If you are really wanting to soundproof your shed, you are going to have to address all the surfaces in your shed. To get the results you want, you need to follow through with all the steps in the soundproofing process. Once you get there, you’ll be able to jam out in peace, and your neighbors will definitely thank you. There are four crucial areas to address when soundproofing your shed, the walls, doors, windows, and ceiling.

Step #1: Soundproof the Shed Walls

There are two keys to making sure a wall is soundproof. It must use the appropriate construction and be well sealed. To truly soundproof walls of a shed, you cannot have only metal walls. At the very least, you will have to stud out the walls, add insulation, and then add ⅝” drywall. If you’re planning to turn the shed into a music room, you’ll need to upgrade the wall with soundproofing materials like sound isolation clips or Luxury Liner mass loaded vinyl.

The walls and ceilings both need the same soundproofing construction. For any soundproofing project, we recommend using soundproofing sealant around the perimeter of your walls and around any penetrations to seal up gaps, cracks, and crevices. This will prevent “sound leaks”, and substantially increase the soundproofing in your shed.

If you already have studded out walls, you will need to add more density. If you already have some type of drywall in place, adding an additional layer of ⅝’’ drywall with the Green Glue in between the layers is the most effective way to add density and soundproof an existing wall. If you have other constructions, there are other products you could consider (such as our BlocknZorbe panels), but you’ll need to reach out to us so we can learn more about your specific situation. And never forget to use acoustic caulk around all penetrations and layers of drywall!

Step #2: Soundproofing the Shed Door

For soundproofing a door, it all depends on the density of the door and if it’s sealed up around the perimeter. If you have a hollow core door, read our article on how to soundproof a hollow core door here. The best way to soundproof a hollow core door is to replace it with a solid core door. If you have a door that is solid and dense enough to block out sound, then you want to seal around the perimeter of the door. We use our Sound Lock Door Seal Kit for this, as they are the best performing option out there and can be adjusted to fit any door.

Step #3: Soundproofing a Shed Roof

Something we hear often with a shed is what can be done about rain and other objects hitting the metal roof that cause a lot of noise. The noise of rain on a metal roof is a prime example of structural noise, and the best way to deaden that sound is by applying a sound deadening product to soundproof a metal roof. Our Spectrum Spray on Deadener is perfect for instances like this. Apply it on the inside if you can with a spray gun, paint brush, or roller because it will last longer when out of direct sunlight. However, if you already have a finished ceiling, then you will have to install it outside.

Step #4: Soundproofing Windows of the Shed

If you have a window in your shed and want to soundproof it, we recommend adding a Fantastic Frame Soundproof Window Insert to the window to create a soundproof window assembly. When you are dealing with exterior noise, noise from outside your home getting inside your home, the windows are almost always the weak point letting sound in. If you soundproof your windows, you will be closing up the weak point and substantially reduce the amount of exterior noise coming inside.

Our Fantastic Frame Soundproof Window Inserts work so well because they combine technology in the frame with a magnetically seal that magnetizes to metal trim pieces you screw into the jamb of the window. Because the installation uses magnets, we can create an airtight seal while also making it super easy to remove the inserts if you ever need to clean or open your window. The inserts work extremely well with just about any window, although you can edge out even more sound reduction by maximizing the air space between the window and the acrylic glass in the window insert itself. The more air space you can create between the two, the more soundproofing you will have (diminishing returns kick in eventually).

Another great thing about the Fantastic Frame inserts is that they work great for thermal conductivity. When we install these in a commercial building with a lot of windows, we expect them to save up to 40% on their energy bill, meaning the inserts pay for themselves in 12-18 months. That is what makes them so popular among hotels and other commercial buildings. For a more backyard-DIY solution, using sound blankets as soundproof curtains is another option.

Optional: Improving Acoustics in a Shed

If you’re planning to turn your shed into a music room, band rehearsal space, or just a place for you jam out, you should check out our recording studio soundproofing article. You will definitely need to improve the acoustics in the space fi that is the case, so you will need to get some acoustic panels. You also can always contact us for a customized plan to turn your shed into a professional recording space.

What types of noise are you dealing with? When it comes to soundproofing, there are two different types of noise to consider: airborne noise and impact noise. Airborne noise comes from talking, singing, a guitar being played, or power tools roaring. It is any sound waves that travel though the air. Impact noise, however, is sound energy traveling through physical objects (most commonly footsteps). But it can be from any impact on a structure that sends vibrations through the structure and creates noise. For example an upstairs neighbor walking above you, or in a shed, raindrops hitting your metal roof.

Another thing to consider is what you will be using your space for? Many people are turning their backyard sheds into music or recording studios. If this is the case for you, then you want to make sure that your shed is meant for both blocking sound as well as having good sound quality in the space. You do not want sound to enter through the walls and entryways. You also do not want excessive reverb in your shed music studio.

Whether the goal is to keep the neighborhood out or the music in, we can help you get the project done.

Call us at 1.800.679.8511