Soundproofing a residential home is best done during the construction. Sound control in existing homes or apartments is the toughest challenge. Consider these sound and noise control tips for residential construction.

This checklist will help identify sources of sound and noise pollution in your home or an apartment you are considering. This checklist will help as you can be distracted by visual stimulation rather then audio interference.

Soundproofing a home will help cut down noise from the outside or from another room. Noise is generated from vibrations. Eliminating vibration will help with sound or noise control. Understanding how these sound vibrations are created and passed through the house will help you figure out how make your home soundproof.

Violations of the building code can cause serious danger and life safety hazards. Building codes are the law. If you need to hire an attorney to settle a dispute with your builder over defects in your house, see if these building code violations are visible at your home.

Conflict between you and your builder. And it is time to hire an attorney. A legal battle is expensive and very stressful. Here is my story about a court case. Attorney fees can rack up quickly. Do your homework when hiring an attorney. Get the right one.

Builders have known for years that water and wood don't mix. A barrier is required to keep the water and/or moisture out of the wood framing. An air and water barrier is wrapped around the house to keep the moisture outside. Older barriers, such as synthetic stucco or EIFS, blocked water transfer in both directions. A major mistake. Current products include a new generation of drainable EIFS.

The following companies make or distribute modern air and water infiltration barriers. Proper installation of the vapor barrier and the use of the approved tape is required to create a long lasting waterproof seam.