How to Soundproof Your Recreation Room in Grand Rapids (Without Going Overboard)

Have you ever tried watching a movie in your rec room while your neighbor is mowing the lawn? Or maybe your kids are playing video games at full volume while someone’s trying to take a nap upstairs. That’s where soundproofing comes in—it’s one of the best things you can do to turn a noisy space into a relaxing retreat.

Whether your recreation room is for movie nights, workouts, music, or just hanging out, keeping the sound in (and outside noise out) makes the experience so much better—for you and everyone else in the house.

If you're in Grand Rapids, MI, where homes often share walls or sit close together, soundproofing isn't just a luxury—it can be a game-changer. Let’s walk through the most effective ways to make your rec room quieter, cozier, and more enjoyable.

1. Know What You’re Up Against: Absorbing vs. Blocking Sound

Before you run out and buy soundproofing materials, it’s important to get clear on what kind of noise problem you’re actually dealing with—because not all noise is created equal.

There are two main ways to tackle sound:

• Absorbing sound is all about quieting things down inside the room. If you notice echoes or a lot of bouncing noise when people talk or play music, you’ll want materials that soak that sound up—like plush rugs, thick curtains, or acoustic panels. Think soft, cushiony things that help “quiet the room.”
  
  
• Blocking sound is for keeping noise from getting in or out. This is more about adding barriers—like soundproof drywall, insulation, or solid-core doors. If your rec room activities are bothering someone in the next room (or vice versa), this is the route to go.
  
  

Most Grand Rapids homes benefit from a mix of both—some sound absorption to improve the acoustics inside the room, and some blocking to keep the rest of the house peaceful. It doesn’t have to be complicated—you just need to know which problem you're solving.

2. Start with the Usual Suspects: Windows and Doors

If noise is sneaking in or out of your rec room, chances are it’s coming through the windows and doors—they’re usually the biggest culprits.

For windows:
Heavy, insulated curtains are a simple first step. If you want to go further, consider window inserts or upgrading to double-pane glass. And don’t forget the small stuff—sealing cracks around the frame with acoustic caulk can really help.

For doors:
Thin, hollow-core doors don’t do much to stop sound. Swapping them for solid-core versions makes a noticeable difference. Add a door sweep at the bottom and weatherstripping around the edges to seal out the rest of the noise.

These fixes aren’t huge projects, but they can seriously upgrade the peace and quiet in your space.

3. Don’t Ignore the Walls (Drywall Doesn’t Mean Soundproof)

Just because your walls are finished doesn’t mean they’re stopping much sound. In fact, most standard walls let noise pass right through.

• Quick fix: Push bookshelves or heavy furniture up against the wall—they actually help block sound more than you’d think.
  
  
• Stylish option: Try hanging fabric wall art, thick tapestries, or decorative acoustic panels that double as décor.
  
  
• Renovating? That’s the perfect time to go bigger with soundproof drywall, resilient clips, or mass-loaded vinyl for a major noise barrier.
  
  

Even small tweaks can make a big difference in how your space sounds and feels.

4. Look Up—and Down: Sound Travels Vertically, Too

When it comes to soundproofing, it’s easy to focus on the walls and forget that noise moves through floors and ceilings just as easily.

For floors, throw down thick rugs or carpet with dense padding—especially helpful if you’ve got kids running around or a home gym setup. If you’re installing new flooring, look into soundproof underlayment to help absorb impact and vibration.

For ceilings, adding insulation between the joists is a simple way to reduce sound transfer. Acoustic ceiling tiles are another solid option, especially in basements. For bigger renovations, a dropped or decoupled ceiling can offer serious sound-blocking power.

5. Don’t Let Sound Slip Through the Cracks

It’s easy to forget, but even the smallest gaps can let in a surprising amount of noise. Sound doesn’t need much space to travel—think gaps around outlets, vents, baseboards, or light fixtures.

A little acoustic sealant and a few foam outlet gaskets can quietly (and affordably) make a big difference in keeping unwanted noise out—and your room’s sound in.

6. Quiet Can Look Good, Too: Soundproof with Style

Soundproofing doesn’t mean turning your rec room into a padded cell. You can keep things cozy and stylish while cutting down on noise.

Go for plush, upholstered furniture—it absorbs sound and feels inviting. Hang fabric wall art or even frame acoustic panels for a decorative twist. And don’t underestimate the power of heavy curtains in soft, textured fabrics like velvet—they look great and help muffle sound.

For a final touch, a simple white noise machine or a quiet fan can help smooth out any leftover background noise without taking away from the vibe. Stylish and peaceful? Yes, please.

7. Budget-Friendly to Big Upgrades—There’s an Option for Everyone

Soundproofing doesn’t have to mean tearing down walls or spending a fortune. You can make a real difference no matter your budget:

• Under $500: Small changes like thick curtains, rugs, door sweeps, and a few DIY acoustic panels can go a long way.
  
  
• $1,000–$2,500: Ready for a step up? Think new windows, solid-core doors, or adding insulation behind the walls.
  
  
• $5,000 and up: Go all-in with a full remodel—soundproof drywall, acoustic ceilings, or even custom design for home theaters or studios.
  
  

Start with the noise issues that bother you most, and build from there. You can always scale up later!

Ready to Soundproof Your Rec Room in Grand Rapids?

A quiet rec room means better movie nights, stress-free gaming, and fewer complaints from the rest of the household. And in a lively city like Grand Rapids, having a peaceful indoor space is a true upgrade.

If you're thinking about making your space more sound-friendly, we’ve got your back. At Grand Rapids Remodeling Pros, we specialize in home upgrades that actually improve your lifestyle—soundproofing included. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s turn your rec room into a soundproof sanctuary.