How much to soundproof between Toronto suite floors?

Soundproofing between floors in a Toronto multi-unit home typically costs $3,000–$12,000+, depending on the method used, floor area, and how much disruption you're willing to accept.

This is one of the most common upgrades in Toronto's older homes, especially as basement apartments and secondary suites become more popular. The goal is to reduce impact noise (footsteps, dropped items) and airborne noise (voices, TV) — and the two require different solutions.

Understanding the Two Types of Noise

Airborne noise travels through the air and penetrates through gaps, thin subfloors, and lightweight assemblies. Impact noise is structural — it travels through the floor framing itself when something physically contacts the surface. A good soundproofing system addresses both, which is why layering multiple products together gives the best results.

Cost Ranges for Toronto Homeowners

The most affordable approach is adding mass and decoupling from below — meaning you work on the basement ceiling without touching the upstairs floor. This involves resilient channels or sound isolation clips, a layer of 5/8" drywall (or two layers), and acoustic insulation (like Rockwool Safe'n'Sound) in the joist bays. For a typical 600–800 sq ft floor plate, expect $3,000–$6,000 installed.

A mid-range approach adds acoustic underlayment under new flooring upstairs — products like cork, rubber, or specialty foam rated for IIC (Impact Isolation Class) performance. Combined with ceiling work below, this runs $6,000–$10,000 depending on whether new flooring is part of the scope.

The premium solution uses Resilient Sound Isolation Clips (RSIC) or a fully decoupled ceiling system with double drywall, Green Glue damping compound between layers, and acoustic insulation throughout. For a full floor assembly in a Toronto semi or detached, this can reach $10,000–$15,000+, but delivers a dramatic, noticeable difference.

Toronto-Specific Considerations

If your suite is a legal secondary unit under Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 150.67, you'll need to meet minimum STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings — typically STC 50 is required between units. This isn't just a comfort upgrade; it's a code requirement that will be inspected. Pull a building permit through the City of Toronto Building Division (416-397-5330 or toronto.ca/building) — this protects you legally and ensures the work is done to standard.

Older Toronto homes (pre-1970s) often have single-layer subfloors, plaster ceilings, and minimal insulation in the joist bays, which means there's more room for improvement — but also more labour involved in doing it right. Homes in The Annex, Leslieville, or East York with original construction will typically land at the higher end of the range.

Next Steps

Get at least two or three quotes from contractors who specifically mention STC and IIC ratings — these are the performance benchmarks that matter. A contractor quoting "soundproofing" without referencing those numbers may be underselling the scope. Ask whether the quote includes permits, drywall finishing, and painting, as these are commonly excluded.

Browse licensed contractors experienced in secondary suites and interior renovations at the Toronto Construction Network — finding someone familiar with Toronto's secondary suite requirements will save you headaches at inspection time.