Do You Work from Home? How to Create a Soundproof Office Environment

One of the biggest problems people have with working from home is the noise. This is especially true if you’re trying to work while your family is home. The noise of the TV in another room or the kids playing can make it hard to concentrate. The good news is there are easy things you can do to limit the noise that comes from inside and outside your home. Whether you install new windows or carpeting, you can soundproof your home office.
Install Double Pane Windows
One of the easiest things you can do to soundproof your home office from outdoor noise is to install double pane windows. Installing windows in just one room isn’t that expensive and can be done quickly by a professional. This one tip can make a huge difference in the amount of noise that comes in from outside, especially if your home has older windows.
Caulk the Windows
If you can’t afford to replace the windows, don’t worry. You can also use acoustic caulk around the windows to shut out noise. This solution is much more affordable and easy to do. The key is making sure that the caulk gets into cracks. This can be done by using a caulk spreading tool and working quickly.
Replace Your Office Door
Most inner household doors are made of thin, hollow panels. Investing in a fire door for your home office can greatly reduce the amount of noise that passes through. However, you need to also take flanking noise into account and this can be done with weatherstripping.
Use Weatherstripping Around the Door
Installing weatherstripping around your door will prevent flanking sound from coming in around the door. Weatherstripping can be purchased in different materials, but many suggest foam weatherstripping because it easily fits into the nooks and crannies of your door.
Install Carpeting
If your home office has hardwood flooring, consider adding carpet with a thick padding underneath. This will greatly cut down on the sound that travels through the flooring of your home. You’ll be less apt to get annoyed by your kids running through the home and people walking by your office door.
Working from home can be very rewarding, but you need a quiet space to work. This means making a few changes to soundproof the room. You may need to do more detailed work with a set of RSIC clips or some green glue, but you can start with simple techniques. Whether this is done by using caulk around the windows or weatherstripping around the door, you can create a quiet work environment. Best of all, you won’t have to spend a fortune soundproofing your home office and many of these projects can be completed by you.