Regarding noise propagation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around strategies for reducing noise propagation in a multi-story building, particularly focusing on soundproofing techniques and materials. Participants explore various methods and considerations related to noise reduction in residential settings, including the effectiveness of different wall constructions and soundproofing materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest purchasing soundproofing materials as a straightforward solution, while others emphasize the need for more specific information about the noise and building structure.
  • There are discussions about the impact of wall thickness and construction on noise transmission, with mentions of resonance and the potential effectiveness of different wallboard thicknesses.
  • Participants propose various soundproofing methods, including adding layers of wallboard, using sound-absorbing fillers, and employing heavy carpets and rugs.
  • Concerns are raised about low-frequency noise potentially coupling through floors and walls, indicating that the type of noise is crucial for determining effective solutions.
  • One participant humorously suggests extreme solutions like moving to a cave, highlighting the frustration with noise issues.
  • There is a mention of the importance of consulting professionals, such as architects or acoustics engineers, for more complex noise problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that more information is needed to provide effective solutions, and there is no consensus on a single best approach to noise reduction. Multiple competing views on methods and effectiveness remain present throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include a lack of detailed information about the specific noise sources, the building's construction, and the environment, which are critical for assessing the situation accurately.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals dealing with noise issues in residential buildings, students studying acoustics or soundproofing, and professionals in architecture or construction may find this discussion relevant.

Helios047
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TL;DR
How to reduce propagating noise to 20 dB minimum in a multi-story building. General assumptions: 72F, wall thickness = 2 ft, material = paper/gypsum.
Need help
 
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There is simply not enough information here to help you. How loud is the noise you are trying to block? How far away is it? Is this a residential building? Etc.

Probably the easiest thing to do is to simply buy some soundproofing material and install it. There are many options at various prices that you can find online.
 
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Drakkith said:
Probably the easiest thing to do is to simply buy some soundproofing material and install it.
I second that. See if it is adequate.

Those are thick walls!

If the walls are hollow, that 2 foot spacing may resonate at musical notes around B5, F#6, B6.

Noise transmission will be affected by what the wallboard is attached to inside the walls. For instance if both surfaces are attached to structure that supports both sides of the wall, the noise will be conducted thru that common structure.

One common approach in original construction is to have different thickness wall board on each side of the wall; this avoids resonance between the two, and in some circumstances, can greatly reduce noise transmission.

Or put a second layer of wallboard on one, or even both, sides. That may or may not be cheaper than soundproofing material.

Also, if the noise is very low frequency (more of a vibration) then it could also couple thru the floor, making the adjacent wall vibrate.

More information is needed as to the environment & usage, floor construction, what is inside those 2 foot walls, the type of noise involved such as voices, heavy machinery, or ???.

Many Architects are somewhat familiar with soundproofing approaches and may be of some help. Last resort ($$$) could be an Acoustics Engineer.

Please keep us updated on what you find, we like to learn too!

Cheers,
Tom
 
Get some thick rugs for the floor.
Hang heavy carpets on the walls.
Stick egg cartons to the ceiling.
Wear noise-cancelling headphones.
Move to a deep cave system or a snow cave.
 
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Helios047 said:
TL;DR Summary: How to reduce propagating noise to 20 dB minimum in a multi-story building. General assumptions: 72F, wall thickness = 2 ft, material = paper/gypsum.

Need help
It looks like you are still at university. Is this question for schoolwork, or are you having noise problems in the dorms?
 
Tom.G said:
Those are thick walls!
If they are hollow (stud walls?) then fill them with sound absorbing filler. Sound can get through unexpected gaps even in solid brick walls.
Drakkith said:
There is simply not enough information here to help you.
But much more detail is needed to get anywhere at all with this. I can say with some certainty that there will be no quick and cheap solution. Unwanted sound is the very devil to deal with
 
Since this was a post-and-run, there's probably no reason to continue, but I am still amused that the OP felt that telling us the endpoint of 20 dB was important, but the starting point was not.

I once stayed at a hotel right next to an airline engine test facility. You should have seen the walls and windows!
 

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