Learn what makes an effective noise-barrier fence.
A fence offers privacy, safety, and beauty for your home, but it can also help to block outside noises. Those who live in cities or near busy highways know how loud it can get, and often crave peace and quiet for their backyards. Continue reading to learning about what makes an effective noise-barrier fence and how you can reduce DC sound in your yard.
Factors to Consider
A fence that is intended to block noise will need to be thick, and typically uses thick tongue-and-groove boards to make an impervious barrier. It’s important to know that a noise-barrier fence will be much heavier than an average residential fence, as mass is the best way to dampen outside sounds. Masonry walls are also very effective at blocking noise, or even walls of earth called “berms.”
If you prefer a wooden fence for aesthetic reasons, there are ways to make sure it blocks a significant amount of sound. A fence that is high and solid, with no gaps between the boards, is your best bet- as even the slightest bit of gap will let all of the noise in. Wooden fences aren’t always to best for blocking out noise, so you may need to add the soundproofing material of “mass-loaded vinyl” for outdoor use. This material can only be used if you are installing a new fence, or else you will need to remove fence panels and reattach them to your existing fence.
Importance of Height
Height is a crucial element in blocking road sounds, so don’t forget to focus on the height as well as the material. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), an effective noise barrier can reduce noise levels by 5-10 decibels- or can cut the traffic noise by as much as half. Noise barriers can’t block all traffic noise, but the right materials, length, and height can have a significant effect on sound reduction.
At a minimum, your fence should be tall and long enough to block the view of the highway or busy road. A noise barrier fence can typically achieve a 5-decibel noise reduction just by keeping the road out of sight. After the sight is blocked, each additional 3.2 feet of fence can reduce the noise level by 1.5 decibels.
Residential Fences for Your Home from Hercules Fence DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their home safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
