Traffic noise, passing planes, loud neighbors, barking dogs — there are so many sources of unwanted noise that it’s a wonder some of us get any peace and quiet! That’s why today’s builders, designers, and building codes in some areas increasingly emphasize home soundproofing with options like noise-reducing siding.
When used in conjunction with other noise-cancelling measures, the right siding can keep your home peaceful — even in environments notorious for noise pollution. Below, we’ll show you how different types of siding perform, which options work best, and some tips and tricks that will help your noise-reducing siding perform even better.
Does Siding Reduce Outside Noise?
The answer depends on both the type of siding and the type of noise. The general rule of thumb for siding and noise reduction works like this:
- Thin materials: Aluminum and vinyl siding do little on their own to reduce most types of noise, and can even amplify certain sounds.
- Thick materials: Fiber cement and wood siding are more effective at dampening sound than thinner materials, but not ideal in areas with high levels of noise pollution.
- Insulated materials: Insulated steel siding that features a layer of foam backing offers the strongest soundproofing.
Now, let’s take a closer look at how each category performs in real-world conditions.
Aluminum and vinyl siding are considered quite noisy because thin materials struggle to absorb and dampen sound waves from sources like traffic or loud neighbors. With more direct sources of noise, like wind and rain pounding on the siding, these materials can actually amplify the noise, just as a drumhead amplifies drumbeats. The thinness of these materials can also lead to lots of creaking and groaning as they flex in high winds.
Wood and fiber cement siding perform better because the thicker materials are better at absorbing and dampening sounds from sources such as traffic, noisy neighbors, and even rain. They’re also less likely to creak and groan in the wind. However, wood expands and contracts with changes in moisture and temperature, which can cause creaking and popping sounds.
Insulated steel siding and insulated vinyl siding are the best performers because their multi-layer designs create a more thorough sound barrier against external noise. The foam backing layer helps absorb all types of sound, including that caused by traffic, neighbors, wind, and rain. Insulated steel is generally even better than insulated vinyl because it’s not as flexible, so it doesn’t creak as much in the wind.
What Is Soundproof Siding?
Unfortunately, there’s no type of siding that’s fully soundproof. Instead, exterior walls function as assemblies, meaning that every component of the wall structure plays a vital role in reducing sound transmission. Exterior siding is just one of those components.
So how do you design a wall assembly with improved soundproofing? Consider the following:
- Drywall: Thicker drywall absorbs and distributes sound waves more effectively than thinner wallboards.
- Studs: Steel studs absorb and dampen unwanted noise more effectively than wood studs.
- Insulation: Thicker, more energy-efficient fiberglass insulation typically reduces noise levels more efficiently than minimal insulation — and you can also opt for specialized soundproofing insulation made from mineral wool or cellulose that reduces noise transmission even more while keeping indoor temperatures comfortable.
- Soundproofing: While generally not required, homeowners concerned about noise can add an extra layer of soundproofing, such as acoustic wall panels or flexible sound barriers, to reduce noise transmission.
- Sheathing: Sheathing reduces sound transmission by adding extra mass and stiffness to the wall assembly. Thicker sheathing, like 7/8-inch plywood or OSB, provides better sound insulation than lighter materials.
- Siding: As noted above, certain types of siding block sound better than others. The best noise-reducing siding is insulated steel, which features a foam insulation layer that enhances both energy efficiency and soundproofing capabilities.
- Windows and doors: Look for multi-layered designs (for example, triple-pane windows with laminated glass). They should also feature weatherstripping that ensures a tight seal, improving energy efficiency and reducing sound transmission.
While most building materials don’t have individual soundproofing ratings, some do — especially windows and doors. To learn more about whether a material has been tested for soundproofing, check for a sound transmission class (STC) or outdoor-indoor transmission class (OITC) rating. Materials with higher ratings provide superior noise reduction.
How Does Insulated Steel Siding Help With Noise?
Of all the siding materials available, insulated steel siding offers some of the best protection possible against noise — and that’s largely because of its insulating foam backing layer. For example, TruLog’s insulated steel siding comes with foam backing, giving it an R-value of 4. While this design was originally intended to help homeowners achieve greater energy savings by reducing thermal transfer, it also effectively absorbs and dampens sound waves.
However, that isn’t the only way that TruLog’s steel siding helps to reduce noise. The material’s design and durability also contribute to a quieter home. Where thin, weak materials like traditional vinyl siding can creak and groan as they flex under the pressure of blowing wind, TruLog steel siding is stiffer and stronger, which makes it less likely to be noisy. It’s also a panel product, which means that there are fewer gaps that need to be sealed with acoustic caulk, especially compared to siding types like wood lap or shingles.
With proper installation, our siding products snap together to create a tight fit, which also helps reduce noise. This means that the wind won’t catch the siding, a common cause of whistling or moaning sounds on windy days. It also ensures that the siding doesn’t shift and flex during temperature swings, a common cause of popping or “house settling” sounds.
Tips and Tricks to Maximize Noise Reduction
Choosing the right siding will go a long way toward creating a quieter home — but if you want to maximize noise reduction, consider the following tips and tricks. Each will help you create a more soundproof wall assembly during the new siding installation process.
- Add soundproofing layers: Invest in noise-reducing panels or a soundproofing underlayment to install over sheathing and absorb more vibrations.
- Upgrade insulation: If you’re undertaking a larger home improvement project, consider upgrading to dense-pack insulation such as mineral wool or cellulose fibers to fill wall cavities.
- Seal gaps: Use acoustic caulk or foam sealant to close as many gaps as possible around windows, doors, electrical boxes, or any other openings in the home’s exterior.
- Upgrade windows and doors: Look for double or triple-pane windows and either solid-core or insulated steel doors.
- Maintain weatherstripping: Keep windows and doors sealed tight with weatherstripping, which blocks drafts and sound.
Create a Quieter, More Comfortable Home With TruLog Steel Siding
Noise-reducing siding options like TruLog’s insulated steel siding can work wonders to help minimize outdoor sounds in your home. To create a truly quiet and comfortable interior, try combining noise-reducing siding with a few other soundproofing techniques and materials, like high-density insulation, acoustic caulk, and soundproofing underlayment.
Each of these components will work together to create an ideal environment. Inside, you’ll enjoy peace and quiet along with improved energy efficiency. TruLog steel siding will also ensure your home’s exterior has fantastic curb appeal, low maintenance, and ample durability, while helping to absorb vibrations and dampen outdoor noise.
Ready to learn more about TruLog steel siding? Download our free catalog to discover beautiful colors and styles made for your home.
