How to Soundproof a Condo From Impact Noise

Footsteps, dropped objects and moving furniture from the unit above can make a condo hard to live in. This is called impact noise, and it needs a different fix from the traffic, train and neighbor noise that comes through windows. Here is what actually works.

What is impact noise?

Impact noise is created when something hits the floor and the vibration travels through the building structure, then comes out as sound in your ceiling and walls. Because it travels through solid materials, it is harder to block than noise that travels through the air. Buildings rate this with an IIC rating, short for Impact Insulation Class. A higher IIC means less impact noise gets through.

Does window soundproofing help?

Honestly, no. At Soundproof USA, we make custom window inserts that reduce noise coming from outside, such as traffic, sirens, trains and aircraft. They do not stop footsteps from the unit above, because that sound never passes through your window. We would rather tell you that than sell you the wrong fix.

What does help with impact noise

1. Talk to your neighbor and check your building rules. Many condo associations require carpeting or flooring underlayment in upper units. A friendly conversation, plus a copy of the rules, often solves more than construction.

2. Soften the floor upstairs. Thick rugs with a dense pad, felt pads under furniture, and an acoustic underlayment under new flooring reduce the energy sent into the structure. This is the most effective fix, because it stops the noise at the source.

3. Treat your ceiling. If you can't change the floor above, a decoupled ceiling helps. A contractor adds resilient channels or isolation clips, extra insulation and a second layer of drywall. This takes work, so get approval from your association first.

4. Add mass and insulation. Dense insulation in the ceiling cavity and heavier drywall absorb more vibration.

5. Use masking sound. A fan or white noise machine won't remove the noise, but it can make thumps less noticeable at night.

6. Get a professional assessment. Impact noise can also travel along walls, so an expert can find the actual path before you spend money.

Where we can help

If part of your noise problem comes from outside, such as street traffic, sirens, trains, planes or noisy patios, our custom inserts fit inside your existing windows and sliding doors, can be removed, and are installed from the inside. That suits condos and high-rises where exterior work isn't allowed.

Get your free quote

Not sure what is causing your noise? Describe it to us and we will tell you honestly whether windows can help. Call SoundproofUSA at (617) 299-0026.