If you’ve ever been frustrated by the sounds of your neighbors—whether it’s loud music, stomping footsteps, or the constant hum of apartment life—you’re not alone. But what if the solution to this age-old problem was as simple as a metal screw? It may sound strange, but a Swedish researcher has come up with a groundbreaking idea that could offer the relief you’ve been longing for.
The Innovative Screw That Could Cut Noise in Half
Imagine being able to reduce the noise coming from your neighbor’s apartment by half, just by replacing a few screws in your walls. That’s exactly what Håkan Wernersson, a researcher at the University of Malmö, has created. Wernersson, who works in the Department of Materials Science and Applied Mathematics, developed a special screw that can significantly reduce sound traveling through walls.
This unique screw, called the Sound Screw, is designed to disrupt sound waves. Its innovative structure includes a split in the middle with a spring inside. When it’s used to fasten drywall to wooden beams in the wall, the spring absorbs sound waves that would otherwise pass through the materials, dissipating them before they can reach your ears. The result? Less noise from your neighbors.
Real-World Testing: From Labs to Businesses
The results of this invention have been impressive so far. In laboratory tests, the Sound Screw reduced sound levels by nine decibels—roughly halving the perceived noise. This was demonstrated using a standard drywall setup. But the real test came when these screws were used in everyday environments. In a hair salon, for example, the Sound Screws replaced traditional screws without removing the ceiling plaster. The outcome was just as positive, showing that these screws work in practical settings as well.
Wernersson notes that there are strict legal requirements for sound insulation in apartment buildings. The Sound Screw could help meet these standards, but it’s especially useful for homes where reducing noise between rooms is a concern—without needing to overhaul the structure.
The Added Bonus: Saving Space
One of the most interesting perks of using the Sound Screw is the space it saves. Traditional insulation methods and soundproofing materials can take up valuable room space, with extra layers or materials adding bulk to the walls. But with the Sound Screw, you can attach drywall directly to the walls, saving precious space that would otherwise be lost. As Wernersson points out, “One square meter of floor space can be worth thousands of euros, and with our screw, you’re making the most of that space.”
The Future of Noise Control: More Testing Needed
While the Sound Screw has shown great potential, more testing in real-world environments is still needed to fully gauge its long-term effectiveness. However, interest in this simple yet innovative product is already growing. Companies in places as far as South America and Japan are exploring how these screws could be integrated into construction practices.
This clever solution could be a game-changer for those living in noisy environments. Not only does it offer a cost-effective way to reduce noise, but it also helps maximize space—something that’s always in demand. Next time you’re disturbed by those loud footsteps or the sound of your neighbors, consider how a few Sound Screws might bring back some peace and quiet to your home.
