When you are finishing or remodeling a basement, sound–proofing between floors is an important factor in terms of comfort, satisfaction, and functionality. Basement ceilings must be installed and modified adequately in order to cancel out noises from upstairs. You may think that special attention to basement ceilings is not necessary, but without it, your new-and-improved living space will be subjected to loud overhead noise like upstairs chit chatter, stomping feet, pets running around, people climbing stairs, doors opening and closing, and everything else that takes place in a busy home.

It is in the best interest of your investment to properly insulate your basement ceilings; and not just for the sake of resale value, but for your personal enjoyment as well. After all, if you don’t do it right, what’s the point in spending all that time and money? Continue reading to learn the common strategies and options for sound–proofing basement ceilings.

Canceling Overhead Noise

In order to cancel out overhead noise coming from the main level of the house, you must find a way to absorb the noise and interrupt the sound simultaneously. But first, you should know that you will most likely need to sound-proof both the basement ceilings AND the main level floors for the best results. And if you desire a fully-soundproofed space, you will need to do the walls as well.

Using floor padding, carpeting, areas rugs, and upholstered furniture on the main level can help with noise cancellation. Still, the most effective modification you can make to your basement is sound–proofingthe ceilings. And as mentioned above, you must find a strategy that absorbs sound and interrupts it at the same time.

Absorbing and Interrupting Noise

In terms of noise absorption, installing a standard sound-dampening fiberglass insulation between the ceiling joists will usually get the job done, but this is somewhat considered to be the bare minimum for sound–proofing a basement. Many contractors argue that the best option for absorbing upper-level noises in the basement is coupling fiberglass insulation with a denser, heavier material; such as sound–proofing drywall, medium density fiberboard (MDF), or even heavy-duty vinyl sheeting.

In terms of noise interruption, you have a couple options. You can create a gap or you can insert a non-conductive (does not carry sound waves) barrier between the basement ceilings and the above floorboards. Both of these options essentially add another ceiling or floor between levels, which effectively inhibits noise vibrations from channeling through ceilings and joists. To determine your basement’s unique soundproofing needs, talk to a local and trusted general contractor that specializes in basement remodeling and drywall installation.

Methods for Sound-Proofing Ceilings:

  • Adding fiberglass installation
  • Installing sound-proofing drywall
  • Adding a layer of acoustic drywall
  • Installing fiberglass bats for exposed ceiling joists
  • Installing fiberglass acoustic tiles
  • Adding mass-loaded vinyl sheeting under drywall
  • Installing sound clips to basement ceiling joists
  • Using sound isolation clips to attach drywall