Sound Insulation for Old Houses

Plaster ceilings are best left in place if you plan to do this because removing them is messy and unnecessary.

Feb

2024

Soundproofing Solutions for Your House

Is unwanted noise disturbing the tranquility of your home? Soundproofing your house can be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Soundproofing Solutions, we specialize in providing effective soundproofing solutions tailored to residential properties. Enjoy peace and quiet in every room of your house and create a serene environment for relaxation, work, or family time.

Why Choose Our Soundproofing Services?

1. Expertise and Experience: With our extensive expertise and years of experience in soundproofing, our team has the knowledge and skills to address various noise-related issues in houses. We stay updated with the latest soundproofing techniques and technologies to deliver outstanding results.

2. Customised Solutions: We understand that every house is unique, and your soundproofing needs may vary. Our experts offer personalized soundproofing solutions tailored to your specific requirements and preferences. Whether it’s reducing external noise, preventing sound transfer between rooms, or creating a quiet home office, we have the expertise to find the right solution for you.

3. Comprehensive Soundproofing Options: We offer a wide range of soundproofing products and solutions to suit your house’s needs. From acoustic insulation for walls, floors, and ceilings to soundproof doors and windows, we have the products and expertise to enhance the soundproofing performance of your house. Our high-quality materials effectively block and absorb sound, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment.

4. Professional Installation: Our skilled soundproofing team provides professional installation services to ensure that your soundproofing solution is implemented correctly. We pay attention to detail during the installation process, maximizing the effectiveness of the soundproofing materials and minimizing any potential disruptions to your home.

5. Increased Comfort and Privacy: Soundproofing your house enhances your overall comfort by reducing noise disturbances from external sources such as traffic, neighbors, or nearby construction. It also helps maintain privacy within your home, preventing sound from traveling between rooms or floors. Enjoy a peaceful and private living space where you can relax, concentrate, and unwind without unwanted noise intrusions.

Contact Us Today for Soundproofing Your House!

Ready to transform your house into a quiet and tranquil haven? Don’t let noise disrupt your comfort and well-being at home. Contact Soundproofing Solutions today to schedule a free consultation. Our soundproofing experts will assess your specific needs, recommend the most suitable solutions, and provide a detailed quote for your project. Enhance the serenity and enjoyment of your home with our top-notch soundproofing services. Say goodbye to noise and hello to peace and quiet in your house!

Nov

2022

The Ultimate Guide to Soundproofing Your Space in London

Living in the vibrant city of London comes with its fair share of excitement, but it also means dealing with constant noise from traffic, neighbors, and bustling streets. Fortunately, soundproofing provides a solution to create a peaceful oasis within your home or office. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of soundproofing in London and provide valuable tips and insights to help you achieve a quieter and more serene environment.

1. Understanding the Importance of Soundproofing in London: London is known for its bustling energy, but excessive noise can have a negative impact on your well-being and quality of life. Soundproofing your space offers a range of benefits, including reduced stress levels, improved sleep quality, enhanced productivity, and increased privacy. Whether you reside in a busy neighborhood, work in a noisy office, or operate a commercial establishment, soundproofing can significantly enhance your comfort and overall experience.

2. Identifying Noise Sources: The first step in soundproofing is to identify the primary sources of noise in your London space. Is it the street traffic, loud neighbors, or internal sounds from your own building? Understanding the specific noise challenges will help you determine the appropriate soundproofing techniques and materials needed to address them effectively.

3. Soundproofing Techniques and Solutions: a) Acoustic Insulation: Adding acoustic insulation to walls, ceilings, and floors can significantly reduce sound transmission. This involves using specialized materials with excellent sound-absorbing properties to minimize noise infiltration. b) Soundproofing Doors and Windows: Upgrading to soundproof doors and windows can create a substantial barrier against external noise. These specially designed features prevent sound waves from entering or leaving the space, providing a quieter environment. c) Soundproofing Materials: Utilise soundproofing materials such as acoustic panels, soundproof curtains, and acoustic foam to absorb and dampen sound within your space. These materials come in various styles and designs, allowing you to customize the aesthetics while maintaining effective noise reduction.

4. Seeking Professional Assistance: While soundproofing can be a DIY project, seeking professional assistance ensures optimal results. Soundproofing experts in London have the knowledge, experience, and access to high-quality materials to deliver effective soundproofing solutions tailored to your specific needs. They can assess your space, recommend the most suitable techniques, and handle the installation process efficiently.

5. Enjoying the Benefits of Soundproofing: Once your space is properly soundproofed, you’ll experience the remarkable benefits. Enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep, increased concentration in your home office, reduced disturbance from street noise, and enhanced privacy. Soundproofing transforms your London space into a sanctuary where you can relax, work, and unwind without the constant interruptions of city noise.

Conclusion: Soundproofing your space in London is a worthwhile investment that can greatly improve your quality of life. By understanding the importance of soundproofing, identifying noise sources, utilizing effective techniques and materials, and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can create a serene and tranquil environment in the midst of a bustling city. Embrace the peace and quiet you deserve and reclaim your space from the noise of London with soundproofing solutions.

Sep

2022

The Incredible Benefits of Insulating Your Loft

When it comes to creating an energy-efficient and comfortable home, insulating your loft should be high on your priority list. Many homeowners often overlook this simple yet highly effective home improvement measure. Insulating your loft not only helps you save on energy bills but also offers numerous additional benefits. In this blog, we will explore the incredible advantages of loft insulation and why it’s a wise investment for any homeowner.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings:

One of the most significant benefits of insulating your loft is increased energy efficiency, leading to substantial cost savings in the long run. Without proper insulation, your home loses a significant amount of heat through the roof. By insulating your loft, you create a thermal barrier that prevents heat from escaping, effectively trapping warmth within your living spaces. As a result, you can reduce your heating requirements, lower energy consumption, and enjoy noticeable reductions in your heating bills.

Enhanced Comfort and Temperature Regulation:

Insulating your loft doesn’t just help with energy efficiency; it also greatly improves the comfort level within your home. With proper insulation, you can maintain a more consistent and comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year. During cold winters, the insulation prevents heat loss, keeping your home warm and cosy. In summer, it acts as a barrier against external heat, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning and keeping your living spaces pleasantly cool.

Noise Reduction:

Loft insulation has an additional benefit that often goes unnoticed—noise reduction. The insulation material absorbs and dampens external noises, creating a more peaceful and tranquil living environment. Whether it’s the sound of traffic, noisy neighbours, or the pitter-patter of rain, a well-insulated loft can significantly minimise unwanted noise, allowing you to relax and enjoy a quieter home.

Environmental Impact:

Investing in loft insulation isn’t just beneficial for your wallet; it’s also a positive step toward reducing your environmental impact. By reducing energy consumption, you contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change. With an energy-efficient home, you actively participate in conserving natural resources and promote sustainable living practices.

Increased Property Value:

A well-insulated loft can add value to your property. Potential buyers are increasingly mindful of energy efficiency and look for homes that are insulated and equipped with green features. By insulating your loft, you not only make your home more appealing to buyers but also increase its overall market value.

Condensation Prevention:

Condensation can be a significant issue in homes that lack proper insulation. Moisture buildup can lead to dampness, mold growth, and subsequent damage to your property. Insulating your loft helps regulate the temperature and reduces condensation, protecting your home from these potential problems and ensuring a healthier living environment.

Conclusion:

Insulating your loft is a smart investment that offers a multitude of benefits. From reducing energy bills and enhancing comfort to noise reduction and environmental sustainability, the advantages are undeniable. By taking this simple step, you can create a more energy-efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly home while also increasing its value. So, if you haven’t already done so, consider insulating your loft and reap the incredible rewards it brings.

Jan

2021

Benefits of soundproof doors

Soundproof doors offer numerous benefits, particularly in environments where noise control and acoustic insulation are essential. These specialized doors are designed to minimise the transmission of sound from one area to another, creating a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere. Here are some of the key advantages of soundproof doors:

Noise reduction: The primary advantage of soundproof doors is their ability to significantly reduce noise transmission. They are constructed with dense materials and specialized insulation that effectively block and absorb sound waves. This makes them ideal for spaces where noise pollution is a concern, such as recording studios, theaters, offices, hotels, or residential areas near busy streets or airports.
Improved privacy: Soundproof doors enhance privacy by preventing sound from traveling in or out of a room. In offices or conference rooms, they can ensure confidential discussions remain private, allowing employees to work without distractions. Similarly, in residential settings, soundproof doors provide peace and solitude by minimising noise disturbances from neighboring rooms or outdoor sources.
Enhanced productivity: By minimising noise distractions, soundproof doors contribute to improved focus and productivity. In office environments, employees can concentrate on their tasks without being disturbed by conversations or other noises from outside. This promotes a more efficient and conducive work environment, leading to increased output and better concentration.
Compliance with regulations: Certain industries, such as music production, broadcasting, or healthcare, have specific regulations regarding noise control. Soundproof doors help businesses meet these requirements by providing effective acoustic insulation. Compliance with such regulations not only ensures the quality and safety of operations but also prevents potential legal issues or penalties.
Energy efficiency: Soundproof doors often feature excellent thermal insulation properties. The materials used in their construction provide an additional layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer between spaces. This can result in energy savings by maintaining a more stable indoor temperature, reducing the load on heating and cooling systems, and lowering energy consumption.
Increased property value: Installing soundproof doors can add value to a property. Potential buyers or renters may prioritise noise reduction as an important feature, particularly in urban areas or properties located near sources of noise. Soundproof doors are considered a premium feature that can enhance the desirability and market appeal of a space.

In conclusion, soundproof doors offer a range of benefits, including noise reduction, improved privacy, enhanced productivity, compliance with regulations, energy efficiency, and increased property value. These doors are a valuable investment in creating a comfortable, quiet, and controlled environment, whether in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. By effectively blocking and absorbing sound, soundproof doors contribute to a more peaceful and productive atmosphere while meeting the demands of modern living and stringent noise control standards.

Oct

2020

Soundproof Foam VS Acoustic Foam

The misconception about foam being soundproof exists mostly because people lack the understanding of the differences between sound absorption and soundproofing.

It is natural to assume that if products like foam absorb sound, there will be none that is left to escape the room.

Unfortunately, sound is not like a fluid that gets absorbed and trapped in something like a sponge. The way sound behaves needs to be understood clearly here.

Sound waves are nothing but vibrations and when they strike a surface, they tend to vibrate it.

Sound does not ‘pass’ through a wall or ceiling but merely vibrates it. These vibrations are further transferred to the other side and that is how sound transfer takes place through walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.

1. Walls and Ceilings

The most common myth is that panels made of foam can be stuck on walls and will reduce the amount of sound from entering or leaving a room.

The foam that you see stuck on the walls of studios is not meant for soundproofing but is meant for sound absorption. The products that do the actual soundproofing in a studio are something else.

What You Should Be Doing Instead

You should first of all try to make your walls heavier. You can add mass to your wall by:-

Extra Drywall

Installing an additional layer or two of drywall will help to reduce sound transfer. A 5/8” thick drywall sheet weighs 2.31 pounds per square foot. That’s some serious mass and is a great substance for reducing sound transfer.

Coming back to foam, there are many varieties available and their densities vary depending on the type and grade. However, the foam would have to be several inches thick to match the mass of drywall.

Pros

Low cost.
Lots of mass.

Cons

Effort and workmanship required to install.
Involves modification of structures, so not an option for rented apartments.

Floors

Impact Noise
Airborne Noise

Impact noise is the noise caused as a result of footsteps or furniture being moved on the floor.

Airborne noise is the sound that is normally transmitted through the air and these include traffic noise, dog barking, neighbors yelling, and everything else.

Aug

2020

How to soundproof an apartment door: Painless DIY Solutions

Why soundproof a door and who should do it?

If you’ve recently moved into a new apartment and discovered that on some nights you’re wide awake as you listen to your neighbours’ conversations in the hallway, your flimsy doors may be to blame.

As a light sleeper myself, loud noises from the hallway have kept me up on countless nights.

With the recent trend of people working from home, you may also be looking to dedicate a space for your new home office with optimal sound-proofing properties so you can work in peace.

If those situations sound familiar to you, it might be time to think about how you can soundproof your doors to get a good night’s sleep.

How they work and if they can be effective

Soundproofing a hollow door works just like soundproofing a room does.

The problem usually arises because most doors have hollow cores, often trapping air inside.

The trapped air then acts as an excellent medium for noise or sound, but a terrible choice if you want to keep the noise out.

Hollow core doors are the most typical interior doors used nowadays in houses.

Beneath its surface is an inner cardboard honeycomb core surrounded by a softwood frame.

Considering this thin surface and the air-filled core, there just isn’t much to block the transmission of sound.

However, you can minimize the sound transmission by adding sound-insulating material on the door, which will significantly help in creating a more peaceful environment in the comfort of your own home.

Continue reading to find out how you can soundproof an apartment door. Here are a few products readily available on Amazon for you.

Note that these methods will allow you to minimize the noise transmission but will not completely block out noise.

If you wish to get rid of any outside noise once and for all, you might want to look into getting a solid core door.

We will explore that option at the end of this article.

Acoustic foam

A reliable go-to product when it comes to soundproofing is acoustic foams.

When installed on your door, these foams block noise while absorbing sounds.

As a result, they can eliminate any echoes from the house.

Since they are originally designed to improve the acoustics of a music room, you can count them to reduce the amplitude of noise level.

The best part is, they don’t require any special skills to install.

Because they are self-adhesive, it will be a hassle-free process for you.

Jul

2020

Negative Effects of Sound Pollution

Every sound in a structure can be traced back to its acoustical roots. Creaky door hinges are rusty, too tight or in need of a good oiling. Floorboards squeaking or groaning are either incorrectly fastened or not plumb or true.

As for ominous loud ticking clocks, either you’ve been watching too many scary movies or you have very thin walls with no acoustical insulation and thin drywall layers. This too can be easily solved with a variety of wall types from traditional staggered stud to new high-performance ultra-thin ZR walls.

Unintended Negative Effects of Noises

The impact of subway noise on surrounding neighbourhoods shows that increased cardiovascular disease is related to sleep disorders caused by rail noise in urban areas. While most spooky sounds are low frequency noise, subways do create a wider variety of noises than wind turbines or deep footsteps, thereby having a wider and deeper range of effects. These are similar to having a spooky bad dream including, but not limited to:

Increased heart rate
Lack of deep REM sleep
Increased blood pressure
Elevated anxiety and stress levels

Last, but not least, is our favorite means of long-distance travel, airplanes. Because of new engine designs, noise from aircraft is getting better with each generation. Nevertheless, there is still a significant impact on local environments and the people living there. Similar to subway noise, physiological issues include:

Cardiovascular issues
Cognitive issues in children
Elevated anxiety
Decreased attention spans due to sleep deprivation.

Jul

2020

Commercial and Domestic Soundproofing

What does soundproofing typically cost?

We charge per square meter, to keep our costs as low as possible from the outset. Many of our customers choose to stage their soundproofing room by room, ranging from utilising high-density acoustic sealant and wall panels to installing soundproofing walls, to ensure our soundproofing solutions provide them with satisfaction. Whatever your sound insulation choice is, we endeavour to make it as cost-effective as possible.

Whether it is for peace and quiet in your home, reducing loud noise in your office or meeting rooms or for new building regulations, we offer wall soundproofing, floor soundproofing and soundproofing solutions that are second to none in quality using the latest soundproofing foam technology.

We listen to what you need and want from a soundproofing project. We are able to provide full sound insulation with high-density wall panels for soundproofing installations in walls, floors and ceilings, all while still maintaining the beauty and aesthetics of your home or office designs with a minimum loss of room space and mess.

Metropolitan Insulation Soundproofing use state of the art methods and materials to deal with all of your noise issues. We know our business and have soundproofing solutions for all your needs. If we don’t have an immediate answer for you, we have the resources to get you the answer as well as the products to get the job done right the first time.

Metropolitan Insulation takes pride in the services and materials we supply to customers and will work closely with you to make certain that noise intrusion throughout your home is no longer a part of daily life. We have been focusing on delivering the very best in soundproofing London throughout our establishment and are proud to be your first choice for service.

May

2020

The chicest innovations in soundproofing

Aside from your typical spray foam insulation, the quest for a quieter environment is no longer in vain. Design has caught up with sound-absorbing tech, offering stylish solutions so that you can enjoy the (almost) silence.

Anyone in an open office environment can appreciate eliminating incessant reverberation of voices and movements, but our relationship to sound is not static—some ambient noise is a good thing. And while many of the latest innovations might seem most appropriate for contract and hospitality settings, a craving for quiet seems universal, and the norms that define the workplace are shifting further away from the strict desk-job narrative.

According to Rodrigo Gomes, of Bose, noise canceling can help you focus and be more productive. If a host of acoustically smart design products can create a physical environment that’s just quiet enough, maybe we can actually think for a minute.

To see a range of ultra modern ways to reduce sound travelling in your office take a look HERE.

Jan

2020

Benefits of spray foam insulation for historic or listed buildings

Spray foam insulation is an ideal solution for securing tiles on the roofs of listed and historic buildings.

Spray foam insulation is applied to the underside of roofs to bond slates and tiles together, providing effective insulation and structural support.

Whilst spray foam insulation can benefit buildings of all different shapes, sizes and ages, it can be particularly useful for securing tiles on the roofs of historic or listed buildings, here’s why:

Preserve appearance

It is very important to preserve the appearance and original character of historic and listed buildings by retaining original features and materials where possible. Securing and sealing the existing roof with spray foam can help to bond the existing roof and tiles together to cure nail fatigue and avoid the need to replace roofing materials.

Protect roof tiles against theft

Very old and listed buildings are also more likely to have valuable tiles on their roofs, including lead tiles, which are frequently targeted by thieves.

Bonding your roof’s tiles together and to the roof’s structure using spray foam will help to protect valuable roof tiles from being stolen.

Further benefits of spray foam insulation

As well as protecting and preserving the outer appearance of historic and listed buildings, spray foam insulation provides a whole host of other benefits including:

Affordable solution to re-roofing.
Makes the roof weather-resistant.
Seals the roof to get rid of air leaks and draughts.
Improves the building’s energy efficiency.
Keeps the building feeling warm and comfortable.
Prevents condensation build-up.
Reduces the risk of pipes and tanks freezing.

The spray foam we install at Metropolitan Insulation prevents interstitial condensation, whilst also allowing the roof’s battens to ‘breathe’. It also meets Class 1 Surface Spread of Flame when tested to BS 476 Part 7:1997.

For more information about our spray foam insulation, or to request a free consultation, get in touch with our team by calling us on 0800 028 4042.

Metropolitan Insulation Blog