Hey everyone! I've just settled into my first house and I'm realizing I'm quite sensitive to sound. There's a road about half a mile behind my place, and although it's not super close, I can still hear the traffic a lot more than I expected. The house has a new roof and insulation, and the windows are newer too. However, in my primary bedroom, I notice the noise coming through the two back windows, and it's becoming a bit of a bother.
I can't move since I've invested so much into this place, so I'm wondering what my options are to minimize the noise. Should I replace the windows? Is it worth adding more insulation in the walls or the attic? Would hiring a soundproofing company make a significant difference? I'm open to spending some money on this, but I'd prefer not to go overboard. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Hey! First off, congrats on the new place! To cut down on that noise, sealing any air gaps is super important. You can add heavy curtains or even window inserts which can really help muffle the sound. As for wall insulation, it’s only worth considering if you’re already doing renovations. A white noise machine might also help you get through the nights easier. Usually, these measures can significantly improve your situation before thinking about professional soundproofing.
Honestly, you might not get much benefit from adding insulation in the walls. I'd suggest getting a white noise machine or two; they're around $40 each and can really drown out the noise. I've been through similar situations and it's a game changer! Just get used to having it on all day and night.
If you want to block the noise better, think about getting some heavy curtains, sealing any gaps, and adding wall panels or rugs for extra sound absorption. There's no real need to replace those windows or add insulation unless you’re planning major renovations. Also, natural barriers like trees or shrubs can help a bit with the sound as well.