Changes That Can Make Your Home Quieter and More Comfortable

Renovation and redesign are a fact of life for homeowners. It is crucial to keep your property up with the latest trends not only for your own comfort and enjoyment, but to keep it in step with a competitive real estate market. 

With that said, one particularly relevant concern in contemporary home design is noise mitigation. With more and more people working from home and/or living remote lifestyles, it is vital that modern homes be able to provide a tranquil haven to get things done. This is underscored in NYC, where the bustle that accompanies the city that never sleeps can become distracting if not properly accounted for. With this in mind, keep reading as we explore some of the best changes to make so your New York home is quieter and more comfortable. 

Upgraded Entry Door

A new entry door does more than boost curb appeal. It can also do wonders for sound mitigation. Solid hardwood, such as oak, is commonly used in sound proof door systems. However, it is not the only option. Steel and fiberglass, while not as naturally sound-insulative as wood, can be constructed with soundproof cores. Most will use a high-density polyurethane foam core for the utmost soundproofing.

There are other factors that can limit noise transfer through the entry door. Weatherstripping around the door frame can seal gaps and prevent sound leakage. A well-sealed threshold can limit sound transfer at the door/floor transition. Sound-absorbing paint is another option for soundproofing reinforcement. 

Acoustic Wall Panels

Acoustic wall panels are one of the most efficient means of noise mitigation in the home. Constructed of a fiberglass core wrapped in a decorative fabric, the panels are added to interior walls in much the same manner as hanging artwork or photographs. They can achieve a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) approaching 1--the standard for complete soundproofing--with as little as 15-25% wall coverage. This makes them the ideal low-profile option in bustling urban areas that require next-level soundproofing. 

Composite Roofing

New York City showers can make it sound like there are rats in the attic without the correct roofing. Metal roofing is durable and fire-resistant but also very noisy. Less durable options, such as asphalt shingle and cedar shake roof systems, can break down in the face of extended weather exposure, creating a path of least resistance for air and moisture leaks.

Therefore, more homes are turning to composite roofing shingles. They offer similar durability to metal but are far more sound insulative thanks to their thickness and composition. The inorganic mixture of synthetic polymers, recycled materials, and mineral granules do not break down in the face of sun or impact. This guarantees an airtight roofing system over time. For next-level sound reduction, consider adding roof cover board to the substrate for an additional layer of sound absorption. 

Demountable Partition Walls

The open interior is all the rage in contemporary home design. Despite its benefits in terms of ambiance and energy efficiency, fewer interior walls can result in unwanted sound diffusion if not properly planned for. This can be especially problematic in NYC, where multi-family living and/or roommates are more common than in other parts of the country. 

This makes demountable partition walls a great idea for open interiors that need to beef up the soundproofing from time to time. The modular design makes for easy installation, relocation, and reconfiguration in homes as needed. They can be used to create home offices, living spaces, temporary bedrooms, or any other type of area that requires a bit of extra privacy and tranquility. Stylish glass partitions can provide a noise barrier without restricting the natural light flow inherent to open concepts, making them a top choice in modern designs. 

Improved Insulation

Insulation does more than regulate interior temperatures in the face of extreme weather. It can also provide key sound blocking as well. When it comes to the best insulation for exterior walls in terms of soundproofing, something is obviously better than nothing. However, some materials will not be able to perform the dual function of increasing R-value while also limiting noise. For example, fiberglass and cellulose will provide some sound dampening, but they will not offer the nearly complete soundproofing of materials like mineral wool or mass-loaded vinyl.

In New York City, where high-rises are standard, it is also a great idea to consider rigid polyiso board. This innovative insulation material can offer outstanding R-value and noise resistance without adding unnecessary bulk to the building’s frame. This can ensure that the home can add the needed insulation without requiring a major structural overhaul to increase load-bearing capacity. 

Create the Most Tranquil Home Environment with Strategic Changes

It is crucial to create a quiet home environment to make the most of modern NYC. From upgraded entry doors to improved insulation, consider any of the ideas listed above to make your home quieter and more comfortable. For more of the latest trends in New York real estate and lifestyle, explore the content at Off The MRKT for ideas and inspiration!