Crowing roosters, barking dogs, and even that construction site outside? When can this noise stop? It’s too distracting, especially if you’re working remotely. Can you do something about it?
Sometimes, you can’t get rid of the source of the sound. I mean, if it’s coming from your sister’s baby, you don’t have a choice. All you can do is adapt to the situation.
Understanding What Sound Is
Before we attack the problem, it’s best to understand where the sound is coming from. A sound comes from a structural source and then becomes airborne afterwards. It may come from vibrations from footsteps or your neighbor’s annoying rooster.
We can’t really pinpoint the exact source all the time. What we can do is soften the vibrations or block the area where it goes inside your room.
If you are blessed with an ideal workspace, here are 7 simple ways to soundproof your room for remote working.
Weatherstripping
Let’s start with your windows and doors! Most likely, it’s the main entry for sound to your room. The small gaps between them allow the sound to come in (pester) your workstation.
The cheapest way to block the sound is by using weather stripping. Weatherstripping is plastered on the gaps so that sound will be difficult to enter. These can cost between 60 PHP – 400 PHP per door or window depending on the material.
Soundproof Curtains
If the sound still persists, you can use soundproof curtains. These curtains look like normal ones, but they’re thicker and heavier. And the soft and fluffy material allows lesser sound to penetrate.
Therefore, there are fewer irritating sounds from the outside. It can cost around 800 PHP or more depending on the brand.
Soundproof Rugs
Sound doesn’t travel only on windows and doors. If you have hard-surfaced floors such as wood, laminate, or tiles, a rug will help soften the sound.
The thick rug can absorb the sound and keep your work at peace. You can nab one for around 800 PHP to 3500 PHP, depending on the quality and size.
Use Upholstered Furniture
If you are planning to decorate your room with some furniture, you might consider upholstered ones. The padding and soft finish will absorb the sound better. And it will be comfy both when you lounge on it and when someone does karaoke from the outside.
Prices vary depending on the furniture and design.
Book Cases
Another furniture option you can count on is bookcases. Bookcases filled with a lot of books add density to the room, making it an effective sound barrier. It makes it harder for sound to be transmitted.
So for those bookworms out there, it’s a perfect excuse to fill up your shelves today. Prices range from 300 PHP to 2500 PHP, depending on the material.
Plants
Did you know that plants can also help in soundproofing your room? Yes! It surely can. Some plants act as natural sound reducers by deflecting and absorbing that unwanted noise. Here are some of the best ones:
- Ferns
- Peace Lily
- Areca Palm
- Money Tree
- Rubber Plant
You can check the following plants for some options and prices.
White Noise Machine
If you can’t block all the sounds, why not just mask them with white noise. Use a white noise machine!
It can create relaxing ambient sounds in your room, like birds chirping or a running waterfall. Forget about that barking dog outside. It’s all about serenity while working with your white noise machine. Prices can vary from 300 PHP to 2000 PHP, depending on the features.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones or Earplugs
If, for some reason, you can’t apply the things above, you can block one area that will surely lessen the sounds. And that’s your ears.
You can use noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to lower the noise level outside. If you are comfortable with it, it might be the cheapest option available.
Noise-cancelling headphones can range from 250 PHP above. While earplugs can be purchased for as low as 7 PHP.
Conclusion
It’s time for more productivity with soundproofing! With the tips above, you can surely accomplish more every day with your remote working career. Cheers!
