There are three strategies for blocking noise from entering your bedroom. You can take methods to increase the soundproofing of your home, by beefing up your window assembly or doors, walls that are facing outside. You can also build some soundproofing measures in your yard, like a soundproof barrier fence. These have varying levels of effectiveness and ease of installation, here are the steps we recommend to soundproof your home from traffic noise, from most to least recommended:

1. Soundproof your windows with soundproof window inserts
2. Build a soundproof fence around your home
3. Soundproofing exterior walls and doors

Another option often used in addition to window inserts is building a soundproof fence outside the home. Not only does this help reduce noise inside the house, but also makes your yard more peaceful to relax in. We suggest fences for soundproofing if you live next to a busy road or even if you're trying to make sure you don’t bother your neighbors with backyard get-togethers.

How to build a soundproof fence to reduce street noise

It’s possible to build a barrier that doesn’t block much noise. That’s why we included the basic tips below to help you make your fence as soundproof as possible. We also have a whole article on fence soundproofing where you can read more.

1. 1. Height - Build your fence tall enough that it blocks line of sight to whatever is making noise. This will help block more of the soundwaves making their way to your home. As a rule the height of your fence should be at least 1.5 times taller than the source of the noise, and preferably 2 times. Blocking line of site should help reduce sound by at least 5dB.
   2. Construction - Choose a dense material with a high STC rating and make sure the barrier you’re creating is as airtight as possible. Using a soundproof material, but then leaving huge gaps in the fence essentially renders it useless. A common option we see from customers is building a wood fence and then adding mass loaded vinyl, sound blankets, or BlocknZorbe panels to it. If you have an existing chain link fence, applying mass loaded vinyl or Quiet Quilt Outdoor Soundproof Blankets will be your best option.
   3. Placement - If you were trying to block out light, you’d either wear sunglasses or cover the light. Sound works in a similar way. For your fence to be most effective, place it either close to the noise source, or close to the area you’re trying to soundproof. See the diagram below for a better explanation.
      

Additional tips on how to reduce road noise in home

The solutions we laid out are known to be effective and are likely your best option to reduce the noise coming into your home, but here are a few things to consider as you’re coming up with your soundproofing plan.

• Try sound masking: This is the concept of playing an ambient background sound to drown out more obnoxious or unwanted noises. White noise, music, or even a fan can help mask outside noise, especially when you’re trying to sleep at night.
• Double check doors and windows for gaps: Doors and windows are the biggest culprits in excessive noise. If you find gaps, seal them up with things like weather stripping, acoustical sealant, or a door seal kit.
• DON’T use acoustical products: People often mistakenly use products like acoustic or sound absorbing foam or sound absorption materials for their soundproofing projects. These products are useful in their place, which is improving acoustics inside a space. Adding acoustic material to your walls or windows might be great for your upcoming acapella performance, but it won’t do anything to keep noise out. Instead opt for dense, airtight barriers.

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