How to Limit Noise Pollution at Home

Noise pollution is all around us and for the most part, we take it for granted. When moving to a new house we may at first notice the trains that run by or the airplanes that fly overhead. But, over time, these sounds become background noises we often forget about.  

If you’ve ever been camping, it can be quite a shock to be outside the city and realize just how quiet nature really is and how different nature’s sounds are compared to mechanical sounds.  

Unless you live off the grid, however, avoiding noise pollution is impossible. It is possible, though, to be aware of it and take steps to limit it, either on your own or with the help of others.  

Plant more trees 

If you live by a busy road, one of the easiest ways to lessen noise pollution is to plant a wall of trees. Not only will it be aesthetically pleasing, trees are a natural barrier to sound. The type of tree you choose is important. Remember that during winter months, some trees lose their leaves and become bare. Thus, choose evergreen trees that keep their leaves year round. Some trees grow faster than others, so it is a good idea to invest in trees that are already at the height you want to truly block out the noises from nearby roads.  

Turn off your electronics

Just as the cars going by outside your house quickly become background noise, so does the hum of your electronics. From the whirl of the laptop fan kicking in to prevent overheating to the sound of the refrigerator making ice, these noises quickly become a backdrop to our home life. However, together, these small noises can create quite the cacophony of sound. If possible, turn off your electronics instead of just letting them go to sleep.  

If you’re not convinced that electronics make a lot of noise, wait for your next power outage. The absence of noise can be quite jarring.  

Soundproof your house 

As more and more people live in townhouses or condos, noise pollution becomes a large issue. Hearing your neighbor stomp around upstairs or the kid next door repeatedly bang on the wall is not only annoying but can lead you to turn up the volume of your own TV which in turn creates more noise.  

If you are in the process of purchasing a townhouse or condominium, inquire about the materials used between units. Builders are doing a better job at using soundproof materials. If it is a new build, you may be able to ask for extra layers before they finish with the walls.  

If you don’t have control over what goes in the walls, floors or ceilings, work with what you can change. Put down rugs over hardwood or laminate to lessen noise transfer. Put large pieces of furniture, such as bookcases, against walls to dampen sound transfer. If possible, upgrade to thicker, newer windows to control the noise that enters from the street.

Noise pollution is one of the leading causes of hearing loss, yet most of us don’t notice its presence in our day-to-day activities. Take these precautions to better protect your hearing health!