Examples of How to Soundproof a Fence

Noise

• Excessive noise comes from a range of sources, such as traffic-filled highways, lawnmowers and power generators. Sound is measured in decibels. A sound level of about 66 decibels usually is considered an acceptable during the day, but a level of about 50 decibels is preferable at night Sound can be difficult to measure because it moves at different frequencies and travels around certain materials while it is deflected by other items. Using a combination of structural and vegetative materials near or on a fence is the best way to reduce sound beyond the fence.

Placement and Size

• Because sound diminishes over distance, the best place to construct or grow a barrier fence is either very near the sound source or close to the recipient of the sound. Size matters as well. Soundproofing barriers must be both tall and wide to block noise because sound waves bend to travel above and around barriers. The most effective barriers are tall, wide structures or rows of plants that completely block the view of the sound source, a method known as “acoustic shielding.”

Structural Materials

• Structural materials used to soundproof a fence include hard barriers made of wood, masonry, concrete or stone. The sharp, flat appearance of such materials can be softened by planting layers of vines, which add a layer of sound-muffling material. Other options include constructing an earth berm or stacking hay or stray bales against the fence.

Vegetation

• Trees and shrubs are among the most attractive ways to reduce noise pollution. Branch and foliage surfaces mitigate sounds from sources such as traffic, nearby businesses and air-conditioning units. Foliage, twigs and branches absorb different frequencies of sound, while trunks deflect noise. Placing the plants close to the sound source and creating long, inward-curving rows of vegetation works well. For the best results, use species with characteristics such as dense, coarse foliage, low canopie,; evergreen foliage and weeping or large branches. Species to consider include Southern magnolia, hollies, junipers, callery pears, spruces, pines, firs, golden willows, Russian olives, Siberian pea shrubs, chokecherries, green ash and lilacs.