Rock wool a good way to soundproof laundry closet

February 2, 2010

Q I am turning an upstairs closet into a laundry closet for a stacking washer/dryer. Do you have any ideas for the floor and/or insulating the closet to reduce vibrations and noise? The room under the closet has exposed ceiling joists.

Q I am turning an upstairs closet into a laundry closet for a stacking washer/dryer. Do you have any ideas for the floor and/or insulating the closet to reduce vibrations and noise? The room under the closet has exposed ceiling joists.

Also, do you have a preference between the energy-efficient front-loading machine, and the top-loader models that are less expensive?

A To soundproof the closet that will house your new washer and dryer, use a Roxul Safe 'n' Sound rock wool insulation that is denser than thermal wall insulation, which makes it a very effective sound barrier, in addition to being moisture resistant.

To go one step further, instead of finishing with standard drywall, use a soundproof drywall that is perfect for remodelling; it's available through Dryco. They also have installation information available on their website at www.dryco.ca.

Regarding your inquiry about top-loaders versus front-loaders: Compared with top-loaders, in addition to being more energy-efficient, front-load washing machines have many advantages: they are quieter, use less water and do not have agitators, so they spin more rapidly than top loaders, which reduces drying time and protects clothes.

They also offer larger load capacity so, overall, the extra cost now will save time and money later. Be sure to choose an Energy Star Rated unit.

QWe have a few units in our townhouse complex that have had problems with their dryer vents leaking through the ceiling, caused by lint blocking the vent. One resident has complained that her clothes are taking a long time to dry. The distance from the dryer to the outside wall is about 41/2 metres.

It seems many owners are not aware that dryer vents have to be checked regularly. How often would you suggest getting these serviced?

AClogged filters and ducts restrict airflow, decrease energy efficiency and can be a fire hazard. It is important to have your dryer vents cleaned every year. If there is a long distance from the dryer to the outside vent, you will require the service of a reputable Duct Cleaner that is equipped to take care of this.

Contact The HouseSmart Referral Office for a company that services your area.

Ensure you choose fire-rated metal dryer-vent ducts over plastic ones -- and clamps rather than duct tape. They tend not to overheat as much (which heats up the laundry room) or to get as clogged with lint.

Also, clean the clothes-dryer filter after each load.