How it Works

The objective of sound insulation is to reduce the amount of noise that enters the home to a normal conversation level so that two people who are approximately three feet apart can talk without having to raise their voices when an aircraft passes nearby. It is also designed to make it easier for most people to sleep or conduct customary daily indoor activities without disturbance from aircraft noise.

Typically, the exterior noise entering your home will be decreased between one-third and two-thirds of the untreated level. This means that a home that has received sound insulation modifications will have a noticeable reduction in interior noise levels. Generally, the "noisier" your home is now, the easier it will be to make a significant change. If your home is already very quiet compared to other homes in your neighborhood, you may not notice as dramatic a change, however you will perceive some improvement.

Noise reduction is typically achieved through the installation of acoustical windows, new storm and prime doors, wall and ceiling modifications, and wall and ceiling insulation. Because each home is unique, the team at the Sound Insulation Program Office will design sound insulation modifications that are specific to the needs of your home. For more detailed information on sound insulation modifications, please click here.