I'm planning to have my garage torn down and replaced, aiming to create a soundproof studio where I can play drums late at night without disturbing my neighbors, who live about 50 feet away. The new garage will have two stories: a studio on the top floor and a woodshop below, measuring 12' x 16'. I'm not including a bathroom, but I have a friend set to handle the electrical work afterward. I've already arranged for a J-pipe in the new foundation for power routing. There will be two fixed windows—one above the door and another at the far end—and I intend to make these airtight using a big gap between two panes of tempered and laminate glass.
I'm considering framing with 2x4s and my current soundproofing plan includes using Rockwool Safe 'n' Sound insulation, resilient channels on the walls and ceiling, and two layers of 5/8" drywall bonded with green glue. While I'm aware a full room-within-a-room would be ideal, I'm hesitant to lose floor space. I'm planning for ventilation from the floor into baffle boxes in the walls and a mini-split A/C system. Plus, I'll be installing LVP underlayment over OSB subflooring before the final flooring goes on. The door will be solid core with layers of steel and plywood, equipped with rubber gaskets and an acoustic automatic door bottom.
Any advice on what I should add or change to ensure my soundproofing project is a success?
3 Answers
Honestly, if soundproofing is your main goal, concrete block construction might be your best bang for the buck. It provides excellent sound isolation compared to wood and can significantly reduce sound transmission if you're serious about playing drums next to neighbors. Just be cautious about vents or openings since those can let sound through, too!
Consider staggering Your 2x4 studs about 8 inches apart instead of the typical 16 inches on a 2x6 base. This way, you can fit more insulation between the studs, which should help reduce sound transfer through the wall. It's worth checking with your contractor to see if they can accommodate this in the build.
You might also want to think about using mass loaded vinyl (MLV) between your layers of drywall. It gives extra mass that helps block sound and ensures that your construction remains effective. Just keep in mind that any air openings, like the garage door, can be trouble spots for sound leakage, so you might want to consider how you'll address that as well.
Great tip! I'll look into MLV for sure. What do you think about the garage door being a problem? Is it possible to soundproof it?
Definitely something to consider! Concrete does have its advantages, especially in terms of soundproofing. But then, we need to find a balance between soundproofing and practicality for climate control.