To soundproof from traffic noise, you need to assess where is most vunerable to ‘leaking’ noise and which rooms are most important. Soundproofing a whole house from traffic noise might be too costly, so decide which rooms are most important before you start. Windows, walls and doors need to be considered when soundproofing from traffic, as these will be letting in the most sound. (Please note that we do not offer window and door soundproofing).
Types of traffic noise
Assess what type of traffic noise you are hearing first; is it the roaring of tyres on a road, or, a rumbling vibration from close by HGVs? You will be hearing three types of noise from a vehicle: propulsion, wind resistance and tyres. Depending on the speed, one will be more troublesome than the rest. HGVs are the hardest traffic types to soundproof against, as the engines are louder and the loads are heavy, making it easier to vibrate windows and doors. General road traffic, mostly from cars, can be easier to soundproof as the vehicle vibrates less with the engine propulsion.
If you are suffering with a lot of HGV traffic noise in your home, be sure to call us for advise. It would be best to use an isolated partition system (most effective against vibrations) but we may be able to suggest other solutions, too.
Why you can hear traffic inside your house
You can hear traffic noise inside your house due to gaps around windows and in the walls. Sound can use the medium of air to travel, so any gaps allow it to transmit through a wall with ease. Generally, windows are a major weak area as the seal between the window and brick can wear over time and the windows themselves deteriorate. While we don’t offer window soundproofing, we do suggest you take a look at your windows to see if they need updating or rennovating.
Holes in walls or crumbling motar can also be an easy passage for traffic noise as your wall becomes more absorbent. Repointing the side of your house exposed to the road can be a tremendous way to improve the soundproofing capabilities of your brick wall.
Soundproof walls from traffic noise
To soundproof walls from traffic noise, use materials of high mass and ensure the seal around the new partition is properly finished. A well sealed partition is like a bucket without holes; it can hold the sound back. We recommend using an isolation clip system whenever possible as it gives you the best soundproofing results for space used.
Our MuteClip is a dual density clip that can resist a wider range of frequencies than others. It’s important to combat a wide range of frequencies as different vehicles have different dominant ranges. Consider a learner moped compared to a HGV and you get the idea. Into the metal channel, soundproof panels can be securely screwed. The cavity created is a great opportunity to install accoustic mineral wool for contorl of reverberation and general sound dampening qualities. This is especially important for low frequency noises and vibrations.
An isolated partition is a much better method for controling traffic noise than a direct to wall panel solution. The clip and channel acts as a mini shock absorber and can resist the vibrations created down on the road which travel up your brick work. While an isolation system can take up a few more millermeters in your room, they are worth their weight in gold for performance (and sleep gained).
Soundproof windows from traffic noises
To soundproof windows from traffic noise, make sure the seals are tightly shut. An existing window can be improved by reapplying foam seal tape around the edge. Making sure the window is airtight when shut will make your room far quieter for next to no money. You should also look at the sealant around the window. This can be removed and replaced to get a better seal to the brick work but may require work at height. We don’t offer these window specific products, but you can find them and further guidance online.
If you have single glazed windows, these will be your biggest issue. Double or triple glazing is effective as the vacuum provides no medium for sound to travel through. This is why the sound travels around the perimeter of the window instead. If you have single glazing, it would be better to spend your budget on new double glazing instead of wall soundproofing (and that’s coming from people who don’t sell windows!). Wall soundproofing can only be truly effective when the weak areas are fixed, so address this first.
Soundproof a door from traffic noise
To soundproof a door from traffic noise, consider its mass and the seal around it. Much like windows, without a good perimeter seal, it cannot stop air and sound from entering. Even a small gap makes a big difference. If there is glass in your door, check the seal around this, too. You can then either replace worn sealants or, replace the door if it’s past saving. You are best reaching out to a door specialist to get further advice on this.
If a door is light, with low mass, this is also going to be poor at soundproofing your house. Low mass materials do not reflect airborne noises very well. Consider replacing your door with solid wood, as this is good at reflecting traffic noise. If this is out of your budget, you can also consider adding a layer of visco-elastic membrane to the surface as it has a high mass. Finish the door with a layer of plywood and paint it. Of course, this will not work for a plastic door.
What is the UK law on noise from vehicles?
The UK limit on noise from cars has been gradually reduced from 82dB in 1978, to 72dB in 2016 [1]. In 2026, this is going to be reduced again down to 68dB, however, for cars already on the road, the noise actually created is going to be much higher. Some motorbikes can also be particularly difficult to deal with and reach as high as 80dB.
What is the UK law on noise from outside?
The UK law on noise from outside is covered in the 1990 Environemntal Protection Act and can be challeneged by your local council. If you are struggling with traffic noise and other noise from outside, like dogs barking, you may be experiencing statutory noise issues. These are detrmined by a noise that is affecting your ability to live in your home. If you think your noise complaint qualifies as a statuatory noise, then get in touch with your local council who will be able to help.