If you are considering soundproofing your basement ceiling you are going to want to factor in a few things. Firstly, consider why it is that you should soundproof your basement ceiling. Well, the soundproofing of your basement ceiling is the most effective way to reduce loud noise transfer from your basement to the rooms above the space and the noise from above into your basement. Sounds can vary from airborne or even impact noise. Reducing the noise from your basement ceiling can provide a designated retreat or tranquillity for you and your family to slow down, calm down and sleep better.
Basement ceilings are one of the most common causes of noise. Given your basement’s underground location, it is most likely to acquire large amounts of more mechanically transmitted sounds; think dropped items, stomping or footsteps. Basement ceilings, as well as basement beams and other overhead structures of support, provide the simplest conduit for this type of noise and, thus, require a unique solution to the reduction of this noise in your basement or basement suite.
Secondly, what is that you need in terms of soundproofing materials, for this you will need to consider the steps to take to soundproof your basement ceiling.
How to Soundproof Basement Ceiling
Decoupling: To decouple you must separate levels by creating a gap of sorts between the studs and layers of your ceiling. The separation created breaks the path that the sound wave vibration travels and cancels the noise transfer.
Adding Mass: Essential, sound waves are vibrations. If you were to increase the mass you would make it more difficult for the noise to break through or vibrate through. However, it takes a lot of mass to truly make a difference so one must do the math for it.
Absorbing: Have you ever screamed into a pillow? The noise is reduced. When you compress that pillow around your mouth you are absorbing the sound. The denser the material, the better it will absorb sound; Try a heavy vinyl membrane, or perhaps drywall, However, insulation behind a heavier barrier will almost always improve sound absorption so the thicker, the better.
Damping: Damping is a method of preventing or rather, reducing the sound vibration in ceiling wall studs and joints. New viscoelastic compounds have been developed that decrease sound vibration transfer.
Sound tends to travel on airwaves, thus the more airtight, the better; if the air can get through, then you can be a sound can too. Acoustic caulking and foams are good for those hard to reach or cover spaces for your basement ceiling.
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Soundproofing the ceiling of your basement should improve the sound quality in the basement and even in the rooms above. It can be done DIY style, or by a professional. Call Moose Basement for further information about the matter!