Soundproof Wallpaper: Does it Work? Alternatives?

Acoustic wallpapers have become pretty popular in recent years.

And for a good reason:

Soundproof wallpaper sure sounded like something to make the most out of: no construction work, no mess, nice design, etc.

This makes it a great option for people who are looking to soundproof their rented apartment.

But the main question remains:

Does soundproof wallpaper really work?

Spoiler alert: Well, they can—with some important caveats.

In this research, I’m sharing everything you need to know about soundproof wallpapers. Towards the bottom, I have also mentioned some good alternatives and other soundproofing methods you can pair it with for best results.

Ready?

Let’s dive right into it!

1. What are Acoustic Wallpapers?

Soundproof wallpaper is a kind of wallpaper that is fabricated using closed-cell polyethylene foam. It can competently attenuate any vibrations heading its way.

Besides this, these wallpapers are easy to maintain and are waterproof which facilitates easy cleaning.

Just as an important note, it might not be a good idea to install it in rooms that have moisture and oily-dirt, such as the kitchen. It might just peel off.

Nevertheless, these are very simple to install. All you need to do is peel off the backing and fix it to the concerned region. The soundproof wallpapers are about 0.3 inches thick which offer excellent vibration damping and insulation.

The thickness and density of soundproof wallpapers are higher than soundproof paint—making it a bit more efficient.

2. Do Soundproof Wallpapers Really Work?

Yes—but there are some important caveats.

It can help dampen low-frequency noise such as conversations across the other side. But if the noise levels are anything higher than that, it certainly isn’t the most efficient solution around.

For this reason, I recommend you pair it with other soundproofing techniques to help you reduce noise considerably.

3. What Are Some Alternatives to Soundproof Wallpapers?

Soundproof wallpapers are a great solution to low and mid-frequency noise. But, to combat the high level of disturbance due to various external factors, I recommend you use them along with a few other soundproofing methods listed below.

4. How Do Soundproof Wallpapers Work?

Soundproof wallpapers are not just pieces of decorative paper. They have layers of sound deadening material in them which serves the purpose of soundproofing a place.

The more the number of layers in it, the better it will be in quietening the apartment. The layers mainly contain acoustic foam or latex, both of which are known for their ability to dampen vibrations. On top of these layers, a well-designed piece of paper is placed.

5. What are the Benefits of Sound Deadening Wallpapers?

Here are some of the advantages of soundproof wallpapers:

Help Improves Acoustics in a Room

These wallpapers effectively curb the noise from getting reverberated which is the main cause of amplification of sound. Thus, they can help prevent echo and help manage the acoustics better.

Easy to Install

The peel and stick adhesive in these wallpapers make it very simple for you to install them in your rooms. It barely takes any time and effort.

Inexpensive Sound Deadening Material

If you are in search of a sound dampening material that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, a soundproof wallpaper might be a good option.

Available in Multiple Designs

Most of these wallpapers are appealing and eye-catchy. You can choose from a variety of options when it comes to design. You can pick on that matches your existing home decor, and enjoy your noise-free and elegant personal space.

Fire-Resistant

Soundproof wallpapers can add to the fire resistance in your room. These wallpapers will never catch fire due to the electrical circuits and components in a room.

6. Where Can You Use Them?

You can use it wherever you feel like and whichever part of your house needs noise insulation.

The only exception?

Moisture-rich areas such as the kitchen.

The moisture might damage the wallpaper and it might peel off eventually.

In short, wherever you can install regular wallpapers, you can use the soundproof ones as well. You may also use it in the living room as they have beautiful designs on them which may increase the overall beauty of the room.

7. Regular Wallpaper VS Acoustical Wallpaper: What’s the Difference?

Regular wallpapers are simple sheets of paper with decorative patterns on them. These are solely used for increasing the overall look of the rooms. They have no special features in them which can help reduce noise and disturbances.

Acoustic wallpapers, on the other hand, are different than regular wallpapers. They have multiple layers of sound-attenuating materials in them which help in soundproofing your personal space. These wallpapers effectively annihilate reverberations which prevent acoustics.

Soundproof wallpapers improve the overall acoustics of the room and are also fire-resistant. Like regular wallpapers, they are available in multiple designs and styles which adds to the decor of the room.

8. How Much Does a Soundproofing Wallpaper Cost?

Soundproofing wallpapers are rather inexpensive and one of the cheapest methods of soundproofing your apartment.

You can usually get them anywhere from between $10 to $100—depending on their quality.