Since the day I shifted into my new apartment I was in big trouble because of a different kind of noise pollution. Thanks to the soundproof curtains which I have installed in all my main windows. But still, the problem persists. And when I investigated I came to know that my main apartment door and balcony door is the major culprit for too much noise in my house.
So I opt for door soundproofing. And guess what, I succeeded. It was one of the best and wise decisions I have ever made. My apartment that is located on the busy and noisy area has now become one of the soothing and tranquil places to relax.
Mind you, I did not install the new soundproof door. NO.
That was way too expensive. I make door soundproofing just by applying simple DIYs.
If you are really eager to know how to soundproof a door, stick to this article, I will be sharing some cheap and effective ways that will make your home or office almost noiseless. For this you might require some tools and materials, otherwise, they are so simple and easy that it can be done easily using household tools and materials.
Here you go!
Top 15 Solutions For Your Door Soundproofing
1. Make Your Door a Solid One
90% of the doors of the apartments are build up of low-quality material. Same goes with my apartment door. I once knocked on the door and came to know that it’s totally hollow from inside. Hollow doors are not heavy and have space inside them, which amplify the noise or vibrations a bit.
So instead of doing any other tricks to dampen the outside noise, try increasing the mass of your door.
No. it doesn’t mean to install a new solid door to your house. You can do it at your home easily.
There are numerous tricks which will be really helpful in adding mass to the door but I am gonna reveal some cost-effective tricks.
Wooden MDF or dense vinyl sheets can be used to increase the density of your door. If you are looking for a budget-friendly method then medium density fiberboard (MDF) could be the right option for you. Otherwise, vinyl sheets are more appropriate.
What you have to do just cut the MDF or vinyl sheet according to the size of your door. Make sure it should be at least 1 cm thick. Apply glue generously on the back side of the sheet and stick it to your door. Bingo. You are done.
2. Get Rid of the Hollow Door by Using Insulation Spray Foam
As stated earlier, hollow doors contribute a lot in noise amplification. one more way to get rid of hollow door is to convert it into a solid core door.
This method is quite effective especially when you are on a low budget. There are always some ways to be creative. Same goes with this method.
This method of converting the hollow door into solid one is a bit tricky. For this, you will need some cans of insulation spray foam. This is an amazing product to turn your door a solid core door. It comes in liquid form which expands and then solidifies after application.
So what you have to do is just makes few holes on the edges of the door. Start from the bottom of the door for better result.
As far as the size of the hole is concerned it should be about the size of straw that comes with the can of insulating spray foam.
Now start spraying on the inside the drill holes. After every twelve inches add more spray until you reach the top of the door. Seal each hole with the help of tape so that none of the foam will come out of the hole. The spray foam will expand till it reaches the middle of the door and solidifies there.
The main mission is to fill the door completely with the insulating spray foam.
You can find many tutorials on how to turn a hollow core door into the solid core by using insulation spray foam.
Undoubtedly its quite effective idea but it requires lots of word and effort.
3. Look for Those Small Gaps and Cracks and Seal Them
If the problem still persists, then start looking for small cracks. Majority of the used doors have small and minor cracks which contribute a lot in entrance of outside noise at the home.
Secondly, start looking for small gaps. You will find these gaps in between the hinges and the side of the door. Furthermore, they can be found between the door lock and side wall.
If you are reluctant to find them, then here is a simple idea to track these small gaps and cracks. S just switches off the lights of your room and asked your friend to go and throw some light on the opposite side of the door. This will give you a clear and complete picture of where the cracks and gaps are.
Once you have traced them. Now seal them to make your home a peaceful place to live in. you can seal it by using Red Devil Small Gap Foam. They are ready to use an insulating sealant that expands and take the shape of gap, fill it and seal it completely. It not only helps in noise deadening but also it keeps away insects, moisture and allergens. The best part about this sealant is, it is paintable. You can easily paint over it according to the color of your door. Insulating sealant really helps a lot in door soundproofing.
4. Seal the Bottom of the Door by Using Weather-Stripping
Usually, there is an approximately 1cm gap between the bottom of door and floor. This gap was left to ensure proper movement of the door. But when you are fed of unnecessary outside noise, then you try to seal every possible gap on your door.
One possible way to get rid of this small gap is by means of this self-adhesive weather stripping tape. Apart from different uses of weather-stripping tape, it can be used effectively for noise deadening purpose. Thanks to its material. It is made up of noise absorbing material such as fiberglass and silicone. These materials are really very effective in reducing the overall noise.
Just stick this tape with full compression on the bottom of your door. Make sure to do it with proper compression. Lack of compression will not give you your desired result. Weather stripping tape will not only dampen the noise but it will also make your room cool by trapping the air inside the room.
Weather stripping tape is another useful idea to make your door soundproof. I used self-adhesive backed foam weather stripping tape on my main door and balcony door. It is really very effective. No doubt, it is easy to apply and you can remove it whenever you want.
5. Seal the Bottom of the Door by Using Door Gasket
Well, sealing door especially the jambs and headers is the best option to dampen unnecessary noise.
Since I do not own this apartment that’s why I have used weather stripping tape. They are short-lived like for a maximum of 2 years.
But if you are looking for some long term sealing solution, then door gasket can be the best option for you. They work in a similar way as weather stripping tape but they are long-lived.
If you own your apartment or home, then I would suggest you to use a gasket to seal the gaps along the door frame. This way you will not only get rid of extra noises but also you will get rid of light infiltration and loss of air condition’s cool air. It’s really helpful in keeping the room air intact.
Yeah, you are right, it’s the same gasket which you often see in refrigerators door, where it is used to keep the inner cooling intact.
Well, installing a door gasket is not as super easy as installing a weather stripping tape. You will need some expert to install it. Indeed it’s a long lasting but expensive method to dampen the outer noise. It’s one of the best soundproof door seal.
6. Use Door Sweep for Sealing the Gap between The Bottom of Door and Floor
Weather stripping tape and gasket are indeed the best options for sealing the gaps between jambs and headers and even the gap between the bottom of door and floor. But trust me door sweep can do it better.
Yes, door sweep can perfectly seal the gap between door and floor.
Door sweep is not much technical product. They are just like simple flaps which are made up of soundproof material like rubber. Actually, it sweeps the floor as the door is closed creating a seal between the door and the floor. Thus making it difficult for the sound, noise, and moisture and insect to enter into the room.
Using door sweep is one of the most simple and most effective ways to soundproof door bottom.
Above all, installing door sweep does not require any rocket science. It’s so simple and easy to install, even an inexperienced person can easily install it.
In my opinion, if you have installed it, you will not look for another way to dampen the noise through the door.
7. Combine Acoustic Threshold with Door Sweep
As for me, I think that if you have installed door sweep you won’t need any other soundproofing item to install on your door. But if the problem still persists, then I will recommend you to add acoustic threshold along with door sweep. They both do wonders in reducing the outside noise.
Generally speaking, a standard threshold is nothing but a piece of metal that is placed underneath the door to seal the gap between floor and door. But as far as the acoustic threshold is concerned it is a bit different. It is made up of rubber which has a raised lip that run down the middle of the door.
Trust me acoustic thresholds are really really helpful in muffling the sounds that travel through the closed door.
Ideally, it is used in theaters, auditorium, conference hall, sound stages, and production area.
One more thing, it’s not that you have to use it with door sweep always. No. it can be fearlessly used alone in order to reduce different noise levels. But yes, you will find its enhanced effect once you used it along with door sweep.
I would rate it as one of the best soundproof door kit.
8. Add Draft Stopper
You know what I did not install door sweep just because I really hate that swishing noise every time the door opens or close. Moreover, it also damages my carpet. So I look for another option and came up with the idea of installing draft stopper which is super easy.
Above all, the draft stopper glides easily over all kind of surfaces be it a carpeted floor or a tiled floor.
The draft stopper or draft dodgers are just like a long thin pillow made up of soundproof material which is placed under the door. This way it completely blocks the outer noise.
If I talk about its installation. It is super easy to install, even a child can install it fearlessly.
Just cut it according to the width of your door and place it under the door. That’s it. No need of using drill machines or any other tool. You are done.
Besides making your door soundproof, it is helpful in keeping away dust, dirt, and insect. Moreover, its energy efficient too. It keeps the room temperature intact.
I believe that it is one of the affordable and simple door noise blockers.
9. Hang Soundproof Blanket on the Door
If you are not in the mood of doing some DIY project to reduce unwanted noise, then buying a soundproof blanket can also be very useful for you.
Soundproof blankets are way more different than normal blankets which we use during winters.
They are made up of thick and dense fiberglass material, which absorb echo and noise. Soundproof blankets are often used in music studios to seal the outside noise and echo. It’s not only great for reducing sound but also it can be used to insulate homes.
There are numerous ways in which a person can use soundproof blanket on the door. I am gonna share with you a simple and quick method of using a soundproof blanket.
Just drape the soundproof blanket over the door. I believe that it is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get rid of outside noise. This method is temporary but it is perfect for doors that are using frequently.
In contrast to this, if you want a permanent solution for doors that are not used much, but plays a great role in adding echo to your home. Then you can hang it over the door by using a curtain holder above the door or by nailing them permanently.
In my view, the first option that is temporary will cause the least damage to your door. These blankets are no doubt the best soundproof door cover you will find on the internet today.
10. Simple Blankets can Soundproof Bedroom Door
Just imagine, you are staying in a hotel for a couple of days, which has five or six rooms on a single floor. In such case, your main door could be a big problem for you. You will hear the door slamming, people chatting and what not.
In such a case, you want to any find quick and easy ways to soundproof your bedroom door so that it doesn’t cost you anything. How to soundproof your bedroom door? The answer is very simple.
Let me tell you. You don’t have to spend a single penny on your hotel bedroom door. Just take your simple blanket. Yes, the one which has been provided by the hotel. Take it, fold it and push them firmly into the gaps between door and floor, and jambs and headers. Make sure to double it up in order to dampen the noise.
Blankets have been using for ages by firefighters to seal the room door so that smoke cannot be filled into the room.
Same way, blanket seals the entire gap and not only reduces the noise but also blocks the entrance of light and moisture.
Using a normal blanket to soundproof bedroom door is indeed quick and immediate trick that needs no money to spend.
11. What About Soundproof Foam Panels?
There is no harm in saying that using soundproof blanket is a great idea to dampen the noise. But whatever, a hanging blanket will look odd.
Don’t worry I have another worth mentioning and effective idea to get rid of those disturbing noises.
There are some foam panels available in the market. These panels are absolutely sound proof. They are made up of fiberglass material that makes them quite dense and heavy.
You can easily find them on the internet at affordable prices. They are not too much expensive.
These panels are purposively made for noise deadening purpose. That’s why they have brass grommets on its entire four sides which makes it easier to install.
One astounding feature about these fiberglass foam panel is instead of canceling noise, they absorb the sound waves. They do so it by increasing the air resistance which in turn decreases the amplitude of sound waves. Therefore they absorb most of the noise and reduce the sound that passes through them.
This fiberglass foam panel serves as soundproof door cover. One flaw which I have observed in these panels is, they are not aesthetically appealing. But since they are easy to install, you can take them off when you have any get together at home. Otherwise, you can do lots of creativity with these sound absorbing panels.
12. Hang Soundproof Curtains Over the Door
If you are a curtains lover, then you can easily make your apartment door soundproof by adding soundproof curtains.
For some people, it might look odd. But if you are a curtain freak then go ahead.
While choosing curtains for your door, make sure that it has thick multi-layered fabric. Only then it will be useful in muffling noise, otherwise, it would be useless.
You can get a huge variety of thick curtains in the market. Just remember the more layers it has, the better will be its noise reducing property. You can even get special acoustic curtains for your door.
I think that it is not an expensive idea to do. Above all, installing soundproof curtains is not a big deal. You just need a hanging rod above your door frame.
One can use these acoustic curtains just like normal window curtains. In the busy hour of the day, close them to dampen noise otherwise, tie them like window drapes.
One more extra benefit that you will get by installing a thick and dense curtain is, this will be going to block extra light that disturbs your sleep. Moreover, they are really helpful in trapping heat, because of their thick fabric.
13. Soundproof Paint
Another option of making your door soundproof is to get it to paint with soundproof paints.
You can find this paint easily at hardware shops. These paints are available in a variety of colors. Choose one that exactly matches with the interior of your house.
Using soundproof paints is a good idea. But it works well for medium pitch noises such as normal conversation, the noise of walking or running. It is not really effective in blocking high and low pitch noises.
In addition to this, it is simple and easy to do. Just paint it on your door like regular paint, but soundproof paints are bit thicker than the regular paint. In order to have a more noticeable soundproofing result, try to apply more than one and a thick coat.
14. Use Some Soundproof Rugs
Let’s talk about some other ways that do not genuinely noise deadening methods but yes, it can contribute to absorbing noise.
We often place rugs near our main door. But we have never given them importance as something that cancels noise.
It is recommended to place soundproof rugs or small carpets near the doorway. This will reduce the amount of noise coming from the next way.
But make sure that your selected carpet or rug should be thick and made up of dense fabric. Only then it will be able to absorb echo and therefore decreases the impact of noise.
You can place rugs on both sides of the door for an enhanced effect.
Maybe rugs are not as effective as other soundproofing material but yes they enhanced the effect of other soundproofing tools such as sealant, door sweep, door gasket or even blankets.
15. Why Not Buy a New Door
If you have enough bucks in your pocket and you don’t have much time to practice different DIY’s. Then it’s better to buy a new door. Certainly, it’s the most expensive thing to get rid of unwanted noise.
Surprisingly, you will find a huge range of solid core doors on the internet of every size. These doors are highly effective in dampening the noises.
Let me mention you, solid core doors are significantly different from the solid door. Solid core doors have more noise deadening properties as compare to a solid door
These doors are constructed with high-quality wood veneers that are glued over a solid core of wood. These doors are quite sturdy and strong. All credit goes to high density engineered wood.
The best part about this door is they have excellent sound blockage ability. I would suggest that if you have a hollow door, which most apartments do have, and some extra dollars in your pocket. Try installing a solid core door. Trust me, you will forget about all those freaky noises that disturb you.
Final Thoughts
Relaxing and peaceful home matters a lot after a busy hectic office schedule. It’s useless if you are living in a lavish apartment but not getting peace and tranquil because of extra noise.
Soundproofing a door is not a big deal now. I have gathered numerous ways that are cheap and effective to soundproof a door. I recommend you to follow these methods to soundproof your doorway. You can even use a combination of methods for enhanced noise canceling the effect.
I am sure, this article will help you a lot and you will have a soothing and relaxing home without any outside noise.
