Condo and Townhouse Soundproofing
Do You Lack Privacy in your Townhouse?
While condos are popular for their space solutions, many tenants experience a lack of privacy living so closely to neighbors.
Walls are the only separation between you and your neighbors. Often, there is no condo soundproofing materials used during construction, so noise leaks from your neighbor's home into yours. You don't have to settle for living with the noise of neighbors.
By applying townhouse soundproofing materials to your home, you'll feel more at ease in your own private space knowing neighbors aren't able to hear you through the walls. And you won't be disturbed anymore by the sounds of the adjoining condo.
Many condo builders come to Soundproof Cow for townhouse soundproofing. They want to build homes with an advantage over the competition. Condo associations often contact Soundproof Cow after construction has been completed and they have realized soundproofing is inadequate.
Other condo soundproofing customers are tenants that want to improve their quality of life. We have townhouse soundproofing materials for homes in all stages of construction, from townhouses in the planning stage of construction to older condos.
What Townhouse and Condo Soundproofing Can Do for You
Townhouse and Condo soundproofing products:
- Increase your privacy by stopping the transmission of noise from one condo to another...you no longer have to worry about neighbors hearing you
- Improve your quality of living by blocking unwanted noise from entering your home...noisy neighbors will no longer wake you or disturb your dinner
- Increase property values of your townhouse by offering a more private home
Condo and Townhouse Soundproofing and Sound Absorption: What's the Difference?
Sound is like water. It doesn't have a shape or form, but molds itself to its surroundings. And like water, sound can be absorbed by some materials and contained by others. Click here to learn more sound basics.
Condo and townhouse sound absorption products soak up sound. They absorb sound waves and prevent them from bouncing off the walls. They improve the quality of the sound within the home. Click here to learn more sound absorption basics
Condo and townhouse soundproofing products trap the sound. They contain the sound within the home, making it impossible for the sound to move to other parts of the building. They also stop unwanted sound from entering your home. Click here to learn more soundproofing basics.
How Do I Know which Type of Townhouse and Condo Soundproofing I Need?
Here's an easy 2-step process to determine which you need:
Step 1: Identify WHAT noise you hear.
Is it your neighbor's voice? It is the TV? Is it highway traffic?
Step 1: Identify WHERE the noise is coming from.
Is the noise coming from inside the same space as you, or is it coming from a separate room or condo? For instance, do you hear the dog in the condo next door? Is the sound of the traffic outside? Is it poor sound quality of the TV in your living room?
Sound absorption products help control the noise that's in the same space as you and increase the sound quality of that space.
Townhouse and condo soundproofing products stop sound from entering or exiting your space. If the noise comes from above, then you need ceiling acoustical treatments. If the sound is coming from next door, you need wall acoustical treatments. If the sound is coming from below, you need floor acoustical treatments. Many condos can benefit from all types of townhouse soundproofing materials. And for those townhouses already constructed, many of our soundproofing products can be retro-fit.
Choosing the Right Product for Your Townhouse and Condo Soundproofing Needs
If you're renting or leasing, it's recommended you consult your property manager before buying or installing townhouse and condo soundproofing materials. Some fixes that don't involve construction are heavier area rugs, wall décor, thicker curtains, and sealants. However, the results are minimal compared to soundproofing products. For those with budget concerns or looking for only a slight improvement, these fixes can be the solution.
Condo and Townhouse Sound Absorption Products
Sound absorption materials stop noise from bouncing off the walls and back into the space. The sound quality within a room is improved. This means the TV will sound better or the kitchen won't have an echo anymore.
To be able to compare the performance of different sound absorption products, we rate them by how much sound they can take in. This rating is called NRC, which stands for Noise Reduction Coefficient. Click here to learn more about NRC ratings.
Below is a list of our sound absorption products that work best for condos. Since the look of your home is important to you, these products are selected because they can match any décor. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs that can blend with or enhance the look of your townhouse.
Click on product titles for more details.
Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels
These panels appear decorative but are really working hard to improve sound quality and speech clarity. Made of a lightweight fiberglass core, they are covered by a soft designer fabric. Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels are available as a wall panel or a baffle that can be hung from the ceiling.
Features & Benefits:
Superior Acoustic Performance - Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels are our premium sound absorption product that can be used anywhere reverberation (echo) is an issue. Our acoustic panels will improve speech intelligibility, improve production and improve any listening or recording environment. Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels absorbs noise generated at low, mid and high frequencies.
Ease of Installation - Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels are lightweight and can be attached to a variety of surfaces. Basic hand tools and a limited amount of construction know-how is all that is needed to ensure a proper installation. Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels can be cut or trimmed on the job site with simple hand tools. Our Acoustic Panels can be mounted permanently with adhesive or temporarily with Hook & Loop or Z-Clips.
Durability - Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels are available with resin hardened edges or, for areas with high traffic, aluminum framing. The fiberglass core of our acoustic panels is firm and resists impacts well; however, we offer an impact-resistant model for areas with high traffic.
Excellent Flammability Rating - Our Soft Sound® Acoustic Panels have a Class A™ flammability rating. This product passes most building code flammability requirements for exposed materials.
Soft Sound® Studio Foam
Soft Sound® Studio Foams are designed to improve sound quality within a studio or recording environment by reducing reverberation (echo). Our Soft Sound® Studio Foams are professional grade sound improvement products for use in commercial or home recording / listening settings. Excellent acoustic performance combined with a variety of architectural textures, sizes and colors offers endless design potential. Soft Sound® Studio Foams are designed to absorb sound from low to high frequencies and will improve the sound quality of any environment that suffers from poor acoustics. Soft Sound® Studio Foams are available with a Class A™ flammability rating that will pass most building code requirements for exposed materials. All of our Studio Foam products are made with the highest grades of acoustic foam.
Features & Benefits:
Engineered for performance - Soft Sound® Studio Foams are manufactured with a variety of textural patterns that increase surface area, ultimately increasing the acoustic performance. Soft Sound® Studio Foams absorb sound generated at low, mid and high frequencies.
Quality - Soft Sound® Studio Foams are made with flexible, professional grade acoustic polyurethane foam. The foam keeps its color better and longer then other lower quality foams. Soft Sound™ Studio Foams are firmer then other studio foam products on the market which adds protection against rips or tears.
Ease of Installation - Soft Sound® Studio Foams are light weight and can be attached to a variety of surfaces. No special tools or materials are needed.
Personalization - Soft Sound® Studio Foams are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Choose the color that best matches your personal décor.
Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels
Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are a light-weight, thermally-bonded acoustical pad.
Features & Benefits:
Acoustic Performance at a Great Price - Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are one of the most cost-effective sound absorbing materials available. The natural cotton fibers are acoustically superior when compared to other man-made fibers, such as fiberglass. The noise reduction performance of Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels matches other higher priced material on the market.
Keep it Green - Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are 80% recycled cotton and do not contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Quality - Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are a thermally bonded cotton panel made from high quality recycled fibers. The thermal bonding makes Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels tear and impact resistant. Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are also resistant to fungi and mold/mildew.
Easy to Install and Handle - Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are lightweight and can be attached to a variety of surfaces. These panels contain no fiberglass and do not itch or cause skin irritation. Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are attached to substrates with construction-grade adhesives. For cutting or trimming, use a sharp utility knife. Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels are available as a ceiling hung Baffle.See Echo Absorber™ Hanging Baffle.
Excellent Flammability Rating - Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Panels have a Class A™ flammability rating. This product passes most building code flammability requirements for exposed materials.
Condo and Townhouse Soundproofing Products
Condo and townhouse soundproofing products trap sound. They keep sound in a desired location. This means the TV in the living room won't disturb the person sleeping in the bedroom. And the sounds of your neighbors won't disturb you.
There are four common townhouse soundproofing approaches. The four ways are: adding mass, increasing or adding air space, decoupling or creating a structural break within the wall assembly, and adding sound absorption material within the wall/ceiling cavities. Click here to learn more soundproofing basics.
To be able to compare the performance of different townhouse and condo soundproofing products, we rate them by how much sound they can block. This rating is called STC, which stands for Sound Transmission Class. Click here to learn more about STC ratings.
Below is a list of our condo and townhouse soundproofing products. Condo and townhouse soundproofing products are typically applied behind drywall or sandwiched between existing and new drywall. There is a variety of townhouse and condo soundproofing products available.
Click on product titles for more details.
IsoTRAX™ Soundproofing System
IsoTRAX™ Soundproofing System is one of the most effective products to block sound. With its Complete Sound Isolation System, it creates a structural break within the wall/ceiling, isolating the sound. Also, IsoTRAX™ Soundproofing System adds airspace, improving its overall soundproofing performance. This product requires a basic understanding of common construction techniques.
Features & Benefits:
Ease of Installation - isoTRAX™ Soundproofing System requires a basic understanding of common construction techniques. This product was engineered for the do-it-yourselfer and contractor alike.
Affordable - One package covers up to 64 SqFt. Total installed cost is lower than comparable soundproofing systems. Everything you need to soundproof your environment is included and delivered to your door.
Versatility - isoTRAX™ Soundproofing System will reduce sound transfer on existing and newly constructed walls or ceilings. isoTRAX™ Soundproofing System can be installed on wood or steel studded walls.
Fast Shipping - Most orders placed before 3pm during weekday operation hours ship the same day and typically arrive at your door 1 to 3 days later.
Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material
The mass of Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material blocks sound while its flexible material dampens sound energy. It can be used behind drywall in wall and ceiling assemblies or sandwiched between existing and new drywall. It can also be used under flooring.
Features & Benefits:
Dual soundproofing function - The mass of Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material blocks sound while its flexible nature dampens sound energy, giving improved acoustic performance over competitive rigid products.
Value - Pound for pound, Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material products have better noise reduction characteristics than steel and other building materials.
Low Profile - Valuable square footage is maximized. Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material is only 1/4 inch thick, saving space and money.
Variety - Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material soundproofing material is available in a variety of lengths and widths. Also, Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material is available with a peel-and-stick pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). Custom shapes and sizes available upon request.
In-stock - We stock all advertised sizes and configurations of Quiet Barrier® Soundproofing Material in large quantities. Most products are shipped the same day they are ordered and arrive at your project in 3 business days. Custom shapes and sizes available upon request.
Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation
Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation is a premium acoustical and thermal insulator. A tight friction fit between wood and metal studs minimize the movement of sound and heat from one space to another.
Features & Benefits :
Excellent Sound Absorption Performance - Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation absorbs sound within wall and ceiling cavities, reducing the sound transfer from one space to the next. Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation has the highest NRC obtainable of 1.00.
Environmentally Friendly - Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation is manufactured with 80% recycled natural cotton fibers.
Easy to Install - Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation is friction-fit between 16 inch and 24 inch on center studs and does not require any special tools to install. Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation can be used between wood or steel studs.
Easy to Handle - Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation is itch-free and does not contain formaldehydes or other harmful chemicals.
Energy Savings - Quiet Batt® Soundproofing Insulation helps keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments
Hand built from the best, most consistent materials available, Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments are ideal for use in the construction, automotive and marine industries to reduce noise from both impact and airborne transmission. Engineered from an extremely durable, yet soft, recycled cotton pad and a heavy barrier material, each sheet is individually hand inspected to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained. Even the adhesive used to bond these products has acoustic qualities due to its permanent elastic nature. This product outperfoms all other foam, fiber or fiber board products available on the market, and provides thermal insulation, to reduce cold floors and decrease energy loss. Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments are not for every application, only those that require the best possible product.
Features & Benefits:
Dual soundproofing function - Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments significantly reduce noise from impact, such as foot fall, and reduce airborne sound transmission, such as noise from voices, TV's and stereos. Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments have an Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating up to 78 and a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating up to 50.
Extends life of Flooring Material - Under normal conditions, Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayment products dramatically extend the life of the finished flooring material. The materials used to create this product are tough and long lasting.
Ease of Installation - Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments are available in a convenient 48 inch by 96 inch sheet (32 sq ft) and are placed in a "Running Bond" pattern on the sub-floor. A professional quality Duct Tape should be used over the seams where the sheets meet. Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments cut easily with a sharp utility knife.
Comfort Factor - Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayment products make any carpet "feel" plusher and luxurious. Foams and cheap fiber pads break down and lose the comfort factor within a few years after installation, depending on the amount of traffic. Impact Barrier® Flooring Underlayments will keep your carpeted floor plush and comfortable for many years.
Step Above® Flooring Underlayment
Step Above® Flooring Underlayment is the most technologically advanced sound blocker available for hardwood, laminate and engineered flooring systems. Step Above® Flooring Underlayment minimizes airborne and structural borne (footfall) noise and significantly improves in-room sound quality. Step Above® Flooring Underlayment is a composite of durable, dimensionally stable, cross-linked polyolefin resin and a 2-mil Polyethylene vapor barrier, which is easy to install. Step Above® Flooring Underlayment has a peel and place edge lip system to create a sound and moisture barrier. This product requires a limited amount of tools for proper installation. Step Above® Flooring Underlayment offers great protection against mold, mildew and vapor transmission as well as thermal insulation performance to reduce cold floors and decrease energy loss.
Features & Benefits:
Not Just for Laminates - Step Above® Flooring Underlayment is our best underlayment for nail-down wood floors, floating wood floors, engineered wood floors and laminate flooring installations.
Ease of Installation - Step Above® Flooring Underlayment is rolled into place for a quick application. Simply, roll out the product, measure, cut and place. Every roll of Step Above® has an overlapping, peel and place lip to ensure a proper sound and vapor seal. Once applied, there is no waiting time for the installation of floor covering materials.
Excellent Floor Protection - Flooring is an expensive investment. Step Above® Flooring Underlayment will help protect your floor from moisture damage. Due to the edge peel and place lip system, the flooring underlayment acts as one large seamless sheet, which will help protect laminate and hardwood floors from moisture vapor damage.
Excellent Performance for the Price - When compared to other flooring underlayments available on the market, Step Above® out performs the competition
PROFLEX 90 MSC Flooring Underlayment
PROFLEX™ 90 MSC is a specialized soundproofing product, intended for use under tile, stone and hardwood finished floors. Constructed of a rubberized membrane that is laminated to a high strength, reinforcing fabric on the face and a siliconized release sheet on the adhesive side, PROFLEX™ 90 MSC is a 90 mil composite that is specially designed to be used under approved thin-sets, mortars, and adhesives for interior and exterior applications of ceramic tile, stone, and brick, and for interior applications of wood flooring to help eliminate the occurrence of cracks and to reduce sound transmission. To eliminate cracks in finished floor work, the product should be applied to the entire substrate prior to the installation of the finished flooring. Other applications also may be suitable, please contact our Acoustic Consultants for further information.
Features & Benefits:
Dual soundproofing function - PROFLEX™ 90 MSC reduces noise from impact, such as foot fall, and reduces airborne sound transmission, such as noise from voices, TV's and stereos. PROFLEX™ 90 MSC has an Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating of 68 and a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of 72. Please see the Technical Data sheet for more information.
Protects from Cracks - PROFLEX™ 90 MSC bridges cracks and controls joints up to 3/8" wide, eliminating the transfer of cracks to the finished flooring.
Not Condition Sensitive - PROFLEX™ 90 MSC may be installed in interior and exterior locations, as well as locations which are exposed to moisture.
In-stock - We stock all advertised sizes of PROFLEX™ 90 MSC. Most products are shipped the same day they are ordered and arrive at your project in three business days, depending on location and size of order.