Do-it-yourself soundproofing of the sewer riser. Rules for soundproofing sewer pipes in an apartment - the best materials and rules for their use

The device of sewer networks in houses and apartments using plastic pipes instead of traditional cast iron has many advantages. However, an unpleasant consequence of such a decision is the appearance of extraneous noise in the sewer risers. This problem can be eliminated with the help of special materials for soundproofing in-house sewer pipes.

Why is there noise

The main place of noise generation is the drain riser, as an element through which the maximum volume of liquid passes. The drains moving along it are in contact with each other and with the inner surface of the parts sewer system. This process is accompanied by rather loud sounds.

The level of such noise can be several times higher than the value of 20 decibels, which is considered the optimal background noise for the human body. Over time, excessive sound loads can harm not only the psychological, but also the physical condition of the residents.

Plastic riser - the main source of noise in the toilet

Exists different kinds acoustic impacts that occur when using a drain riser:

  • Impact noise: appear when water falls in a vertical pipe and hits the elements of the sewer system. Plastic parts do not absorb or scatter sound waves, so the noise passes freely through the walls of the pipes into the apartment.
  • Structural (vibration) noises: occur when parts of the sewer system come into contact with the surface of walls, ceilings and other structural elements building. This is due to the fact that strong water flows cause the pipes to vibrate.
  • Airborne noise: occur due to atmospheric air entering the ventilated drain and mixing with the water flow. Such sounds are not constant and have a weak intensity.

Noise propagation paths in sewer systems

Unlike plastic, cast iron is practically silent, so the sudden appearance of noise in cast iron pipes ah can be caused by the formation of internal plaque, ingress into the system foreign objects or mechanical damage to parts.

What determines the noise level

The volume of extraneous noise in the pipeline is influenced by various factors.

The strength of the noise varies depending on the number of storeys of the building and the location of the apartment: on the lower floors of high-rise buildings, the noise level in the common riser will be maximum.

Also, the volume of the sound depends on the material from which the sewerage in the toilet is made. Plastic actively transmits the sounds of running water and reflects all the vibrations that occur. On the other hand, cast iron, due to its granular structure, effectively dampens flow vibrations and therefore minimizes structure-borne noise.

Pipe wall thickness plays an important role specific gravity material. The higher these figures, the quieter the sewer will work.

The location of communications affects the noise level. The best option is the placement of vertical sewerage sections in interfloor ceilings outside residential premises using special soundproof gaskets.

Materials for soundproofing sewer pipes

The process of soundproofing plumbing communications has two main goals:

  1. Minimize acoustic effects from water movement;
  2. Eliminate structural vibrations during operation.

Accordingly, to eliminate each cause, various materials are used, both for general construction and for specialized purposes.

Materials for eliminating vibration noise

Polyethylene clips (glasses) filled with polyurethane . They are used for sound insulation in places where sewer pipes pass through walls and ceilings of buildings. As an alternative to a factory product, you can use a piece of polyethylene pipe larger than the riser diameter. The space between the casing and the riser is filled with polyurethane foam insulation and sealed.

Vibration damping clamps . They are used to prevent the transmission of resonant vibrations to the walls of the bathroom. They are metal clamps with a screw stud for fastening to the wall. Gaskets made of microporous rubber are installed on the inner surface of the clamp.


Mounting the riser with vibration damping clamps

Materials for acoustic noise insulation

The elimination of unwanted sound effects from sewer pipelines is carried out using materials based on polyethylene foam, polyurethane foam or foam. According to the form of manufacture, they can be piece, roll, tape, as well as in the form of tiles, sheets or mats.

Piece products for soundproofing follow the shape of sewer pipes and are put on parts of the riser before the final assembly of the drain system. For isolation already installed systems use a detachable foam shell and various foam rubber casings.

Roll and sheet materials are cut into strips of the desired size, which are tightly wrapped around the pipes and fixed with metallized adhesive tape or plastic ties. There are ready-made sets of soundproofing materials designed for a certain length of the pipeline, for example, the Noiseblock Pipe set from Standardplast.


Soundproofing elements of the drain system before assembly

Self-adhesive soundproofing tape is a finely porous sealing material made of polyethylene foam. It is installed by dense and uniform winding on the riser in several layers with partial overlap of turns.

Silent sewer pipes

The cardinal solution to the problem of extraneous sounds in the sewer is the installation of multilayer silent pipes. During their manufacture, milled mineral filler (microcalcite, chalk, dolomite or limestone) is introduced into the plastic mass, which forms the soundproof structure of the finished product.

The inner layer of the pipe is made of polypropylene, resistant to high temperature and chemically active substances. The smooth surface provides high sewage permeability and protection against deposits.

The main layer of polypropylene with carbonate particles serves to block the acoustic effects from the flow of water.

The outer layer is made of heavy-duty polymers to protect against impacts and other mechanical damage.


Drain system elements in silent design

The disadvantages of silent sewer pipes include high cost compared to conventional materials and a limited service life of about 20 years.

Silent pipes are easy to identify by their appearance: increased wall thickness, white material and two longitudinal stripes of red and green along the entire part. Among the well-known manufacturers of such polymer pipelines, it is worth noting such as REHAU, Skolan dB (Germany) and WAVIN (Netherlands).

How to make soundproofing sewer pipes with your own hands

The choice of material and the procedure for performing work depends on at what stage of the repair a decision was made to soundproof the drain system.

If the pipelines have not yet been installed, then it is more reasonable to use continuous materials:

  • protective cups are inserted into the technological openings of the floors and walls of the apartment to eliminate vibrations;
  • at the locations of the pipelines, vibration-damping clamps of a suitable diameter are installed;
  • on individual parts of the sewer, cylindrical covers are put on from the selected soundproof material.

Noise insulation of pipelines with self-adhesive foil material

After that, the drain system is mounted in accordance with the developed plan. Since access to the riser after completion of work will be limited, it is necessary to waterproof the joints of the sewer pipes with a sealant. If necessary, after assembly, the connections are additionally protected with soundproofing tape.

When soundproofing an already installed pipeline, prefabricated shells, roll and sheet insulation options can be used.

Shell use

Foam (or polyurethane) parts of a semicircular section are put on around the sewer riser and connected using special grooves. Then the insulation is fixed with construction tape.

The characteristics of this soundproofing material limit its use to exclusively straight sections of the pipeline and require free space between the riser and the walls of the apartment.


Installing a soundproof shell on the drain riser

Application of roll and sheet materials

Polyurethane or polyethylene foam is cut into pieces in such a way as to completely wrap the entire pipe with an overlap. The joints are glued with adhesive tape, and then the entire coating is fixed with plastic ties or adhesive tape.

Due to its flexibility, the roll material allows you to carefully isolate hard-to-reach places, as well as make the necessary cutouts at the junction of apartment wiring.

To improve the appearance of the bathroom, drain pipes can be closed with a box of moisture-resistant drywall.

One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong materials. Not suitable for soundproofing work polyurethane foam and insulation based on mineral wool. These materials do not absorb sound waves and do not reduce vibrations. In addition, the ingress of microscopic particles of mineral wool into living quarters has a negative impact on health.

You should also check out some practical tips:

  1. It is recommended to choose materials with a hard outer layer (for example, foil), as they are more durable.

Noise insulation of pipes using foil-wrapped polyurethane foam and polyethylene foam
  1. When soundproofing with self-adhesive materials, it is necessary to first clean the surface of plastic sewer pipes from dust and debris, and then degrease them. This will extend the life of the insulation.
  2. When installing insulation, special attention should be paid to processing the joints of the material, otherwise the result of the work will not provide the desired effect.
  3. The voids inside the drywall box can be filled with polyethylene foam scraps to enhance the sound-absorbing effect of the structure.
  4. Intensive water flow leads to the formation of condensate on plastic pipes. Therefore, according to building codes and regulations for internal sewerage it is necessary to protect the riser section to a height of 10 centimeters from the floor concrete screed. This will prevent condensed water from entering the lower floor.

How often do we encounter the problem of noise in sewer pipes. This is especially true of those sewer risers that pass between the floors of apartments and belong to the central city sewerage system.

Not all pipes make noise, there are certain types of pipes that are noise insulators on their own. And it depends on the material from which they are made.

In order to isolate sewer pipes in your apartment or a two-story private house with noise-absorbing materials, you need to study all existing options, which for this purpose are used by masters of plumbing and sewerage installation.

Rumble and noise in the sewer riser very often not only irritates, but even keeps you awake at night. Therefore, most residents of apartment buildings are thinking about how to effectively isolate the noise that sewer pipes regularly emit.

For this not challenging task First of all, you should understand the reasons why the sewer pipes are noisy. Of course, the streams of sewage discharged by the neighbors from above are the main reason why such a roar is produced that even blocks the sounds from the street. However, this is the reason that takes place.

But there are a number of other reasons that can be eliminated in order to create the most comfortable conditions in your apartment:

  • material for the manufacture of sewer pipes, which conducts sounds well;
  • poorly fixed riser that dangles;
  • interaction of water and air flows inside pipes;
  • sink rate.

It is possible to conditionally define three types of noise, which differ from each other in characteristic sounds:

  • impact noise - precisely because of a poorly fixed pipe. impact noise is produced by the impact of a pipe against a wall or an adjacent one, for example, water pipe;
  • air or atmospheric noise - such sounds are created by air currents in contact with moisture droplets collected on the inner walls of the sewer riser. Or a stream of air through which, in turn, streams of sewage fall;
  • structural, vibrational or resonant noise - this type of sound is usually created by vibrations of the entire sewer system, which may not be installed according to the rules or outdated. A sewer pipe, walls, wells, revisions or ceilings, under the influence of the speed of falling water discharges from above, can vibrate, making appropriate sounds.

That is why, when you have already decided on the type of noise on your sewer riser, you can understand the cause and eliminate it.

If you understand that the noise is characteristic of the pipe hitting the walls of an adjacent pipe or against a wall, then you can simply fix such a pipe better with special fasteners, such as additional flanges or clamps.

And if you realized that the noise coming from the sewer riser is more like air or structural, then you can safely take on the soundproofing material and wrap the pipe so that it no longer makes annoying sounds.

In general, the volume and nature of the sounds inside the sewer riser differ from each other and depend on a number of factors that, one way or another, affect the strength of the sound and noise in the pipes.

What determines the volume

The volume of the sound of falling water may depend not only on the speed of the fall of sewage from the height of any floor along a vertically installed sewer pipe, but also on the material from which the pipe itself is made.

So, for example, a number of polymer sewer pipes emit much less noise than steel pipes. And almost no sound at all. Cast iron pipes do not rumble because they are heavy.

And the greater the mass and thickness of the walls of the pipes, the greater the impact force on the walls of the pipes is necessary in order to make them vibrate or oscillate, while emitting a rumble or roar.


Photo: sewer pipes and riser wrapped with sound-absorbing material

And the thin walls of plastic pipes very often resonate with the noise of falling drains or air flows, and therefore make sounds much louder than they would be with cast-iron material of sewer pipes.

This is one of the reasons why some choose to change their riser not to plastic pipes, but to traditional cast iron ones.

However, nevertheless, on the market of sewage equipment and building materials there is a fairly wide range of plastic pipes, which are already carefully equipped with noise-absorbing materials by manufacturers or made with thicker walls than ordinary plastic pipes.

Such noise-reinforced pipes are quite suitable for installing a sewer riser without the use of additional pipe wrapping with noise-insulating materials.

Ways to prevent noise

To get rid of noise in sewer pipes, there are a number of options and methods to consider that will most effectively prevent loud noises inside sewer pipes.

These methods can be the following:

  • structural noise absorption by laying silent pipes;
  • the integrity of the plastic riser and soundproofing work;
  • repayment of infrasound with the help of special sound insulation;
  • absorption of unpleasant sounds by polyurethane foam.

In the case of structural noise absorption, sound-absorbing pipes are used, which are most effective in this matter.

And in the case of working with soundproof materials, special roll or sheet materials are used, such as:

  • roll synthetic;
  • piece patchwork or tiled;
  • as mats of soundproofing material.

Photo: soundproofing tapes

When wrapping with such materials, it is enough to use adhesive tape and a cutting tool.

However, not all owners apartment buildings suits with sewer risers appearance pipes wrapped in soundproofing materials.

Of course, if it is possible to hide them in a box, then their unaesthetic appearance will not spoil the mood, but if this is not possible, then it is better to use other options that will not spoil the look of the toilet room too much.

Silent pipe laying

Many may ask the same question: “Are there “quiet” or silent pipes?” So that you can once install pipes from noise-absorbing, and at the same time, durable material and forget about annoying and annoying sounds inside the sewer pipes.

And the answer to this question has long been on the market of sewer building materials. Such pipes exist and are even successfully used in the installation and laying of sewer risers in order to provide the apartment with maximum noiseless pipes.


Photo: silent pipes

Silent pipes, as a rule, have their own specifics in the structure and structure. These are not just pipes made of a homogeneous plastic heavy-duty material, these are three-layer pipes that are equipped with a heat-insulating layer in the middle.

So, modern pipes consist of three layers:

  • the inner layer consists of smooth polypropylene with mineral inclusions of particles that localize noise, provide additional strength to the pipes, and also protect against corrosion and exposure to the pipe surface of aggressive chemicals;
  • the main middle layer is made, as a rule, of polypropylene, which is reinforced with mineral particles, due to which the sound of water pouring through the pipe is blocked;
  • the outer layer protects against external influences, and therefore is made of heavy-duty polymer material: polypropylene, polyethylene low pressure or reinforced polyvinyl chloride.

Photo: composition of silent pipes

For proper installation of silent pipes, you must follow step by step instructions, which serve as a good guide with specific recommendations from experts in this matter:

  • calculations and design - first you need to make all the measurements of the future sewer riser that you need to install. Pipes are cut according to measured and calculated sizes. Measurements can be made with a tape measure and a pencil, and a pipe cut with a hacksaw;
  • cleaning cut edges - cut pipes on both sides must be cleaned with a file. Do this by guiding the file at an angle of 150˚. This method of cleaning the cut edges will provide easier installation, protect against breaks and dents in the places of the sealing rings;
  • the location of the sealing ring - the sealing rings should be located evenly, and not crooked, exactly in the place where there are special recesses for the rings in the pipes, bevels or simply places intended for sealing the pipes;
  • cleaning from dirt is a prerequisite, all internal and external surfaces of pipes must be cleaned of dirt, any fibrous and other substances;
  • bell valve - for this, silicone grease is first applied to the smooth surface of the shaped part of the part, and then the bell is put on it until it stops;
  • mark the place of contact;
  • adjustment - push the pipe back only 1 cm. This gap, as a compensation for the length of the pipe, will be necessary when, under the confluence of the temperature effects of hot or cold drains, the length of the pipes will change slightly;
  • the fitting must always be pushed in as far as it will go.

To install any type of sewer pipes, two types of fasteners can be used: rigid and floating.

Rigid fastening is carried out by a sound-absorbing clamp, an o-ring made of dense rubber or rubber, or some porous material.

Important! A floating mount is used when it is necessary to make the pipe move slightly in the longitudinal direction.

Here, clamps are used with or without rubber gaskets. When tightening the clamps, they are not tightly tightened.

Soundproofing works

Soundproofing works can use shells, cylinders or roll materials as noise-absorbing materials.

Moreover, all these materials that offers modern market, perform another function - thermal insulation. These include soundproofing tapes, which are sold in roll packs.

Such tapes are excellent insulation, soundproofing material, and even a sealant. Piece noise-absorbing materials are made of foamed polyethylene and are tubes that are stretched over the sewer pipe, wrapping it around.

Foam casings, foam shells can also be used, but they are all suitable for noise reduction in a special box.

To work on soundproofing a sewer riser, the following tools and materials are often used:

  • any insulating material;
  • stationery or any other sharp knife;
  • construction tape to connect the joints of the noise-absorbing material;
  • clamps with rubber seals for fixing the pipe to the wall;
  • wire or special plastic fasteners.

In the work on soundproofing sewer pipes, other tools can be used, but their choice and use entirely depends on the material used, the pipes being installed and other factors.

Do-it-yourself soundproofing of the riser

When you produce, you must understand that you simply cannot do without step-by-step instructions.

Important! That is why it is very important to listen to the recommendations of experts on timely soundproofing of the sewer riser immediately during its installation.

However, if you already have a riser, and it suits you completely, in addition to the loud sounds that it makes, then you can isolate the sound with your own hands using noise-absorbing materials.

To do this, you need to follow only a few important steps:

  • if it is urgently needed, then you can immediately install soundproof clamps with rubber seals;
  • cut the soundproofing material to the size of the pipe so that it completely goes around the entire sewer riser. In the case of rolled materials, its dimensions should be such that they overlap the pipe;
  • if you use soundproofing tape, then you can wrap it around the riser itself. In this case, tightly fitting turns of the tape to each other should be strictly observed;
  • wrapping the riser with overlapping roll materials, strengthen and fix it with construction tape;
  • for a stronger fixation, the sound insulation can be further strengthened with a wire winding or plastic fasteners can be used for this, which should be located at a distance of 20 to 25 cm from each other;
  • if the bathroom allows, where the sewer riser is located, then the entire structure, wrapped in sound insulation, can be hidden from prying eyes with a special drywall box or plastic panels. Then, in this case, the space between the pipe and the box should be filled with foamed polyethylene;
  • The most important warning or recommendation is that sound insulation with mounting foam or mineral or glass wool is unacceptable.

Now you know how to properly soundproof a sewer riser using soundproof materials.

Soundproofing by infrasound

Infrasound is a natural phenomenon associated with sound waves, which have low frequency, lower than a person can perceive.

Such sounds can also be made by sewer risers when they are inner space overgrown with growths over decades of operation. These growths should be cleaned, but this is not so easy to do.

Soundproofing by infrasound is possible in only two ways:

  • replacement of the riser only in parts and in some places;
  • artificial noise suppression in the pipe throughout the plastic riser.

If you are not going to change the entire sewer riser right now, then the first option will be most convenient.

A partial replacement is made as follows:

  • sections of the cast-iron pipe with crosses remain, and the middle of the pipe is sawn off with a grinder and removed;
  • the plaque formed over the years of operation of the sewer riser inside the cast-iron pipes can be immediately removed using special aggressive chemicals designed for this purpose;
  • the plastic pipe is mounted using special adapters and fasteners;
  • sound insulation is immediately made with any material for safety net for the future.

Photo: the middle of the pipe is sawn off with a grinder and removed

The situation is exactly the same with a plastic riser, only it can be replaced completely on the entire pipe and even together with crosses or sockets. Starting from the floors and ending with the floor.

And if the neighbors are ready to make repairs at the same time as you, then the replacement with plastic pipes is also carried out through the floors.

Of course, this option is more time-consuming and costly in terms of the use of building materials, but this one overhaul will give many years of silent operation of the sewer system.

Pipe insulation with polyurethane foam

If using the above methods it was possible to drown out the rumble, then the unpleasant sounds of gurgling or grumbling coming from the sewer riser can still annoy.

To solve this problem, soundproofing material such as polyurethane foam or foam shell is used. These materials need to isolate sounds throughout the riser, and not just in places.

Although most specialists use partial sound insulation with polyurethane. But the most important area here is the wiring or cross, which it is desirable to isolate with polyurethane foam.


Photo: pipe insulation with polyurethane foam

At a price, of course, polyurethane foam is more expensive than, for example, a number of rolled soundproofing materials, but it is very convenient and allows you to quickly soundproof insulation in the most inaccessible places and bends in the sewer riser.

Whereas the foam shell is only suitable for straight sections of the pipeline.

Photo: polyurethane foam in the form of roll material

Polyurethane foam can be used both in the form of mats, of various widths and thicknesses, and in the form of rolled material. Often it can also be found in the finished version in the form of tubes.

Important! Polyurethane foam is wrapped around the pipes as tightly as possible for such material, and then, it is fixed at the overlap joints with plastic staples or wire.

Video: pipe insulation Stenoflex 400

Possible mistakes

Common mistakes that, due to ignorance of certain subtleties, are regularly made by those who independently took up the soundproofing of the sewer riser, occur for several reasons:

  • wrong choice of soundproofing material. For example, choosing mineral wool, you just used this material as a heater because this material is no good as a noise absorber;
  • too weakly tightened adhesive tape, wire or plastic fasteners on soundproof material, as a result of which voids formed between the pipe and the material, which create additional sound resonance;
  • tightening clamps or other connecting elements without the use of a rubber gasket;
  • installation of a sewer riser in the ceiling without the use of a sealing gasket;
  • laying soundproofing material of insufficient thickness in a layer.

All these points are very simple. And if you constantly remember them, then you can avoid all violations during the use of noise absorbers, which means that you will provide yourself with peace and comfort in your home.

Important! Also, before proceeding with the use of this or that soundproofing, it is necessary, as it should, to understand its suitability and effectiveness.

If it is of great importance to you to keep a part of the cast-iron pipe for some time, then soundproofing should be done properly.

Do this either on the surface of the old pipe, or by removing only part of it and cleaning the growths on its inner surface.

The nature of the sound itself plays a big role, because it tells the real reason for the buzz, rumble or rumble in the sewer riser.

Noise insulation of sewer pipes in an apartment is one of the important components for comfortable housing arrangement in city houses. This is due to the fact that the soundproofing characteristics of many housing facilities do not meet modern requirements, and the frequent noise of water flowing through sewer pipes has a negative psychological impact on residents, causing considerable discomfort and emotional tension.

Causes of noise in sewer pipes

Increased noise in household sewer pipes can occur for a number of reasons, among which are the following:

  • insufficient wall thickness in the pipes of the drain system;
  • low soundproofing qualities of the material from which the pipes are made;
  • errors in designing the location of walls and pipes in a dwelling;
  • wrong choice of sealant.

Varieties of sound insulation for sewer networks

To suppress noise in urban sewer pipes, there are several ways:

  1. The use of so-called "quiet" pipes having a multilayer configuration and made of high density polypropylene. This makes it possible to perfectly mute the sound without the use of additional devices and materials, but the disadvantage of such products is their high cost.
  2. The use of soundproof materials, which include polyethylene foam, fiberglass, synthetic rubber, mineral wool and a number of other porous substances.
  3. Use of soundproof tapes and rolls.


Which option for soundproofing pipes in an apartment to use depends on the suitability of this or that method in a particular situation, its convenience, the budgetary possibilities of the owners of the home and other objective factors.

Noise insulation of the sewer riser and vent pipe

Most of the questions usually arise about the noise that comes from the sewer riser, as well as regarding soundproofing. fan pipe connecting the sewer riser to the atmosphere. It is the sewer riser that is the place where the greatest amount of noise occurs.

The sounds generated during its operation are conditionally divided into several types:

  • impact, formed during the passage of a fluid flow through the walls of pipes;
  • air, appearing during the passage of water flows through the air;
  • structural, resulting from fluctuations and contact with each other of pipes and other elements of the sewer network.


Airborne noise creates less inconvenience compared to other types. Percussive sounds can be greatly reduced, though not completely eliminated. But structural noises usually create the most problems, and in practice you have to deal with them first of all.


To do this, you will need to do the following:

  1. Prepare a piece of soundproofing material that matches the dimensions of the circumference of the indicated pipes.
  2. Produce bonding soundproofing material on the pipe with construction tape. It is important to ensure that its edges are butted to achieve greater efficiency.
  3. It is recommended to tightly cover the pipes with soundproofing material in several layers for maximum damping of sound vibrations.
  4. If necessary, a duct can be built around the sewer riser, which improves the appearance of the structure and enhances the noise reduction effect.

Soundproofing in the toilet and laying a silent sewer

All work on soundproofing pipes in the toilet is carried out after finding out the place of occurrence of noise and its causes. In particular, if noise occurs in an already installed sewer riser, then its sound insulation is carried out using special noise-absorbing materials, fixing them with special tape, as mentioned above.

Soundproofing of other pipes in the system, which are a source of noise, is performed in approximately the same way. As roll materials for soundproofing sewer pipes in the toilet, foam rubber or foam plastic is often used, which are put on a pipe in the form of a casing. Such coatings, along with the sound-absorbing effect, perfectly protect pipes from damaging external influences (mechanical, corrosive, etc.). This type of sound insulation for pipes is very easy to install: the casing is simply cut lengthwise with a sharp knife, then the structure is wrapped around with it, after which the butt sections are fastened with construction tape.


In the event that it is required to lay a silent sewer “from scratch” or to replace sewer pipes, the sound-absorbing features of the materials used in their manufacture should be taken into account. In particular, the most noisy products for laying a sewer system are steel pipes. Unlike them, cast iron pipes are almost completely silent, which is facilitated by their large mass and significant wall thickness. Also, sewer polymer pipes, in particular, made of plastic, are practically silent.

The plastic material itself is a good sound absorber, providing low level acoustic effects during operation of the drain system. As a result, the need for additional sound insulation a plastic sewer pipe is usually missing. In some cases, such a need may arise due to vibration noise generated when the pipe passes through the floors in the apartment. According to building standards, in such places the pipe, regardless of the material of manufacture, must be dressed in a special sleeve. The space between the pipe and the sleeve must be filled with acoustic sealant to dampen vibration.


However, in practice, builders do not always adhere to this rule. If the sleeve is missing, then the sewer pipes are in hard contact with the ceiling, which can cause noise and damage to the structure over time. You can make the sleeve yourself by using a piece of pipe of a larger diameter or rolled materials. If the sleeve is installed, but not filled with sealant, it is not difficult to lay soundproofing material into it yourself. There may also be free space between the sleeve and the ceiling, and this should also be filled with a sound absorber, and then poured with cement mortar.

There are also ready-made pipe products with noise-absorbing properties that are great for installing silent sewers. In this case, the arrangement of any additional sound insulation is not required. Such pipes have a specific configuration and a multilayer structure. The inner layer is made of smooth polypropylene with special mineral particles.


The middle structure is also made of polypropylene material with special mineral inclusions. Finally, the outer layer is made of high-strength polymeric materials. Of course, such pipe products are very convenient for arranging a “quiet” sewer network, but some of their disadvantages are their high cost. Work with such pipes during installation should be in strict accordance with the instructions, so that the installed structure lasts a very long time and with high quality.

  • It should be remembered that the thicker the walls of the sewer riser, the lower the noise level comes from it. This fact should be taken into account when arranging sewerage in an apartment.
  • The best products recommended for the installation of a silent sewer are plastic pipes. They are much easier to install than cast iron, are durable, and are easy to dismantle or replace when needed.
  • When installing a sound-absorbing system, it is strictly forbidden to install monolithic plugs that tightly compress sewer pipes. Instead, use mechanisms and devices that have the ability to suppress vibration.
  • Soundproofing pipes requires careful work and accuracy. Any damage to sound-absorbing materials and coatings is unacceptable.
  • Even after all soundproofing work has been carried out in strict accordance with the rules, a small level of noise in the sewer system may be present. Usually, such noise does not interfere with the comfortable living of residents, however, if you want complete silence, then you should additionally soundproof the ceiling, floor and walls.

Modern houses are shrouded in communications from the roof to the basement. All of them are designed to improve people's lives, make it more comfortable and easier, but sometimes it happens that they bring inconvenience. One of these inconveniences is the plastic sewer drain, which, for all its practicality, creates more noise in the house than cast iron. This problem is especially acute for residents of apartment buildings who live on the lower floors. But this is not a reason to refuse this material and not use it. Do-it-yourself pipe soundproofing is quick and easy.

Sources of noise in the sewer pipe

The main culprit of noise in the sewer is the riser. Water flows in it can create very strong vibrations, which not only cause discomfort, but are also very harmful to physical and mental health, since there are decibel standards that are permissible in a residential area.

The sound volume of the sewer is directly dependent on the height of the building. The lower the apartment is, the more noise in the riser. It is quite simple to explain this - flowing down, wastewater flows collide with a pipe, various elements systems and with each other. Vibrations are formed that are transmitted to the floors. Also, water flows collide with air inside the riser. The air resistance will be the greater, the higher the speed of the flowing water. And this speed is the higher, the longer the path has already managed to overcome the drain. Therefore, residents of apartments located closer to the basement feel much more discomfort from sewer noise than residents of upper floors.

Several types of noise are generated in the sewer riser:

  • From a blow. It arises from the contact of water with sewage elements during a fall. This type of noise cannot be completely eliminated, but it can be easily minimized.
  • Air. Its cause is the air that is contained in the riser. It is not as significant as the type of noise described above, and is rarely very noticeable against the general background.
  • Structural. The most unpleasant type of noise that causes the most harm and discomfort. Its source is the inner surface of pipes, sewer parts, concrete ceilings and walls that are in contact with the sewer riser. During its passage through the pipe, the water transmits vibration to them, which then spreads through all the mentioned elements and creates unpleasant sound effects. Eliminate this type of noise is necessary in the first place and is the easiest to do.

What determines the noise level in the sewer pipe

The noise level in the sewer directly depends on what material it is made of. Researchers estimate that plastic pipes create more noise than cast iron pipes. This is due to the fact that cast iron has a higher mechanical quality factor - the small particles that make up this material rub against each other and thus absorb vibration, which creates acoustic effects. Another factor is the plaque that forms inside the cast-iron pipe, it becomes an additional soundproofing layer.

PVC sewer pipes do not have such characteristics, and therefore resemble a huge musical instrument, which transmits not only the sound of water flowing over it, but also the vibrations of the building itself. This effect is created by thin pipe walls, which are very sensitive to any vibrations. Plaque does not form inside plastic pipes. On the one hand, this allows them to serve for a long time, but, on the other hand, it excludes the occurrence of a natural soundproof gasket inside the sewer itself.

In general, the noise level in the sewer depends on the following factors:

  • The material from which the pipes are made. As mentioned above, the sound-absorbing characteristic of cast iron sewer pipes makes them completely silent and does not require additional insulation. But if you install a plastic or HDPE sewer, it is advisable to carry out additional work on its sound insulation.
  • The thickness of the material from which the pipe is made, and its mass. The thicker the material and the greater the mass, the greater the ability of the pipe to absorb decibels. When choosing a sewer, pay attention to its thickness.
  • The location of the pipe relative to the walls. Most best way sewerage locations - outside residential premises, in slabs between floors. When designing, it is impossible to allow the riser to pass through the interior ceilings. It should cross only interfloor. This will reduce vibration from his work. The most unacceptable option for installing sewerage is through inter-apartment walls.
  • Sealing gasket and its type. Sometimes, when installing sewers, mounting foam is used, which perfectly conducts sounds. This material is not only not soundproof, it makes the sewer work even more noisy. As a sealant for this system, it is best to use polyethylene foam or rubber gaskets.

How to reduce noise

It is important to understand that there is no way that could completely remove the sounds of the sewer. Soundproofing pipes will help to minimize them, but not to zero. This is done in two ways:

  • Install silent pipes.
  • Carry out soundproofing measures for existing pipes.

Silent pipes are a special type of product, they have a high level of sound insulation and do not require additional work. Their differences from conventional sewage in thicker walls and material structure, which helps to reduce the level of vibrations in the pipe. Such sewer pipes in the house will significantly reduce noise.

The disadvantage of this method is that pipe installation is required. If repairs are not planned, then this event can become very expensive. The second drawback is that pipes are only available in white. Third - the cost of the material itself is an order of magnitude higher than the total price for soundproofing already installed pipes.

As for soundproofing, only some materials and simple instruction how to quickly carry out this process with your own hands.

What material to use for soundproofing a sewer pipe

Before you start soundproofing pipes, you need to decide what material to use. Foamed polyethylene is often used for this task. This is an excellent soundproofing material that tightly wraps around the pipe. In addition to its direct purpose, it also protects the sewer from condensation, thereby preventing the appearance of fungus.

Another interesting option- tape for soundproofing. Its installation is very simple - the pipe is wrapped with tape in several layers. The thicker the material, the better it will fulfill its intended purpose, and therefore opt for rolled insulation or foamed polyethylene.

Helpful tips for material selection:

  • When choosing a material for soundproofing, pay attention to the amount of decibels that it absorbs. The higher this figure, the better. In practice, it is worth subtracting 15-20% from the value declared on the label.
  • Give preference to the material that has a rigid outside- it will prolong its service life.
  • Do not use mounting foam for soundproofing, as it is not able to absorb sound.
  • Give up mineral wool to protect your health. Its use in residential premises leads to diseases respiratory system and skin.

How to soundproof a sewer pipe

To insulate sewer pipes using roll materials, use the following instructions:

  • First you need to measure the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe pipes in order to determine the amount of material needed.
  • Next, purchase soundproofing material and construction tape.
  • To prepare sound insulation, for this it is necessary to cut the material so that it can completely wrap around the pipe.
  • Wrap the pipe with the prepared material so that the edges meet butt.
  • Fix the soundproofing with construction tape.
  • Wrap the pipe with at least three layers of construction tape. Each layer must be laid very tightly. This will increase the weight of the pipe and reduce the sound resonance.
  • For the best effect, a drywall box is erected around the pipes. All free space in it is filled with a sealant. This is done only if the size of the room allows.

For additional isolation from sounds, it is necessary to use clamps with rubber gaskets to fasten the pipe to the wall. They muffle all the sounds that go from the wall to the partition, thereby reducing the vibration from the sewerage. Do not use old fasteners without rubber gaskets.

When laying pipes in the ceiling, it is necessary to use rubber gaskets. Do not allow the riser to come into direct contact with concrete. This will make all soundproofing work meaningless, since vibrations will be transmitted to the ceiling and create additional noise. Rubber gaskets are placed directly between the sewer line and the wall.

Elastic rubber sleeves can be installed in sewer crossings - this is a very effective sewer element that absorbs noise.

During soundproofing work, it is necessary to ensure that the material fits snugly against the pipe, otherwise the desired effect of the work will not be achieved. There should also be no air bubbles between the layers of insulation.

If you plan to build a box around the riser, then you should leave access to all connections so that in case of blockages and emergencies, you do not dismantle the entire structure.

If you have carried out thermal insulation of pipes, then you should not neglect sound insulation. Materials for protecting pipes from low temperatures, as a rule, practically do not absorb sounds.

Hard to imagine modern house without communications that create coziness and comfort. However, in some cases, they can bring some inconvenience. For example, a sewerage system made of plastic pipes is considered excellent and modern solution, but unlike cast iron pipes, plastic makes more noise. This is especially noticeable if you live in a multi-storey building on the lower floors. However, this is not a reason to refuse the use of such pipes. Soundproofing sewer pipes will help solve this problem. This is exactly what we will talk about in this article.

Causes

If you understand the cause of the noise of sewer pipes, it will be much easier to fix the problem. Discharged effluent flows from above the riser are main reason the occurrence of noise. However, there are a number of other reasons:

  • Sewer pipes are made of a material that is highly conductive to sound.
  • The sewer riser is poorly fixed and dangles under the action of drains.
  • There is an interaction between the flow of air and water inside the pipe.
  • Quick drain.

Noise can be of three types. Each type of noise differs in the nature of the sounds it makes:

  1. Impact noise. This type of sound is caused by loose pipes hitting an adjacent water pipe or wall.
  2. Airborne/atmospheric noise. In this case, the noise is formed when the air flow comes into contact with the moisture droplets that form inside the riser. In another case, pipes make noise when a stream of water falls through a stream of air.
  3. Resonant, vibrational or structural. This type of sound is characterized by the vibration of the entire sewer system. The reason may be a poorly installed system or outdated pipes that need to be replaced. Moreover, fast water flows can create natural vibration in the revision, walls, well and pipes.

It is for these reasons that noise is generated, which can sometimes even be annoying. In some cases, it is enough to simply fix the pipe if it hits the next one. To do this, you must use reliable fasteners such as clamps. If the noise is air/atmospheric, then soundproofing is indispensable. By wrapping the pipe in soundproofing material, you will get rid of unpleasant sounds once and for all.

The noise level of sewer pipes depends on the nature of the sounds emitted.

What determines the volume

The volume of noise depends not only on the speed of draining water through a vertical pipe. This factor is influenced by the material from which the pipe is made. For example, some sewer pipes made of polymer material produce much less sound than others. As for cast iron pipes, they do not make any noise at all. They have a lot of weight, for this reason you will not hear a rumble from them. The greater the wall thickness and the mass of the pipe, the less noise will come from. Why? This is explained by the fact that in this case a large force of the shock wave is needed, the drains will not be able to provide this in any way.

The same cannot be said for plastic pipes. Their weight is small, and the walls are very thin. Therefore, you can often hear resonance with the flow of air and the fall of water. It is for this reason that some decide to use old technologies for the riser and install cast-iron pipes.

Some manufacturers make pipes from noise-absorbing material. Pipes with thicker walls are also produced, which protect against high noise. Such pipes do not need additional wrapping with soundproofing material. So, what to do if the pipe is noisy, we will consider further.

Methods and materials

There are several options for eliminating noise from sewer pipes:

  • structural absorption. Achieved through the laying of silent pipes.
  • Full soundproofing of a single riser.
  • Infrasound cancellation.

Most effective tool in the fight against structural sounds is the installation of sound-absorbing pipes. In all other cases, it is necessary to use sheet or roll materials, for example:

  • piece tiled or patchwork;
  • synthetic roll;
  • soundproof tapes;
  • special mats.

To work with such materials, you do not need to purchase expensive equipment, it is enough to have a sharp knife and adhesive tape. However, a problem arises in cases where sewer risers are carried out outside: soundproofing material will spoil the whole appearance. In this case, you need to think about making a box that will hide the pipes.

The sound absorbing material may different types: rolls, shell, cylinder. In addition to soundproofing, modern material performs another function - thermal insulation. For example, this applies to soundproofing tape. It is sold in roll packs. Piece materials are made from foamed polyethylene, which has the form of pipes. They must be pulled over the pipe, due to which seamless sound insulation is performed. In addition, foam shells and foam casings are used.

For work you will need:

  • insulating material,
  • sharp knife,
  • Scotch,
  • mounting clamps with rubber seal,
  • wire.

Depending on the material you purchased, the tool kit may differ, but not significantly.

plastic pipes

Ideally, sewer pipes should be soundproofed during their installation. But you can perform soundproofing work after installation.

Instructions for soundproofing work

If soundproofing is urgently needed, you can use clamps with rubber seals.

  1. If you purchased soundproofing material in the form of pipes, then cut them according to the right size. It is important that they envelop the entire pipe along the entire diameter. If the material is sheet, measure the sheets so that after wrapping they overlap.
  2. When using soundproofing tape, simply wrap it around the entire riser. If there are gaps, the tape will not fulfill its main purpose.
  3. Using sheet material It is necessary to use adhesive tape, which will fix the soundproofing.
  4. If the soundproofing material is dense enough, you can use soft wire or plastic fasteners, such as ties, for better fixation. They are installed in increments of 250 mm.
  5. If you plan to build a drywall box, then after wrapping the pipes with soundproofing material, the empty space between them can be filled with polyethylene foam.

Noise insulation with glass wool, mineral wool is unacceptable, since this material cannot be installed in residential premises - it adversely affects the respiratory system, and mounting foam is ineffective!

Roll materials

When using roll material, perform the work in the following order:

  • To determine the amount of material needed, calculate the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe entire pipe.
  • Cut the material so that it can completely encircle the pipe.
  • The edges should meet end-to-end along the entire length.
  • Fix the material with tape or wire.
  • Wrap the pipe with tape in three layers. A snug fit of tape will reduce resonance.
  • For best effect, make drywall box. Fill the empty space with sealant.

Advantages of soundproofing with polyurethane foam

Unpleasant sounds of grumbling and gurgling sewer pipes can be eliminated with polyurethane foam sound insulation (shell). The most important area that needs soundproofing is the cross. It is it that must be isolated with polyurethane foam. Although the price of this material is quite high, the work process will be easy, and the end result will please. Using polyurethane foam, it is possible to soundproof pipes in the most inaccessible places, including bends. Polyurethane foam can also be sold in mats or rolls. Using a foam shell, you cannot achieve the same good sound insulation.

Soundproofing by infrasound

Infrasound is a natural phenomenon that is directly related to low frequency sound waves. This level of sound cannot be perceived by humans. A sewer riser can also make such a sound, especially if the inside of the pipe has growths due to prolonged use. There are two methods of soundproofing by infrasound.

  1. Partial replacement of the riser.
  2. Artificial noise suppression in pipes along the entire length of the riser.

If you are unable to replace the entire riser, a partial replacement would be ideal.

This work is carried out in the following order:

  • The middle of the pipes is sawn off with a grinder, and the cast-iron crosses are left.
  • The resulting plaque is removed with special chemicals.
  • The plastic pipe is mounted using special transitions.
  • It is recommended to immediately wrap the pipe with soundproofing material.

This technology is also applicable to plastic pipes. But the difference is that the replacement of the riser is carried out completely, including crosses, sockets and knees, starting from the ceiling and ending with the floors.

It's good if your neighbors are also ready to replace the pipes. In this case, the replacement is carried out through the overlap. Although this method is complex and painstaking, as a result you will achieve the best result in the manufacture of a silent sewer system.

Installation of silent pipes

Silent pipes have a number of differences from ordinary plastic pipes. Their structure consists of a three-layer heavy-duty material. Their design provides for a heat and sound insulating layer.

1 layer. Consists of smooth polyurethane. It contains particles of minerals that localize the noise. Such pipes have high strength, and the polyurethane layer prevents corrosion, as well as the negative impact of an aggressive environment.

2 layer. Made of polypropylene with reinforced mineral particles. It is this feature that allows you to block the gurgling and murmur of water pouring from above.

3 layer. Made of heavy-duty polymer material, such as PVC, polypropylene or low-density polyethylene.

Silent pipes are laid using the following technology:

  • The first step is the design and calculation of the desired material. Measurements are taken with a tape measure. Pipes are cut to a given size with a hacksaw.
  • Cut edges should be carefully filed on both sides at an angle of 150°. This will allow easy installation without breaks or dents in the O-rings.
  • When connecting pipes, pay attention to the sealing ring. It should lie flat and in its place.
  • The pipes, both inside and outside, must be completely free of fibrous substances or other contaminants.
  • The valve of the socket is performed using silicone grease, which is applied to the smooth part of the pipe. The pipe is put on until it stops.
  • It is important to mark the points of contact.
  • The pipe extends back by 1 centimeter. This must be done, since under the influence of cold or hot flows, the length of the pipe may vary slightly.
  • Shaped elements are retracted to the stop.

After completing these steps, the pipe is installed vertically. It should be fixed with clamps to the wall so that it does not hang out. The mount can be floating or rigid. The rigid mount must have a rubber o-ring.

If it is necessary to allow a slight movement of the pipe in the longitudinal direction, a floating fixing is used.

This technology allows you to completely eliminate the unpleasant noises that are heard in the sewer riser. But it only applies to last resort when all methods for the manufacture of independent sound insulation do not bear fruit or fail to perform.

Watch a video that tests silent pipes:

If you do the soundproofing work yourself and for the first time, without knowing some of the nuances, you can make simple mistakes that will lead to poor results.

  1. Wrong choice of soundproofing material. For example, some decide to use only mineral wool. As a heater, this is an excellent material, but it is not suitable for soundproofing.
  2. Poorly tightened adhesive tape or other fasteners. Because of this, a small gap is formed between the pipe and the material, which will provoke sound resonance.
  3. Use of clamps without rubber seals.
  4. Installation of a pipe without a sealing gasket.
  5. A small layer of soundproofing material.

All this is very simple, but failure to comply with at least one point can nullify efforts.

Video

Organization of sound insulation using K-phonic material: