I am about to embark on yet another phase of home improvment. This time, I am going to sound-proof the walls of my place.
Some background information; I live next to Interstate 10, and I hear a lot of traffic noise from the interstate. Hence, in the interest of getting some sleep, I plan to:
Rip all the sheet rock down, pull the existing insulation out, and nail 2x6 wall studs in between the existing wall studs.
Next, I am going to spray some insulation up between the new wall studs, making 5.5 inches of insulation between the walls. It is this phase of the operation that I need help with.
Finally, I am going to replace the sheet rock, mud the gaps, etc. and paint.
This insulation phase is the most puzzling at the time. I am looking for some spray-up foam insulation, like Great Stuff, to put between the wall studs. I know that this sort of thing exists, I have seen it done on home improvement shows, but I can’t find any info in the net. So, could someone point me in the right direction?
Next, I would appreciate any input as to how to cope with the meticulous details of this operation, like what to do about existing wiring or plumbing that might be within the wall.
Lastly, given the objective of the operation is to eliminate the sound that comes through the wall, is there a better way of dealing with this issue?
It sounds like you have the right idea. Instead of using 2x6 studs between the old studs, use 2x4s and leave a gap between the stud and the old drywall. Much of the sound that is transferred thru walls travels thru the studs from drywall to drywall. Each side of the insulated wall having its own studs not connected to the other side will cut way down on noise. Here is a link:
Look into a product called “Mass Loaded Vinyl”. Very thin, but very dense. Here’s a desciption of how to use it:
The easiest and simplest way to soundproof your walls is to apply furring strips to the existing drywall and then apply the vinyl barrier. It is important that an air gap be left between the existing drywall and the vinyl barrier, as this will maximize the sound deadening properties of the mass loaded vinyl barrier. After applying the vinyl barrier to the furring strips, you want to seal up the seams using a silicon adhesive. This is a critical step, as sound will pass through any opening. Add another layer of drywall after you have applied and sealed the vinyl barrier to notice a dramatic decrease in sound transmission.
I am glad that Xema mentioned the windows. I intend to replace the windows, there are three facing the interstate, with double-paned windows. They are facing south also, so they have to be energy efficient. But, I intended to bring the insulation right up to the window itself.
Since I have been clued into mass loaded vinyl barriers, I see no reason why I cannot bring that right up to the window, mounting the window on top of the vinyl.
hey ficer, im planning on foaming my house too and ive decided to do it myself with these kits: http://www.fomofoam.com/index.htm 5.5’’ of foam is a LOT. are you sure you want that much? im going for 1 1/2’’.
This reads like a major construction job. Have you made a complete detailed job analysis? Materials list, priced out? Skilled labor hours, and cost. Considered moving?
Foamed in place insulatin is a contract job, the foam is not fireproof, and may affect insurance premiums and coverage. You will be losing ~3-1/2" all around the outside walls from you floor space. You may want to consult a soundproofing expert before starting the project, i.e. spending any serious money on it.