When you’re renovating or building, one thing every homeowner wants is a peaceful, comfy space. That’s where good soundproofing and insulation step in—they block out unwanted noise, keep your place cosy, and help with energy efficiency.
Let’s break down the essentials of soundproofing and insulation, so you can make smart choices for your home.
What’s acoustic insulation all about?
Acoustic insulation is specially designed to reduce noise travelling between rooms or from outside. It’s different from regular insulation, which mainly controls temperature. Acoustic insulation uses dense, porous materials like glasswool or rockwool to soak up sound waves.
You’ll see sound ratings like Rw (weighted sound reduction index) on materials—that’s how well they block sound. Higher numbers mean quieter rooms. Curious about these ratings? Check out our deep dive into Rw, Ctr and NRC.
Picking the right insulation material
Here are some popular options that nail both soundproofing and thermal control:
- Glasswool — lightweight, affordable, great for walls and ceilings.
- Rockwool — fire-resistant, dense, excellent for noisy or high-heat areas.
- Denim insulation — eco-friendly and surprisingly effective at blocking noise.
Each material has its perks depending on where you’re installing it. For example, rockwool’s fire resistance makes it perfect near heaters or flues, while glasswool fits well inside wall cavities.
Boost soundproofing with smart building techniques
Insulation is just one part of the puzzle. Construction methods matter big time when it comes to blocking noise.
- Double framing — building two separate wall frames to stop sound travelling through timber studs.
- Resilient channels — metal strips that separate plasterboard from framing, cutting down vibration.
- Acoustic sealants — filling every crack and gap around windows, doors and walls to stop sound leaks.
Want the full lowdown on these? Dive into our guide on soundproofing techniques.
Target noisy spots in your home
Some rooms need extra attention:
- Home theatres and music rooms — invest in thick insulation and decoupled walls to keep sound in (or out).
- Bedrooms and bathrooms — reduce noise from neighbours or other rooms with acoustic linings.
- Party walls — if you’re living in a townhouse or duplex, soundproofing shared walls is a must. Check out our party walls article for tips.
Why bother?
Good soundproofing doesn’t just keep noise out. It helps your home stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer, cutting energy bills. Plus, it keeps your family happier by giving everyone some peace and quiet.
If you’re curious about getting your home’s insulation right, our guides on thermal performance of materials and plasterboard walls and soundproofing have you covered.
