How to Soundproof a Shared Wall/Party Wall

A wall shared with others, such as those in a separate home or apartment, is classified as a party wall. Depending on the rules and regulations in your area, constructing this type of wall may require specifications like soundproofing and fire protection. A party wall agreement may outline rules regarding alterations to the wall.

If you’d like to soundproof your space, check out these tips to see which will best apply to your scenario.

What Is a Party Wall?

A party wall is a separation between two independently rented or owned units. They’re most common in buildings where tenants share a common structure, including offices, apartments, condos, and hotels.

Here are some examples of party walls:

• Walls dividing adjoining units in a single building structure.
• Walls that are attached and adjacent to the next property.

The Best Way to Soundproof a Shared Wall

You may want to invest in shared wall soundproofing if you can hear stereo systems, talking or TVs from your neighbors. Eliminating or reducing noise can make it easier to focus and have better productivity at work or help you achieve better sleep quality at home.

There are a few ways to complete shared wall soundproofing:

• Add caulk to seams between adjoining walls and ceilings.
• Increase your wall density.
• Separate your wall from the structural framing.

Your route should depend on whether you have new construction or a preexisting wall.

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Improving an Existing Wall

Before you begin soundproofing a wall in a space you rent, you’ll need your landlord’s permission to change the structure. The only thing you can do without permission is cover your walls with multi-purpose sound panels and remove them when you leave.

If you can make structural changes, you can seal the existing wall with the following steps:

1. Seal the wall: Use an acoustical caulk to seal any vents or outlets and gaps around the wall’s perimeter.
2. Add drywall: Install new 5/8-inch-thick drywall using Green Glue between the layers.
3. Reapply caulk: Seal everything using the same acoustical sealant.

Building a New Wall

Working from the framing of new construction provides more soundproofing options. You can use materials individually or in combination, including isolation systems, mass-loaded vinyl (MLV), and Green Glue.

Follow these steps for soundproofing a new wall:

1. Fill stud cavities: Use any insulation to fill the stud cavities.
2. Install Sound Isolation Systems: 25-gauge hat channel attached to Isolation pads or clips.
3. Add 5/8 drywall: Screw the drywall into the hat channel and seal it with acoustical sealant.

You can stop here or add more soundproofing by installing another 5/8-inch-thick drywall using Green Glue on your existing assembly and sealing it with acoustical sealant again.

Enjoy the Quiet With Our Soundproofing Materials

Soundproof Cow offers soundproofing solutions to remedy a noisy shared wall. Since each situation is unique, our experts will answer your questions and recommend the best way to soundproof your party wall. Get started by contacting our team today!