One of the most common causes of tension between neighbors is noise, but a simple screw could be the key to avoiding disputes and improving coexistence. Listening to loud music or walking in high heels are major causes of anger in the community, especially late at night, and in some cases it is essential to find a solution that brings well-being to the home. Insulating walls may be one option, but there is also another solution to eliminate noise: a screw called ‘Sound Screw’ developed by the University of Malmö in Sweden.
It is a revolutionary invention that promises to reduce noise by almost half. This innovative system is designed for wooden houses, which tend to have more acoustic problems than those made of concrete. Furthermore, unlike other solutions, such as cork panels, it does not take up any space. The screw, designed with a spring inside, is very easy to install and does not require any special tools or training, making it an accessible option for improving sound insulation in homes.
The ultimate invention for reducing noise from neighbors
A screw designed by researchers at Malmö University in Sweden could revolutionize the soundproofing of walls and ceilings, significantly reducing noise from neighbors or nearby construction work. Endorsed by the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences, this system is mainly aimed at older homes with wooden structures, where acoustic problems are greater than in concrete buildings.
The screw, named “Sound Screw,” has a very unique design, with a spring in the center that acts as a shock absorber for sound waves. When fixed into the wood, the screw allows the surfaces to be mechanically connected, but without allowing sound to travel through them.
This system has been tested in the laboratory and has shown a reduction of nine decibels compared to a traditional wall, which means a significant decrease in perceived noise. In addition, the developers claim that it is easy to install and does not require special tools.
Precisely, one of the main advantages of this screw is that it does not require major construction work or the replacement of existing materials. Simply replace conventional screws with “Sound Screws” to improve soundproofing.
“With our screw, plasterboard can be mounted directly on the walls, freeing up floor space, and a square meter of floor space can be worth thousands of euros,” explains Håkan Wernersson, the lead author of the research and professor in the Department of Materials Science and Applied Mathematics at Malmö University in Sweden, according to El Confidencial.
Although it is not yet available, the company created by the researchers, Akoustos, is working on its commercialization.
Ideas for soundproofing your home without spending a lot of money
If you have problems with noise from neighbors, there are simple and effective solutions to soundproof your home without spending a lot of money on construction or renovations.
One effective option is to cover the walls with solid wood. This material can reduce noise by up to 20 decibels, muffling everyday sounds such as a washing machine. In addition, installing wood panels is quick and does not require major construction work.
Another alternative is to cover the walls with cork sheets. Cork is an excellent acoustic insulator, reducing outside sound and vibrations by up to 35 decibels. This material adapts very well to different styles of decoration, so in addition to being functional, it is also aesthetically pleasing.
Painting the walls with microsphere paints is also an interesting solution. These paints contain ceramic bubbles that act as sound dampeners, and when several coats are applied, a chamber is created that blocks the propagation of noise.
If the noise is coming from the floor, layering two thick rugs can be a good option. This strategy helps to dampen both impact noise and conversations or the sound of the television. Using carpets with different textures can improve not only the insulation but also the aesthetics of the space.
Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves are also very useful for soundproofing a room. By creating an air chamber between the wall and the books, noises are muffled, especially if they are placed on the wall shared with the source of the noise. It is an economical and decorative solution.
Finally, if the noise is coming from the doors, installing acoustic weatherstripping can be a great help. This seals the doors, preventing sound from spreading throughout the house. Placing weatherstripping on exterior and interior doors significantly improves the insulation of the home.
With these simple renovations, it is possible to significantly reduce noise and achieve a quieter environment without making major structural changes.
