How To Sound Proof Your Dorm

What is the fun of living in your own dorm room if you can’t even play some music now and then without annoying your neighbors? We know many new college students living in dorm rooms are surprised at just how thin the walls and floors of their new living space really are.

Before you permanently limit yourself to a life of headphones and whispers, here are some tips on how to soundproof your dorm room:

Start With the Floor

Believe it or not, quite a bit of noise travels through and along the floor. If you do not have any floor covering, you could be emitting much more noise than your realize. Try a thick rug or carpet to soundproof your floor. Some people have even used a layer of rubber mats below their rugs for added noise absorption. You may need to go 3 or 4 layers thick to get the best results. Not only will you end up with a floor that minimizes reverberations, but you will also have a nice cushioned floor! Be sure to choose rugs that add to the look and feel of your room.

Cover the Walls

Before you start hanging anything up on the walls, be sure you know what the dorm fire code is and what the rules say about using adhesives to hang things up. Some of the most effective wall hangings include artwork with thick wooden frames, heavy drapes, corkboard, canvas, and acoustic panels. It really depends on your budget and the rules and codes of your dormitory. You can get creative when it comes to using posters mounted on corkboard or pieces of Styrofoam covered in your favorite material. Once you get the walls covered, don’t forget the doors!

Get Strategic with Your Furniture

If your dorm space allows for it, furniture is a great way to add soundproofing to your room. Strategically place your desks, dressers, beds, sofas and any other furniture you have against walls to help block sound from getting in or out. When placing furniture, keep in mind that absorbing vibration is a big part of limiting how far sound travels.

Don’t Forget the Windows

Windows are an essential consideration when it comes to soundproofing your room. One popular method is installing removable coverings that can easily be attached or detached from the inside of your room. Even window coverings that boast weather protection can actually be very effective in reducing noise.

However you go about soundproofing your dorm room, be sure to consider your safety as well as the safety of those you live with. It is important to follow the codes and guidelines set by the those in charge.

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