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In Singapore’s densely built environment, especially within HDB flats and condominium apartments, noise can be a real challenge. Here are the three most common sources of noise that residents often encounter.
Neighbour noise is arguably the most frequent source of disturbance. It includes footsteps from upper floors (especially in flats with tile or laminate flooring), dragging furniture, loud conversations, children playing, or even the occasional late-night karaoke session. Due to the shared walls and ceilings in many HDB and condo units, sound easily travels between units—more so in older buildings with less sound insulation.
For HDB or condo units located near major roads, expressways, MRT lines, or bus stops, external noise from vehicles is a daily issue. Honking, engine revving, and even the rhythmic sound of buses braking can be clearly heard, especially if the windows are single-glazed or not properly sealed. This type of noise is particularly intrusive during peak hours and in units facing main thoroughfares.
Singapore is constantly developing, and it’s not uncommon to have ongoing construction nearby—whether it’s a new BTO block, condo development, or a neighbour doing home renovations. Drilling, hacking, and machinery noise can be very disruptive, especially during the day. HDB regulations limit noisy works to specific hours, but even within those times, the impact can be significant.
How to soundproof your house in Singapore? There are several ways you can consider:
Get Double-Glazed Windows
Windows are a major source of external noise infiltration, especially in urban areas. While replacing them with double-glazed windows is effective, it can be costly and may require approval from building management. An alternative is to retrofit existing windows with solutions like Magnetite’s retrofit double glazing system. This system adds an acrylic panel over your current window, reducing noise by up to 70% without altering the building’s façade—ideal for condominiums with strict exterior guidelines.
Seal Gaps Around Windows & Doors
Even small gaps can allow significant noise to enter your home.Installing soundproof door strips or seals can be an affordable and effective solution.These strips, made from rubber or foam, can be easily applied to door frames and window sashes to block out noise.Prices range from SGD 3.69 to SGD 10 per metre, making it a cost-effective DIY project.
Build False Ceilings with Insulation
Add insulation to your walls and ceilings (create a false ceiling) to increase its density. This reduces sound peneration from external airborne noise. A common wall insulation material is mineral wool. Mineral wool reduces penetration by three to five decibels. Unfortunately, mineral wool tends to degenerate over time as it is made of natural material.
An alternative to mineral wool is polyurethane foam. In comparison to mineral wool, polyurethane foam can reduce sound penetration by up to 17 decibles depending on its thickness, and will not degenerate. Try Vicycle (more commonly used in the construction phase of your home) and ISO Blanket (can be added to your wall) from US company Vicoustic, available at JD Acoustic.
Solid Core Doors
Standard HDB doors are often hollow and allow sound to pass through easily.Replacing them with solid-core doors can significantly reduce noise transmission.Alternatively, adding acoustic seals or drop seals to existing doors can help block sound leakage.These solutions are less invasive and more budget-friendly, with drop seals providing an automatic seal when the door is closed.
Laminate Glass, Double-Glazed Doors
Choose windows and doors with good sound-insulation like those that are double-glazed and use laminate glass. Thanks to their multi-chambered sections and compression gaskets, such doors and windows reduces heat transfer and blocks out noise when shut. If you're not keen on replacing your doors, minimise the gap between the door and floor by adding rubber or plastic seals readily found at DIY stores.
Acoustic Wall Panels
For internal noise reduction and improved room acoustics, consider installing acoustic wall panels.These panels absorb sound waves, reducing echoes and reverberations.They come in various designs and colours, allowing you to enhance your room’s aesthetics while improving sound quality.Options are available on platforms like Lazada and Shopee, with prices starting around SGD 16.26 for a set of panels.
Sound Insulation Products
If you prefer not to do any renovation work, consider getting modular sound insulation products that can be easily added or removed. Products like the Buzzi Booth and Buzzi Hub from Belgium-based company, Buzzi Space, promises a more comfortable, noise-free environment while seated within the booth.
Carpets and Vinyl Floorings with Sound Insulation
Disturbed by vibrations from nearby train tracks, highways, and busy roads? Try carpeting your entire home. Supplement this with a layer of insulation like ISO Underfloor, also by Vicoustic. An alternative would be vinyl flooring by Formica as it also has sound insulation properties (and finishes that mimic the look of real wood!).
Heavy Curtains
Soft furnishings can significantly dampen noise within a room.Thick, heavy curtains, especially those made from materials like suede or velvet, can block external noise and reduce internal echoes.Similarly, plush rugs or carpets can absorb sound, particularly on hard flooring surfaces.IKEA offers affordable options such as the Marjun curtains for SGD 99, which are effective in noise reduction.