How do you soundproof a staircase?

Soundproofing a staircase is an important measure for creating a more comfortable and quiet indoor environment. Stairs are one of the most common sources of unwanted noise in homes, offices, and public buildings, and the noise can be perceived as disturbing both within the same floor and between different levels of the building. The sound from stairs spreads both as airborne sound, when, for example, conversations and footsteps echo through the space, and as structure-borne sound, when vibrations from footsteps and movements are transmitted through the structure of the building. To achieve effective soundproofing, a combination of the right materials and techniques is required to absorb and block sound.

One of the most effective ways to soundproof a staircase is to use vibration-damping materials under the steps. By applying sound-absorbing layers between the staircase structure and the step surface, you can minimize the vibrations that would otherwise spread through the building. This can be achieved by using springy insulation layers or sound-absorbing mats that absorb the energy from the steps. If the staircase is made of wood, it can be reinforced with sound-insulating boards or sealing materials that reduce resonance and make the structure more stable.

To reduce airborne sound, it is important to cover hard surfaces with sound-absorbing materials. If the staircase has open steps, sound waves can move freely through the space, amplifying the sound. Installing a sound-absorbing carpet or sound-absorbing coating on the steps can help reduce sound reflections and create a more subdued sound environment. In some cases, it may also be beneficial to cover the underside of the stairs with sound-absorbing panels to further reduce the noise level.

Another important aspect of sound insulation is preventing sound leakage around the stairs. If there are gaps between the steps and the walls, or if the stairs are mounted directly against a hard surface, sound can easily be transmitted through these openings. By sealing all joints and gaps with acoustic sealants or flexible insulation materials, you can effectively reduce sound transmission and prevent sound from leaking between floors.

For stairs in apartment buildings or office spaces where noise levels are particularly important, you can also consider building a decoupled structure around the stairs. This means that the stairs are installed using sound-absorbing fasteners that reduce contact between the stairs and the building frame, which in turn reduces vibrations and sound transmission. This method is particularly useful in buildings where it is important to minimize disturbances from movements in the stairwell.

By combining several of these measures, you can create more effective sound insulation and reduce the disturbing noises that stairs often generate. Investing in sound insulation not only improves the living and working environment, but can also contribute to increased well-being and comfort for everyone in the building.

The advantages of soundproofing a staircase

Soundproofing a staircase is an important measure for creating a more comfortable and quiet indoor environment. Stairs are often one of the biggest sources of noise in a building, as the sound of footsteps, conversations, and vibrations can spread both within the same floor and between different levels of the building. When the noise level is reduced, the living and working environment becomes calmer, and disturbances such as echoing footsteps or scraping sounds from shoe soles are minimized.

Reduced sound transmission between floors
One of the most noticeable benefits of soundproofing a staircase is that it reduces sound transmission between floors. Sound can spread both as airborne sound and as structure-borne sound through the building's construction. When footfall noise travels through the staircase material and on through floors and walls, it can cause disturbance to those on other floors. By using sound-absorbing materials on the steps and sealing joints, the noise level can be reduced, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

Reduced reverberation and echo – a more pleasant sound environment
Stairwells and open staircases often have hard surfaces that reflect sound, amplifying it and creating an unpleasant reverberation. When sound bounces between walls, floors, and ceilings, even small sounds such as footsteps or conversations can be perceived as loud and intrusive. Soundproofing the staircase and using sound-absorbing materials such as carpets or panels reduces reverberation and makes the sound environment more pleasant. Conversations also become easier to hear without voices being amplified and echoing through the building.

Better living environment with fewer disturbances
In apartment buildings and office buildings, noise from stairs can be a source of irritation. Footsteps and movements in the stairwell can be heard in adjacent homes and workspaces, especially in the evenings and at night. Soundproofing the stairs reduces these disturbances, allowing residents to enjoy a quieter and more relaxed environment. For property owners and housing associations, this can be an important investment in increasing comfort and quality of life.

Reduced transmission of vibrations and structure-borne noise
Stairs can transmit vibrations through the building's structure, especially if they are made of wood or metal. These vibrations can cause low-frequency noise that is difficult to block. By using sound-absorbing layers between the staircase structure and the step surface, these vibrations can be reduced, preventing sound from spreading through the building. In combination with springy insulation materials and sealing compounds, the sound environment becomes more controlled and comfortable.

A quieter and more functional working environment
In workplaces where offices are located near a staircase, the noise level can affect productivity and concentration. The sound of people walking on the stairs, conversations, and doors opening and closing can create distractions during the working day. Soundproofing the staircase creates a more focused and professional working environment where employees can work undisturbed.

Increased property value and attractiveness
Properties with good sound insulation are perceived as more attractive, both for home buyers and tenants. A quieter environment is an important factor when choosing a place to live or work, and a well-soundproofed staircase can contribute to a higher perceived quality of the property. For property owners, this can be a long-term investment that increases the value of the building and improves living comfort.

A safer environment for everyone
High noise levels in stairwells can affect safety, especially for children, the elderly, and people with hearing impairments. When the sound environment is more controlled, it becomes easier to hear important sounds such as doorbells, announcements, or conversations. This can be particularly valuable in schools, nursing homes, and other public environments where clear communication is important.

By soundproofing a stairwell, you can create a quieter, more pleasant, and functional environment that improves both the living and working environment. Investing in soundproofing stairwells is a long-term solution that increases both comfort and property value.

Step-by-step: How to soundproof a staircase effectively

Soundproofing a staircase is crucial for reducing structure-borne and airborne noise from footsteps and movements between floors. Stairs are one of the biggest sources of noise in homes, offices, and public buildings.

Here we go through two different approaches:

1. Soundproofing an existing staircase

2. Soundproofing a newly installed or custom-built staircase

By following this guide, you will achieve a quieter and more comfortable staircase environment.

Part 1: Soundproofing an existing staircase

If you already have a staircase installed and want to reduce the sound of footsteps and vibrations, you can use the following methods:

Step 1: Identify the noise problems in the staircase

Before you begin, it is important to understand what noise problems need to be solved.

Airborne noise
For example, conversations, footsteps, or other sounds that spread through the air.

Structure-borne noise
Vibrations that travel through the staircase structure and on to the walls and floor.

By combining sound-insulating materials with vibration-damping solutions, you can effectively reduce both types of noise.

Step 2: Soundproof the stair treads

The stair treads are the biggest source of noisy footsteps and vibrations.

Step 2.1: Use vibration-damping layers
Install SilentDirect MLV and SilentDirect Neo between the stair treads and the structure to absorb vibrations and minimize sound transmission. The appropriate thickness for Neo is 4 mm or 7 mm.

Step 2.2: Increase the mass of the stair treads for better sound insulation
Apply SilentDirect MLV or SilentDirect Polaric under the stair treads to block sound transmission.

Step 2.3: Install sound-absorbing mats or anti-slip protection
By covering the steps with mats or textile coverings, you can dampen direct sound from footsteps.

Step 3: Soundproof the underside of the stairs

If the staircase is open underneath or has a hollow construction, sound can easily pass through it.

Step 3.1: Install sound-insulating material on the underside
SilentDirect MLV or SilentDirect Polaric act as a sound barrier and can be installed directly on the underside of the stairs.

Step 3.2: Dampen vibrations from fastenings and screw joints
SilentDirect Neo reduces sound transmission from the staircase's fastenings to the wall or floor.

Step 4: Seal all joints and seams

Gaps and openings can cause significant sound leakage.

Step 4.1: Apply SilentDirect Seal to all joints and seams
SilentDirect Seal is a self-adhesive sealing strip that prevents sound leakage in joints.

Step 4.2: Use sealant where SilentDirect Seal is not suitable
For example, use mounting adhesive or another sealing product to seal smaller openings.

Step 5: Soundproof the staircase surroundings

If the staircase is located in a room with hard surfaces, sound can bounce and be amplified.

Step 5.1: Install sound absorbers on the walls
SilentDirect PES Wall or PES Wall Fabric helps to reduce echoes and sound reflections.

Step 5.2: Install sound absorbers on the ceiling
SilentDirect PES Ceiling or PES Ceiling Fabric absorbs sound and prevents sound from bouncing in the stairwell.

Part 2: Soundproofing a newly installed or custom-built staircase

If you are building a completely new staircase, you can soundproof it from the ground up with the right design and materials.

Step 1: Choose the right design

A staircase with a stable frame and minimal contact with walls and floors provides better sound insulation.

- Build a decoupled staircase construction where the staircase is not directly connected to the wall or floor.

- Use SilentDirect Neo between the staircase fixings and the wall/floor to reduce structure-borne noise.

Step 2: Dampen stair treads and landings

Step 2.1: Use SilentDirect Neo under each stair tread
Place Neo between the stair treads and the staircase structure to prevent structure-borne noise.

Step 2.2: Install SilentDirect MLV under the steps
SilentDirect MLV increases the mass of the steps and prevents sound transmission.

Step 3: Soundproof the underside of the staircase

If the staircase is open underneath, install SilentDirect MLV or SilentDirect Polaric on the underside.

Step 4: Seal joints and fastenings

SilentDirect Seal should be used on all joints and fastenings to minimize sound leakage. Where SilentDirect Seal is not suitable, use a sealant such as mounting adhesive.

Step 5: Soundproof the surrounding area

Install sound-absorbing material on walls and ceilings to reduce reverberation.

Product features and benefits

SilentDirect Neo
- Reduces structure-borne noise and vibrations from the staircase.
- Creates an effective sound barrier between the stair treads and the structure.

SilentDirect MLV & SilentDirect Polaric
- Blocks sound transmission by increasing the mass of the stair treads.
- Reduces resonance and reduces sound propagation in the structure.

SilentDirect Seal (Self-adhesive sealing strip in NBR rubber)
- Easy to install thanks to self-adhesive backing.
- Prevents sound leakage through joints and seams.

SilentDirect PES Wall & PES Ceiling
- Absorbs sound reflections in stairwells.
- Creates pleasant acoustics and reduces reverberation.

Result – A quieter and more pleasant stairwell environment

- Reduced structure-borne noise and fewer vibrations from footsteps.

- Blocked sound transmission through the staircase structure.

- Sound-absorbing surfaces for a more pleasant sound environment.

- Improved comfort in both private and public environments.

Did you know that..

Can stairs amplify sound instead of just transporting it? Many people believe that the sound of footsteps is only due to the material of the stairs themselves, but in reality, many stairs act as giant resonance chambers where vibrations spread throughout the entire building. That's why you can often hear someone walking on the stairs long before you see them—the sound travels both through the air and through the structure itself!

Soundproofing a staircase is more about stopping vibrations than dampening sound in the air. If the steps are mounted rigidly against the wall or have a hollow construction, each step can create a "drum effect" where sound waves are amplified rather than dampened. By using nitrile rubber (NBR) as a damping layer between the steps and the frame, you can significantly reduce the transmission of structure-borne sound.

A soft material on top of the stairs often does more than just dampen footsteps – it also reduces vibrations inside the steps! A stair mat, cork layer, or sound-absorbing coating can absorb a large part of the energy from each step and reduce the spread of sound to the rest of the house.

So next time you are disturbed by noise from a staircase, remember that it is not just a matter of silencing the steps, but of breaking the sound's path through the entire structure. And the right material in the right place can make a bigger difference than you think!

Products that are good for soundproofing a staircase

Soundproofing a staircase is an important measure for reducing both impact noise and structure-borne noise that spreads through the building structure. Impact noise occurs when footsteps hit the stair treads, while structure-borne noise propagates through the material and can be transmitted to walls, floors, and ceilings. By using the right soundproofing materials, you can effectively reduce noise and vibrations, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment. Here are the best products for soundproofing a staircase.

SilentDirect Polaric damping mat
SilentDirect Polaric is a heavy damping mat made from a butyl blend with a durable aluminum surface. It is used to seal and dampen vibrations in stair treads, making it an ideal solution for reducing noise from foot traffic. Installing SilentDirect Polaric under the stair treads creates a more effective sound barrier that absorbs vibrations and reduces structure-borne noise. The product can also be applied to the underside of the stairs to further reduce resonance and sound transmission to surrounding areas.

SilentDirect MLV
SilentDirect MLV (Mass Loaded Vinyl) is a heavy, flexible sound barrier that reduces sound transmission through stair treads and stair structures. By installing SilentDirect MLV between the stair treads and the underlying structure, you can block both airborne sound and structure-borne sound. This product also works well for covering the underside of stairs, especially in buildings where sound propagates through thin structures. SilentDirect MLV is also ideal for soundproofing stairwells and minimizing sound leakage to adjacent rooms.

SilentDirect Egg
SilentDirect Egg is a high-density sound insulation product made of NBR rubber (nitrile rubber). The product is used effectively inside stair structures to reduce resonance and sound transmission between steps and stair walls. By installing SilentDirect Egg on the interior parts of the structure, sound waves are prevented from propagating through the building frame. Its high density also makes it effective as a vibration-damping solution at stair attachments.

SilentDirect Neo
SilentDirect Neo is a flat sound-insulating mat made of NBR rubber, perfect for reducing vibrations and sound transmission between the different surfaces of the staircase. The product works best when installed under the stair covering or between the steps and the supporting structure. This helps to minimize footfall noise and prevent sound from propagating through the building. SilentDirect Neo is particularly effective in apartment buildings and commercial buildings where stairs are often a source of noise.

SilentDirect Seal
SilentDirect Seal is a flexible sealing strip made of nitrile rubber (NBR), which is used to seal joints and penetrations in the staircase structure. By applying SilentDirect Seal along joints and connections between steps and walls, you can effectively reduce airborne sound and vibrations. The sealing strip is particularly important for ensuring that no sound leakage occurs at the step fixings and for creating more comprehensive sound insulation in the stairwell area.

SilentDirect Dampio
SilentDirect Dampio are vibration-damping plates that reduce high-frequency vibrations in stair treads and stair construction. By placing Dampio between the stair treads and the supporting structure, resonance and unwanted sound transmission can be minimized. The product is also used to stabilize stairs that tend to creak and make noise when loaded. SilentDirect Dampio is particularly useful in wooden stairs and other structures where structure-borne sound is a problem.