How many decibels does a regular apartment wall cancel out?

In summary, the ideal way to reduce noise through apartment walls is to use 6" plates and headers, stagger the studs, and add glass-wool insulation before installing dry-wall. This cheap and effective sound barrier was learned from a builder who owned a popular low-cost motel with a music venue.
  • #1
xylem
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How many decibels does a regular apartment wall cancel out?
 
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  • #2
Depending on the construction materials (metal studs vs wood) sometimes not a lot. The ideal solution is to use 6" plates and headers and stagger the studs so that no adjoining walls share sheet-rock/2x4 connections, removing the physical coupling as much as possible. Thread some glass-wool insulation back and forth between the studs before installing dry-wall and you have a very cheap and effective sound barrier.

Edit: I learned this trick over 30 years ago from a builder who also owned a very popular low-cost motel with a dance-hall/music venue attached. Partiers can be petty noisy, and his place was really popular.
 
  • #3


It is difficult to give an exact number as it can vary depending on the thickness and materials of the apartment wall, as well as the intensity and frequency of the sound being cancelled. However, on average, a regular apartment wall can reduce noise levels by around 20-25 decibels.
 

1. How many decibels can a regular apartment wall block?

On average, a regular apartment wall can block about 20-30 decibels of sound. This will vary depending on the thickness and material of the wall, as well as the type and intensity of the sound being transmitted.

2. Can a regular apartment wall completely cancel out noise from outside?

No, a regular apartment wall cannot completely cancel out noise from outside. It can only reduce the level of sound by a certain amount, and some sounds may still be audible.

3. How does the construction of an apartment wall affect its soundproofing abilities?

The construction of an apartment wall plays a significant role in its soundproofing abilities. Thicker walls with more layers and insulation are better at blocking sound compared to thinner walls with less insulation. Additionally, solid walls tend to be more effective than hollow walls.

4. Are there any other factors that can affect how many decibels a regular apartment wall can cancel out?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the soundproofing abilities of an apartment wall. These include the presence of windows, doors, and other openings, as well as the overall layout of the apartment and the materials used in the building's construction.

5. Can soundproofing materials be added to a regular apartment wall to increase its soundproofing abilities?

Yes, soundproofing materials such as acoustic foam, acoustic panels, and soundproof curtains can be added to a regular apartment wall to increase its soundproofing abilities. These materials absorb and dampen sound waves, reducing the amount of sound that can pass through the wall.

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