I'm trying to sound and light-proof my basement, what material should I use to muffle noise?

Question

I have to get it done this weekend! Also, is there any way to make sure the door to the basement can't be opened from the inside?

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

Cork is the tried and true sound-reducer.

Just use about 1/2 a foot of that around the top and walls of the room.

And for extensive use, remember to install basic plumbing in the basement! Good luck!

Answer 2

It'll be tough to do a thorough job in a weekend but here are some ideas:

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/...

FYI I would avoid egg cartons. Sound engineers say they're not very effective but the bigger problem is that they are a serious fire hazard.

Also regarding safety, don't lock or block doors in a way that will prevent anyone from leaving the basement in an emergency.

Answer 3

Pile up some bales of straw all around the walls, the ceiling will be kind of hard though. Make sure there is mice in the straw that way you will have a fool proof testing device.
Straw up against the door after using duc-tape should keep the door shut.

Answer 4

Theoretically speaking, if you were to line the walls of the basement with animal flesh, that would do a good job at both sound and light proofing the area.

Answer 5

I don't understand! Are you having house guests? Possibly a wild party? hmmmm? That is so considerate of you. I bet your neighbors really appreciate it. I assume the locked door is in case some wants to drive and has tippled a bit too much. Easier than taking their keys. BRAVO! and party on! as the young folks say.....and what ever you do don't invite any of those mean old thumb-downers, I hear they are a real pain in the....neck.

Answer 6

ther is allot of things that you can do, like use those egg crates that goes on people bed and then get egg cartons and staple them over the egg crates and then paint them what ever color you want. I used to live with a musician.

Answer 7

Here's a link to some sound proofing and black out fabric.
Good luck!

Answer 8

Egg cartons. They are cheap, affordable and effective.

And 3 padlocks and a deadbolt should do it.

Answer 9

Check here for soundproofing material and tips:

http://www.soundproofing.org/

and here for lightproofing:

http://photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-ms...

Answer 10

You should know this already.

Duct tape. Lots and lots of duct tape.

Don't do like Toby Keith in that video and brick *yourself* in!