Soundproof Wallpaper: Is It Effective? What Wallpaper Works Best?

Soundproof wallpapers are a great way to soundproof your walls and ceiling.

Most of the time, they are mentioned in comparison to soundproof foam and soundproof paints.

But do soundproof wallpapers really work? If so, how well?

In this article, we’ll do a review of how effective soundproof wallpapers are. We would also show you where to get it and how to install them on your wall or ceiling.

Mikkel Holm, Founder of TheDIYClub.com

Let’s get started! ?

What are soundproof wallpapers?

Soundproof or acoustic wallpapers are wallpapers with foam instead of paper.

They are basically soundproof foams for walls with less foam. Specifically, they have closed-cell polyethylene foam while most soundproof foams are open-celled. Some soundproof wallpapers also have slippery latex.

Acoustic wallpapers are shaped like a brick wall for aesthetics. Though shaped like bricks, they’re actually soft to the touch.

In comparison to soundproof paints, acoustic wallpapers are pricier. They are also more durable and easier to clean. Most brands refer to their products as “waterproof”.

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The problem, though, is on their adhesives. You shouldn’t use them in steamy rooms like kitchens or bathrooms since the moisture might mess up with the adhesive.

How do soundproof wallpapers work?

When you think about it, soundproof wallpapers are really thin. And obviously, when it comes to soundproofing, the thicker the better.

So how do these thin soundproof barriers work?

Although acoustic wallpapers have nice designs to it, the materials underneath the top layer can dampen noises to a degree.

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The layers inside help break and disrupt sound waves as they go through the wallpaper.

art3d feel and stick 3d wall panels for interior wall decor

Some wallpapers have a sort of insulation inside which also helps dampen noises.

What are the benefits of acoustic wallpapers?

Why are soundproof wallpapers popular? What are some of the advantages of acoustic wallpapers?

Before we spill how effective these wallpapers are, let’s first discuss its benefits:

1. Affordable

The primary benefit of acoustic wallpapers is the price. Compared with other soundproofing solutions, soundproof wallpapers are significantly cheaper.

2. Stylish

Essentially, soundproof wallpapers are regular wallpapers, but with foam instead of paper. Of all soundproofing solutions, wallpapers are the most pleasing to the eyes.

3. Increased Stereo Experience

Soundproof wallpapers improve the acoustics inside a room. That means, your entertainment experience (movies and music) will become better and more enjoyable.

4. Hassle-free installation

As you’ll see below, installing acoustic wallpapers is quick and easy. Cut, peel, and stick. That’s all there is to it!

How to install soundproof wallpapers?

Installing acoustic wallpapers is very easy.

Basically, there’s no difference in installing a soundproof wallpaper and a regular one.

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Steps in installing soundproof wallpapers:

  1. Measure: Before cutting, measure the wall and see how many tiles it takes to cover the wall. Don’t think of cutting the wallpaper once you stick it to the wall.
  2. Clean: Make sure there is no dust in the walls or wherever you’re planning to stick the wallpaper. Dust could mess up the adhesives.
  3. Cut: Now is the time to cut the tiles into the appropriate sizes.
  4. Peel and stick: At the back of the wallpaper tiles, peel the paper sticker. Gently, stick the wallpaper on a flat surface. Make sure everything is in the desired alignment before proceeding.
  5. Push: Press the wallpaper tiles to make sure they stick properly.

Where can you find soundproof wallpapers?

You can find lots of wallpapers online or at your nearest hardware store. But not all of them offer soundproof capabilities.

As promised, here are 3 soundproof wallpapers you can order right now:

Art3d 3D Wall Panels for Interior Wall Decor

These interior wallpapers sold by Art3d come in a box of 11 wall tiles in white color.

The seemingly 3d designs offer great visuals. The wall tiles are also light, water-proof, and have anti-collision properties.

art3d white brick wallpaper

In addition, you can install Art3d wallpapers in just minutes. You can place it over clean and sleek surfaces without using any specialized tools. If you wish so, you can put them directly over existing panels.

Mikkel Holm, Founder of TheDIYClub.com

Technical details:

  • Dimensions: 30.3 x 27.3 x 0.3 inches
  • Item Weight: 9 ounces
  • No. of pieces: 11
  • Price: $50-$60
  • Source: Amazon

Arthome White Brick 3D Wall Panels

Arthome’s wall panels are made of soft polyethylene (PE) foam.

If you’re not familiar with this material, it’s a durable, lightweight, resilient, and closed-cell often used in packaging goods.

PE foam has great vibration dampening as well as insulation properties.

Arthome made sure to mention that their product is safe to use without the presence (detection) of harmful heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury.

Mikkel Holm, Founder of TheDIYClub.com

Technical details:

  • Dimensions: 27 x 31.2 x 0.3 inches
  • Item Weight: 4 pounds
  • No. of pieces: 10 (also comes in 5)
  • Price: $30-$60
  • Source: Amazon

VViViD 3D Foam Wall Paintable Panel

Vvivid’s foam walls add style and safety to your home. It has a great combination of aesthetics and safety.

Out of the 3 listed here, Vvivid’s wallpapers are the thickest at around 4 inches. The rest don’t even make it to an inch!

vvivid self adhesive faux brick white foam wall paintable panel

Each panel, which can easily be cut by hand, is great for the walls and corners in your house. In addition, it’s paintable (acrylic-based) to fit any theme you like.

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The panels are also great for kids. They don’t have any harmful heavy metal which make them perfectly safe around kids.

Technical details:

  • Dimensions: 32 x 28.5 x 4 inches
  • Item Weight: 6.5 pounds
  • No. of pieces: 10
  • Price: $35-$60
  • Source: Amazon

How effective are acoustic wallpapers?

Here’s your most awaited part — how effective soundproof wallpapers are in hushing the noises coming from your neighbor next door?

To be honest…only to a certain extent.

Well, since soundproof wallpapers do have the word “soundproof” its name, they can reduce the noise from outside a little.

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Technically, soundproof wallpapers aren’t meant to block noises from the outside (or keep noise inside the room). It’s intended use is to improve the acoustics inside of a room.

But don’t be discouraged! These wallpapers can really take away low, background ambient noises.

They are also good at dampening midrange frequencies (300 Hz to 5,000 Hz). According to SVS, 80% of all sound in music and home-theaters belong in the midrange.

In short, although soundproof wallpapers can’t block noises from the partying neighbor next door, they can give you noise protection against conversations-you-don’t-have-to-hear next door as well as 80% of the sound coming from your neighbor’s entertainment system.

Is it worth it?

Soundproof wallpapers, on a certain extent, provide protection against noises. If you’re main goal is to soundproof a room, acoustic wallpapers will not be able to soundproof it adequately.

But if your purpose leans more on decorative purposes with the added benefit of soundproofing, acoustic wallpaper is the answer.

The key to selecting the right material is to understand first what your main problem or goal is. Then, proceed by getting to know the main purpose of each option.

Mikkel Holm, Founder of TheDIYClub.com