Working from home
Is it a challenge for you to work from home? In our house, the tumble dryer is a discussion point. Why? The 6-year-old tumble dryer is very noisy. I measured it: 68 dB. You can compare it with driving in a car at the highway or vacuum cleaner in the room next to me. And that makes me tired. Not to mention kids. So that’s why I decided to write this blog on how to reduce noise in your house.
For the tumble dryer, we tried to find a solution. These solutions came up: Insulating the whole storage where the tumble dryer is situated, or buying a new one. Only use it at night.
What kind of noises can you reduce in your house?
The first thing to ask yourself: What is acceptable for you?
Everyone is different. Some people are perfect at concentrating in a loud environment. It differs per person and situation. And which noises disturb you the most?
Ventilation system
Do you have a house with a ventilation system? And does the system make a lot of noise? Then it is time for maintenance.
If it is longer than five years ago that a professional looked at it, make an appointment. Otherwise, cleaning ventilation grills and the filters will help. And it is not a luxury to plan this every 6 months. It is good for the quality of the air indoors.
Contact sounds
These are the noises you hear when someone downstairs is walking on high heels. Or when a neighbour talks loud. Some sounds can be reduced. Others are a bit more difficult. The best time to reduce them is before you move into the house.
Sometimes the solution is simple: change your behaviour or ask others to do so. But implementation can take some time.
Some other things that may help:
Tip 1: Applying draft strips in the rebates of the window and door frames.
Tip 2: Carpet on the stairs
Tip 3: Use curtains and other soft materials in your house, the noise in your house will be absorbed by it.
Tip 4: If the heating system makes a lot of noise: time for letting the air out of the system.
Tip 5: If none of the above helps you can try a noise-cancelling headphone.
Appliances
In the above example of the tumble dryer, we forgot to look at the noise the tumble dryer would make. It is an example of how easy it is to solve before you buy an appliance. Also, have a look at the rubbers beneath the washing machine.
Before you buy a house
Our first rental flat was near a bus lane and a primary school. When we lived there at the 4th floor, we could easily hear all the conversations going on the street. The bell of the bus, and the school children screaming.
We were really glad that we found a place to live. But the noise did have consequences for our energy levels. The above situation is not unique.
So my lesson for today is: take a look at the surroundings, be critical before you buy a house. Visit the place on different moments during the week.
After you bought a house
A few more tips:
Tip 6: If you have to replace floors: this is the time for insulation underneath the floor.
Tip 7: The stairs: if you want a silent stair choose for carpet. If you paint it, seal all the seams.
Tip 8: When the glass or window cases needs replacement. Always have a look at the noise reduction it can give, besides the insulation.
Tip 9: Have a look at the noise level of appliances before purchase. 3dB difference doesn’t look that much, but it is half the noise.
Conclusion
The best moment to reduce noise is when you buy a house, and before you move into the house.
Do you also want to prepare your move well? With less stress and more overview? Or don’t know where to buy all the materials? Contact us!
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