• Hardware
  • Help me soundblock for free!!
2014/04/02 14:16:33
topemu
OK so i'm in dire need of sound proofing (NOT accoustics) and i'm broke.
I use powertools in a condo and must protect neighbors and family from the noise.
I think the main culprit is the vibration from the tools.
But also the high pitch noise is very loud. But from my meager audio understanding its the low frequency that is hard to stop.
 
Ayways i've read alot about needing air space barriers.
So I was thinking of floating the floor.

BUT i cant buy anything, I can only use free stuff I find in recycling or on craigslist
so how are these products
particle board (for the floor base)
styrofoam (as a filler)
cardboard (as a soft filler)
cubicle walls (sound blocking?)
2014/04/02 23:35:30
mixmkr
Honestly...I wouldn't waste your time on that task, as the reduction will be minimal.  You'll do better off cost wise, to rent a place to use your power tools, outside of your condo.  Not sure if an explanation is really needed, but I'm believing someone else will chime in and tell you and a more factual way.  
Or...use the tools when your neighbors are gone...IOW rearrange your schedule.  Sound isolation doesn't come cheap, nor use any of the items you listed above.  
2014/04/02 23:56:32
RobertB
I'm with mixmkr on this.
Unless you can isolate all six surfaces of the room, it will be a waste of time. It's not something you can do partway.
Even then, you would only see modest improvement.
Face it, power tools are just plain loud. I can easily identify what tool someone is using from a block away.
On a side note, you are using ear protection, right?
2014/04/03 02:30:21
Kalle Rantaaho
Unfortunately the gents above are right.
Anyway, if you decide to try how far you can get with the job, my guess is that  the "particle board" you mentioned, if that is what I know as "chipwood", is your best bet. Forget  styrofoam. 
Layers of chipwood (or plaster plates) with maybe cardboard or rock wool between them, if you can get your hands on it? Tightly assembled, floor, ceiling, walls, as the noise finds the smallest holes. 
If you can build the structures thick enough, at least 6-8 inches, it will do something, but if it's enough...I can't tell.
With 8-10 inches of this chipwood and other stuff all around you may face some issues with electric or fire safety regulations, too, and perhaps you even need to count the sheer weight or the structures to avoid very unpleasant surprises.
 
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