I'm no expert in soundproofing....in fact I wanted to preface my response by saying that my efforts to minimize sound from other rooms haven't worked all that well. And that (maybe) my somewhat disappointing experience might be helpful, in some way.

I had built baffling out of a combination of drywall and "soundboard" (sold by home improvement stores) to try and lessen sound from upstairs plumbing in the kitchen. The idea was to trap air spaces and deaden the noise. As I said, it didn't work too well (although it helped a little).

But this experience aside, I don't think that filling the hollow core door is a good idea. For one thing, it might be more destructive to the door than you might realize--and I don't think the landlord would like this any more than replacing it.

Plus, it might not work the way you predict anyway. The airspace in the door might be an asset to some degree. And the sound might be traveling in ways you wouldn't anticipate--like through the solid parts of the hollow core door. A good bit of it might be traveling under the door, or even through the wall.

As I understand it, when builders want to soundproof walls between adjacent units (say, in condos), they put up two entire drywalled 2x4 walls with airspace trapped between them.

All that said, I'd be tempted to first try and minimize the noise level. It's probably the easiest variable to control. Surely your roommates have to understand your need to get some sleep, right? And that you help contribute to the rent?

Failing that (and assuming you don't want to move out), I would think you might have better luck with hanging something over the door (maybe heavy carpets, blankets, or ???) If you go this route, I'd probably look for remnants, or try thrift stores. And think of ways to easily put it up when needed. And I don't think these would do miracles by any stretch.

I am also hoping that others might post some more successful insights to help you out.

Good luck on this problem; I know it must not be pleasant.

Regards,

-k2 in CO

Moderator, Miscellaneous Forum

http://www.bobvila.com/BBS/Miscellaneous

Oh yes, one more thing!

Assuming you don't hear a better solution than just hanging up heavy carpets or blankets....

You can use carpet tack strips to hang carpets! These are cheap, and one can possibly be put above the door with just a few nails or screws. Then simply hang it up when you need it. But be careful: the tacks on these strips are really sharp!--watch your fingers!

Again, I wouldn't expect miracles. I'm still hoping someone else posts a better idea.

I still think the best thing is to ask your roomies to please turn it down.

Best of luck,

-k2 in CO

Moderator, Miscellaneous Forum

http://www.bobvila.com/BBS/Miscellaneous

Put a piece of 2# EPS (heavy grade foam board) to the door. A 2-3" thick piece should provide ample sound proofing.