Soundproofing Advice Archives - Page 11 of 11

Generators are an effective power solution in times of power outages. But generator noise is often an irritant and a nuisance. This irritating noise can leave both you and your neighbors feeling annoyed. The only option left is to soundproof it and block the noise. This is the best way to do it: Create a Soundproof Enclosure This is an affordable DIY option that takes some time and effort but works really well. Basically, you're building a soundproof box around the power generator. To get started, you'll need some MDF sheets (link to Amazon). If these are not large enough for your generator, you can go to your local Home Depot or similar store and get larger ones. So here is a step-by-step guide for building a generator soundproof box: 1. Measure the generator The size of your soundproof box will obviously depend on the size of your generator. Accurately measure the generator with a measuring tape and note the measurements down. Add several inches to this measurement to account for soundboard and insulation thickness, and ventilation provisions. 2. Cut the MDF Sheets to size Cut your MDF sheets according to the size of your generator. Be careful not to cut any sides less than required. A circular or table saw will come in handy here. Carefully label all four wall pieces and the piece meant for the roof top. Also keep in mind that regular plywood can serve in place of an MDF where this is lacking, though it is less effective. 3. Create vents for air circulation Cut out two circles in your wood pieces that match the size of your ventilation ducts. One of these circles should be located on the piece meant for the top – to either end of it, not centered –while the other should be located on a wall piece. The cut wall piece should be placed on the opposite side of the cut in the top. 4. Add caulk vinyl and Mass Loaded Vinyl Sound insulation is most effective when you add layers of free space to allow for the dissipation of sound. For your insulation, you want to use a material that works well for minimizing impact noise. Impact noise is the type of noise created by generators, washing machines and any other machine that vibrates. It's a low frequency sound that can easily travel through regular materials and is sometimes even amplified by them. Mass loaded vinyl (link to Amazon) should be the first layer; cut it to size and then glue it to your MDF sheets. Seal the edges using a quality caulking product. 5. Add a layer of soundproof foam The next insulation layer you should add is a foam mat. A closed cell soundproof foam mat (link to Amazon) is the best option. Cut to size and glue directly to the vinyl layer. Caulk the edges again to complete this step. 6. Assemble the soundproof box With every piece cut to size and every layer added, it is time to assemble the box. Attach all four walls together using nails or screws. Next, secure the top using nails. Also keep in mind that you can make the top hinged for easier removal of small generators. But also keep in mind that this might affect ventilation in a bad way. If you're unsure if it'll work, it's better not to do it. 7. Install vent ducts. The generator needs proper air flow so that it doesn't heat up. Use vents with lots of curves and bends in them to aid both ventilation and insulation. To Conclude Dealing with noise can be a bit complicated at times. But there is a soundproofing solution for everything. For generator noise, making a soundproof box is a proven way to do it. If you follow these 7 steps, I'm sure you'll do a great job! Thanks for stopping by on Soundproof Advice. If you have any questions let me know in the comment section below. - Luka Baron