5 Floor Noise Reduction Tips
Whether you have a two-story home or someone living below you, reducing floor noise is often a concern we hear about. How can you keep your floors quiet for you and your neighbors? Here are 5 tips to keep in mind.
5 Floor Noise Reduction Tips
- Choose your flooring carefully. Carpeting and cork are the best for low sound transference on their own. In fact, cork has wonderful sound-deadening properties that can help keep floor noise down!
- Accessorize. If you have or want hardwood flooring (or another hard surface floor), a fun option is to use area rugs and play mats. In addition to reducing floor noise, this allows you to customize your space over and over again as the area is used in different ways.
- Choose underlayment effectively. If you’re installing your floors, use underlayment that will help reduce floor noise. There’s a wide range of sound-deadening underlayment; the material and thickness you choose will make a difference. It’s also worth noting that if you own a condo, your HOA will almost always have specific requirements for the sound transfer ratings for flooring. Be aware of this and have your flooring contractor keep it in mind when planning the install so you comply with the HOA guidelines.
- Build in some space. If you’re building a new home, keep in mind that the amount of space between the ceiling and the floor above it makes a difference. Unfortunately, a lot of apartments and condos reduce this space to reduce building costs, which ends up increasing floor noise.
- Make an effort. Remember there are things you can do day-to-day to help with floor noise reduction. Walk lightly. Think about the shoes you’re wearing (e.g. high heels vs. sneakers). Talk to those below you to find out what they actually hear. There may not be anything else you can do to limit floor noise, but even letting them know you’re aware and concerned can make a difference.
