How to Soundproof an Apartment Door – The Best Really Working Ways

How to soundproof an apartment door? – ask you. Easy!- shall we say.

Often people want to soundproof the apartment door, so as not to interfere with foreign sounds and external unwanted noise that distract and annoy. Doors are considered one of the weakest links of sound insulation.

The apartment door is considered one of the weakest links of sound insulation.

Even if you are renting an apartment, we will give you really working tips on how to soundproof the apartment door, so keep reading and learn everything.

However, the soundproofing of the apartment door is always a great solution, because no noise, firstly, will not enter your apartment, and secondly, will not leave it and will not disturb the neighbors.

Rented or Your Apartment

If you live in a rented apartment, most likely the landlord indicated in the lease agreement that structural changes are unacceptable, but this is not a problem.

We have chosen some of the best ways to tell you now, thanks to which you can perfectly soundproof the front apartment door, and which will not break its structure, and then you can easily return to the way it was before.

There are of course permanent solutions, but they are suitable for those who do not rent an apartment but live in their own, we will also tell you about them.

And so How to Make a Soundproofed Door

To block noise, the door must be structurally strong enough. You can replace an existing door with a solid core or add to it vinyl, soundproofing panels, or special coatings if the apartment allows you to do so.

After all, we will repeat, often landlords are not allowed to make such manipulations. But if the apartment is yours, you can apply these methods.

And below we have selected several really working ways for soundproofing an apartment door. Keep reading and learn everything!

The Best Ways to Get Rid of Foreign Sounds

The most common ways to make a soundproof door are adding a seal, hanging a heavy soundproof blanket, using multi functional foam tape on the door sweep, or even replacing the door with a specially designed soundproof solid door.

Now you will be able to learn about each method to get rid of loud foreign sounds.

The First Way of Noise Blocking

And so, the first way is to install a door gasket. This method of soundproofing also protects against draught, which can pass through worn-out strips.

So we recommend replacing them or placing the sealant around the perimeter of your door.

This method will not harm the door and is suitable even for a rented apartment. The door gasket is not very difficult to install, but there are still some important nuances.

How to Install Door Gaskets

By the way, unlike the sealant, the door gasket is not so easy to cut, most likely you will need a saw because conventional scissors are not easy to cut the metal part.

To install a door gasket you first need to buy it, measure the door beforehand, and mark the length on the door gasket.

And unlike the door seal, the door gasket will not come off and will effectively soundproof your apartment door.

So, after you’ve removed the door frame, put a gasket on the door and put the door frame in place. Now you can enjoy the quiet in your apartment because the door gaskets can perfect block noise.

The Second Way to Block Sound

Use heavy curtains for the apartment door. In principle, the soundproof blankets on the door can be installed in the same way as the window.

Remember that sound insulation is always associated with heavy and dense materials, so choose the densest and heaviest curtains and curtains for your door.

Moreover, this method as well as the previous one, first, not difficult and fast, and secondly, curtains and soundproof blankets can be removed as easily as hang without damaging the front door.

And also, importantly, there is a huge variety of curtains, so you can choose a beautiful stylish curtain for the interior of your apartment and not spoil the design of the room.

In order to install curtains, you just need to install the cornice above the door frame.

The Third Way- Door Sweeps

You can try to attach the door sweeps. Especially if you have applied a door seal, because in this case – anyone to clean the doors.

This method will help to complete the process of door sweep and then the sound will not penetrate any gap exactly.

The gap that is between the apartment door and the floor is not just there, because it door does not scratch the floor. But it often gets into the house with loud music and letting noise, and the most unpleasant – various bugs and dust from the street.

Door sweeps are long metal strips with seals in close contact with the floor or threshold without scratching the floor.

There is a U-shaped door sweep and a metal door sweep. They differ in the ways of fastening and a little principle of operation.

How to Install Door Sweeps

There are many different kinds of door sweeps that can be made of rubber, metal door sweep, foam, or possibly even fabric door sweeps.

Door sweeps don`t require much effort when installing, just need to attach to the bottom of the closed door, and done, you blocked the noise!

Next Way to Block Noise- Use Vinyl

Use Mass Loaded Vinyl for soundproofing the front door. Such a barrier will greatly increase the mass of the door, which will help in soundproofing.

Because as I said before, density and gravity are directly related to sound insulation. Mass Loaded Vinyl effectively blocks foreign sound waves.

This method is very similar to the method with special acoustic panels, we will also talk about this method, so keep reading.

How to Install Mass Loaded Vinyl

To install, you just need to choose a sheet Mass Loaded Vinyl by the size of the door frame and with the help of a special adhesive paste glued to the apartment door.

The paste will take time to dry, but it will keep the Mass Loaded Vinyl safe.

Next Method- Transformation Hollow Door

The next method of soundproofing the apartment door is to transform the hollow core doors into a solid core doors.

This method, unfortunately, is not suitable for everyone, because if you live in a rented apartment, most likely, the landlord will be against such changes.

But don’t worry, we have found many ways for you, so you will definitely find a suitable solution for soundproofing the apartment door for yourself.

This process is quite painstaking because you need to fill the hollow doors inside. It will definitely help to isolate from foreign sound waves.

How to Fill a Hollow Door with Foam

First, you need to make several holes in the door’s perimeter, and then gradually spray the foam inside, while closing the holes with duct tape, so that it does not climb out.

When you use insulation spray foam, take care of the closing mechanisms and handle, it is better to remove them, so as not to spoil.

By the way, in addition to foam, you can still use sand or other soundproofing material.

Next Way- Use a Soundproof Blanket or Soundproof Curtains

Alternatively, you can use a soundproof blanket or soundproof curtains to soundproof an apartment door, it perfectly blocks noise that usually penetrates through the door.

A soundproof blanket is an inexpensive, simple way of soundproofing that can be applied even in a rented apartment.

What to Choose Soundproof Blankets

Usually, such blankets are made of cotton, polyester, fiberglass, and so on. But you have to remember that the thicker the blanket, the better the noise blocking effect will be.

It is also not difficult to install this blanket, to the closed door fastening the blanket and ready – annoying sounds do not interfere with you!

Easy Way – Install a New Solid Door

Installing a new solid core door is the easiest way to soundproof an apartment door.

After all, you just pick a door, pay the money and install a new door. But then again, this is not a path for everyone, only if you have a private apartment, then yes, you can use it.

Installing a new door is not cheap, but one of the most efficient and effective. But again, if you live in a rented apartment – you need to consult with the landlord.

If you live in your own apartment – definitely will not have problems. Just choose the door you like with solid hearts and silence you and your neighbors provided.

Which Soundproof Apartment Door to Choose

It is best to choose a very good solid door, so that help block sound and did not penetrate your apartment.

Solid core doors are heavier and denser than hollow doors, they offer different manufacturers, from more affordable simple MDF to wooden door options but you can find metal doors too.

Install Acoustic Panels on Doors to Block Noise

These acoustic panels are designed to reduce the absorb sound and echo.

We recommend that you install these panels, as they not only do a great job but are also very easy to install.

You do not need any special tool, as the fabric coating and adhesive side use only Velcro, with the help of which the installation takes place in a matter of minutes.

The Simplest Solution- Put the Carpet by the Apartment’s Door

As we know, the outside noise comes from even the tiniest hole in the doorway, so if you put a rug next to the door, it will absorb incoming sounds and noises.

And also an important advantage of the mat is that it complements the interior and makes it visually appealing and thanks to it, the dirt and dust from the street will remain at the door.

Which Mat to Choose

It is best to choose heavy soundproof pads because they are the best to absorb and block annoying noise.

And by the way, if there are a lot of sounds, you can put mats on both sides of the door perfectly, then the effect will be twice as good.

Next Way to Soundproof an Apartment Door

The next way to soundproof the apartment door is to paint the whole door with acoustic paint.

But you need to remember that if you live in a rented apartment – you need to take into account this fact and coordinate with the landlord.

Usually, tenants have no problem using this because it is an option that owners easily allow.

Optimal sound absorption paint is dense, dense latex paint with a higher density than standard paints.

How to Apply Sound Absorbing Paint

It is a thick water-based soundproof paint that restricts the transmission of sound waves and at the same time creates a heat-reflecting barrier on the painted surface.

The application of such paint is simple, as with conventional paint, and all you may need is a brush. You can apply it in two layers for a better effect.

The painted doors are also visually attractive and perfectly block outside noise.

Use Automatic Door Bottom

Automatic Door Bottom is a sealant that can close the gap between the floor and the door. This method is more modern than sweeping doors and visually does not spoil the interior.

And most importantly - it is an excellent means of noise absorption.

Installation does not take much time and special tools, so you can handle this process on your own and make your door completely soundproof.

How ADB Works

Whenever you close your door, you press a piston or a small button. This causes the rubber seal to drop, closing the gap. Usually, the seal itself is inside the ADB when the door is open.

Use sound-absorbing foam panels

Sound-absorbing foam panels will reduce noise by increasing the air resistance, thereby reducing the force of incoming sound waves.

This method is very economical because foam panels are cheaper than fiberglass or other devices for soundproofing the apartment door.

How to Install Foam Panels

To install the panels you just need to hover them on the door, on the same principle as the sound-absorbing blanket, using Velcro adhesive.

Secure panels on the entire door, you can work quietly or relax at home in a quiet environment.

Seal Slots with Green Glue Sealant

Thanks to the sealant, you can fill and seal any gaps in the door aperture and in the whole door.

There are many different types of sealants, but for the most effective sound insulation choose the suitable acoustic sealant.

It’s also possible we’ll reveal a secret, but the sealant has the ability to turn sound energy into thermal energy.

How to Use the Green Glue Sealant

Most tubes with sealant have a thin narrow spout, which makes it very easy to work, and thanks to this you can easily quickly apply it to the right places.

By the way, the sealant has strength and elasticity, does not crack, and can be painted in the same color as the door. Then it will not be obvious and will become invisible.

Use the Seal on the Door

This is a multifunctional foam strip, very flexible and adjustable according to your needs.

Probably the noise coming from outside that you’re hearing is from a crack in the doorjamb. If you have old stripes, most likely they are already worn out.

You can either replace the old gasket strips or paste new ones.

Installation of the Door Seal

Installation of the door seal does not imply any complex manipulation, just take and glue tape around the perimeter of the door frame. And that’s it – you’re protected from the sound, dust, and insects from the street or the entrance.

Video: How to Soundproof an Apartment Door

Watch this video, there are many ways to soundproof a door and a lot of those choices are permanent.

Closing thoughts

Often life in the apartment is accompanied by unpleasant annoying sounds that can come from neighbors and from the entrance.

But you can also make extraneous sounds, such as music or the sound of a vacuum cleaner. That is why we have provided our article with enough life hacks to solve this problem.

Using our tips, you will save yourself and your neighbors from unwanted noise. Here is how to get paint off vinyl floor.

And also thanks to our perfect methods of soundproofing the front door, you can also protect against insects and street dust, which can penetrate even the smallest gaps in the doorway.