DIY Soundproofing

 The majority of soundproofing projects can be performed by most home owners. Soundproofing isn't "Rocket Science" it just takes patience and some attention to detail. Today we are going to talk about soundproofing a common wall between neighbors in a Condo or apartment setting. Generally it is best to remove the existing drywall from a common wall so you are able to add soundproofing insulation batts as well as other soundproofing agents such as mass loaded vinyl or Green Glue.
 Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV for short) is a high grade vinyl material that is impregnated with barium salts and silica to give it mass. MLV is basically a lead substitute that actually contains no lead whatsoever. It is a heavy limpid product that would be either nailed or stapled directly to the open stud structure of your common wall.
 Once the original drywall is removed, it is advisable to apply a good sound batt insulation into the wall cavities. Something like Ultra Touch cotton batts or Roxul AFB which is a high grade mineral wool. Once the wall cavities are filled with the insulation, your next step is to install the MLV directly to the stud facing. In other words the MLV would be stretched horizontally across the studs and either stapled or nailed to the studs. If you use nails, make sure they are the roofing type nails with the large plastic heads. If you play on stapling up the vinyl, it is recommended that you use a Plastic cap stapler (air drive) or a commercial air drive stapler. Keep in mind that the MLV is not a reinforced product so you are simply attaching it to the studs long enough to be able to caulk and tape the seams as well as the perimeter of the MLV membrane.
 It is always a good idea to over lap the seams of MLV wherever possible and then caulk the over lapped area with an acoustical caulk.
 Once the MLV membrane is completely sealed you would simply drywall over top of the membrane with a layer of 5/8" drywall. You would still use drywall screws to attach the drywall to the studs. It is a good idea to caulk the seams of the drywall with the acoustical caulk before taping or mudding the drywall.
 Once the new drywall is textured and painted, your soundproofing job is complete.  This system should reduce the amount of sound being transmitted through that wall by at least 35- 38 dB.
 This system will work for any standard wall and is an excellent way to soundproof a recording studio or rehearsal space.
 To learn more about soundproofing your walls for to www.soundproofingamerica.com and familiarize your self with the wonderful world of Soundproofing. This is Bob O. for Soundproofing America, Inc, thank you.

www.soundproofingamerica.com
www.soundproofingamerica.us
e-mail bob@soundproofingamerica.com