A quiet short-term rental leads to guest satisfaction and repeat bookings. Noisy disturbances, such as street traffic, construction work, or overhead footsteps can detract from a stay. These experiences can end up in guests’ comments, which can be a red flag for people who are sensitive to noise. For some people, comments about irritating sounds are an instant dealbreaker when browsing listings. To safeguard your rental’s appeal and ensure a tranquil environment, soundproofing can be a worthwhile investment. Here are some strategies to mitigate noise and make your rental accommodations a peaceful retreat.

Pinpointing Noise Sources

To effectively soundproof your short-term rental, start by identifying where the noises are coming from. Spend time in the unit at different hours to get a full picture. You might notice traffic noise at peak hours or construction sounds during the day. But don’t overlook sounds from within the building, such as echoing hallways or loud neighbors. Internal sounds make a big difference; appliances, HVAC systems, or even the echo of a spacious room can add to the noise level. Understanding these various sources helps you choose the right soundproofing measures.

Internal Noise

Sometimes the classic horror movie exclamation “It’s coming from inside the house!” rings true for annoying noises. But the statement is less terrifying when it comes to reducing sound levels: there are practical steps you can take to deal with the issues.

Appliances

· Buy new appliances.

One effective strategy, if within your budget, is to replace old, noisy appliances with newer, quieter models. When shopping for appliances, you can often find noise level information on the manufacturer’s website or directly on the appliance’s label. Aim for products with low decibel (dB) levels, preferably under 50 dB, to minimize disturbances. This is the threshold for indoor environments—it’s the sound level of a quiet conversation and less likely to interfere with speech, relaxation, and concentration. Keep in mind that decibels scale logarithmically, not linearly. This means a small increase in dB can result in a substantially louder sound. For example, a jump from 40 dB to 50 dB isn’t just a 25% increase in noise level: it’s perceived as twice as loud to the human ear. Appliances that are Quiet Mark certified have been rigorously tested for their noise levels, making them a reliable choice for a more peaceful home.

· Make old appliances quieter.

A cheaper option is to make sure the appliances you currently have are as quiet as they can be.

Refrigerator

To minimize refrigerator buzz, start with simple fixes. Check if it’s level. An uneven fridge can vibrate. Secure loose parts like handles or doors. Mechanical noises, such as a loud compressor or fan, can be easily get on your nerves. If DIY-inclined, you can work on them yourself or call on the services of a repairperson. Cleaning dust off the condenser fan or replacing a noisy defrost timer can reduce sound. Consider rubber pads under the fridge to dampen vibrations.

HVAC Units

To reduce HVAC system noise, start by isolating the unit with an isolation pad or mounts to dampen vibrations. If the system is outdated and noisy, you may need to upgrade to a quieter, more efficient model.

Soundproofing Offices and Bedrooms

Here are some solutions for managing indoor sounds coming from other rooms:

• Upgrade your door. If your current door does little to block noise, replacing it with a solid core door can significantly improve sound insulation. It acts as a robust barrier against unwanted sounds.

• Block the gap under the door. Small openings can let in a surprising amount of noise. Fill the gap under doors with a sweep.

• Add rugs and carpets. Hard surfaces amplify noise, so introducing rugs or carpets can absorb sound, making rooms quieter and more conducive to concentration.

• Install wall treatments. Consider using acoustic panels or soft wall hangings to dampen sound. Thick curtains can also help. These additions reduce echoes and soften sounds.

Overhead Noise

Are the upstairs neighbors’ Tiktok dances keeping your guests up at night? A combination of soundproofing techniques can provide a practical solution:

• Seal gaps and leaks: Address gaps where the ceiling meets walls and around fixtures to prevent noise transmission.

• Use sound-absorbing materials: Apply dense insulation or specialized acoustic panels to the ceiling to dampen vibrations.

• Add mass to the ceiling: Install an extra layer of drywall, ideally with a dampening compound between layers, to increase the ceiling’s density and effectiveness in blocking sound.

Outdoor Noise

Is your rental property in a bustling urban area or close to a busy road? To silence the outdoor racket invading your guests’ sanctuary, start by sealing off any gaps with acoustic sealants around windows, doors, and walls. This helps keep the noise at bay. Adding sound-absorbing curtains or window inserts adds an extra layer of defense.

Indoor walls can reflect sound, so hang up sound-dampening panels to absorb the noise and minimize echoes. Outdoors, consider putting up fences or densely planting trees and shrubs, whose foliage acts as a natural barrier against outside noise.

For those looking to splurge a bit, gabion walls provide sturdy sound barriers that can block up to 60 dB. Grow vines on them for even more noise deflection.

By addressing both internal and external noise sources with an array of practical solutions, you can create a peaceful oasis for your guests. Your thoughtfully soundproofed rental will help you garner high marks and repeat visits.