"Insulation's great for muffling voices or TVs, but impact noise? Whole different ballgame."
Totally agree—impact noise is tricky stuff. Did you find the resilient channels easy enough to install yourself, or did it turn into a bigger project than you expected? I'm planning something similar soon and wondering if it's worth tackling solo...or should I just bite the bullet and hire a pro to save the headache.
Resilient channels aren't rocket science, but they're definitely fiddly—especially solo. My ceiling install turned into a weekend of creative swearing and neck cramps. Are you planning to tackle the ceiling too, or just walls?
"My ceiling install turned into a weekend of creative swearing and neck cramps."
Haha, I feel your pain on that one. I once helped a friend install resilient channels in his basement ceiling, and let's just say it tested our friendship. The channels themselves aren't complicated, but getting them perfectly aligned while balancing on ladders... yeah, that's another story. We ended up rigging this ridiculous system with broomsticks and duct tape to hold things in place temporarily—probably not OSHA-approved.
But honestly, the difference afterward was pretty noticeable. He had noisy upstairs neighbors (kids running around constantly), and after the ceiling treatment, it was like someone turned down the volume dial. Not total silence, but definitely worth the hassle.
If you're debating whether to tackle ceilings or stick to walls only... I'd say ceilings are annoying but make a huge impact. Just stock up on ibuprofen beforehand.
I installed some soundproofing insulation between floors a couple years ago, and yeah, it definitely makes a difference. I wouldn't call it miraculous or anything, but it noticeably muffled footsteps and reduced voices from upstairs. Before, I could hear entire conversations clearly through the ceiling, afterward it was more like a low murmur—still audible if you're really trying to listen, but way less distracting.
One thing I learned though, is that insulation alone isn't magic. If you really want good results, combining insulation with resilient channels or even a double layer of drywall with green glue between them helps a ton. It adds extra work (and neck cramps, haha), but the difference is pretty impressive.
Also, don't underestimate sealing up any small gaps or cracks around fixtures and outlets. Even tiny openings can let a surprising amount of sound through.
But yeah...I feel you on the ladder balancing act. My shoulders hurt just thinking about it.
Totally agree about insulation alone not being a complete fix. I've found that combining insulation with resilient channels and acoustic sealant around the drywall edges really helps. Another overlooked factor is flooring type upstairs—carpet with a thick underpad can significantly reduce impact noise compared to hardwood or tile. Learned that the hard way after tenants swapped carpet for laminate... suddenly footsteps were way more noticeable again. Live and learn, I guess.
