away and easy to apply.
Soundproof Your Windows
Just like doors, windows also have cracks and gaps that allow air and sounds to come in.
To soundproof a window, you can use an acoustic sealant.
You can use the same insulating foam sealant that you used on your door.
Homeowners can go one step further and add an acrylic layer to your windows.
On the other hand, you can get some double pane windows to fully block the noise.
1. Add acrylic panels
The cheaper alternative to replacing all your windows is adding an acrylic layer.
They add mass to the window and help to block out sounds.
Although they will not work as good as double pane windows, they are still worth considering.
Acrylic panels are transparent so they still allow natural light into your room.
You will need a professional to install your acrylic layer as it requires some technical knowledge.
AdirOffice Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet
- Built to last
- Shatterproof
- 30-day money-back guarantee
The AdirOffice Acrylic Plexiglass Sheet is heavily constructed and built to last.
These sheets are shatterproof, water-resistant, and weatherproof.
They are safe to use as a sound barrier for your windows and come in a pack of 6.
To ensure you receive the sheets in pristine condition, they come wrapped in an easy to peel protective film.
Keeping your acrylic sheets clean after installation requires a simple wipe down with soap and a damp washcloth.
Take advantage of the 100% risk-free purchase with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Install Soundproof Curtains
Both homeowners and those renting can put up some soundproofing curtains.
These are especially helpful to achieve sound dampening at night.
What is more, is that they are thick and do not allow light to pass through.
No longer will the lights from outside bother you when you’re sleeping in.
RYB HOME 100% Blackout Curtains
- Maximum noise dampening curtains
- Triple weave fabric
- Non-toxic material
Enjoy maximum noise dampening effect with the 3 layer RYB HOME 100% Blackout Curtains.
Outfitted with a detachable felt fabric liner in the middle, this is the perfect sound insulation product.
The triple weave fabric blocks out any harsh light and UV rays for uninterrupted sleep in the daytime.
Not only can it block sound and light but it can also cut energy cost and save you some money.
The thermal insulated curtain blocks out the summer heat and the winter chill for an ideal temperature inside all through the year.
To keep clean, remove the detachable middle layer and throw them in the wash.
Soundproof Your Ceiling
If you find that sound from rooms upstairs or your upstairs neighbor, it’s time to consider soundproofing your ceiling.
Here we will discuss how to block sound from neighbors and how to soundproof a ceiling.
As we mentioned before, the acoustic foam that is used on walls can also be used on your ceiling.
You can also try a drop ceiling with some sound-absorbing ceiling tiles.
1. Sound Absorbing Ceiling Tiles
Most times these have a high NRC rating and are fire retardant.
They minimize the transfer of sounds from one room to another.
Usually easy to install, they will reduce ear fatigue that can lead to ear static from the noise of upstairs neighbors.
soundsulate Sound Absorbing Acoustical Drop Ceiling Tiles
- Sound absorbing tiles
- Nrc rating of 7
- Class A fire-rated
Made from high-quality fiberglass, soundsulate acoustical ceiling tile had a high NRC rating of 7 and is Class A fire rated.
These ceiling tiles feature a matte black, non-woven fabric for a neat finish.
To install, just cut with a utility knife if need be and fit into your ceiling grid.
The soundsulate ceiling tiles fit into a standard ceiling grid.
The tiles come in a pack of 10 and cover 80 square feet with one measuring 24″ x 48″ X 1″.
Homeowners try this instead if your budget permits.
2. Acoustic Ceiling Clouds
Acoustic Ceiling Clouds are primarily designed to reduce reflective sound in a room.
What this means is that there are less echo and reverberations in a home.
However, they also help to block out some sound coming from rooms or apartments above yours.
Primacoustic Stratus Broadband Ceiling Cloud
- High-density fiberglass
- Absorbs sound waves and convert them to heat
- Comes with everything you need to install
Primacoustic Stratus Broadband Ceiling Cloud allows you to enjoy a more controlled and intimate acoustic environment.
Made from high-density fiberglass, this ceiling cloud absorbs sound waves and converts them into heat energy.
The fiberglass is encased in a micromesh with resin-treated edges to keep all the fibers contained.
Moreover, the panel is covered in an acoustically transparent fabric that not only gives it an attractive appearance but also helps with sound blocking.
The Primacoustic Stratus Broadband Ceiling Cloud comes with a kit filled with everything you need to install.
It is 2 inches thick and measures 24″ x 48″.
Soundproof Your Floors
Just like walls, ceilings, and windows, floors that are not treated to be soundproof will allow sounds to pass and filter up to you.
Noise from downstairs neighbors can seem like they are traveling up to you and the truth is that they are.
Soundproofing floors are a bit harder to do after the floor is already constructed.
But there are ways for you to dampen and stop those sounds from traveling up to you.
1. Put down some thick fluffy rugs.
The fluffier and thicker the rug, the better it will absorb sounds.
What is great about going this route is that you can pick the color and design you want.
Safavieh Hudson Shag Collection Area Rug
- High 2 inch pile
- Non-shedding
- non-slip
Safavieh Hudson Shag Collection Area Rug is made from enhanced polypropylene which makes it virtually non-shedding.
It features a pile height of 2 inches that feels great to walk on and absorbs sounds better.
With latex and jute backing the rug stays in place and reduces the risk of falls.
The rug measures 5′ 1″ x 7′ 6″ and can be placed in any room to match your style and decor.
If you’re thinking of renovating your floors, you can do several things to soundproof those floors.
Take your pick from using some acoustic glue, soundproof underlayment, mass loaded vinyl like the one suggested above, or some floor joist isolators.
These all are for use within the floor layers to deaden sound.
2. Soundproof floor underlayment
Most floors use plywood as the underlayment.
This is a horrible choice since plywood is highly reflective.
Instead of using plywood, opt for a soundproof underlayment.
They are suitable to block out airborne sounds and depending on the material can quiet impact sounds as well.
Roberts Flooring Underlayment
- STC rating of 73
- Effective moisture barrier
- Strong
The Roberts Flooring Underlayment has an STC rating of 73 which makes it the most effective underlayment on the market.
It is mold, mildew, and water-resistant so there is no need for an extra moisture barrier when laying this down.
Made from closed-cell polypropylene, this underlayment is light, flexible, and strong.
On one side features a tape strip while the other has an overlapping film to attach separate pieces.