Last updated: November 11, 2021 at 11:56 am
If you’re anything like me, you love relaxing in your garden. Imagine cool breezes, birds chirping and soothing warmth from the sun.
Nothing spoils this more than traffic noise from a busy road or motorway. In this article learn how to soundproof and reduce traffic noise in your garden for the peace and quiet you deserve.
There are several ways to eliminate noise in your garden effectively. These ways vary in their techniques, assembly and affordability. However, I’m confident you’ll be able to achieve the results you’re looking for.
First of all, it’s vital to understand two main principles behind reducing noise.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Sound Deflection vs Sound Attenuation
Sound Deflection
As the name suggests, sounds reflect in the same direction they came from. Thus, they do not escape and enter your garden. This principle requires having a thick, solid surface, typically brick, glass or wood.
Sound Attenuation
Contrary to deflection, sound attenuation works by absorbing sound waves. Instead of ricocheting to where they came from, noise gets lost in a thick surface and naturally volume reduces. The most popular example of this method is hedging.
Soundproof Fencing to Reduce Garden Noise
Although it is deemed expensive by many, soundproof fencing is the most effective tool to block noise from the road. Acoustic fences work by deflecting noise instead of absorbing it (sound deflection).
The reason why fencing have become a popular solution lies in how they manage to deflect noise and promote a peaceful and quiet atmosphere in your garden with minimal effort. They enable you to create bubble to relax in, without getting distracted by road noise.
Another perk is their durability and appealing designs. Acoustic barriers or fences do not just work, they also look chic and add up to your home’s final look and value.
Protection against pests, wet and dry rot is also a plus. Brands also typically cover their products with a 20-year manufacturers guarantee.
- Clean lines, no waney-edge boards
- Extra vertical battens for the ultimate construction
Last update on 2023-11-21 at 14:03 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4 Tips Before Installing a Soundproof Fence
It can get a bit frantic when trying to choose from so many shapes and sizes of soundproof fence. Yet, the most important thing is to pick and install a fence that has the following attributes:
1. Your fence should be at least two meters tall
If your barrier is too short, noise will pass straight over it. Your fence should be higher than two meters ensuring minimal noise can pass over it. Therefore, it’s a rule of thumb that the higher your barrier is, the more it can turn away noise.
2. Your fence must be thick enough
Thicker fences provide better coverage… making it harder and harder for noise to penetrate the fence.
3. Your fence should be covered well
Minding the gaps between your fence and the garden floor is crucial. Your fence should cover all openings if you want to eliminate noise entirely. Regardless of your preferred method, be it brick walls, wooden fences, metallic panels, or hedges, make sure you play by that rule.
4. Positioning of your fence
The placement of your fence dictates its efficiency. If you have the option to place it directly in front of the noise source, do it. If not, opt for positioning the fence as close as you can from the main noise source. Keep it near the road, and not your garden. This will take noise longer to travel and reduce them.
Pros and Cons of Soundproof Fencing
| Pros | Cons |
| Most effective solution | Expensive |
| Durable | Probably won’t be able to install yourself |
| Appealing look |
Cheaper Alternatives to a Soundproof Fence
There are a few alternatives to expensive soundproof fences.
- Wooden fence – cheaper than soundproof fencing but not as effective
- Metal fence – least effective barrier and can be weak against harsh weather
- Brick wall – takes the longest to build and might not be as visually appealing as fencing
Hedges for Soundproofing
Hedges are a great solution for blocking out traffic noise if you’re looking for more greenery.
This is what I had when I was younger, and I don’t have any complaints. Depending on the thickness of the hedge they can be really good or really bad at blocking noise.l
They are also somewhat durable being able to withstand multiple years of football and rummaging about.
Pros and Cons of Hedges for Soundproofing
| Pros | Cons |
| Fits well within garden | Takes time to fully grow |
| Adds to greenery | Can be expensive if buying in |
| Usually pretty sturdy |
Waterfalls and Fountains
Think of a fountain as the missing item that can complete your garden and transform it into a haven. The beauty behind this feature is that it substitutes traffic noise with soothing sounds of running water. Whether substitution is a pro or a con is dependent on your preference.
It’s a great way to make your backyard more picturesque without spending thousands of pounds in the process.
Pros and Cons of Water Noise
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be relaxing with constant noise | Doesn’t cancel out noise but rather replaces |
| Garden feature | Can be annoying if you don’t like running water |
Trees and Pot-Plants (Junipers)
Trees and plants do not necessarily say noise cancellation, but their impact can be surprising. Junipers are great for this!
Utilising Junipers and placing them near noise sources can reduce noticeably reduce noise. Many homeowners are sold with this idea alone, yet this is not all there is to pot-plants and trees.
Filling your garden with these pretty plants creates a relaxing visual contrast against all the bricks and harsh-looking materials.
Pros and Cons of Plants
| Pros | Cons |
| Change to fences or walls | Not as effective as soundproof fencing or hedges |
| Adds to greenery | Expensive to buy a large quantity |
| Can customise and change type |
Conclusion: Reducing Garden Noise Made Easy
Regardless of how noisy your garden usually is, if you follow this guide you should see a solid improvement in reducing traffic noise. While we’re on the topic of garden soundproofing, we also have a guide to soundproof your shed!
Now:
Your garden will never be completely silent without building a big dome over your garden like The Simpson’s, but experience a noticeable difference.
Whether you decide on fencing, hedges or an alternative solution like a fountain, let me know how you get on in the comments.
