How to Soundproof a Basement Ceiling

Ask Danny, Attics and Basements, Repairs and Installation by Danny Lipford

I’m going to finish a portion of the basement for my 12-year-old daughter and her pals to have a place to “hang out.” This section happens to be under the great room on the main floor. Are there products to help in noise reduction, and, if so, what options exist and how are they installed?-Steve

Hi Steve,

Start by insulating the space between the basement ceiling joists with a sound dampening insulation like Owens Corning QuietZone fiberglass insulation. Next, you might want to consider using a soundproofing drywall such as QuietRock for the ceiling. You can watch and read more about QuietRock, on our website at (622) Builders’ Show Special.

Good luck with your project,

Danny

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4 Comments on “How to Soundproof a Basement Ceiling”

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  1. Ted Says:
    May 7th, 2008 at 2:33 pm

    If the ceiling is already drywalled, consider the addition of another sheet of standard 5/8″ drywall and Green Glue.

    If you have open joists the fiberglass Danny mentioned is great. Consider installing wood furring strips 24″ on center, perpendicular to the floor joists. Attach two sheets of standard drywall to the furring strips (not the joists). Damp the drywall with a product like Green Glue.

  2. Glenda Says:
    August 17th, 2008 at 1:08 am

    How can we soundproof our vents? we can hear everything from the basement as if we were in the same room.

  3. Ted Says:
    July 12th, 2009 at 5:12 pm

    There are many ways to isolate vents. Generally the Vents are shielded in some fashion. The vents are also wrapped in insulation, all behind the shielding. This allows the vent to absorb the sound as it travels through the vent.

  4. Jack Says:
    October 1st, 2009 at 11:28 am

    DIY yourself damping compound like Green Glue will give you better results than the Quiet Rock and will be a nice amount cheaper. If you want to really beef up on your ceiling use whisper clips and hat channel on your joists, than hang the drywall with green glue on the channel.

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