2. tech-talk
  3. 1234025873

Double width studs for isolation?

Before I drywall my new dedicated room I was wondering if it would be at all beneficial if I added an extra stud to each/some of my 24" on center studs to increase the amount of surface area the drywall was screwing into and thereby conceivably decreasing the "intensity" of energy transfer through them into the outside walls? My goal is to reduce noise transmission through the walls. I will be using 2 layers of 5/8" drywall with Green Glue between. It's not a lot of extra work and I already have some extra studs. Just a thought. Thanks. Grant
lissnr
lissnr OP
365 posts
 
Jea48, I just checked out the QuietRock 510, which is $$$ less than the 525 (it's 1/2") and looks very good too. It's said to be 4-6 times better than double drywall and only a couple of STC's less than the 525. 1/2" won't be to "fire code" though, as compared to 5/8" which is. It's in a detached garage... should that be an issue??? (No bathroom, bedroom, or anything... just a "Hang-out" room).Thanks, Grant
magfan
1,583 posts
 
Elevick, You completely misunderstood my post.
by 'stagger' I mean that there are 2 sets of studs, not studs at random intervals. Both sides of a dividing wall are NOT attached back to back on the same set of studs. This will couple them 100%.
Instead: try building 2 half-walls back to back. Total thickness should be maybe 6" using 2x4 studs. 1 set is covered by sheetrock facing room 'A'. A second set of studs *between* the first set and offset about 2" are used for the 2nd wall, being room 'B'. Weave a dense sound insulation/damper BETWEEN the 2 sets of offset studs.
The 2 walls are now decoupled..bass and have insulation between them...for HF.
BOTH walls will be 16"oncenter, but offset 8"......
Man, I wish I could attach a simple drawing!
zargon's avatar
zargon
453 posts
 

Here is a picture of staggered stud wall construction.

Wall Picture
larryi
3,787 posts
 
You need to get a good book and practical advice on construction for sound isolation. It is a complicated subject. Also, check out the following site for helpful advice:

http://www.soundproofing.org/index.html
bjesien
1,258 posts
 
Construction and insulation are most often left to idiots that build homes costing hundreds of dollars to heat or cool. Look to green building practices because they tend to match audiophile needs. Good houses are solid (Thermal mass), sealed, highly insulated from the outside, quiet, efficient and comfortable. Some can have highly integrated electronics that monitor heat and cooling systems. Most need active ventilation systems to bring in fresh air.
If you're not familiar with vapor barriers it's important to learn more or consult with a professional. Mold loves ignorance!
More to discover