How do I soundproof my basement so sound don't escape outside and no one can hear the loud music outside?

Question

How do I soundproof my basement so sound don't escape outside and no one can hear the loud music outside?

Answer 1

hang carpet or thick foam on the walls.... it will soak up the sound waves and deaden the noise... better do the  ceiling too, or you will still be heard... if you have windows, put in double pane glass to further deaden sound.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, it's impossible. Keeping the windows closed is the best thing to do.You can build your own sound studio with acoustic tiles, etc but it won't make a big difference.

If anybody can be outside a typical single family house and not hear the bass drum or a 200 watt Marshall bass amp, it's because they don't have a pulse. And he said LOUD music-he didn't say anything about turning it down or stuffing the drums. Get real.

Answer 3

Slug 4 Life gave a good answer.  Here's more:

1) Any drafty hole will spill sound.  Seal wall joints, vents, switchplates, window frames with expanding foam or caulking.

2) Anything that rattles or hums will propagate sound.  Tighten all loose metal fittings like vents, door k***s, metal light fixtures, etc.  Get rid of anything that can vibrate.  Tape down buzzing metal with duct tape:  Mailbox slot, garage door springs, etc.  

3) Raise all sound emitting equipment and instruments off floor.   Amps on risers at ear level, so you can play at lower volumes & still hear.  Position all speakers so they face the band.  Position players in circle with the sound pointing inside the group, not away.  

4) Dampen drums with foam pads on top of skins.  Use roosticks.  Put a sleeping bag in the bass drum.

5) Your air conditioner or heating ducts are like giant drums that carry sound.  Wrap with heavy insulation and build these into soffits (boxes).  Remove boxy objects (Washer, dryer) from space, or cover with heavy blankets.  

6) Put the band in the center of the room, so you don't directly vibrate your walls, and surround with a heavy curtain.  Moving blankets are idea.  Soundproof the walls and ceilings as described by others.

7) Tighten any squeaky wooden walls, doors, or stairs with screws, to prevent unnecessary vibrations.

8) Measure the noise level inside & out with an inexpensive meter from RadioShack, before and after your soundproof.  (It's always important to capture unbiased data)

Minimize the hassles with neighbors by informing them all of your band plans, and setting reasonable expectations and limits about when & how loud you practice.

Rock & roll!

Answer 4

Insulation my friend, insulation. I built a home theater in the basement. I have 3 kids, late night movies with the surround cranked...........no one hears a thing. Insulation between the joists, make a HUGE difference.