Akoestiek verbeteren in oude woningen (tips & tricks)
6 November 2025 By Thomas van Zelst
updated on: 14 October 2026

Improving acoustics in an older home

± 2 minutes

An older home may combine high ceilings, hard surfaces and rooms with very different sound. It may also have noise passing through floors or partitions. Start by identifying which problem you hear. The measures that soften reverberation inside a room are different from those that improve sound insulation.

Table of contents

    Identify the sound before changing the room

    Notice whether conversation lingers after the speaker stops or whether the main disturbance comes from another room, traffic or a neighbour. The first suggests room reflections; the second involves transmission through the building. Several problems can occur together. Record the location and circumstances rather than choosing a product from the word “soundproofing” alone.

    Introduce absorption without losing the interior

    Curtains, rugs and upholstered furniture can complement decorative acoustic panels. The effect depends on material and coverage; a few soft objects will not necessarily balance extensive glass, plaster and hard flooring. A carefully placed veneer feature can sit alongside original doors, cornices and existing timber when its edges and colour are planned.

    Check the existing construction

    Old plaster, uneven walls and previous repairs need assessment before carrying additional weight. Loose paint, wallpaper or a crumbling surface is not a reliable adhesive base. Have the fixing method suited to the underlying construction. In heritage properties, obtain any necessary approvals before altering fabric or concealing original features.

    Treat transmitted noise as a separate project

    Sound insulation may involve partitions, floors, doors, gaps and other transmission paths. Do not seal ventilation openings or alter protected constructions simply to stop a noise leak. A building or acoustic specialist can assess what is practical for the property. Acoustic wall panels alone do not replace that work.

    Plan a feature that remains serviceable

    Keep access to sockets, inspection doors and heating equipment. For ceiling or inclined fitting, use suitable mechanical fixings rather than adhesive alone. Compare wood samples with the original interior, and send room dimensions and photographs when requesting help with quantities. The best layout respects both the building and the way you use it.

    Plan your project with Adeqo

    Compare acoustic wall panels and send us your dimensions, photographs and project requirements for help with finishes and material quantities. Read our measuring and installation guide for related planning details.

    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Brown Oak – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Brown Oak – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    119,95
    View product
    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Dark Walnut – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Dark Walnut – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    119,95
    View product
    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Grey Oak – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    Adeqo acoustic wall panel – Grey Oak – 300 × 60 cm – three-sided wood veneer
    119,95
    View product

    Thomas van Zelst

    About the author

    Thomas van Zelst

    Adeqo founder · acoustics and interior planning

    Thomas van Zelst is the founder of Adeqo. He advises homeowners and business customers on material selection and panel planning for older-home interiors. Product performance and project compliance need the appropriate documentation and installation assessment.

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