Category Archives: Sound Insulation

Noise canceling headphones

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What kinds of noise do noise-canceling headphones cancel?

If you find it difficult to concentrate during work or even during school due to ambient noises, we highly recommend taking a look at some of our recommended noise canceling headphones.

How do they work?

Noise canceling is different from noise isolation headphones, which only prevent outside noises from reaching your ear by creating a seal around your ears. Noise canceling headphones utilize a different type of technology called destructive interference. In this method, an equal and opposite, noise described as the ‘anti-noise’ is generated by your headphones that cancel out the original and distracting noise.

The technology behind this is created by allowing an external microphone that monitors and creates the equal and completely opposite noise that it detected. This opposite noise will cancel out the sound distraction and the result is complete and utter silence. An info-graphic of this process is included below:

The external noise source is combined with the anti noise to remove the resulting noise.
Cancellation of an external noise by utilizing an anti noise.

What noises are canceled by this technology?

This technology has existed since the 70’s, and was originally designed by the engineers working at the speaker company Bose. Rumor has it that during a flight to Europe an engineer found the engines to be so disturbingly loud that he set off on a cruse to create a headphone that would remove or subdue the noise of a plane engine. As a result these are effective against both high and low frequency noises.

The operating range of this technology can work as high as 80 decibels. It should be noted that these respond to the noises outside of the headphone the ideal scenario for these is for a constant sound because a sudden sound may not be detected in time to completely cancel it out. Therefore, sounds such as slammed doors or a cry in the middle of the night for dad will generally be heard through this technology. With that being said, the best case to use these is for a constant humming or a constant noise distraction in the background.

Combining this noise canceling technology along with the sound insulating technology can and does provide high quality headphones that will allow you to concentrate on your music by removing those pesky distractions.

Sound Insulation for Windows

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For most people interested in soundproofing, they don’t know where to begin. Of course, the obvious solution is to hire professionals who know how to soundproof windows, but in most cases a go-getter attitude is all you need to do it yourself. Plus, by doing it yourself you’ll benefit by saving money and learning a new skill!

You should step aside to professionals when it comes to installing soundproof windows, but if this type of remodeling is not necessary for you, we may have just the sound proofing tips that you are looking for to get you started.

That being said, if DIY soundproofing is up your alley and in your budget, keep reading to find some fantastic DIY window soundproofing tips that we have compiled through our experience to get you on your way.

Why would you be interested in soundproofing windows?

With the growing problems of noise pollution, especially in densely populated areas or an apartment with many roommates, sound dampening or sound proofing is of growing importance. Common sounds like construction noises, the music your neighbor plays all throughout the night, children crying, or even just the bustle of every day life may seep inside your home and become a distraction or even worse, a health hazard. You can be left with interrupted sleep schedules, depleted concentrations, or business conversations being interrupted.

The purpose of your window is to let things such as light, air, and atmosphere into your home. If you live in a noisy area, it also lets sound in, even when closed. Taking steps to soundproof your windows and doors can go a very long way toward reducing the noises, allowing you to have a restful sleep throughout the night, reduce stress, and have a more homely feel.

A grey soundproof piece of tape was applied to a wooden window sill to dampen the noise allowed through.
Window sill which contains a thick sound proof tape

How to get started with DIY window soundproofing

The easiest wins in soundproofing a window come from sealing off any air gaps in the existing windows with foam or sealants such as caulk. In this step a properly installed window is critical to soundproofing. The addition of insulation tape to the bottom of the window and the bottom of the window sill (where the window touches the base when it is fully closed). After these easy areas are sealed where sound can get through are fully enclosed with caulk or the sealing tape, you should a dramatic decrease in noise pollution from the outside.

If after, this step you find that a reduction in noise is still necessary look into applying soundproof materials to the walls surrounding the window.  There are multiple options when ti comes to do this but the most common is adding sound proof acoustic panels and sound proof tape. If you are not comfortable or would like assistance installing soundproof insulation, it is recommended to contact your local window contractor to assist throughout this process.

DIY window soundproofing tips

Make sure your window is in acceptable condition (no cracks or breaks – that could be where the noise pollution is coming from!)

    • If your window is cracked, you can attempt to repair it, if it is small enough. Otherwise, the more reliable solution is to get the pane replaced before any sound proofing begins
    • After the window is insulated for sound, a cheap blackout curtain can further aid in the prevention of noise, as well as light.