How To Block Out Low Frequency Noise: A Complete Guide

Written by Michael Harris
Last updated

As anyone who has ever lived in a city can attest, low-frequency noise is a persistent problem. Whether it’s the rumble of traffic or the drone of an air conditioner, this type of noise can quickly become overwhelming

And what’s more, low-frequency noise is a type of unwanted sound that can be very difficult to block out. Not only is it often hard to pinpoint the source of the noise, but it can also penetrate walls and other barriers more easily than higher frequency sounds.

Fortunately, there are a few things that can be done to help reduce the impact of bass noise and in this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to block out low frequency noise once and for all. Let’s get started.

What Is Low-Frequency Noise?

Low-frequency sound waves also known as low rumble is a very “bass-like” sound that has a frequency range of 10 Hz to 100 Hz.

These sounds waves travel further when compared to high-frequency noise, making them one of the most unpleasant noises to experience.

How to Llock Low-Frequency Waves

1. Use Bass Traps (Low-Frequency Sound Absorber)

One thing you can do is use bass traps to help trap the low-frequency waves, these are foam-like objects that are designed to help trap bass.

They are pretty simple to use and you don’t need to install them, all you have to do is a place on in every corner of the area you are trying to sound dampen.

How bass traps work is they attract the low-frequency sounds coming in through the wall and absorb most of it to keep the noise levels balanced.

Fortunately, these don’t cost a fortune either. Here are the ones I’ve used.

Although these will work great when trying to stop low-frequency sounds, they are incredibly most effective if you are trying to block the waves from going out instead of coming in, But either way will work just fine!

2. Install Sound Blocking Curtains

Windows are very weak because they consist of one layer of glass which makes it an easy target for any sounds and noises to creep in.

One of the most cost-effective to counter this to install some sound dampening curtains. Although these are created to reduce echoes and noises they will absorb most of the low-frequency waves and you should notice some significant changes after installing them.

The one I recommend is made by a very by a well known and trusted brand Nice Town.

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These are pretty elegant and will fit in with any style, so don’t need to worry about aesthetics.

3. Add an Extra Layer of a Wall Using Green Glue

You often feel the low-frequency waves coming through the wall, so it might be a great Idea to sound-dampening it. There are many ways you can soundproof a wall, but the best way is to add drywall using green glue noise-proofing sealant as adhesive.

What makes this effective, is the fact that you an adding another layer of wall separated by one of the best soundproofing solutions.  This is known as building a room within a room.

The only downside to this it might cost a little bit more because you need to purchase enough drywall and green glue to compliment it.

If you are on a budget or you are looking for something temporarily, then read on as I will discuss other things you can do.

4. Add Acoustic Panels (Drywall alternative)

If you are not looking to reconstruct your walls then the next thing you can do is use acoustic foam panels.

Foam panels are not as effective as adding an extra layer of drywall but they will help absorb some of the noises and sounds coming through the wall.

You often see them in studios because they help reduce reverb, echoes, and noises.  They are cheaper too compared to building a room within a room.

Note: Although acoustic foam works, it important to understand they are not designed for bass absorption so it would be great not to expect 100% difference when using them.

5. Add a Thick Carpet

If the room/area doesn’t have any mats, you might want to install one because this will help prevent the sounds from bouncing on the floor making it worse by creating some reverbs and echoes.

You can use any carpet really, but I suggest you use a thick one because not because it will absorb waves better but will help insulate the area.

6. Soundproof the Ceiling

Just like the floor, sound dampening the ceiling is just as important when you looking to reduce stop low-frequency sounds. you can either use the green glue and drywall or alternatively use the foam panels to the job done.

7. Use Weatherstripping for the Door

The gap between the door and the frame is very big and allows a lot of sounds to go through. One thing you can do to close it off makes use of weatherstrips to close them off, this will reduce the waves by a huge noticeable margin.

8. Make Use of Sound Machines

White noise sound machines can certainly help you to shift the focus from unpleasant noise to something relaxing, as you would expect this is not a permanent solution but a quicker way to deal with low frequency sound.

One Last Low-Frequency Soundproofing Hack

If you don’t have enough money you can look for free alternatives like using blankets, adding more items to the room and creating your own sound-absorbing items. Blankets do work incredibly well especially if they are thick enough for dampening.

Final Thought On Blocking Low-Frequency Sound Waves

If you try these methods you should be able to significantly reduce the sound waves. Remember all of these work together if you want to see a huge difference.

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About The Author

Hey I'm Michael and I run this website. I'm a professional voiceover artist and in my search to create a silent studio I've become obsessed with soundproofing and things being quiet. Thanks for visiting and if you have any question get in touch.