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Sound Absorbing Materials for Walls

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.

Feather Step 3in1 Silent Vapor Barrier Underlayment


Feather Step is 2.0 mm foam with foil vapor barrier film and adhesive strips for flap-
over edge attachment. Most 3in1 consumers are impressed by its toughness and how
resistant it is to tearing compared to foam underlayment.

Fat mat Sound Deadener


Noises and vibrations transmitted through the flooring of vehicles can be easily
absorbed by Fat Mat Sound Deadener, allowing for less intrusive driving conditions. In
this category, we find the sounds of the road, the engine, and the exhaust, as well as
any irritating rattles. Cutting, peeling, and applying Fat Mat is a breeze. Protect your
car's flooring, doors, and trunk with this versatile barrier that can also be installed in
trucks, RVs, boats, and even houses. Five 18" x 40" adhesive sheets are included.
TMS Mass Loaded Vinyl
TMS Mass Loaded Vinyl is 1/8" thick and provides 27 STC. This item's extruded virgin
material has no discernible odor. Since vinyl has a large enough mass to wrap around
pipes and other impediments, this material can be used to do so. It's effective against
multiple types of noise and helps cut down on transference. This soundproof
underlayment is ideal for use with carpet and other flooring. It can be used on ceilings,
walls, HVAC parts, loud pipes, and so on. Use some heavy-duty shears or a utility knife
to quickly cut it to size. Get the right length, lay it down, and then fasten it down.
Roxul Rock board 60
Use Roxul Mineral Wool Floor Insulation if a stiff material is needed for your acoustic
project. The batts are often used as bass traps, in recording studios, and in-home
theaters, and they are also great for filling the floor structure before placing the
subflooring. It's packaged in 6-piece cases, each of which contains two 24-by-48-inch, 2-
inch-thick panels. Using protective clothing during installation will help prevent
exposure to the substance through inhalation and skin/eye contact. Gloves, goggles,
long sleeves, a loose shirt, and a face mask are all essential pieces of safety equipment.
Pro Source EVA Foam Tiles
These tiles provide style, cushion, and soundproofing, and come in several colors to
choose from. Each pack comes with 12 interlocking tiles that measure 2” x 2” for a total
of 48 square feet. Borders are also included.

Premium Grip Rug Pad


Made from 100% recycled all-natural rubber and felt, this non-slip rug is designed for
hard surfaces, such as hardwood floors, as well as carpets. It is designed to keep your
rug securely in place and extend its life. It comes in reversible 8′ x 10′ rugs that add
cushion to your already existing rug while protecting surfaces and providing a non-slip
surface.
Sound Absorbing Materials for Ceiling
Acoustic Foam
enhance the acoustics of the space. Hence, acoustic foam is utilized for this objective,
in addition to its primary function of dampening sound transmission. Useful in a wide
variety of settings, including man caves, living rooms, and studios. Acoustic foam is
great for dampening noise and comes in many different sizes, shapes, and hues. The
market for acoustic foam features numerous well-known manufacturers. Some retailers
even stock this stuff in pretty hues, knowing that some buyers care more about the
product's visual appeal than its utility.
Sound Absorber Panels
There is a wide variety of attractively colored sound absorbers to choose from. Putting
them in place can also improve the aesthetics of a certain area. Absorber Panels, such
as the Acoustic bloc Quiet-Cloud or the acoustic Wall, can be installed on walls or
ceilings to reduce echo and echoes in a room. The term "absorber" comes from the fact
that it muffles noise by soaking up the vibrations of air molecules.
Acoustic Ceiling Systems & Tiles
Acoustic ceiling tiles are similar to acoustic panels in that they provide effective
acoustic control and can be directly installed to a ceiling or utilized as a structural drop
ceiling to form a grid system. Made in several shapes, sizes, depths, and styles.
Installing acoustic ceiling tiles is a simple way to upgrade the soundproofing of any
room.
Drop Ceiling
Drop ceiling installation may be the best option for reducing impact noise since all of
the impact noise will come from contact with the original ceiling, not with the drop
ceiling or suspended ceiling. With the right soundproofing materials in the drop ceiling,
you can further reduce the amount of noise that reaches the lower floor. Just like with
a replacement ceiling, drop ceiling installation is best left to the professionals.

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.

Acoustic ceiling clouds


The clouds in the ceiling serve two purposes: they dampen echo in cavernous rooms
and they define the boundaries between rooms. Suspended horizontally from the
ceiling, these plush and streamlined shapes absorb sound from every direction. With a
thickness of only 1 inch, 1-inch clouds are the perfect acoustic solution for homes and
light commercial settings. Clouds of acoustic ceiling insulation 2 inches in thickness
work well in high-traffic commercial environments like auditoriums, restaurants, and
open-concept workplaces.

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.

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