Outside noise is one of those things that sounds like a minor annoyance, at first. Maybe when you first move into your new home, it’s fine because you’re in this mental state of “I’ll get used to it soon enough”. But you probably don’t get used to it, especially during times when you actually need peace and quiet, like when you’re working from home or when you’re trying to sleep, nap, or just relax. Maybe you can hear your neighbors talk, cars driving by, dogs barking, kids playing, just people passing by and going about their business, but it still drives you so crazy.
It just feels like everyone is broadcasting what they’re doing when you’re literally just in your home, trying to have some privacy, some silence, and just trying to enjoy your little world, but it’s like the outside world just isn’t having any of that, though. But other than just dealing with this, is there anything you can do?
Where is All of this Noise Coming From?
Okay, the first step is annoyingly basic, but it matters. Noise usually comes in through the weakest points, and those are often the same spots that let in draughts. It’s kinda like cold air in a way, it just sort of slips through the cracks. But yeah, speaking of which, windows are a big one, especially older ones with worn seals or single glazing. It’s not too uncommon for people to get newer windows as they upgrade their home, like UPVC windows, for example, since they’re known for helping out with keeping cold air out, they do similarly with noise (not 100% foolproof, but it does help a lot). But it’s not just windows, though.
Doors can also be guilty, particularly if there’s a visible gap underneath. Actually, even letterboxes can let in more sound than people realise, because it’s basically a little hole straight to the outside world.
Seal the Gaps
Basically, you’re doing the exact same thing you would do to prevent cold air from coming into your home. It sounds super silly to compare, but yeah, just compare it to cold air, seal gaps where you can, do weathestripping wherever you can, maybe even add some brush to yout letterbox to help prevent noise.
Use “Noise Zones” Inside the House
Well, this is a practical one for everyday life. But if outside noise is worst on one side of the house, try not to force the most peaceful activities into that area. And while yeah, sure, it all sounds obvious, but people do it all the time, like setting up a desk next to the noisiest window, then wondering why focus is impossible.
Now, it might be possible; it just really depends on the type of home you have, but if you can, though, just try to place the bedroom on the quieter side, or make the quieter side the main relaxation space. If that’s not possible, build a “quiet zone” with thicker curtains (those soundproofing curtains are expensive, but they’re definitely worth it), rugs, and furniture placement that helps block and absorb sound.
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