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  • Writer's pictureJulian Rhodes
    • Apr 12
    • 9 min read

10 Ways Of Soundproofing A Doorway


Dealing with noise pollution? Doorways are often to blame. By soundproofing doorways, you can enjoy a quiet environment at home or work. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits and share practical, budget-friendly soundproofing tips.


To soundproof a doorway, focus on two factors: reinforcing the door structure and sealing gaps. Upgrade to a solid core door or add materials like mass-loaded vinyl or soundproof blankets. Then, seal gaps with door gaskets, door sweeps, or spray foam.


1. Use A Door Gasket To Seal The Cracks

Door gaskets are specifically designed to seal gaps around the door frame, effectively preventing noise from passing through. By installing a high-quality door gasket, you can reduce noise transfer and create a more peaceful space. These gaskets are made from

materials such as rubber, foam, or silicone and come in various shapes and sizes to fit your door frame perfectly. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.



 

2. Place A Door Sweep When It's Closed

A door sweep is a simple, affordable solution that attaches to the bottom edge of the door. When the door is closed, the sweep creates a tight seal against the floor, blocking noise from entering or leaving the room. Door sweeps are available in various materials, such as rubber or brush-like bristles, and can be easily installed with screws or adhesive. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.



 

3. Add Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)

MLV is a dense, flexible material designed to add mass to your door and improve its soundproofing capabilities. To install MLV, cut the material to fit your door and attach it using adhesive, screws, or staples. MLV can be applied directly to the door or sandwiched between other materials like panels or foam for added soundproofing. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.


 

4. Use Gap Foam

Gap foam is a sprayable foam material that expands to fill small crevices and openings around your doorway. By applying gap foam, you can seal any gaps that may be allowing noise to pass through. To use gap foam, simply spray it into the gaps and allow it to expand and harden. Once it's set, you can trim away any excess foam for a clean finish. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.


 

5. Apply Panels Inside Of The Door

Soundproofing panels can be attached to the inside of your door to enhance its noise-blocking abilities. These panels are typically made from materials like foam, fibreglass, or wood and can be easily installed using adhesive or mechanical fasteners. When choosing panels, opt for ones with a high Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating for the best results. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.





 

6. Install A Solid Core Door

Solid core doors are more effective at blocking noise than hollow or standard core doors. Replacing your existing door with a solid core door will significantly improve your doorway's soundproofing performance. Solid core doors are made from materials like wood, metal, or composite and are much denser than their hollow counterparts. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.


 

7. Install Soundproofing Composite Material

Soundproofing composite materials, such as mass-loaded vinyl combined with foam or fibreglass, can be applied to your door for additional noise reduction. These materials work by adding mass and density to the door, further improving its soundproofing capabilities. To install, cut the material to fit your door and attach it using adhesive or fasteners. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.



 

8. Fill The Door With Sand

If you have a hollow door, filling it with sand can increase its mass and improve its soundproofing performance. To do this, carefully drill a hole at the top and bottom of the door, then pour sand into the cavity until it's full. Finally, seal the holes with wood plugs or filler to prevent the sand from leaking out. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.




 

9. Use Dense, Heavy Mass Foam Tiles

Dense, heavy-mass foam tiles can be attached to the door surface to reduce noise transmission. These tiles are made from materials like neoprene or polyurethane foam and are designed to absorb and dissipate sound. To install, cut the tiles to fit your door and attach them using adhesive or fasteners. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.




 

10. Seal All Gaps With Caulking

Caulking is a simple and cost-effective way to seal any gaps or cracks around your doorway. By sealing these gaps, you can prevent sound leakage and improve the overall soundproofing of your doorway. Use an acoustic caulk specifically designed for soundproofing applications, as it remains flexible and adheres well to various surfaces. Apply the caulk around the door frame and any gaps in the door, smoothing it out with a caulking tool or your finger for a clean finish. Allow the caulk to dry completely before using the door. Click on the link to see our hand-picked selection.



 

Your Questions Answered


When it comes to soundproofing a doorway, many questions arise about the best methods, materials, and costs involved. In this FAQ section, we will address some of the most common questions related to soundproofing doors.


Our aim is to provide you with valuable insights and practical solutions to help you create a quieter, more comfortable space in your home or workplace. Read on to discover the answers to your soundproofing questions.


What is the best interior door for soundproofing?


The best interior door for soundproofing is a solid core door. Solid core doors are made from dense materials like wood, metal, or composite and are much more effective at blocking noise than hollow or standard core doors.


How much do soundproof doors cost?

The cost of soundproof doors can vary significantly depending on the materials used, the level of soundproofing, and the manufacturer. A basic solid core door can cost between $100 and $300, while a high-quality, custom-made soundproof door can cost anywhere from $1,000 to over $5,000.



Are barn doors soundproof?

Barn doors are not inherently soundproof due to their sliding design, which often leaves gaps around the door frame. However, you can improve the soundproofing of a barn door by sealing gaps with weatherstripping, adding mass with soundproofing materials, or using a soundproof curtain or blanket.


Does a solid door reduce noise?

Yes, a solid door can significantly reduce noise compared to a hollow or standard core door. Solid doors have a higher density, which makes them more effective at blocking sound transmission.


Can you soundproof a door with blankets?

While not as effective as other soundproofing methods, using blankets can help reduce noise transfer through a door. For best results, use thick, heavy blankets or specially designed soundproof blankets, and cover the entire door surface to create a barrier that absorbs and dampens sound.





Do door sweeps and draft stoppers reduce noise?

Door sweeps and draft stoppers can help reduce noise by sealing gaps along the bottom of the door. By creating a tight seal against the floor, door sweeps and draft stoppers prevent sound from entering or leaving the room. While they may not provide complete soundproofing, they can be a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution for reducing noise transfer.


Does putting a towel under the door block sound?

Placing a towel under the door can help block some sound, but it is not a highly effective method of soundproofing. A towel may provide a temporary solution for reducing noise transfer but is less effective than using a door sweep or draft stopper designed specifically for noise reduction. For better soundproofing results, consider using a combination of techniques such as door gaskets, solid core doors, and soundproofing materials.





Why Should You Soundproof a Door?


The importance of soundproofing a door cannot be overstated, as it serves as a crucial element in creating a peaceful and comfortable environment. Doorways, often being the largest gap in a wall, are the weakest link in terms of soundproofing.


Noise can easily leak through the space around the door, and even the doorknob mechanism can admit some sounds. Moreover, most interior doors feature a hollow core, which, while cost-effective, contributes to greater noise issues.


Addressing these issues through soundproofing is not only essential for noise reduction but also offers other significant benefits. For instance, many soundproofing materials and tools double as temperature insulators, which can result in lower heating and cooling costs.


Additionally, soundproofing your door can improve air quality, humidity, and overall comfort within the room by keeping out pollutants and moisture.


Soundproofing a door is particularly important in various scenarios, such as:

  • Working from home: Remote work often requires a high level of concentration, making a soundproof door a lifesaver. If your work involves sound recordings or creating videos, soundproofing becomes even more crucial. By blocking out distractions like barking dogs, honking traffic, or crying children, you can focus on your tasks, leading to increased productivity and reduced stress.


  • Noisy neighbours: Excessive noise from neighbours can be a significant disturbance in your living environment. Whether it's loud music, yelling, or playing instruments, a soundproof door can help you regain your much-needed peace and quiet.



  • Being the noisy neighbour: If you're the one causing noise by playing instruments, watching TV at high volume, or using sound features for work, soundproofing your door can help maintain harmony with your neighbours while still allowing you to enjoy your activities.

Soundproofing a door is essential for creating a comfortable, quiet, and productive space. By addressing noise issues, you can improve your overall quality of life and foster a more harmonious living or working environment.


Debunking Myths About Soundproofing a Doorway


When it comes to soundproofing a door, there are numerous misconceptions and myths that people often believe in. Understanding the difference between what works and what doesn't is crucial to achieving a truly soundproof environment. Let's debunk some of the common myths associated with soundproofing a door:

  • Paint or glue can soundproof a door: The truth is that paint or glue cannot block sound effectively, as soundproofing requires mass and density. While these materials might slightly reduce noise, they are far from providing a proper soundproofing solution.


  • Rugs can soundproof a room: Although rugs can help dampen noise to some extent, they don't offer complete soundproofing. Rugs might reduce noise by a few decibels, but they are not an ideal solution for blocking out loud noises, such as a noisy garage or loud neighbours.


  • Regular blankets, cardboard, foam blocks, and insulation can soundproof a door: These materials may be useful for dampening noise, but they lack the density and mass required for effective soundproofing. Using these lightweight and thin materials will not provide the desired soundproofing results.


  • Curtains can be used to soundproof a door: Contrary to popular belief, curtains, pillows, and other soft materials are not suitable for soundproofing doors. Their lack of density and mass renders them ineffective for completely blocking out noise, although they may help reduce noise slightly.


  • Egg cartons can block incoming sounds: While egg cartons can help reduce echoes in a room, they are not capable of soundproofing a door. Their primary function is to minimize bass-filled echoes, but they won't block out external noises effectively.



Understanding these myths can help you make better decisions when it comes to soundproofing your door. Remember that effective soundproofing requires the right materials, techniques, and a proper understanding of sound transmission.


By focusing on proven soundproofing methods, you can achieve a quieter and more peaceful living or working environment.


Maintenance Tips for Soundproof Doors


To ensure the longevity of your soundproof doors, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some helpful tips for maintaining your soundproof doors and keeping the soundproofing materials in optimal condition:

  • Regular Cleaning: Keep your door clean and free of dust and debris by wiping it down with a damp cloth or using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. This prevents the build-up of dirt and grime, which can affect the performance of soundproofing materials.



  • Inspect Door Seals: Periodically check the door seals, gaskets, and sweeps for signs of wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn-out components to maintain a tight seal around the door and prevent noise leakage.


  • Lubricate Hinges: To ensure smooth operation and prevent squeaking, lubricate your door hinges regularly with a silicone-based lubricant. This also helps prevent rust and corrosion, which can compromise the door's soundproofing capabilities.



  • Monitor Door Alignment: Over time, doors may become misaligned due to regular use or settling of the building. Check the alignment of your door and make necessary adjustments to ensure it closes securely and evenly, maintaining an effective sound barrier.


  • Inspect Soundproofing Materials: Regularly examine soundproofing materials such as mass-loaded vinyl, foam panels, and soundproof blankets for signs of damage or wear. Replace or repair these materials as needed to maintain their effectiveness.


  • Maintain Door Hardware: Check the door hardware, such as handles and locks, for proper function and tightness. Loose hardware can create gaps and allow noise to penetrate the soundproof barrier.


  • Avoid Excessive Moisture: Soundproofing materials can be sensitive to moisture, which can degrade their effectiveness over time. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid exposing your soundproof door to excessive humidity or water.



  • Test Door Performance: Periodically test the performance of your soundproof door by playing loud music or other sounds outside the door and assessing the level of noise reduction achieved. This can help identify any potential issues or areas for improvement.


By following these maintenance tips, you can prolong the life of your soundproof door and maintain its effectiveness in reducing noise. A well-maintained soundproof door not only provides a quieter environment but also contributes to the overall comfort and aesthetics of your living or working space.





Final Thoughts


Soundproofing a doorway is a valuable investment for both residential and commercial spaces. By following the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can create a more peaceful and comfortable environment. Remember to maintain your soundproof door and its components regularly to ensure long-lasting effectiveness.


Ultimately, a well-soundproofed doorway can improve your quality of life by reducing noise pollution, enhancing privacy, and creating a more serene atmosphere for work or relaxation. So, go ahead and enjoy the tranquillity that comes with a properly soundproofed doorway, knowing you've made a wise decision for your space.


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