In this blog, we will discuss soundproofing a balcony. We will provide all the detailed relevant procedures and solutions being faced while making the balcony soundproof.
A balcony’s function is to increase the living space and improve the quality of life for tenants of an apartment or house. The balcony also functions as an outdoor room, providing access to fresh air and spectacular views.
Nothing beats catching the evening breeze and relaxing on a balcony with a cold drink by your side after a long day.
Or, on a quiet Sunday morning, sipping coffee and breakfast on the balcony while basking in the warmth of the sun.
As a homeowner or apartment resident, a balcony is one of the finer things you can have. Noise intrusion is an unavoidable (and frustrating) fact of having a balcony whether you live in the city or on a busy street.
What are some options for reducing road noise on a balcony? How well do you soundproof your balcony and the rest of your housework? Is it possible to make a significant difference in how much noise your balcony absorbs and experiences?
We’ll look at some alternative ways to reduce noise pollution from your balcony in this article so you may enjoy peace both inside and outside your home.
What are the possible ways to make a balcony soundproof?
We will discuss all the possible solutions to making the balcony soundproof in detail.
Insulating the Walls Surrounding the Balcony
Decorate the Balcony with Plants and Rugs
Choosing Big and Dense Plants
Utilizing Non-Hollow Heavy Furniture
Reducing Traffic Noise from the Balcony
Installing a Noise Machine
Installing a Sound System
Use a Water Fountain
Insulating the Walls Surrounding the Balcony
It is essential to insulate your walls if your home faces a street or if you live in a busy neighbourhood. This would serve to reinforce the walls and help them deal with the noise from outside. It’s only conceivable if you have the authority to deal with the structure of the property, even if you’ve rented it. The best option for creating a barrier between the walls and the seating area is to use fibreglass insulation. Soundwaves would have to transit through more layers to reach the entire area as a result of this. You will need some tools like Measuring tape and Knife
Another advantage of this type of insulation is that it prevents moisture from seeping into your balcony from your home. The extra layer would absorb the majority of the water as well, preventing it from reaching the walls, which would be extremely uncomfortable for you in the long run.
| Material Needed |
| fibreglass insulation |
| Measuring tape and Knife |
Decorate the Balcony with Plants and Rugs
Keep in mind that if you are unable to insulate the walls, you will need to find additional noise-absorbing materials. Plants, rugs, and various types of furniture can be used because you have restricted options. Although having a lot of objects on your balcony isn’t necessary, anything that absorbs sound would be beneficial. You can make your decision based on the general design and architecture of your home. The plants would also give the area a pleasant vibe, allowing you to spend more time relaxing. Plants are always mood changing, giving a fresh look and, environmentally friendly, also will make you feel better surrounded by beautiful plants.
Rugs come in different kinds of designs if you are a plant lover then you can buy rugs like artificial grass giving you a different kind of a vibe like enjoying your time in a garden.
| Material Needed |
| Rugs |
| Furniture |
| artificial grass |
Choosing Dense and Big Plants
You can choose large plants to place along the balcony’s edges. It will also give you more privacy, and you will be able to enjoy it with your entire family. In this case, a thick rug could also be beneficial. You should also consider the surrounding. Instead of a rug, you can use interlocking soundproofing mats if you live near the sea or in an area with hot summers.
A rug is a fantastic sound absorber and offers your balcony an upscale ambience on any given day. On a cold night, all you need is a bean bag to enjoy a starry sky or simply lie around with your family and friends.
Artificial plants can also be taken into consideration if you are busy enough, not able to take care of the plants at a regular time of intervals so I would suggest going for artificial plants of a kind that help you reduce the noise.
| Material Needed |
| thick rug |
| interlocking soundproofing mats |
| Artificial plants |
Utilizing Non-Hollow Heavy Furniture
In a compact space, the furniture can also provide excellent noise resistance. Because the balconies are small, this method would be ideal in this situation. Non-hollow and strong frames, robust cushions, and weighty coffee tables should all be considered while selecting furniture for the balcony.
Make sure to fill the space with as much furniture as possible, as this will help to keep the noise from reaching the balcony’s walls. You would be able to relax because the sound would not be echoed or amplified. Increase the number of pieces of furniture in the space; if they are dense enough, they will always block more noise.
| Material Needed |
| robust cushions |
| coffee tables |
Tackling the Traffic Noise
Living in a congested area can be a major problem, particularly in terms of noise pollution. It is incredibly difficult to create a tranquil environment when there is a lot of traffic on the street. Enjoying yourself on the balcony has a negative effect as well since a variety of sounds, such as automobile horns, people shouting at one other, and so on, are constantly distracting you. To deal with it, you’ll need to take some steps that may be costly, but will undoubtedly help you have a nice time.
Install a Noise Machine
A noise machine is designed to combat noise by producing entertaining sounds. You can simply listen to different types of noises on it to divert your attention away from the outside noise. You can use some form of background music to drown out the noise while conversing with your family and loved ones. There are numerous machines on the market, but you must select one that will serve you for an extended time.
| Material Needed |
| noise machine |
Installing a Sound System
If you have a closed balcony, a sound system can be installed inside. The surround sound system would be an excellent choice because you may listen to your favourite music while relaxing. Consider this: if you are listening to the music of your choosing, it is never considered noise. Random sounds from the environment, on the other hand, would be upsetting to you. So, even if you don’t have any soundproofing for this circumstance, you still have a chance to resist it.
| Material Needed |
| sound system |
Use a Water Fountain
Creating a traffic noise-reducing Water fountain out of a granite watering bowl and a copper plug is also an option. Gushing water generates a soothing, relaxing sound that you may utilize to create a sense of serenity in your compound by drowning out unwanted noise.
Because the constant sound of running water in a fountain has a frequency range that is similar to that of many unpleasant sounds, the noise “drowning” effect occurs. It’s also the only sound you’ll hear because it’s usually closer to your ears than traffic, hence the name “noise drowning.”
A fountain, however, will not attenuate high-pitched sounds like horns, even if it works for noises like talking or roaring motor engines.
| Material Needed |
| Water fountain |
Conclusion
The balcony is the heart of the home it’s a place where you can always have some quality time with your family, friends enjoy meals, or retreat when you need some quiet time for yourself.
Noise pollution can always be disturbing and hectic but taking the right approach to reduce the noise coming out of the traffic into your balcony and the rest of the house can sure be turned into an amenity rather than a hindrance.
Different solutions have been pointed out in this blog to tackle the issue of noise reduction and making the balcony soundproof but, in the end, you are the final decision making. You are in a better position to take the decision, as you are well familiar with the surroundings, the environment of your location, house, balcony and the factors which are involved in making your balcony more disturbing. You are the best judge all we can do is to provide you with ideas that are feasible as well as attractive. We will always welcome your suggestions, let us know what topics would you like us to write about so that we can consider them in the future and have our opinion upon it by writing it for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Soundproof Balcony
Is it possible to soundproof a balcony?
Yes, it is possible if you have sidewalls on your balcony, consider putting inexpensive fabric panels… It’s preferable if it’s thicker and more textured. Hang them from floor to ceiling with a slight outward angle to absorb and reflect sound away from your room. If you have a ceiling, it’s the same.
How do I reduce traffic noise on my patio?
Thankfully, there are things you can take to lessen outside noise and reclaim your garden area.
Use walls and fencing to reduce traffic noise. To absorb sound, add vegetation.
Make Noise Abatement a Priority in Your Landscape Design. Make Desirable Sounds.
If it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind.
How do you dampen road noise at home?
There are several ways we can use to reduce the noise coming from road traffic. Use nature. Getting nature back on your side is one method to prevent noise from the street. Change your windows. Fill in the cracks. Install acoustic panels.
What absorbs sound the best?
The most well-known and extensively used sound-absorbing material is acoustic foam. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is both inexpensive and simple to install. It is commonly found in the shape of panels with various patterns forming its surface (like pyramids or wedges)
Does cardboard help soundproof?
Cardboard does not actively absorb sound, but when placed along walls, ceilings, and floors, it considerably reduces the transfer of noises and echoes. Because sound waves need clear space to travel, anything that obstructs this process can reduce unwanted noise.
How do I block road noise on my deck?
A noise-reducing barrier or fence should be put as close as feasible to the source of the noise or the receiver. Although it would be desirable to have the fence close to the road, setback limitations may limit the efficacy of a roadside barrier.
