I own a duplex that is giving me fits. I have two tenants (living above and below each other) who love to complain about the noise each other makes. The noise from the TV, radio, or voices travels through the ceiling as if it were paper. In addition, there is a central heating duct that transfers even a whisper. Short of evicting both tenants and renting to deaf mutes, does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks
Replies
Several years ago FHB had an article on sound-transfer reduction techniques, including the use of sand as a sound barrier between floors and separation of spaces using multiple stud walls. Probably too detailed and expensive of a project for a rental space. Short of mediation, it has been my experience as a police officer that regardless of the sound levels, if tenants are involved in a noise dispute the only ultimate solution is for one party to move.
John, Here is what you can do. The more you do, the more the sound deadening. Each item does cost and triggers finish problems.
Install heavy carpeting with heavy padding.
Lay down 3/4" thick partical board on the floor.
Pour layer of lightweight concret on the floor.
Install Resiliant Channel to the ceiling with 5/8" drywall.
Install new ceiling joist that dont touch the 2nd story floor joist, with 5/8" drywall.
Gordon
If the two units share a single central-heating system, there's probably not much you can do. Any airspace, such as a duct, connecting two spaces will transfer sound between them very efficiently. No matter how much soundproofing you do on the walls, it will have little effect.
Check out USG's website, there might be some info that will help. http://www.usg.com/Design_Solutions/2_3_sound_construct.asp