The notion that egg cartons can effectively soundproof walls has been widely accepted by many, including myself in the past. However, it should be noted that these materials can only offer limited soundproofing.
This article will provide an overview of the benefits of egg cartons and instructions for their use.
When assessing soundproofing options for walls, it is common to consider egg cartons and trays made from recycled paper due to their acoustic properties of dense paper fibers. However, alternatives such as foam and plastic should not be disregarded, as they may still provide some degree of soundproofing.
It is believed that the concept of using egg cartons for soundproofing stemmed from the likeness of their pattern to certain acoustic foam products. This article will provide an analysis of the differences between acoustic foam and egg cartons.
Egg Cartons and Acoustic Foam provide soundproofing properties
Acoustic Foam Products
Acoustic foam products are crafted from open-cell polyurethane foam, and when installed on walls, act as a sound buffer, absorbing sound energy before it can reach the hard surface. The soft, dense foam effectively reduces sound transmission.
Nevertheless, it will not be effective in preventing sound from entering the room.
Acoustic foam may not be the ideal solution for soundproofing a room, but it can certainly improve the acoustics within. Furthermore, the aesthetic appeal of acoustic foam is more attractive than the use of egg crates.
When it comes to acoustic foam, there is a multitude of sizes, shapes, and even colors which can be utilized. However, one of the most iconic designs is the egg crate formation.
To conclude, foam products encompass a wide range of items.
Despite its shape, acoustic foam is effective due to properties other than its pyramid shape. There are multiple foam products that work effectively and aren’t in this shape. Furthermore, egg crates may have that shape, but don’t possess the qualities of other foam products.
The acoustic materials are neither soft, thick, nor dense — characteristics that are essential for optimal performance.
Crate Egg Cartons
In my discourse on affordable soundproofing techniques, I mentioned the potential of employing egg cartons as a viable strategy. This is due to their construction from densely-packed paper fibers, which could potentially ameliorate the acoustic quality in a room. Of course, this method is far from ideal.
In comparison to acoustic foam, egg cartons provide an alternative solution.
Egg cartons may be easy to find and somewhat effective, but they are quite challenging to mount on walls or other surfaces. Unlike acoustic foam, which has a smooth back that can easily be affixed with adhesive, egg cartons possess a pattern on both sides making installation difficult.
Nevertheless, it remains possible to affix these items to walls.
Stick Egg Cartons to Your Wall
If you have decided to utilize the egg cartons and trays you have obtained, I can provide guidance on the best approach.
For mounting egg cartons to a wall, there are a few adhesive methods to consider, such as super glue, industrial spray adhesive, duct tape, nails, or thumbtacks.
Prior to beginning, it is important to ensure the egg cartons are clean. Discard any eggshells, dirt, and residue on foam or paper cartons.
Using foam egg cartons will facilitate the task, as they are readily washable.
Paper cartons can be difficult to clean and may retain unpleasant odors, so it is advisable to discard them once they become soiled. After that, one of the methods discussed can be utilized to mount them to the wall.
For further information, please refer to our guide on installing acoustic foam in a manner that does not damage walls.
Make Egg Cartons More Effective at Soundproofing
In order to maximize the effectiveness of egg cartons as acoustic materials, additional effort will be necessary. To compensate for any shortcomings of utilizing egg cartons to insulate your wall, consider alternative methods of soundproofing.
Many of these ideas would be effective without the addition of egg cartons; there are numerous other soundproofing solutions that you could use.
Alternatives for Soundproofing Egg Cartons
Having determined that neither egg cartons nor acoustic foam are effective for soundproofing a room, let us now discuss some viable soundproofing options.
walls
In order to soundproof a room, in addition to lining the walls with soundproof curtains or blankets, consider installing Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) or other rubber materials of high density and mass.
In contrast, if affordability and ease of installation are the primary considerations, the following alternatives may be explored:
ceilings and floors
Installing soundproofing on ceilings can be more challenging than walls, however, there are limited options available such as decorative accents or securing fabrics to the ceiling. Utilizing egg cartons will not be effective in this instance.
Prioritizing ceilings should be of low significance, comparatively.
Installing soundproofing measures on a floor will help keep the peace with your neighbors, while providing additional insulation. Various methods may be employed, such as the use of carpets, Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV), rubber flooring, and foam carpet underlays.
doors and windows
To begin, it is essential to inspect all your doors and windows for drafts. If a draft is detected when the door or window is closed, that likely indicates that there is a gap between the door or window frame and the wall. Utilizing acoustic sealant should address this issue.
While you have the caulking gun at your disposal, be sure to inspect the corners of the room as well.
Once all of the gaps are sealed, it is recommended to install a draft excluder on both doors and windows. Furthermore, weather stripping is an effective solution to reduce sound transmission through doors and windows. For further information on door sweeps, please read my reviews of the top products.
If you are in search of a more economical option, you can construct a draft stopper yourself.
It is essential to consider soundproof curtains when considering window soundproofing. Installation of curtain railings above windows and doors, as well as along walls, may aid in soundproofing. If more cost-effective solutions are desired, dense and thick materials can be utilized.
Should you use egg cartons for soundproofing?
At the conclusion of the day, it is advisable to utilize any excess egg cartons in alternative ways. There are several arts and crafts possibilities available online to transform egg cartons into building blocks, planters, or rice shakers.
While discussing soundproofing, there are multiple cost-effective solutions accessible to you, regardless of a restricted budget.
Rearranging the furniture and layering regular blankets on the walls may be more effective than attempting to reinforce egg cartons by stuffing them with paper or fabric. The results of this method will not be satisfactory and egg cartons do not have an aesthetically pleasing appearance when used as wall decorations.
It is highly recommended to avoid using egg cartons as soundproofing materials due to the abundance of more effective alternatives.