How to soundproof a room

Soundproofing a room does not have to cost you an arm and a leg,
it can be done relatively cheap if you have the knowledge and
the skills needed to complete the job. Knowledge is the key; if
you don't have the knowledge, find someone who does. Most
constructed walls and ceilings consist of the studs (framing) or
joists (rafters, ceiling beams) and if you are lucky the
developer added a little R-19 or R-30 insulation before applying
the final layer of drywall. This is what we deal with on a daily
basis. One of the greatest myths is that common fiberglass
insulation is a good soundproofer. This is totally false.
Fiberglass insulation is so loosely woven that allows sound to
pass readily. Also note that the fibers in the fiberglass
insulation can transmit sound much like a wire carries
electricity. Now there are batt insulations that have the
R-values needed to meet building codes and are also very good
soundproofing agents. One of the best batt materials on the
market is called Roxul. Roxul is a mineral wool product that is
manufactured in Canada. It has proven soundproofing qualities
and can be used in conjunction with common fiberglass insulation
to fill the joist and stud cavities and provide the sound
dampening and sound absorption you need for effective
soundproofing. Installing Roxul in ceiling joist cavities is
also a great way to get both the thermal and soundproofing
benefits you need for your soundproof room. Once you have the
Roxul installed in those areas, you will then attach the mass
loaded vinyl directly to the studs and joists, it will stretch
across the frame structure much like a membrane across the
studs. The stud cavities will provide the dead air space needed
to allow MLV to resonate properly and give you the soundproofing
results you want. It is always best to overlap the seams
wherever possible and then you would caulk the seams as well as
the perimeter with a good acoustical caulk. Next you would tape
your seams with a MLV sealer tape and then the final step would
be to install your final layer of drywall, tape, mud, and paint
and presto, you are finished. There are many other methods for
soundproofing a room such as floating the walls and ceilings,
but the methods explained above are the least labor intensive
and will provide your with a very soundproof room. I hope you
have obtained knowledge from this article, please continue to
read this blog for daily updates and postings regarding every
aspect of soundproofing. 

As Always, Bob O. Soundproofing technical advisor
http://www.soundproofingamerica.com/
http://www.massloadedvinyl.com/ Call toll free (877) 530-0139