What are the soundproofing and noise issues in shared houses?
Shared houses are a type of housing where multiple people live together, making them an environment where soundproofing problems are likely to occur. Although soundproofing performance varies depending on the property, the walls tend to be thinner than in general rental properties, and living noises tend to be more easily transmitted. Here, we will explain in detail the characteristics of soundproofing in shared houses and the problems that can occur if appropriate measures are not taken.
Soundproofing features of a share house
The soundproofing of a shared house is mainly determined by the following factors:
- Building structure: Wooden and light steel framed buildings have poor soundproofing, while reinforced concrete (RC) and steel framed buildings have relatively good soundproofing.
- Thickness of partitions: In typical shared houses, the walls separating private rooms are thin and often lack soundproofing.
- Floor and ceiling materials: In properties that do not have carpeting or soundproofing mats, the sounds of footsteps and chairs being pulled up tend to echo.
- Arrangement of shared spaces: If the living room or kitchen is adjacent to private rooms, conversations and cooking sounds may be directly transmitted to each other.
The soundproofing of shared houses varies greatly depending on the property, so it's important to check the thickness of the walls and floors, as well as the noise level in the surrounding area when viewing the property.
Problems that can occur if soundproofing measures are not taken
If you neglect to take soundproofing measures, it is easy for trouble to arise between sharemates. In particular, the following problems may arise:
- Noise problems caused by differences in lifestyle: The footsteps and voices of residents who are active early in the morning or late at night can disturb the sleep of other residents.
- Phone calls and conversations can be heard clearly: Because the walls of private rooms are thin, online meetings and phone calls can sometimes be heard in the next room.
- Noise from musical instruments and music can cause problems: Playing music or instruments without using earphones can easily lead to noise problems.
- Everyday noises can cause stress: The sounds of doors opening and closing, showers, and cooking can be distracting and can lead to stress buildup and a deterioration in relationships between residents.
To prevent such troubles, it is important for each resident to be considerate and take appropriate soundproofing measures.
Noise levels in a typical share house
Noise levels in a share house will vary depending on the building structure and the residents' lifestyles, but the general noise guidelines are as follows:
| Sound types | Noise level (dB) | Impact |
| Quiet residential area (nighttime) | 30-40dB | General comfort level |
| Normal conversation | 50-60dB | If the partition is thin, it may be possible for the sound to be heard in the next room. |
| Chatting in the shared space | 60-70dB | It is easy for noise to echo in private rooms, which is especially problematic at night. |
| Television and Music | 70-80dB | Without soundproofing measures, it would be a nuisance to other residents. |
| Vacuum cleaners and washing machines | 80-90dB | If used at night, it can cause loud noise problems. |
In particular, sounds over 50dB can easily travel to neighboring rooms in share houses with thin walls, so you need to be careful about the time and volume of the noise you make. Effective noise prevention measures include using soundproof curtains and rugs, and filling in gaps in doors.
Why soundproofing is necessary in a shared house
Since a shared house is a living environment where multiple residents live together, it is easy to be bothered by noise from daily life, and soundproofing measures are essential. In particular, depending on the structure of the building and the lifestyle of the residents, noise can be a source of stress and lead to trouble. Here, we will explain the importance of soundproofing measures in a shared house from three perspectives.
To ensure a comfortable living environment
In a shared house, people with different lifestyles coexist, so soundproofing measures are necessary to maintain a comfortable environment.
<Noise problems that can easily occur in shared houses>
- Early morning and late night noises: When people who get up early in the morning and people who are active late at night coexist, noises and voices can be bothersome.
- Noises from the kitchen and living room: The sounds of cooking and clearing away dishes can sometimes echo into private rooms.
- Water noises: The noise of showers and washing machines can disturb your sleep at night.
Soundproofing measures can help create a stress-free and comfortable living environment for all residents.
For example, you can minimize the impact of everyday noise by using soundproof curtains and mats, or by installing quiet home appliances.
To prevent trouble with roommates
In shared houses, it is not rare for noise to lead to disputes between residents.
Noise can be a stress trigger, especially in the following situations:
<Examples of trouble with roommates>
- Late-night phone calls and online meetings are noisy
- The TV or music is so loud that it can be heard in the next room
- The sound of footsteps and doors opening and closing bothers me and disturbs my sleep.
- Complaints are made due to the sounds of musical instruments and games
If noise problems continue, not only will relationships between residents deteriorate and the living environment become uncomfortable, but in the worst case scenario, residents may be forced to move out. For this reason, it is important to take soundproofing measures in advance to prevent unnecessary problems from occurring.
For example, taking precautions such as putting up soundproofing sheets on the walls, wearing slippers, and using earphones can help prevent trouble.
Secure private space and relax effect
Even if you have a private room in a share house, you won't be able to be completely alone.
Due to thin walls and the proximity of shared spaces, it is easy to be bothered by surrounding noises, making it difficult to relax in the environment.
<Impact of noise>
- Unable to concentrate: When working remotely or studying, surrounding noises can be distracting and make it difficult to concentrate on your work.
- Can't relax: It's hard to relax when you can hear noises coming from the next room.
- Poor sleep quality: Noise at night can prevent you from getting a good night's sleep.
By taking proper soundproofing measures, you can turn a private room into a relaxing space.
For example, you can create a relaxing environment by using soundproof curtains, earplugs, or noise-canceling earphones to ensure private space.
How to choose a share house with good soundproofing
To live comfortably in a shared house, it is very important to choose a property with good soundproofing. The impact of noise can vary greatly depending on the building's structure, room layout, and facilities. Here, we will clearly explain the points you should check when choosing a shared house.
Check the structure of the building (difference between wooden and reinforced concrete)
The ease with which sound travels varies depending on the structure of the building. Wooden buildings generally have thin walls, which tend to allow voices and footsteps to echo easily. In particular, if the walls of private rooms are constructed with simple partitions, you cannot expect soundproofing. On the other hand, reinforced concrete (RC) buildings have thick walls that block out sound well, making them excellent soundproofing. If soundproofing is important to you, it is ideal to choose a RC shared house rather than a wooden one.
How to check noise levels during a viewing
In order to choose a share house with good soundproofing, it is important to check the noise level thoroughly when viewing the house. First, tap lightly on the wall. If it feels hollow inside, it may not be soundproof. Also, when you are in the living room or shared space, check how much you can hear the voices and daily sounds of the neighboring rooms. In addition, if you check how much outside traffic sounds and surrounding noise you can hear when you open the window, it will be easier to understand the actual living environment. Since how sound travels at night is directly related to the comfort of your life, it is recommended that you visit and check at night if possible.
Consider distances to shared spaces and neighboring rooms
In a shared house, the impact of noise varies depending on the location of your private room. Rooms right next to the living room or kitchen are not suitable for people who are sensitive to noise, as conversations and cooking sounds are easily audible. Also, rooms near the entrance or stairs are prone to being bothered by footsteps, as there is a lot of people coming and going. If you want to live in a quiet environment, choose a room as far away from the shared spaces as possible. Additionally, corner rooms in buildings and rooms with few walls between them tend to be relatively quiet.
Choose a property with good soundproofing
Some share houses have soundproofing measures in place. For example, properties with double sash windows can reduce outside noise. Some properties also have soundproofing sheets on the doors and walls of private rooms, which makes it harder for sounds from neighboring rooms to leak out. Furthermore, properties with soundproof carpeting in the living room and shared spaces reduce the echo of footsteps and make it easier to maintain an overall quiet environment. Some share houses also have soundproof rooms where you can play musical instruments, so it's a good idea to check the details of the facilities in advance.
Do-it-yourself soundproofing measures for a shared house
In a shared house, multiple residents live together, which makes it easy for noise problems to arise. If the walls are thin or residents have different lifestyles, footsteps, voices, and the sounds of home appliances can be a nuisance. By taking do-it-yourself soundproofing measures, you can create a comfortable living environment. Here we will explain in detail some easy-to-put-together soundproofing measures.
Soundproofing of walls
In shared houses, the walls of private rooms are often thin, so you may hear the conversations and daily sounds of the neighboring rooms. By taking soundproofing measures for the walls, you can reduce noise and maintain your privacy.
Place furniture against the wall
Placing bookshelves and closets against the walls can help absorb sound and improve sound insulation. Bookshelves filled with books are particularly effective at reducing the transmission of sound. Clothes closets can also help reduce sound.
Use soundproof sheets and panels
You can reduce sound reverberation by sticking commercially available soundproofing sheets or sound-absorbing panels to the walls. In particular, panels made of urethane or felt materials are easy to install and many of them have a stylish design, so they blend in well with any interior design.
Hang soundproof curtains on the wall
By hanging soundproof curtains on the wall, you can reduce the spread of sound and reduce noise from the next room. Since they are easier to install than soundproof sheets that are attached directly to the wall, they are also a good option for rental properties.
Soundproofing floors
Shared houses often have wooden floors, so the sounds of footsteps and chairs easily echo. It's especially important to find ways to reduce vibrations if there are people living on the floor below.
Use thick rugs or carpets
By laying down rugs or carpets, you can absorb the impact noise of footsteps and objects being dropped. In particular, if you choose a carpet with a soundproof backing, you will get even better results.
Put on slippers
When walking barefoot or in socks on a wooden floor, the sound of each step can be annoying. Wearing slippers can reduce the sound of your footsteps and reduce noise to those around you.
Reduces furniture vibration
By attaching felt sheets or anti-vibration rubber to the legs of chairs and desks, you can reduce the vibration noise when moving them. In particular, since the sound of pulling out a chair tends to echo, it is a good idea to incorporate this as a soundproofing measure.
Soundproofing windows and doors
To prevent outside noise and sound from leaking into the room, it is important to seal any gaps around windows and doors.
Install soundproof curtains
If you are concerned about outside noise, installing thick soundproof curtains can help block out outside noise. In particular, choosing curtains with a double layer structure will provide even greater soundproofing.
Seal the window gap
Sound often leaks through gaps in windows, so sealing them with tape can help prevent noise from the outside. You can also improve soundproofing by installing simple plastic double-glazed windows on the inside of your windows.
Fill gaps in doors with soundproofing tape
Sound can easily leak through gaps under and on the sides of doors, so you can prevent this by applying special soundproofing tape. Applying soundproofing sheets to the inside of doors is also effective.
If soundproofing measures do not solve the problem
Noise problems in shared houses can be improved to some extent by individual soundproofing measures. However, if the problem persists even after taking these measures, you will need to consider other options. If the stress of noise continues, it can significantly reduce your quality of life and increase your mental burden, so it is important to take appropriate action early. Here we will explain in detail what to do when noise problems persist even after soundproofing measures.
Talk to the manager or management company
In a shared house, there is a manager or management company for each property, so if the noise problem cannot be resolved, it is important to first consult with the manager or management company. In particular, in the following cases, the management side may take measures.
<Examples of noise problems to consult about>
- Neighbors talking or playing music too loudly
- I can't sleep because of the sounds of daily life late at night or early in the morning
- There is constant noise in the shared spaces
- Certain residents are not following the rules and are making a lot of noise.
<Points to consider when consulting with the manager or management company>
- Describe the specific circumstances of the noise (e.g., "Loud music is being played after midnight")
- Use recordings and notes to provide evidence (record the time and frequency of noise occurrence)
- Communicate calmly without getting emotional (it is important to take the stance that this is not a complaint but rather a consultation to resolve the issue)
The manager or management company has the role of making arrangements so that all residents can live comfortably. Even if it is difficult to communicate directly to the other party, the problem can often be resolved smoothly by asking for improvements through a third party.
Consider changing rooms or properties
If the problem persists even after speaking to the manager or management company, one option is to consider changing rooms or changing properties. Sometimes simply moving to a quieter room in the share house can help reduce noise stress.
<Cases when you should consider changing rooms>
- My room is close to the common area and entrance, so I'm always bothered by noise.
- Living in an area where footsteps from upstairs echo easily
- I don't get along well with my neighbors and there are constant noise issues.
Depending on the management company, you may be able to change rooms, but only if there are vacant rooms. If your current room has poor soundproofing, moving to a room with better soundproofing may solve the problem. Also, if changing rooms is difficult, consider changing the property itself. Moving to a share house with good soundproofing can help you regain a comfortable life.
<Points to check when changing properties>
- Check the structure of the building (RC construction has excellent soundproofing properties)
- When viewing the property, check the thickness of the walls and the surrounding noise level.
- Considering the residents' daily routines, choose a quiet environment
By carefully checking the soundproofing when choosing a property, you can avoid noise problems after moving in.
summary
In a shared house, if soundproofing measures are not taken, everyday noises can become a source of stress and noise problems are likely to occur. In order to live comfortably, it is important to check the structure of the building and soundproofing equipment and take appropriate soundproofing measures. By taking soundproofing measures for the walls and floors and sealing gaps in windows and doors, you can reduce the transmission of everyday noise. You can also prevent problems from occurring by deciding on rules between residents. If the problem is still not resolved, consider consulting the management company, changing rooms, or changing properties to find a more comfortable living environment.
