What is the most effective sound insulation to be used for a house located along a busy highway?

The most effective sound insulation for a house located along a busy highway is a 12" double brick wall. This option provides superior sound attenuation due to its thickness and the density of the materials. When it comes to sound insulation, mass is a crucial factor. The heavier and thicker the walls, the better they can block and absorb sound waves.

A 12" double brick wall consists of two layers of bricks separated by an air gap or soundproofing material. This construction enhances sound insulation by reducing vibrations and helping to dissipate sound energy. The air gap further aids in soundproofing, functioning as a buffer that decreases the transmission of noise from the outside environment to the interior of the house.

In contrast, the other options, while they may provide some level of sound insulation, do not match the sound-dampening qualities of a double brick wall. A 9" brick wall, a 9" concrete hollow block (CHB) wall, and a 7" concrete wall may offer some barrier against noise, but their thickness and material properties do not provide the same level of performance. Therefore, when considering effective sound insulation, the 12" double brick wall is the clear choice, making it the optimal solution for homes near