Cheap Ways to Soundproof Your House From Outside

  • By Kioko Nyamasyo on 4 December 2022 - 2:36 pm
    A file image of a house under construction
    A file image of a house under construction
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  • Soundproofing a house is deliberate effort to put measures that will reduce noise pollution, which is against the law.

    You can reduce the noise emanating from a house or make sure noise from outside does not cause disturbance inside the house.

    County governments have stepped up efforts to make sure business establishments are compliant and that Kenyans are not subjected to all manner of noise especially in residential areas.

    To complement existing noise pollution laws and regulations, you can soundproof your house from outside by following these simple steps:

    A house under construction in Kenya
    A house under construction in Kenya
    HPD

    Add wall mass

    Adding mass to an existing wall is one of easier ways to block airborne house thus blocking noise from outside.

    If the house is made of a brick wall, you can add wall mass using acoustic plasterboard.

    It should be noted that an extra wall mass will only block high frequency noise. If you live near a nightclub, the bass will still be able to pass through your walls.

    Cap chimneys

    Chimneys especially unused ones should be capped to reduce noise coming from outside.

    To cap a chimney, you can block the top using a flue ventilator or a mesh that leaves space for ventilation.

    Sealing up holes and cracks

    Existing walls and cracks allow sound to pass through. Sealing considerably reduces noise pollution coming from the environs.

    Storm windows

    A storm window is a second window installed over an existing window.

    It reduces noise reaching the room by acting as an insulator and reducing drafts.

    Why soundproof from outside?

    There are certain advantages of using the aforementioned ways to soundproof your house;

    1. Noise reduction from outside accords your home with privacy.
    2. Soundproofing a house protects its occupants from hearing damage and associated health issues.
    3. With less noise coming from outside, it is possible to maintain good communication inside.
    4. Finally, a serene environment improves quality of life and general wellbeing.
    A storm window to reduce noise
    A storm window to reduce noise
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