Achieving complete soundproofing between two apartments that share a common wall can be a challenging task, but there are several steps you can take to significantly reduce sound transfer. Here are some methods to consider:
Insulate the wall: Start by adding insulation within the wall cavity. Use soundproofing materials specifically designed to absorb or block sound, such as mineral wool or acoustic foam. Fill the wall cavity completely, including any gaps or spaces, to minimize sound transmission through the wall.
Seal gaps and cracks: Identify any gaps or cracks in the wall and seal them to prevent sound leakage. Use acoustic sealant or caulk to seal openings around electrical outlets, light switches, baseboards, and any other areas where sound can pass through. Pay attention to both sides of the wall to ensure a thorough seal.
Add mass to the wall: Increase the mass of the shared wall to improve sound insulation. You can achieve this by installing additional layers of drywall on one or both sides of the wall. Use sound-damping drywall or add mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) between the layers to enhance soundproofing capabilities.
Use resilient channels: Install resilient channels on one side of the wall. Resilient channels are metal strips that provide a gap between the wall and the drywall. This decouples the drywall from the structure, reducing sound transmission. Attach the drywall to the resilient channels rather than directly to the wall.
Apply soundproofing panels or curtains: Consider installing soundproofing panels or curtains on one or both sides of the wall. These panels are designed to absorb and dampen sound waves, reducing sound transfer. Choose panels or curtains with a high noise reduction coefficient (NRC) for effective soundproofing.
Address floor and ceiling: Sound can also travel through the floor and ceiling, so it's important to address these areas as well. Use rugs or carpets with thick padding on the floors, and consider installing acoustic underlayment or soundproofing mats. On the ceiling, you can apply acoustic panels or add an additional layer of drywall with sound-damping materials.
Minimize vibration: Sound can transmit through vibrations, so take steps to reduce vibrations in the shared wall. Avoid placing speakers or other sound-producing devices near the wall. Additionally, consider using vibration isolation pads or mounts for heavy furniture or equipment that could create vibrations.
Use soundproof doors: If the shared wall includes a door, ensure it is soundproof as well. Install a solid-core door with weatherstripping to seal any gaps and reduce sound transmission.
Remember that achieving complete soundproofing is challenging, and some sound may still transfer between the apartments despite your efforts. However, by implementing these techniques, you can significantly reduce the amount of sound that passes through the shared wall and improve the overall acoustic privacy between the two apartments.