We all value our privacy and peace and quiet after being in a place with “thin walls”. Usually sound proofing is done using fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass is a material that cannot be easily recycled, isn’t biodegradable, and requires a lot of energy to produce. New environmentally friendly solutions are available. Insulation that is made from denim works very well as a universal home insulation. It also has been found to have excellent at soundproofing qualities. This material is very safely manufactured. It is made from a renewable source and emits no VOCs. For disposal, it can easily be recycled and is 100% biodegradable.
Audiomute sells sound proofing insulation for walls that is made from recycled tires. This insulation can be installed over trouble areas such as walls between apartments or walls facing the street. They also sell American-made, handcrafted acoustic panels that can be made to look like picture frames that blend into the home’s décor. Green Glue is like the jelly in a jelly sandwich. It can be used between two rigid surfaces. One surface must be porous. It works best when hanging dry wall, so it may require some craft skills. The benefit of this glue is that it dampens sound. And it has very low VOC emissions. Green Glue has a mild odor, typical of latex products. This odor is not dangerous and will dissipate completely given time.
There are a few other fixes that can be done that don’t require special skills. Hanging blackout curtains will reduce noise that comes into a room. They are as easy to hang as regular curtains. They also make great insulation and will increase your home's energy efficiency.
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