Did you know that noise can easily come through a closed door?
It’s proven that we need to do more than just shut the door in order to prevent the sound from getting in or out.
For a basic interior door, this isn’t really a surprise since they usually have gaps around the frame and at the bottom.
Now, you’re probably wondering how to soundproof a door.
You can soundproof your door in several different ways to make sure they have better sound isolation.
However, there are different types of doors and in most cases; each requires a different method of soundproofing.
Here are the 17 best ways to soundproof a door for effective noise reduction.
- 17 ways to soundproof a door
- 1. Install a soundproof door sweep
- 2. Replace the threshold
- 3. Install soundproof weatherstripping
- 4. Use a sealing rubber tape
- 5. Install a new door gasket
- 6. Caulk around the door frame
- 7. Use expanding gap foam
- 8. Use soundproof curtains to cover your door
- 9. Attach a soundproof blanket over the door
- 10. Use soundproofing acoustic panels
- 11. Apply high-density soundproofing panels
- 12. Try rigid foam insulation
- 13. Thicken the door with mass loaded vinyl
- 14. Reinforce the door with wood panels
- 15. Fill the inside of the door
- 16. Install a solid-core door
- 17. Get rid of the door
- Door soundproofing materials
- Different types of doors
- Soundproofing interior vs exterior doors
- How does sound travel through a door?
- Why doors leak sound
- Why soundproof doors?
- Door Noise legal codes and requirements
- Door noise reduction tips for your door soundproofing project
- Myths about soundproofing a door
- How to soundproof a door: Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Can you soundproof an existing door?
- 2. Does a solid door reduce noise?
- 3. Should I buy a new door?
- 3. What household item can be used to soundproof a door?
- Final thoughts
17 ways to soundproof a door
1. Install a soundproof door sweep
A soundproof door sweep is a product that you attach to the bottom of doors.
Its main purpose is to close the gap between the door and the floor.
They usually consist of metal and rubber, rubber only or soft foam and fabric.
The type of soundproof door seal you choose depends on the door you’re trying to soundproof.
Generally, the pillow kind is best for indoors while rubber door sweeps are best for exterior doors.
In addition to soundproofing, a door noise blocker can also stop moisture, dust and insects from getting into your home.
The other type of noise cancelling door seal stops draft which is why they are referred to as draft stoppers.
- Material: Silicone
- Dimensions: 2″ W x 39″ L
- For: gaps up to 1 inch
To install:
- Measure the bottom of the door
- Cut off the excess
- Clean and dry the bottom of the door
- Remove the protective backing from the soundproof door strip.
- Press the sweep firmly when applying to the door
Video instructions:
- Material: EDPM
- Dimensions: 40.25 x 4.25 x 4.75 inches
- For: doors up to 36 inches wide
To install:
- Watch video
Video instructions:
- Material: Foam
- Dimensions: fits 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 inches doors
- For: gaps up to 1.4 inch
To install:
- Measure the width of the door
- Cut the foam to match the length of the door
- Slide the foam into the cover
- Adjust the velcro to match the length of the cut foam
- Slide the door draft stopper under the door
Video instructions:
2. Replace the threshold
Some people install a threshold hoping that it can help to stop noise from entering a room
However, after some time, it can loosen and lose its effectiveness.
If you have done this, then it’s time to replace the threshold.
- Material: Wood
- Dimensions: 2-½ (W) X 36(L) X ⅜ (H)
- For: Interior purposes
Steps to replace the threshold:
- Remove the existing threshold – If you have a threshold already installed, you’ll need to remove it. Some can be wiggled out of place. However, you’ll more than likely have to pry it off or remove some screws before it can come out.
- Measure the area where you’ll be installing the new threshold and cut or order a new threshold with those measurements.
- Vacuum and wipe the floor before installing the new threshold. This is important if you’re going to be gluing the threshold down instead of nailing or screwing it to the floor.
- Glue, nail or screw down the new threshold
- Caulk the cracks between the new threshold and the floor just to be safe.
Video instructions:
3. Install soundproof weatherstripping
Sounds can also come into the room through the gaps between the door and the door frame or casing.
One of the best ways to address this issue is to use a door silencer strip product called weatherstripping.
This product’s primary purpose is to insulate doors and windows from the elements.
- Material: CR foam, Neoprene rubber
- Dimensions: 1 /2 Inch Wide X 1/4 Inch Thick
- Length: 2 rolls x 13 ft
To install:
- Clean the area where you’ll be applying the weatherstripping
- Wait for it to dry completely before applying the weatherstripping
- Use a measuring tape to find the length you need or put the weatherstripping in position and cut a slightly longer piece.
- Press firmly while installing the weatherstripping in the gap around the door.
- If the gap is too thick you can double up the weatherstripping tape.
Video instructions:
4. Use a sealing rubber tape
If the gap between the door and the frame or casing is very wide, try using sealing rubber tape.
These products are also self-adhesive which makes installation a breeze.
They are available in several dimensions.
- Material: Rubber foam
- Size: 1″ W, 5/16″ T, 10 ft L
- For: Gaps 5/16” to ⅛”
To install:
- Follow the same process as installing weatherstripping tape.
5. Install a new door gasket
Door gaskets are a bit more complicated to install than self-adhesive weather stripping tape.
However, they do a far better job at blocking sounds.
This is because self-adhesive products will start to lose their flexibility and peel off.
Unlike weatherstripping tape, metal and rubber gaskets are screwed into the door frame.
They will not crease or lose their shape under pressure.
- Material: Aluminum
- 3 pcs – 1-1/2in x 17Ft, White
- Set includes: two 7 ft. Pieces and one 3 ft. Piece
To install:
- Cut a piece off to install along the top of the door
- Use a manual hacksaw or automatic circular saw to cut the metal part of the door gasket to size.
- Cut the rubber part using scissors or a utility knife.
- After the top section is securely screwed into the door, measure the sides, starting from the gasket at the top.
- Cut the side gaskets to size and install.
Video instructions:
6. Caulk around the door frame
After closing the gaps and cracks around the door, the ones around the door frame become more evident.
Many people think noise will not be able to come in through those small cracks.
If you feel air currents around the perimeter of the door frame even with weather stripping in place, then your wall may be a fault.
Fortunately, using a bit of caulk can solve the issue.
However, knowing which product to use is important.
In this instance, acoustic caulk is your best bet.
Acoustic caulk is better since it won’t harden, crack and fall off like regular caulk.
This means it can plug the air gap and may be able to withstand the natural shifting of the wall.
Acoustic caulks in tubes of various sizes with sharp ends.
This makes it easy to target the cracks.
You can even find them in a color to match or wall while others are paintable when dry.
However, you’ll need a caulking gun to get the product out of the tube.
Read this how to soundproof a wall post by clicking the link to learn more.
- Material: Water-based latex
- Item size: 29 ounces
- Covers: 40-50 linear feet
To apply:
- Snip the tip off the tube of acoustic caulk
- Place it in the appropriate size caulking gun
- Aim for areas around the door frame or trim or any visible cracks you see
- Slowly press the trigger on the caulk gun to dispense a bead of acoustic caulk.
- Fill the crack with the bead of caulk and smooth it using your fingers.
- Be sure to wear gloves while doing this because you don’t want the caulk on your skin.
7. Use expanding gap foam
For extremely huge gaps, it’s time to use expanding gap foam.
The name of the product covers all you need to know about the product.
You simply apply it directly to the cracks and it expands until the entire gap is filled.
- Material: Spray foam
- Size: 12 oz
- Dry time: 60 minutes
To apply:
- Read the instructions on the spray can
- Be sure to wear gloves to prevent the product from coming into contact with your skin
- You can spray down the wall with some plain water before applying the foam
- Start applying the expanding foam at the deepest point of the crack.
- Work your way slowly towards the surface of the wall
- Remember to shake the can as you go
- Give the foam time to dry following the instructions on the can. Most times it’s about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Cut away the excess foam hanging out of the gap.
- Sand it down and paint it to match the wall
8. Use soundproof curtains to cover your door
If you have a hollow-core door, then noise can still enter a soundproofed room.
Covering the door with soundproof curtains is a simple and attractive way to do this.
- Material: Polyester
- Size: 52″ wide x 84″ long
- Inner Diameter: 1.6 inches
To install:
- You’ll need a curtain rod to attach to the wall above the door or on the ceiling.
- Then install the curtains just like you would on a window.
- This makes it easy to swing the curtains to the side and pass through the door when you need to.
- It is important to cover the entire door and leave some of the fabric to pool all around it and on the floor.
Below is a video on how to install a curtain rod and curtains.
Follow the same process for installing a soundproof curtain over your door.
Video instructions:
9. Attach a soundproof blanket over the door
If you want to take things a step further, you can use a soundproof blanket instead of soundproof curtains.
However, the appearance may not be the best and you’ll have limitations with regards to the color and material.
- Material: Virgin cotton batting with polyester binding
- Size: 80″ x 72″
- Weight: 2.97 pounds
To install:
You can attach the blanket to the door by nailing it in or using Velcro.
If not, you can nail it above the door and use some ties, nails and screws to roll it up and out of the way when you don’t need it.
You can also secure the sides by using elastic hair ties down the length of the blanket.
All you need to do is nail some tack into the wall and use the hair ties so that the blanket is flush against the wall.
Video instructions:
10. Use soundproofing acoustic panels
If you don’t want to use soundproof curtains, blankets or insulation, you can try using soundproofing acoustic panels.
Soundproofing foam panels can greatly reduce the level of noise coming through your door.
These usually come in various shapes, sizes and designs so you’ll find some that best matches your decor.
- NRC: 0.95
- Material: Eco-friendly polyester
- Dimensions: 12“x12“x0.4″
To install:
- Measure your door to see how many panels you need
- You may have to cut some to size for the bottom of the door and side.
- Use liquid nails, spray adhesive or double-sided tape to attach the foam panels to the wall.
You can check out our how to hang acoustic foam without damaging walls post or watch the video below.
Video instructions:
11. Apply high-density soundproofing panels
High-density soundproofing panels are a step up from soundproofing foam panels.
These products are quite dense and soft like soundproofing blankets and easier to work with.
Most of these panels come with an NRC rating which tells how much noise the product can absorb.
The best NRC rating is 0.09 and the worst is anything less than 0.70.
- Material: Polyester fiber
- Dimensions: 16 X 12 X 3/8 inches
- Covers: 7.7 square feet
To install:
- Measure the door and see how many panels you’ll need.
- Cut through 1 of the panels using a utility knife and make space for the door handle to poke through.
- Attach the panels to the inside of the door using strong double-sided tape, construction adhesive, small screws, spray adhesive or picture hanging strips.
- Work your way down the length of the door until
- The entire surface of the door is covered.
12. Try rigid foam insulation
If your door is hollow that means it lacks the foam insulation that many doors have in their core.
The best thing to do here is to use door sound insulation products like foam boards on top instead of inside.
- Material: Polystyrene
- Size: 17 inches x 11 inches x 1 inch
- Pack of: 6
To install:
- It is best to install this product if your door is horizontal.
- If you don’t want to take your door off its hinges, you can install the panels while the door is upright.
- Start by removing the doorknob.
- Cut the foam down to size and create a space for the doorknob or handle.
- Once you’re finished making these cuts, use Velcro, double-sided tape, small screws, tacks or nails to attach the panels to the door.
- When you’re done, reinstall the doorknob or handle.
13. Thicken the door with mass loaded vinyl
Mass-loaded vinyl is fairly thin but it can thicken up your door and add density.
Although thin and flexible, MLV is heavy and dense enough to block sound to a great extent.
It does not just absorb sound but also can stop sound waves in their tracks.
MLV is also water-resistant and durable.
However, it is a bit pricey but well worth the extra spend.
- STC rating: 27
- Thickness: ⅛”
- Weight: 1 pound per square foot
To install:
- Measure and cut the MLV to the size of your door.
- Fasten the product by using a nail or staple gun to secure it every 1 foot.
- If you’re creating a cut-out for the doorknob, be sure to seal around it with acoustic caulk.
- Likewise, if you use more than one piece of MLV and there are seams between two pieces, use seam-seal tape to seal the seam.
Video instructions:
14. Reinforce the door with wood panels
If your door is too thin and hollow, you can try adding another layer of wood to it.
Wood does not have any great soundproofing properties but like most dense and hard materials, it will reflect sound.
You can add another layer of wood, then attach any of the products we mentioned above which will help you fortify your door.
- Material: Medium Density Fiberboard
- Size:24’ x 24”. Can be customized
- Thickness: ½
To install:
- You’ll need to remove the door off its hinges and lay it on a completely flat surface like a work table or so.
- Take off the doorknob
- Clean the side of the door where you’ll be placing the MDF boards.
- Once the door is clean and dry, apply the Green Glue acoustic sealant we mentioned earlier. Wood on wood is not the best combination so the sealant acts as a buffer. It creates a flexible barrier between the two layers of wood.
- To kick it up a notch, you can use MLV on the first layer of sealant, then apply sealant on top and then attach the fiberboard. This method will block a whole lot more sound from coming into your room.
- Wait until the sealant has dried fully if you drill a knob hole in the MDF to reinstall your doorknob.
Here’s a video on how to install MDF panels on a wall.
Adding them to your door follows the same basic process.
Video instructions:
15. Fill the inside of the door
Hollow doors are poorly constructed.
They consist of some MDF and melamine on the hinge and latch side of the door.
However, between these two parts of the door, it is mostly hollow and just includes a few pieces of cardboard
Of course, this does nothing in terms of soundproofing or sound protection or sound blocking.
There is one way you can fix this issue.
You can try filling the inside of the door.
To install:
- Cut off the top of the door
- Use foam, sand or insulation to fill the inside of the door.
- If you don’t mind drilling a few holes, you can also use expanding foam into the door.
- After the foam sets, cut off any excess, sand it down and paint it.
- You can also opt to open up the entire front layer of the door and fill it with fiber panels, MLV or any other material that can fit.
- Once you’re done stuffing it, use glue to reattach the front layer to the door. This is because a hollow door doesn’t work well with nails and screws.
Video instructions:
16. Install a solid-core door
If you have no time to try the methods mentioned above then your best bet is to simply replace your door with a solid core one.
This is not the cheapest solution but it is the easiest.
A simple solid wood door can work but if you want the best soundproofing door possible, you’ll have to look for those with layers of insulating foam and fiberboards on the inside.
Both of these types of doors have their advantages.
However, the ultimate decider will be how much you’re willing to spend.
If money is of no issue, look for a solid core soundproof interior door or acoustic door that has an STC rating in the manufacturer’s description.
Solid wood doors usually have an STC rating of 30-35.
If you have loud neighbors, roommates, etc, look for solid core doors with an STC rating in the 40-55 range.
- 2-panel solid core door
- Right-hand door
- Interior door
To install:
Watch the video below on how to remove your old door and install your new solid core door.
17. Get rid of the door
If you have two doors to get in or out of a room, you can get rid of one.
Walling up a door is pretty easy.
To do:
- Remove the door and door frame.
- Build a stud grid in the opening.
- Full it and cover it with drywall.
Video instructions:
Door soundproofing materials
1: Fiberglass panels
Soundproof fiberglass panels are made specifically for this purpose like soundproofing blankets and rugs. They are similar but heavier and pricier.
These have grommets on all sides which helps them be a bit more versatile.
You can hang them on most doors.
The panels work as a sound barrier and are very useful in preventing sound from entering the room.
Another perk is that these don’t just reflect the noise that comes back as an echo.
These actually absorb sounds, which makes them an excellent solution for studios.
The only downside is that they don’t look that aesthetically pleasing.
2: Foam panels
These are the panels you can see in a recording studio.
They are made of acoustic foam that’s actually made from polyurethane-derived materials, meaning they’re GREAT for sound absorption.
They’re most commonly sold like the one shown below:
The installation isn’t as hard, but there are a few things you should remember.
Gluing these to the wall or door is a mistake people often make.
You want to use a divider regardless of the area you’re working on.
Glue will most certainly damage the surface. Plus, if you just glue the foam to the surface, it will be close to impossible to take it off later.
It’s highly likely that you’ll take off chunks of the door/wall, too.
Use a divider such as cardboard, for example.
Glue the foam panels to cardboard and then hang it onto your walls with some high bonding strips.
The best thing is that you won’t even need many strips.
This can be both cheap and expensive depending on the kind of foam you go for.
Overall, it’s a good way of absorbing the noise and making your room somewhat quieter.
Soundproof paint
Have you ever heard of soundproof paint?
If not, that’s probably because there are somewhat hard to find at stores.
It might also be tricky to find a matching color as it doesn’t come in many options.
A common brand is the one shown below:
Nonetheless, it’s a hassle-free way of eliminating medium pitch noises.
You’ll be able to block out singing, conversation, TV noise, and other similar sounds.
However, you’ll still hear dogs barking and cars passing by, so it’s not recommended for the hallway.
Foam tiles
These are interesting and don’t look half as bad as fiberglass panels.
You can find them at music supply or hardware stores.
The installation is easy as these are usually interlocking and can be attached with glue, staples or screws.
It’s up to you how you’ll attach them but keep in mind they have to be set firmly and tightly.
A loose application could cause them to fall off or create even more noise.
Overall, they are highly effective though not the cheapest solution.
Attaching rubber flooring tiles would be more affordable but not as effective.
Also, be careful what you use to attract the foam tiles because some methods might damage the door.
MORE MATERIALS: We have a huge list of the best soundproofing materials which covers more than the ones we’ve just mentioned.
Different types of doors
Hollow core
These are the most basic and lightweight doors you can get.
They are the most commonly used type because of their affordability.
The structure resembles a honeycomb and features a veneer or fiberboard shell.
They aren’t soundproof at all as you’ve probably discovered.
Solid core
These have a core made of composite material.
They are the best for soundproofing thanks to their density and weight.
Solid wood
These are made of different natural wood elements and are quite heavy.
They do provide some level of soundproofing but are still not better than solid core.
Soundproofing interior vs exterior doors
Interior and exterior doors are very different.
They both come with their own set of challenges.
Most exterior doors have a solid core so they only can block a certain level of sound.
They are usually about an inch thicker than most interior doors and have better insulation.
This is because they are outside and need to brave the elements, etc.
Interior doors are used mostly to provide a visual separation between rooms more than anything else.
This is why interior doors are harder to soundproof.
However, with the abundance of soundproofing materials on the market, it is easy to do so.
For exterior doors, just remember that everything you use has to be waterproof and durable to withstand exposure to the elements.
Soundproofing rubber door sweeps, weather stripping tape, etc are all good options for an exterior door.
How does sound travel through a door?
Sound is energy that travels through a medium by vibration.
This includes air, water, glass, wood, etc.
The particles in a particular medium closest to the source bang into the adjacent particles which creates a chain reaction.
This chain reaction creates a vibration that results in sound.
The denser the particle, the less the sound can move.
This makes sense because sound travels easier through the air than a brick wall.
In an enclosed room, the areas with less density are the windows and doors because they usually have air gaps and cracks that let sound in.
Read more about sound and sound transfer in this sound attenuation article.
To soundproof windows, this how to soundproof a window article can help.
Why doors leak sound
Possible problem areas
The first thing you should do after determining the kind of door you have is figure out the problem areas.
Bedroom, hallway and all other doors have each their own problem areas, so it’s crucial you identify the areas leaking sound right of the bat.
Windows
If your doors have even the smallest window, it’s where the sound will pass through.
Windows are rarely ever soundproof, so you’ll have to do something to improve the area.
One thing you can do is add another sheet of glass to it.
The two layers have air in between which works as isolation.
Another option is to cover the window with something like an acoustic curtain or a mat.
Pet doors
Although this is a bit obvious, most people tend to forget it.
These aren’t fixated and have gaps all around them so the sound can easily go in and out through them.
Having these pet flaps makes door soundproofing harder than it normally is.
You could cover them with a soundproof material at times when you need to and know your pet won’t use them.
Gaps at the bottom of the door
Even if you have no pet door, most doors end up with a gap between them and the floor.
This is because you can’t have doors that are too long and touching the floor.
If you do, it’ll be hard if not impossible to open and close.
It is important to remember anywhere that air passes, sound can as well.
You’ll need to cover this gap to block noise from coming in.
A thick threshold, door sweep, door draft stopper, etc can all help to bridge this gap.
Cracks between the door and door frame
It’s more than likely that there are cracks and gaps between the door, door frame and door jamb.
Despite their small size, these cracks and gaps let in an enormous amount of sound waves.
Fortunately, a bit of self-adhesive weatherstripping tape can solve this issue.
Fissures in the wall around the door frame
Just like small cracks and gaps, fissures in the wall around the door frame and door jambs allow sounds to come into your room.
The solution is easy and simply requires some acoustic caulk.
A hollow core door
Hollow core doors are poorly constructed so it’s no surprise that sounds pass through the door itself.
You can add several soundproofing materials to help add mass and density to the door.
However, if you want to tackle the problem at its source, you can replace the door with a solid core one.
Most times, doors leak sound because of one or more issues.
This is why it is always better to combine a few different methods until you achieve the level of soundproofing you need.
Why soundproof doors?
Here are five top reasons why you should soundproof your door:
Sound travels through gaps and doors tend to have a lot of them.
Regardless if it’s the gap at the bottom of the door or the hollow core, the door may be the main culprit in letting in more sounds than the walls or floors.
Similar to blocking noise out, you may want to keep certain sounds in.
This is especially true if you have a home recording studio or home theater. So
Soundproofing the door can keep certain sounds in so you can have a better listening experience.
Moreover, it can also make sure you don’t disturb anyone outside the room.
Soundproofing can help you maintain and control the temperature of your room better.
This is because air isn’t moving as quickly through the door gaps as it was before.
Soundproofing your door can keep the cold air in the summer and the warm air in the winter.
As a result, your energy bill may not be as high as before.
Some people soundproof their doors for security and privacy purposes.
No one outside the room can hear what’s going on inside the room.
This gives you all the privacy you need.
Soundproofing can increase the value of your home.
If you put your house on the market with a soundproof room, chances are that people will spend a bit more money to get their hands on it.
Your home will appeal more to producers and people who play drums or any other instrument at home.
Click the link to read up on how to soundproof a room and how
Door Noise legal codes and requirements
Soundproofing is a great solution once you’re not breaking any laws or regulations.
However, there are quite a few problems you can run into that homeowners and apartment renters can run into when soundproofing.
Soundproofing a rental
If you’re a homeowner, then you don’t have to pay too much attention to this section.
However, it may prove useful if you’re thinking about renting out a room in your home or your entire house.
If you’re renting, be sure to ask yourself before installing anything on the door.
Yes, that includes a simple door sweep.
If you use a door draft stopper that simply slides under the door you should be ok.
However, installing a self-adhesive door sweep or another type without permission can lead to serious fines for breaking your rental agreement.
It can even lead to eviction.
Fire Codes
Fire codes and regulations should be followed strictly whether you’re a homeowner or tenant.
Different cities, countries and states have their own fire code and regulations that need to be followed.
Soundproofing your door can sometimes violate fire codes.
This is because some soundproofing methods can make the door heavier.
In the event of a fire, the heavier door can impair someone from escaping the room.
Soundproofing your doors can also prevent fire and carbon monoxide detectors from working properly.
That being said, it is fine to implement most of the soundproofing methods mentioned in this article.
However, be sure to call the fire department in your city before performing any major renovations.
This can save you time, money and unnecessary stress.
Door noise reduction tips for your door soundproofing project
Start small and work your way up
Soundproofing solutions are many and they all come at different prices.
Some people don’t want to spend too much to soundproof their doors.
One of the best ways to do it if you’re on a budget is to start small and see how much of a difference it makes if any.
If there’s no difference or you have a door that needs a lot of work, then you’ll have to spend a bit more.
Identify the noisiest problems
Identify where the noises are coming from before getting started.
People who are dealing with noise coming in from outside will need to implement different solutions than those who want to prevent sound from leaving the room.
If you have a noisy neighbor then you will want to drown out sounds coming from their home.
On the flip side, you may decide to soundproof your door so that you don’t disturb others in your home or surroundings.
Don’t be afraid
Some of us are great at DIY projects while some of us believe we just can’t/
If you don’t try, you’ll never know.
Many people find that doing it themselves and being successful.
If it doesn’t work out, at least you tried and it’s time to call in the pros.
Myths about soundproofing a door
We’ve all at some point tried to soundproof our home.
Whether you’re trying to drown out the noise from noisy neighbors or annoying family members, there are tons of ways to do so.
However, some of them just don’t work.
This is because some of them absorb sound rather than block it.
Here are a few solutions you may have come across that really don’t work or do anything much:
Paint and glue
Blocking sounds requires mass and density.
Paint and glue have no sound-blocking properties so they cannot block sounds.
The most paint and glue can do is reduce sound but by a very small margin that may not be noticeable.
Regular blankets, cardboard, styrofoam and insulation
These materials will slightly dampen the sounds coming into your room.
This is because these products are usually thin and have no soundproofing properties.
Regular curtains
The same applies here as to the materials mentioned above.
This goes for other thin and non-soundproofing materials you’re thinking of using.
These materials won’t make much of a big difference when trying to soundproof a door.
Egg cartons
The biggest myth of them all is that egg cartons can block sounds.
The truth is that egg cartons may be able to reduce echoes around a room.
It does nothing when it comes to soundproofing or even sound dampening.
Some acoustic foams are designed with an egg carton design to help with reverb, flutter and echoes.
However, unlike egg cartons, these products are made from soundproofing foam so they block and absorb sounds better.
How to soundproof a door: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you soundproof an existing door?
Yes, you can.
Soundproofing an existing door is easy.
You just have to add mass and density to the door.
Try attaching some mass-loaded vinyl, soundproof blankets or curtains and soundproofing foam panels.
To seal the gaps and cracks around the door, use weatherstripping, door sweep, spray foam and acoustic caulk.
2. Does a solid door reduce noise?
A solid core door has a lot of mass which is essential for soundproofing.
Therefore, a solid door can indeed help with sound reduction.
They will stop sound waves in their tracks so they cannot pass through the door to get into the room.
3. Should I buy a new door?
This depends on you.
New doors can be expensive not to mention a bit difficult to install.
However, if your budget allows, go for it.
If not, try any of the soundproofing methods above and see if they work.
3. What household item can be used to soundproof a door?
You can stuff towels or rugs under the door to close the bottom gap.
Sealing the other gaps as well as cracks may prove a bit more difficult.
However, you can use several regular curtains instead of soundproofing ones.
Doubling them up will increase mass and dampen sound to an extent.
Hanging old thick blankets over the door and rolling them up out of the way when you don’t need them can work as well.
You can try gluing yoga mats directly to the door to increase their sound-absorbing and noise blocking properties.
Final thoughts
All doors are different.
The soundproof level of each type is determined by the materials, location, and quality of installation.
Even the most massive ones can transmit sound if they aren’t installed correctly.
Still, every type of door can be upgraded one way or another, so it’s just a matter of picking which soundproofing method is the most convenient for you.
Some options are more effective than others, while some are more expensive and take more time to do.
Either way, there’s always room for improvement so make baby steps towards perfecting your soundproofing job.
Figure out what kind of doors you’re working with and what are the main problem areas. If possible, try to eliminate the cause of the noise before you make any moves towards soundproofing.
If the noise is coming from a noisy kitchen appliance like a microwave, upgrade to a silent microwave and see if that helps.
Useful articles:
- The best soundproofing tools and resources (A huge list of the best materials and useful links showing you how and where to get them all)
- How to soundproof a wall (A common problem people have is sound coming in through the walls, this tutorial shows you how to fix that!)
- How to soundproof any room easily (practical tips and tricks)