Soundproofing your doors can enhance your quality of life, whether you work from home, live in a bustling urban area, or simply want a quieter living space. There are many ways to soundproof, ranging from simple do-it-yourself (DIY) tricks to more advanced techniques. This guide covers the three primary methods for reducing sound transmission—adding mass, damping, and sealing gaps—plus cheaper fixes you can try on your own. Combining multiple methods usually yields the best results.
Adding Mass to Your Door
One effective way to reduce noise transmission is by adding mass to your door. Heavier materials are more effective at blocking sound waves.
Solid Core Doors
Switching to a solid-core door is a significant upgrade from a hollow-core door. Solid-core doors are denser and provide better sound insulation. They can be purchased at most home improvement stores and are easy to install. Although solid-core doors are more expensive and heavy, they’ll provide a better barrier for sound compared to hollow, air-filled doors.
Mass-Loaded Vinyl
Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) is a flexible, heavy material designed to block sound. It can be applied directly to the door or sandwiched between layers of material. To install MLV, cut it to fit the size of your door and attach it using adhesive or nails. This method adds significant mass to the door to reduce sound transmission.
Damping Vibrations
Damping is another method used to reduce sound transmission. This involves absorbing or dissipating the energy of sound waves, preventing them from traveling through the door.
Acoustic Panels
Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves and reduce noise. They’re made from materials such as foam or fiberglass and can be attached to the door’s surface. Acoustic panels come in various sizes and designs. Installation is straightforward, and they can be glued or screwed onto the door. If you want something less permanent, you can attach them to wood sheets, which allows you to remove them more easily in the future.
Green Glue
Green Glue is a damping compound that can be applied between layers of material to reduce sound transmission. Apply it between two layers of drywall or plywood, then attach the layers to the door. The compound absorbs sound waves and dissipates their energy, effectively reducing noise. This material is more complex to apply than other methods and is most often incorporated during a room’s construction.
Soundproofing Curtains
Soundproofing curtains are installed behind a door or inside a hallway. They’re made from thick cotton or fiberglass. The thicker the material, the more sound it will absorb. They create an additional layer of protection behind the door and can be effective at keeping heavy noise at bay. However, they can be obstructive, so we recommend installing them on a rod so they can be moved aside when not in use.
Sealing Door Gaps
Gaps around the door are a common source of sound leakage. Sealing these gaps can significantly reduce noise transmission.
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is an effective way to seal gaps around the door. You can use various types of weatherstripping materials, such as foam tape or rubber, depending on the size of the gap. Apply weatherstripping along the sides and top of the door frame to create a tight seal. For more information, read our guide on choosing the best weatherstripping materials.
Door Sweeps
A door sweep is a piece of rubber or brush that attaches to the bottom of the door, creating a barrier that prevents sound from traveling underneath it. Most door sweeps are screwed directly onto the base of the door, while some attach with adhesive strips.
Acoustic Caulk
Acoustic caulk is a sealant designed to block sound. It remains flexible after drying, allowing it to seal gaps and cracks around the outside of the doorframe. Apply acoustic caulk around the edges of the door frame and any other areas where sound may be leaking through. This type of caulk is available at most home improvement stores and is easy to apply with a caulking gun.
This material should not go between the door and the frame—doing so could jam the door or damage the hinges. It should only be applied to the outside of the frame or in gaps between the frame and the surrounding wall.
Advanced Soundproofing Techniques
Advanced techniques may be necessary for those seeking the highest level of soundproofing. While these methods can be more complex and expensive, they offer superior noise reduction.
Soundproof Door Kits
Soundproof door kits contain materials and components designed to enhance a door’s soundproofing capabilities. These kits typically include items such as MLV, door sweeps, and acoustic seals. Installation instructions are provided, making it easier for homeowners to upgrade their doors.
Soundproof Door Installation
If you want the maximum amount of sound dampening, buy and install a soundproof door. There are several kinds to choose from at varying costs and effectiveness. Common types of soundproof doors include those with acoustic inserts, acoustic gasketing, and acoustic glazing. While these doors can be installed on your own, we recommend hiring a professional for the best results.
DIY Soundproofing Solutions
If you’re on a budget or prefer a DIY approach, there are several affordable options. These methods may not provide the same level of soundproofing as high-end materials, but they can still make a noticeable difference.
Draft Stoppers
Draft stoppers are simple devices designed to block air and sound from passing through gaps under doors. They’re typically made from fabric and filled with sand or foam. These can be purchased online or through major home improvement retailers.
Rugs and Carpets
Placing rugs or carpets near the door can help absorb sound and reduce noise transmission. Rugs and carpets are particularly effective in rooms with hard flooring, such as tile or hardwood. By adding soft surfaces, you can decrease the amount of sound that travels through the door.
Heavy Curtains
Hanging heavy curtains over the door can provide additional soundproofing. Curtains made from thick, dense materials, such as velvet or thermal fabric, can help block sound waves. Install a curtain rod above the door and hang the curtains so they cover the entire door surface.
Furniture Placement
Strategic furniture placement can also help reduce noise. Positioning bookshelves, cabinets, or other large pieces of furniture around the door can create an additional barrier to block sound waves. This method is particularly useful for doors that are infrequently used. While not as effective as other techniques, it can still contribute to overall noise reduction.
Combining Methods for Best Results
Achieving the best soundproofing results often requires combining multiple methods. Adding mass to the door, damping vibrations, and sealing gaps creates a comprehensive soundproofing solution. For example, you could install a solid core door, apply mass-loaded vinyl, and use weatherstripping and a door sweep to seal gaps. Incorporating DIY solutions such as heavy curtains or clever furniture placement can also help.
Cost Considerations for Soundproofing a Door
When planning your soundproofing project, costs can add up quickly. The total price will depend on the methods and materials you choose. Here’s an overview of the costs associated with various soundproofing techniques:
- Solid core doors: $100–$500
- Mass-loaded vinyl: $2–$5 per square foot
- Acoustic foam panels: $10–$100 each
- Green Glue: $22 per tube
- Weatherstripping: $15–$30 per door
- Door sweeps: $15–$50 per door
- Acoustic caulk: About $10 per tube
- Soundproof door kits: $150–$300 per kit
- Soundproof curtains: $100 per curtain set
- Draft stoppers: $1–$10 per stopper
*Cost data in this article was sourced from Angi and firsthand pricing research.
Our Conclusion
Soundproofing can enhance the peace and livability of your space. Whether you opt for simple DIY solutions or more advanced options, each method contributes to reducing noise. By adding mass, damping vibrations, and sealing gaps, you can create a tranquil space with reduced unwanted noise. We recommend combining multiple methods for the most peace and quiet.