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Acoustic Membrane
There are different types of acoustic membrane on the market, some much heavier than
others and some higher performing than others. These will be rated by different dB
reduction levels across differing Hz frequencies and are available in different thicknesses.
The thicknesses and weight will affect their application and effectiveness, so it’s
important to choose well.
Acoustic Mineral Wool Cavity Insulation
Mineral, rock or stone wool insulation, such as Quiet Fiber, are essentially open cell
insulation materials which work very well at absorbing acoustic and thermal energies.
Invariably used in cavities such as stud walls, this rather rigid material comes in different
thicknesses and densities and is used in both households and commercial projects as it is
quite affordable. Not only good at acoustic and thermal energy absorption but almost as
important if not more so, it is very useful for filling cavities. This prevents the cavity from
being an open and resonant ‘cave’ like hole which can lead to an amplification of
acoustic energy.
Soundproof fiberglass
Comes in boards / slabs rather than rolls and can be used in various places and
applications including to make acoustic panels in home studios, theatres and commercial
buildings. This soundproofing material is very effective in diminishing noise that enters
or leaves a room, and also improves internal acoustics. There are different types which
you can choose from with differing thicknesses, densities and strengths. For example,
703 boards are best for reducing high frequency noises whilst 705 boards are more
suited to low frequency bass noises.
Resilient sound channels
This are the main way of decoupling drywall from internal structures of buildings. This
system can also be installed with acoustic hangers or gaskets which further reduce the
vibration. Resilient sound channels are strips of metal or timber that are installed to the
walls so that the soundproof insulation within the walls can be kept firmly in place,
whilst providing a platform onto which all finishing systems can be attached. This
eliminates the direct contact that there would otherwise be through the layers of
structure walls, ceiling, floors.
Acoustic Hangers
Sound isolation clips are designed to allow a decoupling separation between the walls
and ceiling from the underlying framing studs and joists. These molded rubber and steel
isolation clips are used to control sound and are designed to reduce vibration through a
structure.
Acoustic Hangers
Soundproof drywall typically combines several layers of gypsum boards, along with steel,
with the main aim being to increase its density and mass so as to block sound effectively.
Having said that, any type of drywall can work well for soundproofing as long as
decoupling is at the back of one’s mind. To achieve good results in terms of
soundproofing, it is important to choose thick drywall in conjunction with some other
soundproofing methods, such as Acoustic block 3mm Isolation Membrane, sealants,
tapes and caulks for example.
Dense Board
OSB or Oriented Strand Board is a versatile and durable building board. An alternative,
plywood can be used as the construction is similar with multiple layers of opposing-
oriented wood fibers that creates rigidity and strength with increased mass and density.
Soundproof Underlay
They are typically made from fibers which are compressed and treated with heat, so as
to form a dense sound absorbing material. A great example of this is Acoustic block
Acoustic Wool Acoustic Underlay, which comes available in rolls and works best if
installed in conjunction with Acoustic block Isolation Membranes.
Anti-Vibration Soundproof Mats
Anti-vibration soundproof mats help to kill annoying humming sounds and vibrations.
These types of mats are effective at reducing noise, and since they eliminate vibration
they are also ideal for installation beneath and inside machinery and appliances, as well
as to soundproof cars. They can also offer a level of acoustic absorption on a surface or
within a room to help reduce unwanted regeneration/resonance and enhance high-end
audio performance.
Acoustic Putty
Flexible acoustic and intumescent putty is designed to maintain a building separation
and wall partitions structural integrity and acoustic properties. Acoustic Putty pads are
designed to maintain the integrity and acoustic properties of flexible wall assemblies.
Sound Absorbing Materials for Floor
Roberts Super Felt Premium Underlayment
Made for soundproofing floors and to cushion flooring, Roberts Super Premium
Underlayment is a high performance felt underlayment, made in part from recycled
fibers using a high heat manufacturing process. The felt is dense making it a good
material for absorbing noise, rather than reflecting it. Roberts is ideal for laminate or
engineered flooring and is naturally insulating, meaning it can keep chilly floors warmer
in the winter, and cooler in summer months.
Quiet Walk Plus
Underlayment is a great Super Felt substitute. While slightly less dense (11.5 versus
14.5 lbs./ft. 3), it offers comparable noise proofing at a lower price. Quiet Walk Plus
performs well beneath laminate, hardwood, and engineered wood floors. It works
beneath 5mm+ vinyl, LVT, and WPC/SPC planks (but not ceramic tile).
Roberts First Step
First Step is another Roberts Consolidated high acoustic underlayment. This foam
substance forms an open-cell foam layer to prevent mold formation by allowing air to
circulate underneath. First Step can be laid on above- or below-grade subfloors, unlike
conventional under laments. First Step has comparable noise suppression despite its
reduced thickness and density. First Step smooths subfloor flaws while being thinner.
Use only laminate or engineered wood planks in a floating floor design for optimal
results.
Floor Muffler Ultra Seal Underlayment
Closed-cell polypropylene foam Floor Muffler is a high-performance acoustic
underlayment. For lip and tape installation, we recommend Ultra seal. Floor Muffler is
like First Step but has greater STC and IIC ratings. Floor Muffler reduces noise best.
Acoustic baffles
This are free hanging sound absorption products that are often used to acoustically
treat large rooms such as gymnasiums and lobbies. By hanging from the ceiling, baffles
reside in space where sound tends to get “stuck”. This is because there isn't anything
up that high to absorb or diffuse the sound waves.
Perforated gypsum
Plaster boards with different perforations in symmetric form not only enhance the
acoustics but also increase the aesthetics of any space. Perforated Gypsum panels have
excellent acoustic features and can be used for both ceilings & walls.
Acoustic Sealants
It is mostly used when building walls that need to be soundproofed because it can be
put right between layers of different materials like Acoustic bloc Isolation Membrane,
drywall, or plasterboard. It works to stop vibrations from sound waves that would
otherwise get through walls. This is basically a type of sealant that can be used to
countersink the heads of mechanical fixings and stop leaks from happening.
Soundproof Paint
Soundproof or sound deadening paint does what it says on the tin. It can be sprayed or
roller-applied as paint. Thicker paint yields greater results. Spraying soundproof paint is
suggested since it thickens the layer. Nevertheless, soundproof paint does not work
well. Soundproofing effects are inconsistent due to its low bulk. Where wall
breathability is not a problem, latex paint is better than normal paint since it contains
rubber. Latex, like silicone caulk, settles into crevices and performs better than water-
based coatings, but is non-breathable.
Acoustic Louvres
Acoustic louvres are commonly used in ventilation holes to allow airflow while blocking
out ambient noise. takes the form of an open shutter with blades or slats that are
slanted to let in light and air while blocking out rain and bright sunlight. Maybe you can
change the slats' angle.