How to Soundproof Noisy Water & Drain Pipes

Posted by Acoustical Surfaces on 04/23/2025 6:00 am | 6 Comments

Noisy pipes can be disruptive in both homes and work spaces. There are several different factors that can contribute to noisy pipes, and some are easier to fix than others. No matter what is causing your noisy water pipes, you can achieve significant relief by soundproofing them with the right materials.

Whether you are soundproofing apartment plumbing, home plumbing, or office plumbing, the key causes and solutions are very much the same.

Understanding the Causes of Noisy Water Pipes

Pipes with water passing through them almost always create noise. Whether this is due to improper mounting, an obstruction, or simply stemming from water flowing inside the pipe, the noises pipes create can be quite annoying. Even those hidden behind walls and ceilings can create disruptive noises, so soundproofing them is a great way to reduce the prominence of that noise.

Furthermore, different types of pipes create different amounts of noise. The most common types of water pipes in newer homes are copper water supply pipes and PVC drain pipes, but older homes often have cast iron pipes, which are the quietest of the three. That said, each of them can generate noise for various reasons.

Water Hammer (a sudden stop in water flow) – If you have ever heard a banging sound when you turn the water off, you are familiar with a water hammer. A sudden stop in moving water creates a shockwave which can make the pipes bang or vibrate. Water hammer arrestors and air chambers are common methods of absorbing the shock and preventing pipe rattle noises, but wrapping the pipes will provide additional noise reduction.

Pipe Expansion and Contraction – Pipes expand when they heat up and contract when they cool down. The expansion and contraction of water pipes can cause creaking or popping noises, which are especially common in hot water pipes. Insulating pipes with a wrap or lagging, as well as ensuring they are secured properly can reduce expansion and contraction-related noises.

Air Bubbles and Trapped Air in Pipes – Air bubbles and trapped air in pipes can form when plumbing systems have improperly installed pipes, leaks, or issues with water heaters. Air in the system has the potential to create a lot of noise, so addressing the root cause is essential for quieting your noisy water pipes.

Vibrations from High Water Pressure – High water pressure is another issue that can contribute to water hammer, pipe vibrations and unwanted noise. Installing a water pressure regulator can help maintain the proper water pressure, and properly insulating your pipes can further reduce vibration noise.

Best Ways to Soundproof Pipes

There are several methods of soundproofing water and drain pipes. Some are easy to install yourself, while others may require the help of a professional. Choosing the right solution for your situation can significantly reduce the amount of noise created by your water pipes.

Wrapping Pipes with Soundproofing Material

The best DIY solution for reducing pipe noise is wrapping them in soundproofing material. There are several different types of acoustic wrap for pipes, each with varying degrees of effectiveness in regards to noise, thermal insulation, and fire-resistance.

Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) with a Foam Decoupler – Mass-loaded vinyl is an incredibly effective option that is commonly used in all kinds of soundproofing projects. It is dense, flexible, and designed specifically to block sound transmission. The foam decoupler is important as it eliminates the contact that the sound barrier has with the pipe wall, so rather than wrapping a pipe with a standard vinyl, be sure to use a vinyl that has a decoupling layer. These types of products are easy to install yourself.

Simply measure the pipe and cut a section of your roll of MLV pipe insulation to fit, then wrap the pipe and secure it with an appropriate tape and zip-ties or something similar. Make sure any seams or gaps are sealed to improve its soundproofing ability. This is especially helpful in blocking airborne noise.

Fiberglass Insulation – Fiberglass insulation will also help, and it carries the added benefit of providing thermal insulation. Insulation by itself is not a noise barrier, but it will greatly help to deaden the resonance and echo within a wall or ceiling cavity, which will help the overall soundproofing plan to perform better. All types and forms of fibrous insulation will perform the same, so you don’t need to get a special type of insulation for this use case. Keep in mind that fiberglass can irritate skin, eyes and lungs, so make sure to wear personal protective equipment when handling.

Read More: Mineral Wool vs Fiberglass: Which is Better? 

Adding Pipe Lagging for Maximum Noise Reduction

Another way to soundproof water pipes via a wrap is with lagging. Pipe lagging typically consists of pre-formed or purpose-made insulation sleeves or wraps designed specifically for mechanical pipe insulation, often in commercial, industrial, or high-performance residential applications.

Pipe lagging blocks noise by absorbing sound energy, adding mass to block sound, and decoupling pipes from hard structural surfaces. This combination tackles noisy water pipes from multiple angles, ensuring they are as quiet as possible.

Some of the best pipe lagging materials for soundproofing water pipes include:

Acoustic Foam Lagging with a Barrier Layer – Acoustic foam absorbs airborne noise, while a vinyl barrier layer adds mass to reduce vibrations and airborne noises. These types of products are sold in rolls and cut to size in the field. Commonly used in residential plumbing, HVAC pipes, and soundproofing drain pipes in walls of apartments.

Mineral Wool or Rockwool Pipe Insulation – If you require fire-resistance and thermal insulation on your pipes, consider stuffing the wall cavity with a mineral or rock wool type insulation. These fibrous materials reduce sound reflections inside of the wall cavity.

Securing and Isolating Pipes to Prevent Vibration Migration

Properly securing and isolating water pipes with the right materials can greatly minimize the impact of vibrational energy that can migrate from the pipe to the structure. Here are a few pipe noise reduction techniques that deliver on both fronts.

Pipe Hangers and Clamps – Rubber-lined or cushioned pipe hangers and clamps secure pipes while isolating them from hard surfaces. They reduce pipe vibration and prevent pipes from directly contacting structural surfaces, minimizing noise in the process.

Anti-Vibration Mounts – Isolating equipment like pumps, compressors, and water heaters from the floor will help to dampen the vibrations created by the equipment and prevent them from traveling through the structure. Vibration-borne energy can be extremely troublesome, so using isolation mounts when the equipment is first set up can go a long way.

Acoustic Caulk – Sealing the gaps where pipes pass through walls or floors with acoustic caulk can also help. This flexible caulking material dampens sound transmission by providing a flexible seal that helps to block noise and prevents vibrations from passing between the pipe and structural surface. This is one of the most effective ways of blocking pipe noise in ceilings, walls and floors.

Addressing Water Hammer and Pressure Issues

Stopping water hammer noise, depending on the cause of your issues, requires some specific products or procedures to achieve. Some are very involved, such as draining and refilling the plumbing system or opening up the walls to ensure the pipes are properly secured. Still, some can be done by anyone with basic plumbing knowledge and a few common tools.

Water Hammer Arrestors and Air Chambers – These items can be installed near fixtures like faucets, toilets, and washing machines to help absorb pressure surges and reduce their impact. Water hammer arrestors can be easier to install on a DIY basis (especially the modern, screw-on type), while air chambers require more plumbing knowledge and specialized tools.

Water Pressure Adjustment – High water pressure worsens water hammer because it increases the force of the water when it suddenly stops. Installing a pressure-reducing valve or a whole-house pressure regulator can keep your pressure at appropriate levels and minimize water hammer. If your system has a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) installed, this should be a fairly straightforward process.

Secure Loose Pipes – The sound of water hammer can be amplified by pipes that are not properly secured. They move when the pressure surges, and can bang against studs/framing, walls, floors or ceilings. Installing rubber-lined pipe clamps, hangers, or brackets reduces movement and helps to minimize noise. This may be relatively simple if your pipes are exposed, but it becomes a much larger project if you need to remove walls for access.

Best Soundproofing Materials for Pipes

You have a wide variety of materials to choose from when it comes to plumbing noise solutions, and some work better than others. Choosing the right solutions for your specific issues will ensure you get the results you’re after. Here are some materials that provide the best soundproofing for pipes.

Best Pipe Wraps – Mass-loaded vinyl barriers that have a fiberglass or foam decoupler

Best Sealants – Acoustic caulk or sealant

Best Vibration Dampers – Rubber-lined pipe clamps, hangers, and brackets

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Soundproofing Pipes

Learning how to soundproof drain pipes and water distribution pipes can significantly reduce the amount of unwanted noise in your home or office, and being sure to do it correctly will deliver the biggest benefits. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Using the Wrong Insulation Type – Using the wrong insulation type can not only result in ineffective soundproofing, but it can contribute to moisture accumulation and mold growth, thermal insulation issues, and potential damage to pipes.

Ignoring Pipe Clamps and Loose Fittings – Ignoring pipe clamps and loose fittings when soundproofing pipes can reduce the effectiveness of your soundproofing efforts and cause other problems, including pipe wear and damage, potential for water leaks, poor water flow and pressure, and potential structural damage.

Not Sealing Pipe Penetrations in Walls and Floors – Forgetting to seal pipe penetrations not only contributes to noise leakage through a poor acoustic seal, but it can also lead to air and water leaks that may lead to cracks and structural damage down the line.

Enjoy a Quieter Home with Proper Pipe Soundproofing

Noise from plumbing systems may be caused by complex problems that must be remedied through fixes, but some can be remedied by utilizing proper soundproofing products. Reducing pipe noise is certainly possible through the use of lagging, acoustic sealants, and rubber-lined pipe clamps, hangers, and brackets. The final results will depend on the types of materials used, relative to your specific issues.

Some budget-friendly options will provide decent sound blocking, but for more effective quiet plumbing solutions, premium professional solutions are often recommended. Working with professionals will ensure you choose the right materials for your project to reduce noise and avoid possible damage.

Acoustical Surfaces has the experienced staff and professional products to ensure you get what you need. Whether you’re ready to quiet your noisy water pipes, just getting started learning how to insulate noisy pipes, or are still simply exploring your options, we are here to help. Reach out today to learn about all of your options.

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