HOW TO SOUNDPROOF A LOFT CONVERSION

Create a peaceful retreat in your loft by ensuring you soundproof it effectively with these tips from our experts

- NATASHA BRINSMEAD

Soundproofing aloft conversion should be high on your list of priorities if you want this new space within your home to offer somewhere that is a pleasure to spend time in as well as adding value to your property.

In order for a loft conversion to be a success it needs to be carefully planned and designed — and one of the key aspects here is soundproofing. It's not just about keeping unwanted noise out of your room, either — it's also about limiting the transfer of noise within your home so that the existing rooms below it aren't negatively impacted by the new space.

'Soundproofing a loft conversion is essential to create a functional and comfortable space, whether it is used as a bedroom, office or recreational area,' explains Phil Lyons, who heads up the technical team within The Soundproofing Store. 'It prevents noise transfer between the loft and other parts of the house, ensuring privacy and reducing disturbances. It can also help to minimise external noise from traffic and even the weather.

'Soundproofing a loft space greatly enhances the tranquillity of the home and can increase a property's value,' he adds. 'It can also help maintain good relations with neighbours by limiting noise transfer from the loft in semi-detached or terraced homes.'

There isn't just one method when it comes to soundproofing a loft, either. 'There are many different ways to soundproof a loft, depending on which part of the space you are wanting to soundproof,' says Phil.

'Ask yourself, is it to reduce internal noise travelling from the loft down to the rooms below? Noise travelling from below, up into the converted loft space? Or perhaps unwanted noise travelling through any party walls, or external noises such as traffic?'

SOUNDPROOFING THE FLOOR