By Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
I live in a high-rise condo and continually hear noises through the wall that separates my unit from my neighbor. Coughing, sneezing, the phone ringing, and noises of a more personal nature might as well be happening in my living room. I'm considering having the walls soundproofed and would appreciate some suggestions.
--Brian
Dear Brian,
Walls between adjoining living units, commonly known as "party walls," are supposed to be double-framed and fully insulated. If you hear noises from your neighbor's unit, the party wall may not be properly constructed. The only way to verify this is to cut a hole in the drywall to enable inspection. If the insulation is missing, you can have some installed. If the walls are not double-framed, more costly alterations may be needed.
A second wall can be constructed on your side of the party wall, but this will slightly reduce your usable living space. Another approach would be to install soundproofing board, overlaid with drywall, on the existing party wall. You might also consult with a company that does soundproofing for recording studios. They may suggest some unusual alternatives to provide acoustic privacy in your home.
. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted our "