How To Soundproof French Doors? 8 Easy and Actionable Ways
Are you tired of the constant noise disturbances that seep through your French doors?
If you find it difficult to focus on work or relaxation due to these unwanted sounds, then it’s time to take action!
In this post, we will talk about 8 easy and actionable ways to soundproof French doors. Let’s get started!
How Does Sound Pass Through Closed French Doors?
The reason why sound passes through French doors is due to their construction. French doors are larger than standard doors and feature a light design with a significant portion of the door being made of glass.
Another reason is the thickness, the quality of their seal, as well as the frequency of the sound. For example, doors made of dense materials like hardwood are generally more effective at blocking sound than those made of lighter materials like vinyl.
Additionally, doors with a tight seal around the edges will typically block more sound than those with gaps or leaks.
How To Soundproof French Doors? 8 Easy and Actionable Ways
Here are those 8 easy and actionable ways to soundproof French doors:
1. Use Soundproofing Curtains
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to soundproof French doors is to use soundproofing curtains. These curtains are made with special materials that absorb sound waves and reduce noise.
They also block out light and provide privacy, making them a great all-around solution for French doors. To install soundproofing curtains, simply hang them on a rod above the door.
Make sure the curtains cover the entire door and extend below the bottom of the doorframe to create a tight seal. You can also use curtain ties to hold the curtains back when you want to let in light.
Choose heavy, thick curtains or blinds that can be closed tightly to reduce noise transmission. A high-quality soundproof curtain can reduce the noise level up to 25 db. Read: Best Soundproof Curtains for French doors
2. Install Weather-Stripping
Another effective way to soundproof French doors is to install weather-stripping. Weather-stripping is a material that is used to seal gaps and cracks around doors and windows, preventing air and noise from getting in.
To install weather-stripping, start by cleaning the surface around the door frame to remove any dirt or debris. Then, measure the length of the door frame and cut the weather-stripping to size.
Peel off the backing from the adhesive and press the weather-stripping firmly into place along the sides and top of the door frame. You leave a small gap at the bottom of the door to allow for ventilation, it is up to you.
3. Install Door Sweeps
Installing door sweeps is another effective and simple way to soundproof your French doors. Door sweeps are installed on the bottom of the door and help seal gaps between the door and the floor.
They are easy to install and can make a big difference in reducing noise transmission. To install a door sweep, start by measuring the width of the door and cutting the sweep to size.
Then, attach the sweep to the bottom of the door using screws or adhesive. Make sure the sweep is snug against the floor and covers any gaps between the door and the floor.
4. Install Soundproofing Gaskets and noiseproof your French door
Soundproofing gaskets are another great option for sealing gaps around French doors. They are usually made of a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of the door frame, which creates a tight seal and helps to reduce noise transmission.
To install soundproofing gaskets, don’t forget to clean the surface around the door frame first to remove any dirt or debris. After cleaning, measure the length of the door frame and cut the gaskets to size.
Once you have the correct size, peel off the backing and press the gaskets firmly into place along the sides and top of the door frame.
Learn: How to Install a Door gasket?
5. Use a door blanket to soundproof your French doors
A door blanket, also known as a soundproofing blanket, is a thick and heavy acoustic material that can be hung over the French doors to help reduce noise transmission.
Door blankets are made of materials like mass loaded vinyl or fiberglass and are typically designed to be hung using hooks or grommets.
They can be especially effective for blocking low-frequency sounds like traffic noise and can be removed when not needed.
However, door blankets may not be as visually appealing as other soundproofing options and may not be as effective as upgrading the glass or installing a soundproof door.
6. Lubricate Hinges and Handles
Lubricating the hinges and handles of French doors is a super simple and easy way to reduce a bit of noise.
Over time, the hinges and handles of a door become dry and start to rub against each other, which creates noise. By applying lubricant to these parts, you can help reduce friction and the noise.
However, it may not make a big difference but it’s practice, so try it. To apply lubricant:
- Gather lubricant and a clean cloth.
- Clean the hinges and handles.
- Apply lubricant to the hinges and handles, keep in mind to apply to all moving parts.
- Wipe away any excess lubricant.
- Test the door to ensure it moves smoothly and quietly.
7. Apply Mass-Loaded Vinyl
Mass-loaded vinyl is a popular material used for soundproofing, made from a combination of heavy minerals and vinyl. It’s flexible and easy to work with, while providing excellent soundproofing properties.
To apply it to a French door, start by measuring and cutting the vinyl to size, making sure to cut it slightly larger than the door for complete coverage.
After cleaning the door, simply peel off the backing and press the vinyl firmly onto the surface. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles with a roller or squeegee. By taking these steps, you can soundproof your French door and enjoy a quieter living space.
8. Replace the Door
If you’ve tried all the other soundproofing methods for your French doors but still you are experiencing disruptive noise, then it may be time to replace the door.
You can choose solid wood doors, fiberglass doors, and composite doors; they are all great options for soundproofing. These doors are thicker and heavier than standard doors, which helps to block out noise.
They are also designed with multiple layers and insulation to reduce sound transmission. However, you may want to hire a professional installer to ensure that the door is installed correctly.
Wrap Up: Soundproof French Doors
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing noise disturbances through your French doors, there are several effective ways to soundproof French doors.
You can use soundproofing curtains, weather-stripping, door sweeps, soundproofing gaskets, or even replace the door with a thicker, more soundproof option.
French doors’ design and construction are the main reasons why sound can pass through, but by following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a more peaceful and comfortable living space.
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