Multi-Family housing has always been plagued with complaints of neighbor noise. There are simple and highly effective methods to reduce this unwanted noise. Deploying these sound isolation construction techniques will increase tenant occupancy. Soundproofing townhouses and condominiums will differentiate you from your competition.
Soundproofed Units are Worth More
Soundproofing Increases Tenant Retention
One of the leading causes of tenant relocation is to either move away from a noise problem or to specifically move into a sound isolated apartment. Soundproofing increases tenant retention, as do other quality of life enhancements. We can help you quickly sound isolate apartments to get them ready for the next tenant.
Sound Isolated Units Have More Value
There are a few apartment amenities that a tenant is willing to pay more for. Soundproofing is a great example. Sound isolated rental units have more value. Privacy and peace of mind is what everyone looks for. Soundproofing apartments is a business investment.
Soundproofing Creates Faster Sales
In a highly competitive condominium market, what sets your apart? A documented sound isolated environment distinguishes your property from others. Soundproofing creates faster condo and townhome sales. We can help implement noise control as well as help with your marketing of these enhancements.
Condo Conversion Specify Soundproofing
Converting old factories and schools into desirable high end condos is a common part of the re-gentrification of urban America. We have condo-conversion specific soundproofing designs, as well as case studies describing their successful implementation.
These multi-family housing soundproofing issues are not new to us. The below articles describe solutions for some common problems faced in multi-family housing situation. Give us a call and let us give you a few ideas or if you have any questions.
I’m looking to buy a conversion loft with 18-20 foot ceilings. The wall upon which the kitchen is built is a steel-stud and drywall wall. When I attended the open house, I could hear music through the wall. That wall is 40 feet long. I don’t want to buy the place if I can’t be sure the noise issue is resolved.
Is there a method of soundproofing a long wall like that? I assume I’d have to pull the kitchen (cabinets, appliances, etc.) off the wall, erect a layer of soundproofing materials, and re-install the kitchen. I’m willing to do that, to get my “fortress of solitude” experience.
Do you think total silence through that wall is possible? Do you have a sense of what it would cost to achieve that? Do you work in Vancouver BC?
It is possible to create your “fortress of solitude”. There is a couple of options you can choose from. Here is the soundproofing solution that I feel would work for you.
1. Remove drywall from the wall that is not in the kitchen.
2. Ensure you have insulation in the stud cavities. R-13 Fiberglass insulation will do the job.
3. Install IB-1 Soundproofing Clips to the metal framing using proper fasteners. (Use a single screw clip (such as IB-1) only if you have 20 gauge steel Framing or heavier. It is very likely due to the height of your ceilings.)
4. Snap Drywall Furring Channels into Soundproofing Clips.
5. Seal any outlets with Putty Pads.
6. Install 5/8″ of Drywall fastening to the Drywall Furring Channel.
7. Add a layer of Green Glue (two tubes per 4′x8′ sheet )to another layer of 5/8″ drywall.
8. Seal the perimeter of the wall with Acoustical Sealant.
9. Mud and tape drywall and finish to desired texture.
Additionally you can add a second layer of drywall and Green Glue to the kitchen side wall, but do not use Soundproofing Clips and Channel due to additional weight added by the cabinets.
Total silence or the elimination of vibration energy is not possible. Those variables depend on the amount of energy being produced in the source room. The reduction of audible noise can be achieved where the human ear is no longer able to register the sound. Careful frequency consideration does need to be applied if you have a unique situation.
We do not supply contractors names, but offer to provide consulting with the builder of your choice.
For more information and a cost estimate give us a call at (888) 397-8791. We will be able to give you further details on your assembly after we find out more about your specific situation.