How to Reduce Noise from Noisy Neighbours

How to Soundproof a Ceiling in a Flat (UK Soundproofing Guide)

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:16:24 GMT

How to Reduce Noise from Upstairs Neighbours (UK Soundproofing Guide)

Noise from upstairs neighbours is one of the most common frustrations for flat owners and tenants in the UK. Whether it’s footsteps, voices, or TV noise, a properly soundproofed ceiling can make a huge difference. This guide explains how to soundproof a ceiling effectively, which materials work best, and how much it costs to achieve peace and quiet in your home.

Why Soundproof a Ceiling in a Flat?

If you can hear footsteps, moving furniture or conversations from above, it means your ceiling isn’t blocking airborne or impact noise effectively.

There are two main types of noise to tackle:

Impact noise: footsteps, moving furniture, dropped items
Airborne noise: talking, music, or TV

The goal of soundproofing is to add mass, separation, and damping so that sound energy doesn’t pass through your ceiling.

Best Ways to Soundproof a Ceiling

The most effective way to soundproof a ceiling in a flat is to install a decoupled ceiling system , such as the ReductoClip Ceiling System .

This system separates the ceiling from the floor above, dramatically reducing both airborne and impact noise from neighbours or members of the same household being noisy in the upper floors of the same house.

How the ReductoClip Ceiling System Works

ReductoClips
These specialist sound isolation clips decouple the ceiling structure from the timber joists, acting like a shock-absorbing suspension system . They isolate and dampen high levels of sound energy and vibration , preventing noise from transferring through the ceiling.
ReductoClip Furring Channels
The extra-wide metal channels slot into the clips and provide a stable fixing point for acoustic plasterboards. Their width makes acoustic plasterboard installation faster and easier .
Acoustic Mineral Wool
Dense acoustic insulation is fitted between the joists to absorb sound within the cavity. This prevents sound from amplifying or resonating .
Acoustic Plasterboard (2 Layers)
Two layers of high-mass acoustic plasterboard are added with FlexiSound sandwiched in between to increase ceiling density. These boards offer greater mass and airborne sound reduction than standard plasterboard but can still be finished and decorated normally.
FlexiSound 5 Membrane
The FlexiSound 5 viscoelastic membrane adds an additional type of mass to target a wider range of sound frequencies. It helps absorb and dampen sound energy and vibration , enhancing the performance of the full ceiling system.

Watch: How to Soundproof a Ceiling Using the ReductoClip System

Learn how to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours and reduce both impact and airborne noise with the ReductoClip Ceiling System, the UK’s leading high-performance solution for timber joist ceilings. This video demonstrates a full DIY installation , showing how the ReductoClip system decouples the soundproofing layers from the original structure to prevent vibration transfer and deliver outstanding results.

At just 60 mm thick , it’s the slimmest clip-and-bar soundproofing system on the market , making it ideal for flats, homes, and apartments where ceiling height is limited. The ReductoClip System is also widely used in music studios, home cinemas, and high-volume environments needing superior sound control.

Watch the step-by-step video below to see how easily you can create a quiet, peaceful living space while maintaining maximum ceiling height.

How Much Does Ceiling Soundproofing Cost in the UK?

Soundproofing a ceiling in a UK flat using the ReductoClip Ceiling System typically costs between £1,400 and £1,600 for an average-sized ceiling measuring around 3m wide by 4m long .
This price includes all soundproofing materials, delivery, and VAT.

Costs can vary depending on several factors, including the ceiling structure (timber or concrete), the overall room size , and whether you choose DIY installation or hire a professional tradesperson.

Can You Soundproof an Existing Ceiling?

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to soundproof an existing ceiling . The most effective approach is to remove the existing plasterboard, as leaving it in place can create a hollow void that traps and amplifies sound, often called the “drum effect.”

If your ceiling is made from lathe and plaster , it’s best to remove it and expose the joist cavities. Once open, fill the space with high-density acoustic mineral wool to absorb noise so it doesn't echo and amplify within the cavity.

For maximum sound reduction, install the ReductoClip Ceiling System . This creates an isolated ceiling layer that effectively blocks both impact and airborne noise from above, delivering professional-grade acoustic performance.

How Much Space Does Ceiling Soundproofing Take Up?

A common concern when soundproofing ceilings in flats is how much height you lose.
The ReductoClip Ceiling System offers one of the slimmest soundproofing solutions available, adding only 60mm from the bottom of the timber joist to the final layer of acoustic plasterboard, while still providing the highest level of sound reduction.

This makes it ideal for flats, basement conversions, and rooms with limited ceiling height where maintaining headroom is essential.

How to Stop Hearing Noisy Neighbours Above

If you’re constantly hearing footsteps, conversation, or music from upstairs, the best solution is to soundproof the ceiling system with a high-performing, tried and tested solution like the ReductoClip Ceiling System.

Avoid so called 'quick fixes' like foam panels, they reduce echo but don’t stop noise transfer.

Does Ceiling Soundproofing Work Both Ways?

Yes, ceiling soundproofing works in both directions , helping to reduce sound coming down from above and leaving your room below and entering the room above .
A properly installed decoupled ceiling system like the ReductoClip System blocks impact noise , such as footsteps or furniture movement, from upstairs neighbours, while also reducing airborne noise like music, TV, and voices.

This two-way sound isolation is ideal for flats , apartments, and multi-occupancy homes , creating quieter, more private living environments for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Soundproofing a ceiling in a flat is one of the most effective ways to regain peace and quiet.
Whether you’re tackling noisy neighbours or soundproofing between floors in your own home. Using high-performance materials like ReductoClips, FlexiSound, Acoustic Mineral Wool and Acoustic Plasterboard ensures high preforming results.

If you’re unsure where to start, contact our expert team at The Soundproofing Store for free, no-pressure advice on the best ceiling system for your property.

Read what our customers say in our independent customer reviews and see why The Soundproofing Store is trusted by homeowners and professionals across the UK.

About the Author - Phi Lyons

Phil Lyons is the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store, the UK’s leading specialists in practical, high-performance soundproofing solutions. With over a decade of hands-on experience supporting homeowners, builders, and specifiers, Phil has earned a reputation for helping people solve every type of noise issue. From everyday household disturbances caused by noisy neighbours, to the more demanding requirements of home music studios. Over the years, he has guided thousands of customers toward creating quieter homes, music studios, and workspaces across the UK.

Phil is passionate about educating people on how soundproofing really works, cutting through the jargon, and empowering customers to make confident, informed decisions. Under his leadership, The Soundproofing Store has become known for its award-winning, science-backed systems, expert advice and continued product development to achieve the highest possible results for customers.

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours?

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 16:13:09 GMT

How to Soundproof a brick wall against noisy neighbours?

How to Soundproof a Brick Wall from Noisy Neighbours in the UK

If you're wondering how to soundproof a solid brick wall from noisy neighbours in the UK, you're not alone. With over 5 million people in the UK affected by neighbour noise , the demand for soundproofing walls continues to rise. Whether it's loud conversations, TV noise, or banging doors, unwanted noise through walls can seriously disrupt your comfort at home.

In this guide, we'll explain how to reduce noise through walls, what types of walls you're likely to have, and the best way to soundproof a wall, with or without construction experience.

Soundproofing Walls: Start by Identifying Your Wall Type

Before you can choose the right method and soundproofing solution for a wall , it's essential to understand what kind of wall you're dealing with. Most UK homes have one of two common internal wall constructions:

Solid Brick Party Walls

These are usually brick or block walls , typically found between adjoining houses or flats. They’re often finished with plasterboard using the dot and dab method.

Traditionally, most soundproofing is performed on standard brick party walls. However, with rental and house prices increasing and a shortage of property especially in major cities such as London, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh and Glasgow, we are now seeing more people renting rooms or house sharing with a need to soundproof stud walls between rooms within the same property.

Stud Walls

These internal walls are built with a timber frame, usually with plasterboard on both sides. They may or may not be insulated, and are often used to divide rooms within the same property.

Knowing your wall type is crucial because it influences which soundproofing , insulation products, or full systems will work best for your space.

Can You Soundproof a Wall Without Major Construction?

Yes, you absolutely can. Many homeowners ask, “Can you soundproof a wall without ripping everything out?” The answer is yes. By using acoustic wall panels or soundproofing systems from The Soundproofing Store , you can make a significant improvement to your unwanted noise issue, without any kind of major disruption to your home.

For more severe noise problems, especially with solid party walls, a layered approach involving the ReductoClip and Bar System, decoupling, and mass-loaded layers is often the best way to soundproof a wall effectively and is also a DIY solution, or can be fitted by a local tradesperson.

How to Stop Noise Through Walls: The Right Way

To find the most effective wall soundproofing solution , you need to assess two key things:

1.What type of noise are you hearing?

Airborne noise (e.g. talking, TV, music)
Impact noise (e.g. banging, footsteps)

2. How loud is the noise?

Is it low level conversation or loud music and shouting?

This helps us recommend the right level of wall soundproofing , whether that’s direct to wall soundproofing panels like ProSound SoundBoard 4 for internal stud walls, or the ReductoClip System for solid brick party walls.

Once the type of wall, the type of noise and the level of noise problem has been identified, the correct soundproofing solution to reduce the noise can be recommended.

Best Practices for Soundproofing a Wall: Solid or Stud Construction

When soundproofing a wall , whether it's a solid brick party wall or an internal wooden stud wall , there are several essential steps that make all the difference in reducing noise effectively. To create a meaningful barrier against unwanted noise, it's not just about adding materials, it's about using the right combination of materials and in the right way.

Here’s how to get the most out of your acoustic sound insulation when soundproofing walls in your home or flat.

Step 1: Seal All Gaps and Weak Points

Before adding any soundproofing materials, carefully inspect the wall for gaps, cracks, or weak points. Use a high-quality acoustic sealant.

TOP TIP: Think of soundproofing like waterproofing - it’s only as good as the weakest point. A great analogy is the car window: if it’s slightly open, noise floods in. Only when it’s fully sealed does the noise truly disappear. Soundproofing walls work the same way. Any cracks or gaps and the sound will find a way through.

Step 2: Increase the Mass of the Wall

Adding high-density materials is important to effectively soundproof a wall . The more mass you add, the harder it is for airborne sound to pass through.

Use products such as:

Acoustic plasterboard
Mass-loaded vinyl
FlexiSound
Direct to wall soundproofing panels like SoundBoard 4 (for stud walls)

Step 3: Improve Sound Absorption and Vibration Control

Simply adding mass isn’t enough. To truly block sound, your wall also needs to absorb vibrational energy and sound waves.

This can be done with:

The ReductoClip and bar isolation systems which decouple the soundproofing layers and add damping to absorb sound energy
Multi-layered systems like the ReductoClip System combine mass, absorption, and isolation

Step 4: Add Acoustic Insulation

If you're soundproofing a stud wall, make sure to fill the cavity between the timber battens with acoustic insulation. When using the ReductoClip System on a brick wall, acoustic mineral wool is also used.

This helps eliminate sound reverberation within the wall cavit y echoing and reverberating.

Recommended materials include:

Acoustic Mineral Wool

Step 5: Use a Mix of High-Mass Materials

Using different types of high-mass materials is more effective than relying on just one, or using more of the same. Why? Because different materials perform better at blocking different sound frequencies.

Three Levels of Wall Soundproofing to Suit Every Noise Problem

At The Soundproofing Store , we offer three levels of wall soundproofing solutions to help restore peace and quiet to peoples homes within the UK. Whether you're dealing with mild noise or loud, persistent disturbances from noisy neighbours.

Our award-winning systems are designed to work with existing interior brick party walls or stud walls , using tried-and-tested materials that deliver excellent results.

Award-Winning Soundproofing Wall Products

Our expertly engineered range of soundproofing wall products includes everything you need to block unwanted noise and improve the acoustic comfort of your home. From direct to wall sound proof panels to full systems, every solution is backed by proven acoustic performance.

Whether you're wondering how to soundproof a wall from noisy neighbours in the UK or simply want to reduce noise through internal walls separating rooms within the same home, we provide high-performance systems tailored to your needs.

Soundproof Existing Brick Party Walls with Proven Systems

If you're dealing with noise coming through a brick party wall , our proven wall soundproofing systems are designed to dramatically reduce airborne sound like voices, music, and TV noise.

Our systems combine:

High-mass
Decoupling technology
Isolation from the existing structure

This approach delivers maximum noise reduction while maintaining a practical installation process.

The outer facing layer is a 15mm acoustic grade of plasterboard which is 50% denser than standard plasterboard adding more mass to the wall. The second layer is a 3mm high density mass loaded vinyl (MLV). This mass loaded vinyl performs differently to the mass in the plasterboard due to the different construction, helping to block a different range of sound frequencies. The third layer is a 9mm acoustic closed cell foam designed to dampen and reduce sound vibrations from transferring through the board. And then on top of that is a second layer of high density mass loaded vinyl.

What Is SoundBoard 4?

SoundBoard 4 is a pre-bonded, multi-layer acoustic sound proof panel made up of four carefully selected materials, each designed to tackle different elements of sound transmission. It offers a balance of mass and damping, making it a reliable solution for dealing with airborne noise like voices and TV noise, from adjacent rooms with stud walls.

Key Benefits of SoundBoard 4

✅ Ultra-Slim Design
Just 30mm thick, SoundBoard 4 is ideal where space is limited but wall soundproofing is still essential.

✅ Quick & Easy to Install
Panels are supplied ready to fit, reducing labour time and making it a popular choice for DIY projects and professional installers alike.

✅ Multi-Layered Acoustic Performance
Combines four proven soundproofing materials to reduce airborne noise and improve wall insulation.

✅ Highly Effective on Stud Walls
Ideal for adding large amounts of mass to stud wall constructions, to help block unwanted airborne noise travelling between rooms.

✅ Minimal Room Impact
Because of its slim profile, it's perfect for rooms where maintaining internal space is a priority.

Why Choose SoundBoard 4?

If you're asking 'how to soundproof an internal stud wall' and need a compact, high-performance solution, SoundBoard 4 is an excellent choice. It offers a great balance between sound reduction, ease of installation, and minimal room loss, making it one of the best ways to soundproof a wall.

Watch the Full SoundBoard 4 Installation on a Stud Wall with Before and After Sound Test

This video shows the full installation of SoundBoard 4 on a stud wall separating bedrooms. It also shows a before and after sound test showing the dramatic improvement following the installation of SoundBoard 4:

Option 2: The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System - An excellent solution for all noise problems, e.g. loud music, clear conversation and TV noise.

What Is the ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall Soundproofing System?

The ReductoClip Direct To Wall System is a high-performance, space-saving solution for reducing unwanted noise through solid walls. Designed for those who want maximum acoustic isolation without sacrificing valuable room space, this system is ideal for blocking airborne noise such as music, clear conversation, and television sound.

The ReductoClip Direct To Wall System can be installed directly onto your existing solid wall. This not only saves time and space but simplifies the installation process, making it a great choice for DIY soundproofing.

With a total system thickness of just 60mm, it’s the thinnest isolation clip system available on the market. Despite its slim profile, it delivers impressive results in treating medium to high levels of airborne noise and even provides some resilience against mild impact noise.

While it offers a lower performance than the ReductoClip Independent Stud Wall System, it provides greater acoustic performance than SoundBoard 4, making it a perfect solution for homeowners seeking excellent results on a solid brick wall with minimal space loss.

Key Benefits of ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall

✅ Ultra-slim 60mm profile – minimal loss of space

✅ No stud wall required – installs directly to the existing wall

✅ Excellent airborne noise reduction – ideal for noisy neighbours

✅ DIY-friendly system – suitable for experienced DIYers or tradespeople

✅ Quicker installation – compared to full stud wall systems

✅ Higher performance than slim direct to wall panel systems like SoundBoard 4

Why Choose the ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall?

The ReductoClip Direct To Brick Wall System is the ideal choice when you need powerful soundproofing without sacrificing space. With a slim 60mm profile and no need for a stud frame, it delivers excellent performance against noisy neighbours, reducing airborne noise like voices, music, and TV, while keeping your room size virtually unchanged. It’s the perfect solution for homeowners who want reliable, high-performance wall soundproofing in a slim, easy-to-install system.

Installation of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

The below installation video shows you how to soundproof a wall using the ReductoClip Direct-to-Wall System, the slimmest isolation clip system available on the market. At just 60mm thick, it delivers an excellent performance against noisy neighbours while keeping space loss to a minimum.

Whether you're a confident DIYer or hiring a tradesperson, this system is straightforward to install and delivers impressive real-world results.

Customer testimonial of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System, reducing the noise from noisy neighbours

In this video testimonial, a customer shares their experience using the ReductoClip Direct-to-Wall Soundproofing System to tackle unwanted noise from their neighbours.

With just a 60mm build-up, this innovative system offers maximum sound reduction with minimal space loss, making it ideal for homes where space is tight but peace and quiet is a must.

Option 3: ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

The ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System is a high-performance wall soundproofing solution built on the proven concept of a “room within a room,” this system is ideal for stopping loud disruptions such as shouting, TV noise, music, travelling through walls.

By fully isolating the new wall from the existing structure, this system dramatically reduces sound transfer. It’s the ultimate soundproofing choice for homes, apartments, commercial buildings and music studios.

What is the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Soundproofing System?

The ReductoClips attach to a new timber or metal stud frame, positioned a minimum of 10mm away from the existing wall. Acoustic Mineral Wool is added to the frame to reduce echo and reverberation within the cavity.

ReductoClip Furring channels are then secured to the clips, creating a decoupled frame. This breaks the path of sound vibration, preventing it from passing through to the new wall layers.

Additional high mass layers (two layers of acoustic plasterboard and a layer of FlexiSound ) are then applied resulting in a powerful, high preforming soundproofing system.

Key Benefits of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

✅ Exceptional soundproofing – superior performance for all types of unwanted noise problems

✅ Slimline design – the slimmest clip and bar soundproofing isolation system on the market

✅ Fewer clips required – more substantial and robust clip with two fixing points, means fewer clips are needed than other clip systems. Reducing costs and installation time

✅ Easy acoustic plasterboard installation – wider furring bar makes acoustic plasterboard fixing quicker and more secure

✅ Versatile - the ReductoClip System can be used on both walls and ceilings

✅ Peace of mind – a tested and proven system delivering outstanding performance

Why Choose the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System?

If you're dealing with serious noise problems from noisy neighbours through a solid brick party wall, the ReductoClip Independent Wall System offers one of the most advanced and effective soundproofing solutions available. Unlike basic solutions, this system is designed to combat high levels of noise, whatever your unwanted noise issue.

By fully decoupling your new wall from the existing structure and adding high mass acoustic layers, it significantly reduces the transmission of sound energy. This means greater peace, privacy, and comfort in your home.

ReductoClip Independent Stud Wall System

In the below video, we take a closer look at the ReductoClip Soundproofing System, the most effective and slimmest clip-and-bar isolation system on the market. You'll discover how ReductoClips work to decouple walls and ceilings, significantly reducing airborne and impact noise in homes affected by noisy neighbours, loud environments, or even specialist settings like home cinemas and music studios.

We’ll also compare ReductoClips with other clip systems to show you exactly why this advanced solution stands out for performance, space-saving design, and ease of installation.

How to install the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

In this installation video, we guide you through the step-by-step process of fitting the ReductoClip Independent Wall System. One of the most effective wall soundproofing solutions available for tackling domestic noise (and also used to soundproof music studios). You’ll see how the system is installed to achieve maximum acoustic isolation, making it ideal for homes affected by noisy neighbours, loud conversations, TV noise, and other everyday disturbances.

With its advanced decoupling design and space-saving profile, this video shows why the ReductoClip Independent Wall System is the go-to choice for reliable, high-performance wall soundproofing.

Summary

This blog offers a complete guide to soundproofing solid brick walls from noisy neighbours in the UK. Whether you're dealing with loud conversations, TV noise, or banging doors, it outlines practical solutions for reducing unwanted sound through walls in domestic homes and flats.

The guide explains how effective soundproofing depends not just on adding materials, but on combining them correctly to block and dampen noise. It also introduces three high-performing systems for different needs: SoundBoard 4, a slimline, easy-to-install solution ideal for stud walls or where space is limited on a solid brick wall; the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System, perfect for solid brick walls where space is tight but high performance is still required; and the ReductoClip Independent Wall System, the ultimate soundproofing option offering maximum acoustic solutions for even the most serious noise problems.

If you found this blog useful, and are looking for further ways to create a quieter home, you may be interested in reading our blog regarding Floor Soundproofing .

Soundproofing materials highlighted in the article:

Ready to take the next step? Visit our online store to explore the full range of soundproofing materials and systems highlighted in this article. From the space-saving SoundBoard 4 to the high-performance ReductoClip Systems, you'll find everything you need to tackle noise issues effectively.

All products are trusted by homeowners, installers, and developers across the UK for their proven results and easy installation.

Author

Ian Baker is the owner of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

Ian set up The Soundproofing Store with the aim of helping individuals find effective solutions to their unwanted noise issues. His extensive knowledge and insights have been invaluable in helping to transform noisy environments into peaceful spaces.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

What are the best acoustic underlays for timber joisted or concrete floors?

Thu, 01 May 2025 10:09:26 GMT

What are the best acoustic underlays for timber and concrete floors?

Struggling with Noise from Above?

There is nothing worse than spending time in your own house or flat and being aware of unwanted noise from above. Whether this be children running around (which can sound like a herd of elephants), moving furniture, shouting, music or TV noise.

These disturbances are often made worse by modern hard flooring choices - such as laminate, hardwood, or tiles - which offer little sound absorption compared to carpet.

Why Acoustic Underlay Is the Ideal Solution

The good news is, you don’t have to live with these noise problems. Acoustic underlays are specifically designed to reduce both impact noise (like footsteps) and airborne noise (such as voices or music), helping restore comfort and quiet to your space.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best acoustic underlay options for both timber and concrete floors , so you can make the right choice for your property.

Soundproofing underlay versus Carpet underlay

Many homeowners assume that carpet underlay and soundproofing underlay serve the same function - but that’s a costly mistake when it comes to reducing unwanted noise. Understanding the difference is key to achieving effective soundproofing in your home.

What's the Difference Between Carpet Underlay and Soundproofing Underlay?

Carpet underlay is designed for comfort, durability, and helping carpets fit better, not for significantly reducing noise. While these products can provide a slight acoustic benefit, they are not engineered for true soundproofing.

Why Carpet Underlay Doesn’t Truly Soundproof a floor

While some carpet underlays may claim to have soundproofing properties, they don’t perform anywhere near the level of dedicated soundproofing underlays or acoustic mats. Importantly, most carpet underlays aren’t tested to the same acoustic standards as true soundproofing materials.

Be aware of a common sales tactic: some brands quote a dB rating to imply soundproofing performance. However, this usually refers only to airborne noise reduction on concrete floors, whereby the underlay itself may contribute just 5% to that figure.

Choosing the Right Product for Carpeted Floors

If you're trying to reduce noise under a carpet, it's essential to choose a soundproofing underlay, such as a SoundMat which is designed specifically for that purpose. Later in this blog, we’ll show you the best options available for both timber and concrete subfloors.

Are you soundproofing against Airborne or Impact noise?

Sound is broken down by airborne noise (transmitted through the atmosphere) talking, TV noise, dogs barking etc and impact noise the physical impact of two solids hitting one another (footfall, doors banging, walking, furniture moving etc).

Whether the noise is airborne noise, impact noise, or a combination of both will determine the soundproof flooring underlay you will need. To find out more about airborne and impact noise click here .

4 key questions before adding acoustic underlay to your floor:

Before choosing an acoustic underlay for your home or flat, it’s important to ask the right questions. Your answers will help determine the most effective soundproofing solution for your specific situation - whether you're dealing with timber or concrete floors, impact or airborne noise.

1. Is the Floor a Solid Concrete Floor or Timber Joist Floor?

The type of subfloor is crucial. Concrete floors can require different acoustic treatment to timber joist floors. Choosing the right product ensures a better noise reduction performance.

2. Where Is the Noise Coming From - Above or Below?

Knowing the source of the noise helps guide the treatment. Noise from above usually requires impact sound insulation, while noise from below may need airborne noise reduction. Some solutions can tackle both.

3. Is the Noise Vibration Impact, Airborne, or a Combination of Both?

Impact noise includes footsteps and dragging furniture. Airborne noise includes voices, music, or TV sounds. Many real-world situations involve a mix, so selecting a product like SoundMat 3 Plus that addresses both can be essential.

4. How Loud Is the Noise You Are Experiencing?

The louder the noise you’re dealing with, the more robust the soundproofing or acoustic solution needs to be. For example, heavy footfall or loud TV noise will need higher-performance acoustic underlay like SoundMat 3 Plus .

5. What Is the Final Floor Finish?

Your choice of floor finish - such as carpet, laminate, hardwood, or tiles can have an affect on the overall performance. With severe impact noise problems, a soft final floor finish will help to absorb some of the footfall at source. Different acoustic underlays are also more suited to different final floor finishes. Learn More .

How to soundproof a floor with acoustic underlays?

One of the most effective acoustic underlays to soundproof a floor for both impact and airborne noise reduction is the SoundMat 3 Plus - a slim (only 15mm thick) acoustic mat designed to easily and effectively soundproof timber floors. The following video demonstrates a real-world installation, including before and after sound tests.

Effective floor soundproofing isn’t just about adding any material - it requires a considered approach. To reduce both airborne noise (like voices and music) and impact noise (like footsteps and dragging furniture), there are some key principles to follow.

Improve the Mass of the Floor to Block Airborne Noise

To block airborne sound, increase the mass and density of the floor using specialist soundproofing materials such as acoustic mats like SoundMat 3 Plus . The greater the mass, the harder it is for airborne sound to pass through.

Improve the Floor’s Ability to Absorb Impact Noise and Vibration

Mass alone doesn’t stop impact noise . You need products that absorb sound energy and vibration, with cushioning layers to absorb the impact vibration. Proven acoustic underlay solutions like SoundMats act like a floating floor, which help to absorb impact vibration before it enters the structure of the floor.

Add Acoustic Insulation Between Timber Joists

If you have a timber joist floor, adding acoustic insulation like Acoustic Mineral Wool between the joists is important. This prevents sound from resonating and amplifying within the floor void.

Use a Combination of High-Mass Materials for Effective Soundproofing

Different materials block different sound frequencies. A combination of varied high-mass products, rather than just more of the same material will deliver a better performance.

Insulate cavities when soundproofing a timber floor

It is important to consider voids between the floorboards and the ceiling. Any noise that gets into this sealed chamber will echo resonate and amplify the noise (this is called the drum effect). To combat this we recommend filling between the timber joists with acoustic mineral wool .

This is the equivalent of shouting down a cardboard tube and it amplifying your voice. If you then fill some of the cardboard tube with cotton wool and do the same, the noise will be absorbed.

Acoustic mineral wool and its use in soundproofing

Acoustic mineral wool is used to absorb sound (not block it) making it ideal for use within cavities. In the video below, you’ll learn where and how to use acoustic mineral wool effectively. Plus, a simple demonstration of how effective the benefits are when used as part of an acoustic underlay solution.

The 3 best ways to soundproof a timber floor

Soundproofing a timber floor effectively means tackling both airborne noise (like voices and TV sound) and impact noise (such as footsteps or furniture movement). To achieve this, you need to follow three key principles: increase the mass of the floor to block airborne sound, add a cushioning impact-absorbing layer to reduce vibration, and install acoustic mineral wool between the joists to prevent sound from resonating in the floor cavity.

In the video below, we showcase the top 3 acoustic underlays for timber floors, SoundMat 3 Plus , Reverso SoundMat , and SoundScreed WF28 . You'll discover how each solution performs against different types of noise and how to choose the right acoustic underlay for your noise issue and final floor finish.

1. ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat (18mm) Dual-Sided Acoustic Underlay for Timber Floors

Slim, stabilised and Perfect for Hard Floor Finishes

The ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat is a compact 18mm thick acoustic underlay that combines three dense soundproofing layers with a resilient impact-absorbing layer. It's designed specifically to improve the airborne and impact sound insulation of timber floors , significantly reducing noise like TV, conversation, and footsteps .

Built-In Stabilising Layer Saves Time and Cost

What makes Reverso unique is its integrated stabilising layer , allowing most hard floor finishes, like laminate, engineered wood, or LVT to be installed directly on top without the need for extra over boarding. This saves installation time and reduces overall costs.

Reversible Design for Hard or Soft Floor Finishes

The reversible design means it’s equally suitable for soft floor finishes such as carpet. Both options maintain the same system height, ensuring consistent finish levels across multiple rooms.

Key Features at a Glance

�� Dimensions: 1200mm x 600mm x 18mm (0.72m²)

�� Ideal for impact and airborne noise : voices, TV, footsteps

��️ Installation: Direct-to-subfloor with no adhesive needed, easy DIY installation

�� Reversible: Suitable or hard or soft floor finishes

�� No over boarding required for most hard floor finishes

Reverso SoundMat™ A Reversible Acoustic Underlay for Hard and Soft Floor Finishes

Discover the ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat™ from The Soundproofing Store . A clever, unique and reversible overlay soundproofing solution designed for both impact and airborne noise reduction .

This video provides a quick product overview, showing how Reverso is compatible with almost all final floor finishes, including laminate, engineered wood, and carpet . Its built-in stabilising layer means no overboarding is needed for most hard floors, helping you save on both installation time and cost.

How to Soundproof a Floor with Reverso SoundMat™ A Full Installation Guide

Learn how to soundproof a floor effectively using the ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat , a versatile acoustic underlay designed to reduce both impact noise and airborne sound . This step-by-step video shows a full installation process and explains how Reverso’s reversible design works seamlessly with both hard and soft floor finishes . Unlike many other acoustic underlays, the Reverso requires no over boarding layer (in most cases) when installing hard floors, saving time, materials, and installation effort.

2. ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus (15mm) A High-Performance Acoustic Mat for Carpeted Floors

Unrivalled Soundproofing for Impact and Airborne Noise

The ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus is a powerful, all-in-one acoustic underlay engineered to reduce both airborne noise (TV, conversation) and impact noise (footsteps, furniture movement). With a slim profile of just 15mm , it’s ideal for carpeted floors in homes, flats, or commercial spaces.

Multi-Layer Construction for Maximum Performance

This mat combines layers of high-mass material (Mass Loaded Vinyl) with a closed-cell foam layer , combined into a single product. This structure delivers excellent soundproofing performance while keeping installation quick and hassle-free.

Compatible with All Floor Finishes

While designed for carpet finishes (no additional underlay needed), the SoundMat 3 Plus can also be used under laminates, vinyl, and tiles, simply add a rigid over board layer fixed with adhesive. For carpets, gripper rod risers will be needed around the perimeter to raise the height of the gripper rod.

Key Features at a Glance

�� Dimensions: 1200mm x 1200mm x 15mm (1.44m²)

�� Designed to reduce airborne and impact noise

�� 3 layers of soundproofing technologies cleverly combined in one mat

��️ Installation: Direct-to-subfloor with no adhesive required. Easy DIY installation

�� Carpet-ready: No underlay needed beneath carpet finishes. SoundMats act as luxury carpet underlays

�� Other finishes: Use a rigid board when installing hard floor finishes

Why use SoundMats when soundproofing a floor? Features, benefits and applications

Discover the key benefits of using SoundMats for effective floor soundproofing . In this video, we explore the features and applications of the SoundMat 2 Plus and SoundMat 3 Plus , two high-performance acoustic mats designed to reduce both airborne and impact noise on timber and concrete floors . These ultra-thin, easy-to-install soundproofing solutions are ideal for carpet finishes , but also compatible with other final floor types (with an over boarding layer). Making them a flexible choice for a wide range of properties.

How to Soundproof a Floor with SoundMat 3 Plus The Full Installation and Sound Test

Learn how to soundproof a timber floor using the ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus, a direct-to-floor acoustic mat designed to reduce both impact noise (like footsteps) and airborne sound (like voices and TV). At just 15mm thick , this high-performance solution combines layers of mass (MLV) and closed cell foam to deliver outstanding sound insulation with minimal floor height increase.

In this video, you'll see the full installation process on a timber floor between residential hotel rooms, along with before-and-after sound tests . Whether you're dealing with noisy neighbours or want to improve inter-floor privacy , SoundMat 3 Plus is a proven, high performing solution.

3. ProSound™ SoundScreed WF28 (28mm). High-Mass Floor Soundproofing to Block Airborne Noise

Engineered for Superior Airborne Noise Reduction

The ProSound™ SoundScreed WF28 is a dense, high-mass floor soundproofing system designed to significantly reduce airborne noise . Ideal for those looking to create a quieter, more private living environment and particularly suited to new builds, refurbishments, or property conversions .

Two-Layer Acoustic Design for Maximum Performance

SoundScreed WF28 combines an 18mm dry screed board for added mass with a 10mm wood-fibre resilient layer to help add resilience to the floor. This dual-layer system improves airborne sound insulation and provides a solid base with some resilience for reducing light impact noise.

Ideal for Hard Floor Finishes

Designed to be overlaid on existing timber floorboards , SoundScreed WF28 creates a strong, level base that’s ready for hard floor coverings, without needing an extra stabilising layer. This reduces installation time and labour costs, making it a practical choice for builders and homeowners alike.

Key Features at a Glance

�� Dimensions: 1200mm x 600mm x 28mm (0.72m²)

�� Excellent for airborne noise reduction in floors

�� 2-layer system: 18mm dry screed + 10mm wood-fibre resilient layer

��️ Installation: Simple overlay with 4-way overlap joints

�� Provides a solid, stable base for hard floor finishes

�� Ideal for new builds, conversions, and renovations

SoundScreed WF28 - Uses, Benefits & Overview of This High-Mass Acoustic Floor Solution

ProSound™ SoundScreed WF28 is a powerful overlay floor soundproofing system specifically designed to reduce very high levels of airborne noise. This versatile solution is ideal for a wide range of environments. Whether you're tackling noise issues in domestic homes, offices, retail units or commercial buildings.

SoundScreed WF28 is suitable for all final floor finishes and can be installed easily as a DIY project. With its dense, layered structure, it provides a strong, stable base while delivering excellent airborne sound insulation performance.

What soundproofing underlay works best for a concrete floor?

While we’ve explored the best acoustic underlays for timber floors, it’s equally important to understand what works best for concrete floors .

In most cases, airborne noise isn’t a major concern with concrete or beam and block floors finished with screed. That’s because the high mass of concrete naturally blocks airborne sound effectively.

However, if you are still noticing airborne noise issues, this may indicate a structural weakness or flanking path - feel free to contact our team for tailored advice.

To effectively reduce impact noise on a concrete floor, such as footfall or furniture movement, it’s essential to use a soundproofing underlay with a resilient cushioning layer . Products like the SoundMat 2 Plus are ideal, acting as a floating floor that absorbs vibration before it travels through the structure, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable living space.

4. ProSound™ SoundMat 2 Plus (12mm). A Slimline Acoustic Mat for Concrete Floors and Carpet Finishes

Slimline Design with Effective Soundproofing Performance

The ProSound™ SoundMat 2 Plus is a 12mm thick slimline acoustic underlay designed to reduce airborne noise, such as voices, TV, and general conversation and is especially effective in properties with concrete floors . Its compact size makes it ideal for situations where floor height is restricted but effective noise reduction is still needed.

Dual-Layer Construction for Impact Noise Control

SoundMat 2 Plus combines two proven soundproofing technologies: a 3mm mass loaded vinyl barrier to help block airborne noise, and a 9mm closed cell foam layer that absorbs sound energy and dampens vibration. This layered design helps significantly improve sound insulation.

Ideal for Carpeted Floors Over Concrete

This system is particularly suited for carpet installations over solid concrete floors . Its cushioned surface means it acts as a luxury caret underlay and carpets can be laid directly on top, making installation faster and more cost-effective.

Key Features at a Glance

�� Dimensions: 1200mm x 1200mm x 12mm (1.44m²)

�� Optimised for impact noise reduction

�� Dual-layer system: 3mm mass loaded vinyl + 9mm closed cell foam

��️ Installation: Direct-to-floor, no adhesive required. Easy DIY installation

�� Ideal for concrete floors with carpet finishes

�� Acts as a luxury carpet underlay

5. ProSound™ ImpactoMat 5 (5mm). An Ultra-Slim Impact Noise Underlay for Concrete Floors

Slimline Acoustic Solution for Multi-Storey Concrete Buildings

The ProSound™ ImpactoMat 5 is a cost-effective, ultra-slim 5mm acoustic underlay designed to reduce impact noise, such as footsteps on concrete subfloors . Ideal for use in apartments, hotels, offices , and other multi-storey buildings, it’s a smart choice where floor height restrictions apply.

Tough, Resilient, and Compatible with All Floor Finishes

ImpactoMat 5 offers impressive impact noise reduction. It’s ideal for hard floor final floor finishes , including wood, laminate, and tiles, and can even be installed above or below underfloor heating systems, making it extremely versatile for both residential and commercial settings.

Fast and Easy Installation

This acoustic underlay is designed for direct-to-floor application , requiring only adhesive to fix in place. Making it perfect for fast, low-disruption installations, for DIY or professionals alike.

Key Features at a Glance

�� Dimensions: 1m x 10m x 5mm (10m²)

�� Reduces impact noise on concrete floors

��️ Installation: Adheres directly to subfloor with minimal effort. Easy DIY installation

�� Ideal for multi-level concrete buildings (flats, hotels, offices)

�� Can be used with underfloor heating systems

�� Durable, slim, and compatible with all final floor finishes

ImpactoMat 5: Concrete Floor Acoustic Underlay Solution

Looking for a slim but effective way to reduce impact noise on concrete floors ? The ProSound™ ImpactoMat™ is just 5mm thick, yet delivers an impressive soundproofing performance.

In this video, we explore how ImpactoMat works, why it's ideal for multi-storey buildings like apartments, hotels, flats and offices, and how it fits seamlessly under laminate, engineered wood and tiles, making it a versatile and cost-effective solution for concrete floor sound insulation.

Shop Acoustic Underlays - Top-Rated Soundproofing Solutions for Floors

What final floor finishes can be used with acoustic underlays?

A common question when choosing an acoustic underlay or soundproofing mat is whether it limits your choice of final floor finish . The good news is, you won’t be restricted . Acoustic underlays are designed to work with a wide range of floor types, including carpet, laminate, vinyl, engineered wood, and tiles .

The only exception is that some hard floor finishes may require an additional stabilising layer to ensure a level, durable surface. We’ve highlighted below where this applies for each specific product.

As always, we recommend checking the installation guidelines provided by your final flooring manufacturer to ensure full compatibility and performance.

Can soundproofing mats or acoustic underlay be fitted underneath carpet?

Yes, absolutely. All of the acoustic underlays and soundproofing mats mentioned above, including the Reverso SoundMat (soft side up) SoundMat 3 Plus , and SoundMat 2 Plus are fully compatible with carpeted floors . In fact, these products allow carpet to be fitted directly on top and act as a luxury carpet underlay, making installation simple and efficient.

It is important to use gripper rod risers around the perimeter to accommodate the increased height of the underlay, ensure the floor is fully acoustically treated and to achieve a secure, professional carpet fit.

Can acoustic underlay be used with engineered wooden flooring?

Yes, it can. Acoustic underlays are suitable for use with engineered wood floor finishes.

The Reverso SoundMat can be installed directly under most engineered or hardwood floors without the need for an additional over boarding layer .

If you're using SoundMat 3 Plus or SoundMat 2 Plus , any engineered wood flooring that is 18mm or thicker can typically be laid directly on top.

For thinner flooring types (under 18mm), we recommend installing a 6mm hardboard layer first to create a flat, stable surface .

How to soundproof under laminate flooring?

Soundproofing underlays can be highly effective beneath laminate flooring. All of the acoustic mats mentioned above, including SoundMat 2 Plus , SoundMat 3 Plus , and Reverso SoundMat can be used as laminate underlay soundproofing solutions . The same applies for vinyl and cushioned vinyl flooring .

For best results, we recommend adding a 6mm hardboard layer over the soundproofing mat before laying laminate or vinyl. This provides a flat, stable surface .

An exception is the Reverso SoundMat , which includes a built-in stabilising layer, so most hard floor finishes can be installed directly on top , with no additional hardboard required.

What soundproofing mats would I need if I wanted to fit floor tiles?

All of our acoustic underlays can be used as a soundproofing solution beneath floor tiles , but extra care must be taken due to the fragile nature of tiles . Because floor tiles require a firm and stable base , they should not be installed directly onto soft, cushioned soundproofing mats, as this can lead to cracking or damage over time.

To avoid this, we recommend applying a 12mm hardwood board layer on top of the acoustic underlay before fitting tiles. This ensures a solid, level surface that preserves the integrity of the tile.

The Reverso SoundMat is an exception, as typically it does not require an over boarding layer . However, for tile installations, we advise priming the surface and considering a thicker stabilising board , especially when using smaller or more delicate tiles.

Can you fit soundproof floor underlay on top of underfloor heating?

Yes, but it depends on the type of soundproofing underlay you choose. ImpactoMat 5 and ProSound™ SoundScreed 25 are both thermally transparent and are compatible with being installed directly on top of, or below underfloor heating systems.

However, for all other soundproofing mats , including SoundMat 2 Plus , SoundMat 3 Plus , and Reverso SoundMat , these must be fitted beneath the underfloor heating system .

This is because their dense, sound-blocking construction also restricts heat transfer , which could reduce the efficiency of your heating setup. Just like sound, heat is a form of energy and these high-mass mats are designed to block energy transmission.

Find out more about how to install underfloor heating in our detailed guide.

Do acoustic underlays meet part E building regulations for Soundproofing?

Yes, all of the acoustic underlays we have highlighted can meet and exceed the requirements of Part E Building Regulations when used correctly as part of a full soundproofing system.

SoundMat 3 Plus, SoundMat 2 Plus, Reverso SoundMat, ImpactoMat 5 and SoundScreed WF28 are tested acoustic underlay solutions that not only comply with Part E standards for separating floors in residential buildings but can surpass the minimum performance requirements , significantly improving noise control between rooms or dwellings.

✅ To achieve compliance, it’s essential that these products are fitted, sealed, and installed correctly and as part of a complete soundproofing system.

Are acoustic underlays easy to fit?

Absolutely. All of the acoustic flooring products from The Soundproofing Store are designed for straightforward installation, whether you're an experienced DIYer or a professional tradesperson.

Each product comes with access to detailed installation guides, videos and technical data sheets, which can be easily downloaded to help you through every step of the process. Fitting acoustic underlay is a quick and efficient way to reduce unwanted noise in your home or building project.

�� Download installation guides and technical data sheets here or contact our team for expert fitting advice (01423) 206208.

Acoustic underlays overview

By now, you should have a clearer understanding of whether you're dealing with airborne noise (like voices and music) or impact noise (like footsteps and slamming doors). We've also covered how crucial it is to identify whether your floor is timber or concrete , and how the final floor finish affects which acoustic underlay is most suitable.

We’ve highlighted some of the top-performing acoustic underlays available for different floor types and noise issues.

However, soundproofing can be complex, and choosing the right solution depends on your specific situation. If you're unsure which product is best for your needs, it's always best to speak with an expert.

Our experienced team is just a phone call away and ready to help you find the best acoustic underlay for your property and noise problem.

Author

Phil Lyons heads up the technical team within The Soundproofing Store, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in the field of soundproofing and acoustics. With considerable experience in addressing a variety of noise-related challenges, Phil plays a crucial role in assisting customers in finding effective solutions to all types of unwanted noise problems.

Phil also serves as the head of the studio department, specialising in soundproofing music rooms and band practice spaces. His proficiency extends to regularly collaborating with builders and specifiers on projects that require compliance with Part E Building Regulations. Phil regularly demonstrates his versatility and extensive knowledge of soundproofing across all situations.

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a ceiling

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

How to soundproof a ceiling in a flat or apartment

Why soundproofing your ceiling is important in flats and shared occupancy buildings

If you're searching for how to soundproof a ceiling, whether you're in a flat, apartment, a property converted to accommodate multiple occupants, or a domestic home, you're not alone. With rising complaints of noise from upstairs neighbours, many people are looking for effective soundproofing ceilings in flats and soundproof insulation for ceilings. As reported by The Express a noise dispute between neighbours led to a £100,000 compensation claim due to "intolerable noise" coming from the family living above, highlighting just how serious poor ceiling sound insulation can be.

If you live in a flat or converted property, the best solution (if possible) is always to soundproof the floor above, with acoustic floor treatment like SoundMats , as this tackles impact noise at its source. However, if you don’t have access to the upstairs property, ceiling soundproofing becomes the next best option to block both airborne noise (like music and voices) and impact noise (like footsteps and furniture movement).

This guide covers everything you need to know about ceiling soundproofing, including the best methods and products for acoustic ceiling insulation, based on whether your ceiling is made of timber joists or concrete.

What is the best ceiling soundproofing solution?

The best ceiling soundproofing solution depends on two key factors:

1. The Type of Ceiling Construction (Timber Joist or Concrete)

The structure of your ceiling plays a critical role in how sound travels and how it can be blocked or absorbed. Timber joist ceilings tend to amplify both impact and airborne noise because they are low in mass and the cavities between the joists can create a drum-like resonance if left untreated.

Timber ceilings benefit greatly from a layered soundproofing approach involving vibration isolation (such as ReductoClips ) dense sound-blocking boards, like acoustic plasterboard and high mass acoustic membrane FlexiSound which dampens sound energy and vibrations, whilst also adding further mass. Adding acoustic mineral wool between the joists to dampen sound within the cavity is also important.

Concrete ceilings, often found in high-rise buildings, are denser and therefore usually provide better sound insulation against airborne noise than timber. However, they can conduct vibration, meaning impact noise can easily transfer from above. Soundproofing solutions like the ReductoClip system with timber battens provides layers of mass and resilience to help dampen sound energy and vibration with minimal loss of ceiling height.

2. The Type of Noise You Are Trying to Reduce (Airborne or Impact Noise)

Different noise types require different soundproofing strategies:

Impact Noise : Created by footsteps, dropped items, or furniture being moved. This noise travels through the structure of the building.

Airborne Noise : Includes sounds like talking, TV audio, and music. This travels through the air and passes through gaps and lightweight materials.

ReductoClip Ceiling Soundproofing addresses both by combining high-mass materials to block airborne sound and decoupling to break the path of structural vibrations.

Key Questions Before Choosing a Ceiling Soundproofing System

Is your ceiling made of timber joists or concrete?

Is the noise from above or below?

Is the noise impact, airborne, or both?

How loud is the noise?

Soundproofing ceilings in flats

If you live in a flat and want to improve the soundproofing performance of your existing ceiling, one option (if you're Ed Sheeran) as reported in the Metro Newspaper would be to simply buy the flat above! If you don't have £4 million to splash out on properties to limit noise problems with neighbours, then our advice would be to address these three key areas:

1. Addition of mass (high density materials) added to the ceiling to block airborne noise.
This can be achieved by the addition of materials such as Acoustic plasterboard with FlexiSound 5 . Different types of mass block different sound frequencies better than others, so using a combination of differing high mass materials will give you a better result then adding more of the same.

2. Vibration Dampening (high performing vibration isolation system) used to dampen the vibration and helping to stop it from travelling through the structure from above.
This can be achieved with isolation clips systems such as the ReductoClip System

3. Sound Absorption (reduction of sound echo / reverberation). To stop sound echoing and amplifying in any sealed chambers such as between timber joists (also known as the drum effect).
This can be counteracted by the addition of a high performing noise absorption material such as Acoustic Mineral Wool .

How to soundproof a timber ceiling

ReductoClip Timber Ceiling System

The soundproofing capabilities of timber ceilings can easily be upgraded with the ReductoClip Timber Ceiling System . The ReductoClip Ceiling System is a high performing sound reduction system, designed to completely isolate existing ceilings. This easy to install system can be applied directly to any flat surface and you only lose 60mm of space.

By attaching the ReductoClip to the timber joists, this system simply and easily secures the furring channel and decouples the new high mass ceiling layers from the structure. This system greatly reduces the transference of sound vibration energy. The addition of high mass layers also helps to block airborne noise.

On a standard construction this will exceed the building regulations requirements for Part E . Tested on a timber joist structure with one layer of OSB directly fixed as a structural floor, performance figures of 64dB Airborne and 59dB Impact are achieved.

The ideal soundproofing solution for high levels of impact and airborne noise on timber joist ceilings.

Video: How to soundproof a timber ceiling with the ReductoClip System

The most effective way to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours and unwanted impact and airborne noise from above is by using the ReductoClip Ceiling System .

This is an extremely high-performing acoustic ceiling system designed to decouple the new ceiling layers from the original structure, drastically reducing the transfer of sound energy. At just 60mm thick , it’s also the slimmest clip-and-bar soundproofing solution available, making it ideal where ceiling height is limited.

Watch the video below to see the step-by-step DIY installation process on a timber joist ceiling. Whether you live in a flat, apartment, or domestic home, this system is perfect for blocking noise from upstairs. It’s also widely used in high-performance spaces such as home cinemas and music studios.

How to Soundproof a Concrete Ceiling

In an ideal word you would build a new suspended frame just below the concrete ceiling and apply soundproofing as above. However, it's worth pointing out that this will mean a minimum loss of around 200mm of space.
As a general rule, most people do not have just under 8 inches of space to lose off the ceiling, which is why our standard specification is to use our higher performing ReductoClip Ceiling System with timber battens, resulting in only 110mm loss of space.

This system will achieve an average of:
Airborne reduction of up to 74db on a concrete ceiling
Impact reduction of 48dB on a concrete ceiling
(Both of these figures exceed the new Part E Building Regulations for soundproofing)

Soundproofing a ceiling: Quick summary

1. Add Mass to Block Airborne Noise

Increase the density of your ceiling using high mass materials such as:

Acoustic Plasterboard

FlexiSound 5

Different types of mass block different sound frequencies, so using a combination of differing high mass materials will give you a better result then simply adding more of the same.

2. Dampen Vibrations

Use a vibration isolation system to break the path of sound travelling through the structure. Our recommended solution:

ReductoClip System

This effective clip system isolates the ceiling and dramatically reduces structural vibration transfer.

3. For Timber Joist Ceilings Add Acoustic Insulation

To reduce echo and reverberation within sealed chambers and to prevent the "drum effect" (amplified noise in sealed voids), use:

Acoustic Mineral Wool

Placed between joists, it absorbs sound energy and helps improve overall acoustic performance.

Resilient bars v's ReductoClips for ceiling soundproofing

We are also regularly asked about ceiling only soundproofing and traditional resilient bars. If you are soundproofing both the floor and the ceiling, resilient bars can be a cost effective solution. However, for soundproofing a ceiling only, we wouldn't recommend traditional resilient bars. In our experience, up to 40% are fitted incorrectly, with screws penetrating through the bar and into the timber joists (see below image). Essentially making them totally ineffective, as they no longer decouple the noise.

The ReductoClip system offers up to a 10dB improvement over resilient bars (another halving of the noise) and can't be damaged during the fitting.

How much does it cost to soundproof a ceiling?

Many people assume that soundproofing a ceiling is costly, but in reality, it’s more affordable than you might think. For an average ceiling size of 5m x 4m, the material cost for a complete ReductoClip timber ceiling soundproofing system is typically under £1,900 (excluding VAT and installation costs). This makes it a cost-effective solution for achieving professional-level acoustic insulation and reducing both impact and airborne noise from above.

Compared to the disruption and stress caused by noisy neighbours, and in some cases, even forcing people to move home, investing in soundproof insulation for ceilings is a smart, long-term solution.

The ReductoClip system can be installed by a professional or a competent DIYer, making it accessible for homeowners seeking high performing ceiling soundproofing.

Final Thoughts on Soundproofing Ceilings

Effective ceiling soundproofing in flats, residential properties and domestic homes requires a strategic combination of mass, vibration damping, and sound insulation within cavities. Whether you're dealing with a concrete or timber ceiling, the ReductoClip System provides a reliable, easy-to-install, and space-saving solution.

Don't let noisy neighbours disturb your peace. With the right soundproof ceiling solution, you can enjoy comfort, privacy, and quiet in your own home.

Author

Ian Baker is the owner of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

The Ultimate Guide to Wall Sound Insulation for Noisy Neighbours

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:28:08 GMT

Choosing the right sound insulation for your home

Living with noisy neighbours can be frustrating, whether it’s loud music, late-night parties, or the constant thudding of footsteps. Sound travels easily through walls, especially in older or poorly insulated properties, making it difficult to find peace and quiet in your own home. Thankfully, wall sound insulation can make a significant difference in reducing noise and improving your quality of life.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about soundproofing walls - from understanding how sound travels to the best materials and methods to block out noise effectively.

What is the difference between sound insulation and soundproofing

Often sound insulation and soundproofing are interchangeable terms. Soundproofing refers to the process of blocking or preventing sound from entering or leaving a space. e.g. when soundproofing a wall, the aim is to eliminate the transfer of sound from one room to the other. Sound insulation for the purpose of this article refers to the materials and methods used to reduce the amount of sound that travels through a wall.

Acoustic insulation is another frequently used term and in relation to soundproofing, relates to Acoustic Mineral Wool and its use to absorb sound within wall, floor and ceiling cavities. It is not a soundproofing solution in its own right.

Acoustic Mineral Wool And Its Use In Soundproofing

Acoustic mineral wool, such as Earthwool and Rockwool, plays a crucial role in effective soundproofing for walls, floors, and ceilings. In this video, we explain what acoustic mineral wool is, how it works to reduce sound, and why it's essential for insulating cavity spaces. You’ll also see a simple demonstration showing the dramatic difference mineral wool can make when added to a cavity space. Whether you're planning a DIY soundproofing project or looking for professional advice, this video will show you where and how to use acoustic mineral wool for maximum sound insulation performance.

Benefits of Sound Insulation for Noisy Neighbours

Wall sound insulation is an effective solution for reducing unwanted noise from adjoining properties, especially in semi-detached or terraced homes. It not only improves comfort but also protects your privacy and overall wellbeing.

Blocks Neighbour Noise

Sound insulation significantly reduces noises like talking, TV, music, and footsteps coming through shared party walls, creating a quieter living space.

Improves Peace and Quiet

By cutting out everyday disturbances, sound insulation creates a more relaxing and enjoyable home environment, reducing stress and unwanted noise.

Boosts Privacy

Effective wall insulation not only blocks incoming noise but also prevents your own sounds from travelling next door, allowing everyone to enjoy their home without disruption.

Enhances Sleep and Wellbeing

A quieter home environment supports better sleep quality, reduces disturbances, and contributes to improved overall health and mental wellbeing.

DIY and Non-Invasive Options Available

Modern soundproofing systems can be installed with minimal disruption. Many solutions are DIY-friendly or suitable for retrofitting without major construction work.

Popular Wall Sound Insulation Systems

There are several excellent sound insulation systems available, designed to suit different property types and levels of noise problems.

Clip and Bar Systems (e.g. ReductoClip System)

Clip and bar systems work by decoupling the wall surfaces, reducing both airborne sound and vibrations from neighbouring properties. They are highly effective for party walls in semi-detached and terraced homes. The ReductoClip System is the highest performing and slimmest on the market.

Direct to Wall Soundproof Boards (e.g. SoundBoard 4)

Direct-to-wall boards like SoundBoard 4 are ideal for low mass walls, such as internal stud walls. These dense boards add mass directly to the wall surface, improving airborne sound insulation with minimal space loss.

How Sound Travels Through Walls

To effectively soundproof your walls with acoustic insulation solutions, it’s important to understand how sound travels. Sound is essentially a vibration that moves through the air and through solid structures. It can enter your home in two (primary) ways:

1. Airborne Noise

Airborne noise is sound that travels through the air and passes through walls, ceilings, and floors. Common examples include voices, music, and TV noise. These sounds vibrate the air particles and easily penetrate lightweight or poorly insulated walls.

2. Impact Noise (Structure-Borne Noise)

Impact noise occurs when an object comes into contact with a surface, creating vibrations that move through the building structure. Examples of impact noise include footsteps, furniture being moved, doors slamming, drilling, or hammering. Because this type of noise travels through solid materials, it requires specific soundproofing techniques to reduce it effectively.

Key Principles of Sound Insulation

Understanding the key principles of sound insulation is essential for achieving maximum noise reduction in homes. In this video, we provide an overview of the ReductoClip system - a high-performing soundproofing solution that decouples walls and ceilings for superior acoustic performance. You'll learn why ReductoClips and bars are the slimmest and most efficient isolation clip system available, how they are used to tackle noisy neighbour issues, and why they are also ideal for demanding spaces like home cinemas and music studios. We also compare ReductoClips with other clip-and-bar systems to highlight the unique benefits they offer.

Successful wall sound insulation involves addressing the following three key principles:

1. Mass

Adding mass to a wall helps reduce sound transmission by making it more difficult for sound waves to pass through. The heavier and denser a wall is, the more resistance it offers against airborne noise. High-density materials such as Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV), FlexiSound , and Acoustic Plasterboard are all highly effective options for increasing wall mass and improving sound insulation.

2. Damping

Damping materials work by absorbing sound energy and reducing the vibrations that allow noise to travel through walls. Products like ReductoClips , FlexiSound , and Closed Cell Foam are specifically designed to introduce damping into a soundproofing system. By reducing vibration, these materials significantly cut down the amount of noise transmitted from one room to another.

3. Decoupling

Decoupling involves physically separating two surfaces to break the direct path that sound vibrations would otherwise travel along. Isolation clip and bar systems, such as the ReductoClip Independent System , are a highly effective way to achieve decoupling, creating a physical air gap that greatly improves the sound insulation of walls and ceilings.

Top Wall Sound Insulation Products and Brands

Looking to block noise from neighbours? Here are the top wall sound insulation products used in modern soundproofing systems:

1. Isolation Clips and Bars (e.g. ReductoClips)

Create a decoupled ‘floating wall’ by separating layers from the existing structure
Excellent for blocking high levels of noise and different frequencies of sound
Used in high-performance wall (and ceiling) systems for all types of noise problems

2. Acoustic Plasterboard

High-density acoustic plasterboard - 12.8kg/m² density, 15mm thick.
Adds mass to walls to block airborne sound
Commonly used as a key layer in wall soundproofing systems (but not effective on its own)

3. Acoustic Mineral Wool Insulation

Density: 45–60 kg/m³
Fills cavities in walls, floors, and ceilings to absorb sound
Reduces echo and sound amplification inside voids
(Note: not effective as a standalone sound barrier)

4. Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) & Acoustic Membranes (e.g. FlexiSound)

Heavy, flexible membranes (e.g. FlexiSound) 5mm thick and 10 kg/m²
Blocks airborne noise and absorbs vibration
MLV often used inside composite soundproof panels like SoundBoard 4

5. Damping Materials: (e.g. FlexiSound, Tecsound)

Improve the soundproofing of low-frequency sounds
Applied between acoustic plasterboard layers to reduce sound vibrations from passing through the wall

6. Composite Soundproof Panels (e.g. ProSound SoundBoard 4)

Pre-layered systems with MLV, acoustic plasterboard, and closed cell foam
Max performance on a stud wall and minimal thickness ( 30mm )
Ideal for direct to wall installation

7. Acoustic Sealants & Accessories

Sealant and putty pads block sound leaks in sockets and perimeter edges
Essential for maintaining the effectiveness of any soundproof wall
Tip: Soundproofing is like waterproofing – sealing even small gaps matters

Types of Wall Insulation Systems to Block Sound

Choosing the right wall insulation system is crucial for effectively blocking unwanted noise from neighbouring properties. In this video, we explore the top three soundproofing solutions for solid walls: the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution, the ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution, and the SoundBoard 4 soundproofing wall panel. Each system offers different benefits depending on your budget, space limitations, and the level of noise you need to block. Watch to discover how each option works, the key differences between them, and how to choose the best solution for your specific soundproofing needs.

1. Isolation Clips and Furring Channels

Best for: High-performance soundproofing.

Isolation clips (e.g. ReductoClips) are attached to an independent stud frame (for maximum results) or to the existing wall structure, holding metal furring channels in place. This creates a decoupled or ‘floating’ wall system , separating soundproofing layers from the original structure.

High level of sound reduction for most noise types
Prevents vibrations from travelling through the wall
Ideal for brick party walls to reduce noise from noisy neighbours

The slimmest sound insulation clip and bar system on the market.

2. Independent Wall Systems (e.g. ReductoClip Independent Wall System)

Best for: Maximum sound isolation using a physical air gap and full decoupling.

An independent wall system involves building a second timber stud wall in front of the existing wall, leaving an air gap n between the two. This gap physically separates the two surfaces, making it much harder for sound to pass through.

The air gap limits direct sound transfer
Cavity is filled with acoustic mineral wool to absorb trapped sound and eliminates the “drum effect” by preventing sound bouncing within the void

Isolation clips and bars (e.g. ReductoClips) are then added to the new frame.

A full soundproofing build-up of:

Acoustic Plasterboard
FlexiSound Membrane
Another layer of Acoustic Plasterboard

This complete system provides exceptional sound blocking while maintaining a slim profile.

The ReductoClip Independent Wall System is the thinnest and highest-performing system on the market , with a total depth of just 120mm .

Best choice for high-performance soundproofing in homes and music studios. This layered build-up adds mass and dampens sound energy at different frequencies.

3. Direct-to-wall Soundproof Insulation Panels (e.g. SoundBoard 4)

Best for: Quick, space-saving wall soundproofing on low mass existing walls.

SoundBoard 4™ is a multi-layered, ready-to-install panel designed for direct fitting to stud walls or low-mass masonry. It includes:

15mm Acoustic Plasterboard
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl
9mm Closed Cell Acoustic Foam
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl

Total thickness: 30mm

SoundBoard 4 can be easily mounted directly to existing low mass walls to help block airborne noise. Particularly effective on internal stud walls.

Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Wall Sound Insulation

Looking to block noise from a neighbouring property? Follow this expert-approved quick step-by-step wall sound insulation guide to get the best results.

✅ Step 1: Identify Where The Sound is Coming From

Examine the wall for cracks, holes, and gaps.
If there is a chimney? When you can hear the noise, listen in the alcoves and then compare the chimney breast to check if the chimney breast is also a weakness.

✅ Step 2: Install an Isolation Clip and Bar System (e.g. ReductoClip)

For the highest performance build a stud wall a min of 10mm in front of the offending wall
Attach ReductoClips to the stud frame and add the Reducto Furring Channels
This creates a decoupled floating wall that blocks vibrations and airborne sound

✅ Step 3: Add High Mass Soundproofing Layers

Insert Acoustic Mineral Wool between the stud frame to absorb sound within the cavity
Install two layers or Acoustic Plasterboard to increase the mass of the wall, sandwiching a layer or FlexiSound in between.

✅ Step 4: Seal Gaps and Cracks

Leave a 5mm gap around the perimeter and seal it with acoustic sealant
Apply Acoustic Socket Putty Pads to the inside of plug sockets to prevent sound leaks

Remember: Even small gaps can allow noise to pass through - sealing gaps is essential for effectiveness.

✅ Step 5: Finish and Decorate

After the final Acoustic Plasterboard layer is installed, apply a skim plaster finish
The wall is now ready for painting or decorating as normal

Result: A high-performance, sound-insulated wall that blocks neighbour noise and improves peace at home.

Common Sound Insulation Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors to get the most out of your soundproofing project.

Installing wall sound insulation can dramatically reduce noise - but only if done correctly. Here are the most common soundproofing mistakes to avoid and how to do it right the first time.

�� 1. Using Insufficient Mass

Thin or lightweight materials won’t effectively block sound.

✅ Solution: Use high-density materials such as FlexiSound, Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) and Acoustic Plasterboard to lock airborne sound.

�� 2. U sing Foam Panels And Lightweight Fabrics

Foam tiles and curtains won’t stop sound from travelling through walls.
✅ Solution: Focus on materials that add mass and density - soundproofing is about blocking noise from passing though walls, not just absorbing sound within the room.

�� 3. Only Soundproofing Part Of The Wall

Insulating just one section of the wall allows sound to leak through untreated areas .
✅ Solution: Ensure the entire wall surface is covered , sealed, and layered properly to block all sound paths.

�� 4. Leaving Gaps and Openings

Even tiny gaps around the edges can let sound in or out.
✅ Solution: Use acoustic sealant around all edges and acoustic putty pads behind plug sockets to create a complete barrier. Make sure to follow installation instructions, or phone an expert for advice if unsure.

�� 5. Using The Wrong Soundproofing System

Not all noise is the same. Airborne sounds (talking, TV) require different solutions than impact noise (footsteps, bass, snoring).
✅ Solution: Choose the right system for your specific noise problem . If you're unsure, get advice from a soundproofing expert .

Final Tip:

Do it once, do it right. Avoid shortcuts and budget fixes - proper soundproofing requires the right materials, correct installation, and full coverage of the wall.

Why Sound Insulation Hacks Don't Work

Many so-called soundproofing hacks promise quick, easy, and low-cost ways to block noise - but do they really work? In this video, we debunk some of the most common soundproofing myths, including the effectiveness of soundproof paint, soundproof wallpaper, carpets, rugs, foam panels, and even egg boxes. You'll learn why these popular hacks often fail and discover the real principles that make proper sound insulation effective. If you're serious about creating a quieter space, this video will give you the answers you need.

Cost of Top Performing Sound Insulation Solutions

How Effective Is Wall Sound Insulation?

Wall sound insulation can be highly effective at blocking unwanted noise, especially when using the right materials and systems.

One of the most effective systems is the ReductoClip Independent Wall System , which is designed to reduce high levels of noise across all noise types. It performs so well that it’s not only used to block sound from noisy neighbours , but is also trusted in professional music studios where sound control is critical.

Blocks voices, TV noise, bass, and low-frequency sounds
Ideal for semi-detached an terraced homes, apartments, and music studios
Combines decoupling, sound damping, and mass for maximum performance

Wall insulation products are extremely effective when installed correctly and tailored to your specific noise problem. High-performance systems like the ReductoClip System offer professional-grade results for both domestic homes and music studios.

The ReductoClip Sound Insulation System For Walls

The ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System is one of the highest performing soundproofing solutions available for walls. In this video, we take you through the installation process and explain why this system offers exceptional acoustic insulation. Designed to tackle excessive levels of domestic noise from noisy neighbours, as well as demanding environments like music studios, the ReductoClip system provides outstanding results by effectively decoupling and insulating wall surfaces. Watch the video to learn how it works and why it’s the ideal choice for exceptional noise control.

Wall Insulation For Noisy Neighbours - Conclusion

Soundproofing a wall to block noise from neighbours is most effective when it combines three key techniques: adding mass , damping vibrations , and decoupling the wall structure .

By using high-density materials like acoustic plasterboard and FlexiSound membranes , sealing all gaps with acoustic sealant , and installing a decoupled wall system such as the ReductoClip System , you can dramatically reduce unwanted sound transmission.

A properly soundproofed wall creates a quieter, more peaceful home environment , which supports better sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing .

If you're facing ongoing noise issues, it’s worth considering a professional soundproofing solution or speaking with a soundproofing expert who can recommend the right system for your situation.

For trusted advice and tailored recommendations, contact The Soundproofing Store - the UK’s soundproofing specialists - for expert guidance and soundproofing solutions designed to meet your specific noise reduction needs.

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Soundproof Your Home And Gain Peace And Quiet!

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:41:43 GMT

How Soundproofing My Wall Stopped The Noise From Noisy Neighbours

If you’ve ever struggled with noisy neighbours, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. Whether it’s late-night TV, loud conversations, or just everyday sounds being heard through the wall, unwanted noise can really impact your home life.

That was exactly the challenge in this home. In a semi-detached property, the shared solid brick party wall in the living room - made up of two alcoves and a chimney breast, wasn’t doing enough to stop sound from travelling between houses. With a TV mounted on the chimney breast, our customer explained how " it felt like the neighbour’s television was playing in the same room ."

Interestingly, the customers TV was also mounted on their wall, so the chances are the neighbour was also experiencing the same unwanted noise.

Party wall prior to soundproofing

Finding the Right Soundproofing Solution

After researching different wall soundproofing options to reduce noise passing through a brick wall, the homeowner came across the ReductoClip Independent Wall System .

They contacted The Soundproofing Store and discussed the unwanted noise problem, which included being able to hear TV noise from the neighbour through the solid brick party wall and occasionally loud music. because the neighbour also played loud music, the customer decided to opt for the ReductoClip Independent Wall System . The belts and braces of soundproofing, which would give the best possible reduction in sound.

A conversation with one of The soundproofing Store advisors meant:

✅ The guidance of a knowledgeable and friendly soundproofing expert

✅ A fast, no-pressure quote
✅ A tried-and-tested soundproofing system that delivers exceptional results

Once the installation of the ReductoClip was complete, the difference was immediate .

The Results? Silence and a Stylish New Look

Once the ReductoClip Independent Wall System was installed, the homeowner declared how "The unwanted TV noise was completely gone"

�� "It’s blocked all the neighbour’s TV out – result! " �� (R. Cooper)

When installing the soundproofing, the customer also took the opportunity to enhance the look of the living room space. They also installed sleek shelving in the alcoves for a modern, stylish finish. Once the ReductoClip is installed, other than the exceptional performance against unwanted noise, once the wall is decorated, you would never even know it was there!

Soundproofing works both ways, giving peace and privacy to both the homeowner and their neighbour. So whilst the soundproofing blocked out the noise from the noisy neighbour, the noise from the customer is also blocked from passing through the wall into their neighbours property.

A Soundproofing Success Story

This soundproofing project proves that you don’t have to live with noisy neighbours and unwanted noise . The right soundproofing solution can restore peace and quiet, meaning you can enjoy a quiet home, with minimal disruption and without compromising on style.

If you’re tired of hearing every sound from next door , and dealing with noisy neighbours then why not take the first step towards a quieter home? Soundproofing isn't just for music studios, it's for anywhere life and noise happens!

Soundproofing Customer Testimonials

The soundproofing store has helped hundreds of domestic customers soundproof their walls, floors and ceilings within all types of properties. Feel free to browse the 5-star customer reviews by clicking on the image below:

More About The ReductoClip Independent Wall System

The ProSound ReductoClip Independent Wall System is a high-performance soundproofing solution designed to significantly reduce noise transmission through walls. By creating a fully decoupled, isolated structure, it effectively minimises both airborne and impact noises, making it ideal for residential homes, commercial properties, and music studio environments.

Key Features:

With exceptional sound reduction and a slimline design: The total build-up is only 120mm from the original wall, making it the slimmest independent clip system available, preserving valuable room space.

DIY-Friendly Installation: Designed for straightforward installation, allowing competent DIY enthusiasts to implement the system without professional assistance, therefore saving on labour costs.

System Components:

Independent Stud Frame: A 10mm air gap isolates the soundproofing from the existing wall, enhancing sound reduction performance.

Isolation Strip : Placed around the perimeter of the stud frame to reduce flanking vibrations.

ReductoClips: Act as a shock-absorbing suspension system, decoupling mass layers from the frame to dampen high levels of sound energy and vibration.

ReductoClip Furring Channels: Extra-wide channels facilitate quicker and easier fixing of acoustic plasterboards.

Acoustic Mineral Wool: Fills the frame cavity to dampen sound within the void and prevent sound amplification (the drum effect).

Acoustic Plasterboard: Two layers increase the wall's mass, providing more density than standard plasterboard while allowing for standard finishing and decorating techniques.

FlexiSound 5 Membrane: An anti-vibration layer that adds further mass to the wall, sandwiched between the acoustic plasterboard layers, reduces different sound frequencies to further dampen sound energy and vibration.

ReductoClip Independent Wall System: Installation Overview:

For a visual guide on the soundproofing installation process, you can watch the following video:

ReductoClip System: Highest level of Acoustic Insulation for Walls

ReductoClips offer a high-performing soundproofing solution, expertly designed to decouple walls and ceilings for optimal noise control. As the slimmest isolation clip system available, ReductoClips and bars deliver superior acoustic insulation. This advanced sound isolation system is perfect for residential properties in soundproofing against noise disturbances from noisy neighbours.

Soundproofing a living room wall: Summary

Living with noisy neighbours can be incredibly disruptive, but finding a solution doesn’t have to be complicated. This homeowner in a semi-detached property was struggling with noise travelling through their shared, solid brick party wall. They were being disturbed by unwanted TV sounds and loud music from next door. After researching soundproofing options, they discovered the ReductoClip Independent Wall System , which provided the ideal solution for blocking out the unwanted noise.

After consulting with The Soundproofing Store and receiving expert advice, the homeowner chose The ReductoClip System, and the installation process was smooth and straightforward. The results were immediate - the intrusive TV noise was completely eliminated, creating a much more peaceful living environment. The system not only improved the soundproofing but also allowed the homeowner to enhance the space with stylish alcove shelving.

The ReductoClip System is a win for both the homeowner and their neighbours. It blocks noise from both sides, ensuring a quiet environment for everyone. This domestic soundproofing project highlights how the right soundproofing solution can dramatically improve the quality of life in your home. If you're tired of listening to noisy neighbours, the ReductoClip Independent Wall System offers a 5-star rated, high-performing soundproofing solution to bring back peace and quiet in your home.

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Case Study: How To Soundproof a Floor (The 5 best acoustic floor solutions) 2024

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 11:22:01 GMT

The 5 best acoustic floor solutions 2025. How To Soundproof a Floor Case Study

How to soundproof a timber joisted floor and select the correct acoustic floor insulation

This blog explains in detail how to successfully soundproof a floor to achieve a high level of Airborne Noise soundproofing and Impact Noise soundproofing. How to achieve peace and quiet in your own home and to exceed Part E Building Regulations for conversions and new builds.

This article explains a step-by-step guide for floor soundproofing on a standard timber joisted floor/ceiling build up to achieve high levels of soundproofing between properties. Please read to the end for some important details to help avoid some common mistakes.

Understanding the Floor Soundproofing problem

In this example I have selected our most common question, which is "How to soundproof a timber joisted floor for impact and airborne noise. "

Firstly we need to understand the problem in detail and establish the needs of the customer, and to do this we have to start with a few questions.

Are you aiming to meet Part E Building regulations? Or just upgrading soundproofing within your own home on a budget?
What is the current build-up of the current floor/ceiling?
Where is the noise coming from ? (from below travelling up or from above travelling below)
What is the planned final floor finish on the floor above?
What solution is the customer looking for? (I.E they could be just concerned with airborne noise and are not interested in impact noise)
How susceptible to noise are you?

Question 1: Is this to meet Part E Building regulations? Or just upgrading soundproofing within your own home on a budget?

This helps us understand why you need the soundproofing and the level of soundproofing you need to achieve:

If you are looking to pass Part E Building Regulations for a new build or conversion you will need to achieve a set minimum level of soundproofing for impact and airborne noise. (See our building regulations page) which after installation will have to be proven with a sound test carried out by a UCAS accredited sound tester (see how sound tests are carried out )
If you are just looking to improve on current soundproofing (or lack off) in an existing property then you do not have to achieve the same levels as the Part E building regulation, however we will always aim to exceed the Regulations target figures to give you a good level of soundproofing.

Question 2: What is the current build-up of the current floor/ceiling?

We need to understand these points fully before we can give the correct advice, as different building materials perform differently for soundproofing purposes. This will help us understand how well your current floor/ceiling build up is performing, ultimately helping us to identify the correct solution and highlight any possible problems for soundproofing.

Question 3: Where is the noise coming from ? (from below travelling up or from above travelling below)

We need to understand this as we have different solutions for Airborne noise from below and Airborne and Impact noise from above (I.E If it is noise from below then this is just an Airborne noise travelling up to the room above)

Question 4: What is the planned final floor finish on the floor above?

This again is a very important question as different final floor finishes can affect the results by as much as 5dB and also some solutions are not suitable for hard final floor finishes such as laminates.

Question 5: What solution is the customer looking for? (I.E they could be just concerned with airborne noise and are not interested in impact noise)

We need to understand this answer to specify the correct products, as some products are only suitable for impact noise and some products are only for blocking airborne noise.

Question 6: How susceptible to noise are you?

One thing I have learned over time is that different people are susceptible to noise in different ways. (I.E to some people, the sound of rustling leaves is too loud, whereas some people can ignore this level of noise very easily). Therefore, we have to take into account an individual's susceptibility to noise - as we may have to increase the level of soundproofing for those people who are more sensitive.

So, lets get started with a recent floor soundproofing case study

We were contacted by a property developer who was converting an existing house into two separate apartments.

He is looking to improve the current timber joisted floor / ceiling to comply with Part E Building regulations which are designed to give a good level of peace and quiet between properties.

After initial investigation we were informed that the current build-up is Lath and Plaster on the ceiling below, no insulation between the timber joists which are 200mm deep and the floor above is the original Victorian floorboards.

This information allows us to estimate how well the current build-up performs, and a standard result for this would be 78dB for Impact noise and 38dB for Airborne noise. The target figure for Impact noise in a conversion is 63dB or lower and of airborne noise 43dB or higher (please see our separate blog on decibels explained )

This means we must reduce the Impact performance by 15dB and improve the Airborne performance by 5dB as minimum. However, at The Soundproofing Store we always aim to exceed the building regulations by several dB as every structure performs slightly differently (I.E different types and density of wood floorboards will always perform differently and different types of timber joists will perform differently depending on the type of wood, spacings of the joists and finally the depth of the joists. Even the lath and plaster ceiling can have different thicknesses).

To soundproof this floor, we need to build in a dampening system for impact and vibration noise and add mass to block airborne noise.

Improve the mass of the floor - This is normally achieved by adding high mass/density products.
Improve the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibration (footsteps). Without this, the addition of the mass will have very little effect on impact noise.
Use acoustic insulation between the timber joists to eliminate sound resonating and amplifying in this sealed chamber.
Use different materials of high mass. Different materials perform better for different sound frequencies so using a combination of high mass materials will perform better than simply using more of the same material.

In this scenario we have to specify a ceiling and floor solution due to the initial very low performance for impact noise.

Stage one is to use an acoustic mineral wool between the timber joists

Acoustic mineral wool is not a sound blocking material but a sound absorption material. This is because between the ceiling below and the floor above is what we call a sealed chamber, and if noise gets into this sealed chamber it will always resonate and amplify. This is what we call the drum effect. (Think about hearing a bunch of children running around on the floor above and how this can sound like a heard of elephants below).

So how does mineral wool prevent this? Acoustic mineral wool is made from spun rock and has millions of small cavities, and when sound enters these cavities it is dissipated and turned into heat. (Think about shouting into a pillow).
What depth of mineral wool do I need? We normally recommend 100mm thick mineral wool for timber joists which are up to 250mm deep. If deeper, we would recommend a second layer of mineral wool.
What density of mineral wool should I use? We normally recommend mineral wool with a mass of 60kg per meter squared. This gives us the best performance and value for money. We do not want the mineral wool to be of a very low density like thermal insulation as sound will pass through it relatively easily, and on the flip side we don’t want it to be too dense as it would then just reflect the noise and not absorb it.
Do I need to fill the whole cavity? The short answer is no we just need to get enough insulation between the joist to stop sound echoing and reverberating and filling the whole cavity only adds a small benefit.

The next stage is to select the best Soundproofing solution for the floor

Now, at this point we will look in detail at five of our best selling floor soundproofing products that are tried and tested to offer excellent levels of floor soundproofing, and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each system.

Option 1: Is our most popular tried and tested method, and this is to use our 15mm overlay SoundMat™ 3 plus system .

This matting is simply laid on top of the current base floor and can meet building regulations without mineral wool between joists and a lath and plaster (or double plasterboard) on the ceiling below. However, this is what we call a borderline pass for airborne noise and a good pass for impact noise. To achieve a higher level of airborne noise protection and to guarantee a pass, we would normally either add a single layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard to the lathe and plaster ceiling below, or remove the lathe and plaster and add resilient bars and two layers of acoustic 15mm plasterboards. (Which will also meet the fire regulations for the burn time between the two properties).

Advantages of the SoundMat™ 3 Plus system:

The only system which may not need any insulation between joists or additional soundproofing on the ceiling below
Thin 15mm solution so you are not raising your floor hight too much
Would act as a luxury carpet underlay (so no need for carpet underlay)
Can be easily installed buy a good DIYer or basic tradesperson
The foam layer is made from a closed cell foam so will not absorb water in case of water damage in the future
Offers the highest impact reduction of all and the system has a very high airborne noise performance
Can be easily upgraded, either on the floor above or on the ceiling below

Disadvantages of the SoundMat™ 3 Plus system:

Different final floor finishes may need different treatments (I.E a solid board fixed on top of the mats may be needed for some types of hard final floor finish) See the installation guide for more info.
Can be a relatively expensive solution for large areas

SoundMat 3 Plus Floor Soundproofing Solution

How to install SoundMat 3 Plus

Option 2: T o use our Reverso SoundMat™ this acoustic flooring solution is simply added on top of the existing base floor. Soft side up for soft final floor finishes, such as carpet and hard side up for laminates, wood, vinyl and tiles. The beauty of the Reverso SoundMat is that no overboarding layer is needed for most laminate, wood and vinyl finishes.

Soft side up, with resilient bars and two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below and 100mm 60kg acoustic mineral wool between the joists. Airborne noise 54dB and impact noise 42dB (Exceeds Part E Building Regulations.

Hard side up, also with resilient bars, two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below and 100mm 60kg acoustic mineral wool between the floor joists. Airborne noise 54dB and Impact noise 51dB (Exceeds Part E Building Regulations).

Advantages of the Reverso SoundMat 18mm system:

Reversible, suitable for hard or soft floor finishes
Acts as a premium carpet underlay
No over boarding layer is needed for most hard floors, such as laminates, wood and vinyl. (For tiles, a thicker stabilising board may be needed for certain types of tiles and a levelling / smoothing compound might be required for certain LVT and vinyl)
Unique, dual purpose means hard or soft floor finishes are at the exact same height
Only 18mm thick, meaning minimal build up of original flooring height
Exceeds Part E Building Regulations (when used as the system described above)
Ideal for loud levels of impact and airborne noise
Simple direct to floor installation (no adhesive required)
Can be taken up, reversed and reused if tastes change with regards to soft or hard floor final finishes in the future

Disadvantages of the Reverso SoundMat floor soundproofing:

SoundMat 3 Plus would be a more cost effective option for a carpet final floor finish

Reverso SoundMat™ Product Overview

How to install the Reverso SoundMat

Option 3: Is our overlay ProSound™ SoundScreed 28mm system, originally designed as a fast and efficient alternative to poured screed. The high mass and density makes it perfect for soundproofing and blocking excessive levels of airborne noise. Easily installed on top of the existing base floor and fixed together with half tongue and groove edges and joint adhesive. SoundScreed 28 has a much higher amount of mass, so performance for airborne noise is higher than the above SoundMat 3 Plus and Reverso SoundMat, but with a lower performance for impact noise. (60db for airborne noise and 58dB for impact noise).

Advantages of the SoundScreed 28mm system floor soundproofing:

Offers a much higher level of airborne noise of 60dB reduction
Meets the higher level of soundproofing needed in Scotland (54dB airborne and 58db for impact noise)
Suitable for all final floor finishes including tiles
Can be installed by any general tradesperson
Can be used above under floor heating due to it's high thermal conductivity.

Disadvantages of the SoundScreed 28mm floor soundproofing:

Can be a relatively expensive option in comparison to other systems
The ScreedDeck may need priming for certain floor finishes
Can raise the final floor height considerably
May need priming for certain floor finishes

SoundScreed 28 Product Overview

Option 4: Is our Direct to Joist ProSound™ SoundDeck 32mm This system is designed to be fitted direct to the timber joists without the need for a standard 18mm to 22mm T&G sub floor, and fixed together with the tongue and groove edges and wood joint adhesive. However, to achieve a good level of impact noise you will also need to add mineral wool between the joists and a resilient bar to the bottom of the timber joists with two layers of acoustic plasterboard. This system is also a borderline pass for airborne noise. Airborne Noise: 43dB, Impact Noise: 52dB

Advantages of the Direct to Joist SoundDeck 32mm:

Ideal for timber floor refurbishment projects
Suitable for all floor finishes, including laminates, wood, vinyl and tiles
Tongue and groove edge for fast and easy installation
Commonly used directly to joists as an upgrade floor replacement or as an overlay board on top of existing floorboards

Disadvantages of the SoundDeck 32mm:

Relatively higher cost for the decking
Must be used with a 100mm acoustic mineral wool and a resilient bar system, with two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below
These are large sheets so clear access is needed

Option 5: Is our ReductoClip™ ceiling system This is our preferred solution when soundproofing can only be added to the ceiling below for different reasons. This involves removing the current ceiling, inserting 100mm acoustic mineral wool, attaching our high performing ReductoClips at appropriate spacings to the bottom of the timber joists, inserting a long furring bar into the clips and attaching two layers of 15mm acoustic plasterboard. A specialist material called Tecsound SY100 is installed between the two plasterboards.

The clips and bars are highly effective at absorbing impact and sound vibration and the two boards and Tecsound add a great deal of mass for blocking airborne noise.

Advantages of the ReductoClip™ ceiling system:

Ideal for when soundproofing can only be added to the ceiling below
Good performance for Impact and Airborne noise
Thinnest ceiling system on the market and only takes up 60mm from the bottom of the timber joists

Disadvantages of the ReductoClip™ ceiling system

An acoustic matting may still be needed on the floor above for solid floors such as laminate, vinyl, tiles and hard wood floors

How to install the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution

So going back to our case study, which system did the client select?

The final decision came down to a couple of factors that were important to this customer.

They did not want to raise the floor height too much, as this the would affect different thresholds within the property (I.E keeping the floor level with the top of the stairs and not wanting to remove and raise the current original skirting boards)
The majority of the final floor finishes would be carpet
The ceiling below had to be removed as it was already damaged, so adding soundproofing to the ceiling was not a problem
The client experienced problems with water damage in previous properties he had renovated and wanted a material that could not be damaged by water
Finally he wanted a system that exceeded building regulations, not just a bare minimum pass. He had previous experience of tenants who were very susceptible to noise and had complained about noise between the properties, when the minimum standard had been used previously.

So the final solution selected was the thin 15mm SoundMat™ 3 Plus system , with acoustic mineral wool between the joists and a resilient bar system and two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below. (This also met the fire regulation for the burn time between properties).

This system exceeded building regulations:

For Impact noise 42dB
For Airborne noise 57dB

(Remember a 10dB improvement is perceived as a halving of the noise)

Some Top Tips for getting the best soundproofing results

Soundproofing is like waterproofing so sealing any small gaps will give you the best results. I.E imagine winding down the window in your car just a small amount at the top and you can hear everything outside very clearly. Close that small gap and everything becomes much quieter
Seal between old floorboards with acoustic sealant if any gaps have appeared over time
Some old floorboards warp and bend over time, so if your floor is not flat and level, the recommendation is a layer of hardboard on the base floor first to give you a flat stable base
The harder the final floor finish, the lower the final performance for impact noise will be. (All floors are tested without the final floor finish in place) I.E an 18mm engineered wood flooring as a final floor finish will reduce the impact performance of the soundproofing by 4-5dB
Some Metal Posi Joists perform lower for impact noise, compared to tradition timber joists (Up to 4-5 dB lower)
If you are planning on adding underfloor heating, this should always go on top of the soundproofing, as sound is an energy and so is heat, therefore we do not want to reduce the performance of the underfloor heating. (Some types of underfloor heating need a flat stable base so check with the manufacturers recommendations in case you need to add a board on top of the soundproofing)
If you have to have downlighters in the ceiling below (not our favourite things, as any holes will let sound through) please use the new LED fire rated downlighters and get the thinnest possible, as these have the best acoustic ratings. Alternatively, buy surface mounted downlights and seal the small hole where the cable comes through.

Author

Ian Baker is the owner of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Reducing Office Noise and Echo: Acoustic Panels Case Study

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:53:10 GMT

Easy-Fix Acoustic Foam Panels: The Soundproofing Solution to Office Noise and Echo

In many offices, unwanted noise and echo can pose significant challenges. Excessive office noise can disrupt productivity, increase stress, and make communication difficult. Fortunately, acoustic panels provide an effective and stylish solution to these problems.

Why Noise and Echo Are Problematic in Offices

Open-plan offices, whilst great for collaboration, often amplify sound. Hard surfaces like glass, concrete, and wood reflect sound waves, creating echoes and increasing noise levels. This environment can lead to:

Reduced focus and lower productivity.
Miscommunication during meetings or phone calls.
Increased employee fatigue and stress due to constant noise distractions.

What are Acoustic Panels?

Acoustic panels are specially designed to absorb sound waves. They effectively reduce noise and prevent echoes. Available in various sizes, shapes, and styles, they seamlessly complement different office aesthetics whist dramatically improving the sound quality within the space.

Acoustic panels work by trapping sound waves and converting them into heat energy. This process minimises reverberations, creating a quieter, more comfortable workspace for employees to focus and collaborate effectively.

Acoustic panels from The Soundproofing Store feature a specialist sound absorbing foam core and are wrapped in an acoustic fabric. The 40mm thick options provide a Class A sound absorption performance, to dramatically reduce unwanted echo and enhanced the acoustic comfort within any space.

Steps to Reduce Office Noise and Echo with Acoustic Panels

1. Identify Problematic Areas

Start by assessing your office space. Identify the areas where noise levels are highest, such as meeting rooms, open plan communal areas, and reception areas.

2. Choose the Right Type of Acoustic Panels

Acoustic panels come in various forms, each suited to different needs:

Wall Panels : Ideal for reducing sound reflections off flat surfaces.
Ceiling Rafts or Baffles : Ideal for spaces with high ceilings where sound bounces around and when wall space is reserved for screens, artwork, displays or notices.
Desk Dividers: A practical solution for open-plan offices, providing personal sound insulation.
High-impact Panels : Ideal for high traffic areas or sports halls.

3. Customise for Aesthetics and Branding

Acoustic panels can be more than functional - they can also be a design element. Choose colours, patterns, or custom-printed panels that reflect your brand or complement your office decor.

Benefits of Acoustic Panels in Offices

Improved Productivity: A quieter environment allows employees to concentrate better, free from disruptive background noise.

Enhanced Communication: Meetings and calls are clearer and more productive with reduced background noise.

Increased Comfort: A quieter workspace helps to reduces stress and fatigue, creating a more comfortable and pleasant working environment.

Professional Appeal: Beyond functionality, acoustic panels add a polished, modern look to your office.

Why Acoustic Panels are Essential for Reducing Noise and Echo in an Office

Acoustic panels are often a necessity for modern offices. They not only solve noise and echo issues but also contribute to a healthier, happier, and more productive workplace.

Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound waves, reducing noise and preventing echoes. By incorporating them into your office, you can create a more comfortable, productive, and professional environment.

By investing in acoustic panels, you can transform your office into a space where unwanted echo and noise no longer impacts productivity, concentration, communication and wellbeing.

Case Study: Acoustic Easy-Fix Ceiling Panels for Office Soundproofing

The Acoustic Challenge: Noisy Echoey Office

The Soundproofing Store was contacted by the Managing Director of a business in the process of moving into a stunning new office on the Broughton Hall Estate in Yorkshire. Although the beautiful setting offered tranquillity, the building itself failed to reflect this peaceful atmosphere.

The office, a spacious converted watermill, captured the company’s interest with its rustic charm. However, it posed significant challenges for managing office acoustics. The large open-plan design, coupled with hard reflective surfaces amplified noise throughout the space.

With 50-60 staff members, many of whom spend a considerable amount of time on the phone, the existing acoustics in the space hindered productivity and were not conducive to a productive work environment.

The Solution: ProSound Easy-Fix Acoustic Ceiling Panels

The Soundproofing Store offers a variety of acoustic wall and ceiling treatment solutions, so why were Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels selected?

By analysing the office dimensions and reviewing photos of the space, The Soundproofing Store’s team of acoustic experts identified the available surface area within the office. Using this information, they created an acoustic report of the office. The report calculates the echo levels in the space and determines the amount of sound absorption needed to reduce the echo to a distraction-free level. (The acoustic report for the office can be seen below).

Easy-Fix Acoustic Foam Panels are selected because they attach easily and directly to both walls and ceilings. Given the office’s stunning design and limited wall space, the beams offered an ideal location for installing the panels. This approach not only preserved the aesthetic appeal but also optimised the available space. In a large open-plan office, treating the ceiling ensures a more even distribution of sound absorption, making this solution both practical and effective.

The client chose the Easy-Fix Panels in white, prioritising a seamless blend with the room's design over a bolder statement in their brand colours. In white, the panels introduced a modern touch that perfectly complemented the rustic charm of the converted mill.

Features of Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels

To address unwanted office noise, it is important to cover the surface area with soft, absorbent material. This is achieved by using sound absorption panels, also referred to as acoustic treatment panels.

ProSound Acoustic Easy-fix Ceiling Panels are a popular solution for reducing echo and reverberation and improving sound quality in commercial spaces. The panels are designed to be extremely easy to install and highly effective in reducing noise levels, making them an ideal choice for the business's needs.

The Acoustic Easy-fix Ceiling Panels are made from a high-performance acoustic foam core, which helps absorb sound waves and prevent echo, thus reducing overall noise levels in the office. They can be added to ceilings or walls and when sound is projected out, instead of hitting a hard wall or hard ceiling and bouncing back, it hits the acoustic panel and the panel soaks the sound up and absorbs it. This stops it from bouncing back into the room. The more surface area of the office covered in acoustic panels, the less echo there is.

The Easy-Fix Foam Panels are covered with an acoustically transparent fabric which means the sound goes straight through the fabric and into the sound absorbing core. With a range of fabrics and colour options to suit any type of office space. Because all office spaces are different, Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels are bespoke and available in a variety of different shapes and sizes to suit any space.

Optimising Acoustics Within An Office

The Soundproofing Store ran an acoustic report which calculated the reverberation time of the office. This was 4 seconds, which meant with just a couple of people talking in the room, there was a lot of echo. Add in all of the employees and it would be extremely loud.

The aim was to get the reverberation time down to 1 second, so not completely 'dry' which would sound odd for an office environment. (Think about the dry feel of the acoustics when you are at the cinema). Reducing the reverberation time from 4 seconds to 1 second makes a huge huge difference to the office acoustics.

To achieve this result 42 Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels are used, covering 60m². This size of the panels were bespoke to fit between the wooden beams at 800mm x 1800mm and 40mm thick. Importantly, ProSound Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels deliver a Class A -NRC 0.95 performance.

Easy-Fix Panels Installation

ProSound Easy-Fix Panels are extremely easy to install. Instead of being installed with brackets or suspension cables they have a simple self adhesive peel and stick application. Due to the acoustic panels being installed on the office ceiling and not the wall, a grab adhesive is also used.

Step-by-Step Installation of ProSound Easy-Fix Acoustic Ceiling Panels

Office Sound Absorption with Easy-Fix Acoustic Foam Ceiling Panels: The Results

Acoustic panels can serve as either a subtle addition or a bold statement in an office. With endless design possibilities, the choice is entirely up to personal style preference.

Following the installation of the Acoustic Easy-Fix Foam Ceiling Panels , the office environment drastically improved. Staff reported a significant reduction in overall noise levels, with less disturbance from background chatter and phone conversations. The panels helped absorb sound, preventing it from bouncing off the hard surfaces of the office and reducing the ‘echo’ effect that had previously made the space feel noisy and unproductive.

In addition to their acoustic performance, the panels seamlessly blended into the office’s aesthetics, enhancing the building’s modern, yet rustic charm without detracting from the natural beauty of the space. The MD and staff were thrilled with the results, saying how "the office soundproofing is amazing." and that he wouldn't hesitate to "highly recommend, Phil and the team at The Soundproofing Store."

The business can now operate to its full potential in beautiful surroundings, whilst providing an acoustically optimised space for all members of the team.

Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels: Difference Before and After Sound Test

Easy-Fix Acoustic Panels: Key Takeaways

Simple and Effective: Easy-Fix acoustic panels are a non-invasive and highly efficient way to tackle office echo.

Versatile Design: Panels are fully customisable to enhance both function and aesthetics, making them ideal for modern workspaces.

Quick Installation: No drilling required! This solution minimises any disruption to businesses.

Acoustic Panels in Offices: Conclusion

Acoustic panels are an essential tool for improving the sound environment in office spaces. By absorbing noise and reducing echo, they help create a quieter, more productive, and comfortable workspace. Whether you're in an open-plan office or a large conference room, acoustic panels are an effective solution to enhance communication, minimise disruptions from unwanted noise and improve employee well-being and productivity. In today’s modern work environments, where noise pollution is a growing concern, investing in acoustic panels is a smart decision for businesses looking to foster a more focused and efficient workplace.

Reducing noise and echo in an office doesn’t have to be complicated. Acoustic panels offer an efficient, versatile, and stylish solution to create a more comfortable and productive workspace. By assessing your office’s needs and strategically placing panels, you can transform your environment into one where everyone can thrive.

Author

Sam Fessey heads up the Sound Absorption department within The Soundproofing Store. With a huge amount of experience in acoustics, his extensive knowledge is invaluable in working with all types of settings in helping to transform noisy environments into peaceful, productive spaces for people to enjoy.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Brick Wall Soundproofing

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 11:59:46 GMT

How to soundproof a brick wall

Hearing noise through a brick wall can be surprising, given their solid and dense structure. However, brick walls aren't entirely soundproof. In this post, we'll explore the key reasons sound can pass through brick walls and share the most effective methods to enhance a brick walls ability to block and minimise noise transfer.

Why can I hear my noisy neighbours through my brick wall?

Hearing neighbours in a semi-detached or terrace house is a common issue, as the shared wall between the two homes can easily transmit sound. This wall, known as a party wall, often lacks sufficient soundproofing to block noise effectively. Here are some common reasons why sound might be travelling through your brick party wall:

1. Density and condition of the bricks:

In many terraced and semi-detached houses, the party wall was built with minimal soundproofing in mind, particularly in older homes. Some brick walls will have weak areas, as not every brick is made with the exact same density and more porous bricks are less dense and less effective at blocking sound.

2. Wall cavities:

Sound can enter a cavity, bounce around and amplify (similar to a drum) hence the term 'the drum effect'. This can occur when a fireplace is removed on one side (or both sides) of the brick wall.

3. Airborne Sound Transmission:

Airborne sounds like voices, TV, and music travel through the air, hitting the brick party wall and causing it to vibrate. Without a dense or insulated barrier, these vibrations pass through to your side of the wall. This is particularly common if the wall has empty cavities or lacks mass. Hearing noise from a TV through a neighbours wall is also increasingly more common since the mounting of large TV's (directly onto dividing brick walls) has became more and more common.

4. Brick Walls Reflect Sound but Don’t Absorb It:

Brick walls are dense, which helps block some sound. However, they don’t absorb sound waves well, meaning sound can sometimes pass through if it’s loud or low-frequency. For instance, lower bass sounds can vibrate through brick more easily than high-pitched sounds. Low-frequency noises like snoring, bass music or low voices, can vibrate through solid walls. Bricks are rigid, which means when low-frequency sounds hit the wall, the vibrations can pass through to the other side.

5. Structure-Borne Noise:

Structure-borne sounds such as footfall, closing doors, and appliances like washing machines cause vibrations to travel through the wall structure itself. Structure-borne noise happens because the impact causes the building elements to vibrate. These sounds are harder to block because they move through the building structure rather than simply through the air.

6. Flanking Noise:

Occasionally, noise doesn’t go directly through the shared brick wall but instead "flanks" around it. This can happen through connected walls, floors and ceilings. Therefore, occasionally, the sound you’re hearing may be travelling through these connected elements, rather than directly through the brick wall itself. To check this, do a simple ear test when you can hear the noise and listen to where it is loudest.

7. Gaps, Cracks, or Poorly Sealed Outlets:

Gaps or cracks in the wall and old mortar, poorly sealed electrical outlets, or plumbing fixtures can allow sound to travel through the wall more easily. Sound can travel through the smallest of openings. Think of it like water. If water can find a path, so can sound.

How to reduce noise from noisy neighbours through a solid brick wall

To soundproof a brick wall separating neighbours, it's essential to use tried and tested soundproofing methods.

1. Decouple the wall using the ReductoClip System . Physically build an internal stud frame a minimum of 10mm away from the existing brick wall to give the highest level of soundproofing. Sound passes through solid materials and by creating a physical airgap, it makes it much harder for sound to pass through your neighbours brick wall into your room.

2. Add mass to the brick wall. Heavy dense materials are extremely effective at blocking airborne noise. Materials like Mass Loaded Vinyl , FlexiSound and Acoustic Plasterboard .

3. Fill any empty cavities with Acoustic Mineral Wool . This will stop sound from bouncing round empty cavities, creating a chamber of sound which amplifies the sound making it louder.

4. Install soundproofing panels such as SoundBoard 4 . A direct to wall soundproofing panel which features a 3mm layer of mass loaded vinyl. A 9mm layer of closed cell foam sandwiched between a further 3mm layer of mass loaded vinyl and a layer of 15mm acoustic plasterboard. Ideal for low mass structures like internal stud walls, but can be used on brick walls when there are space constraints due to window or door frames.

Direct to wall soundproof panels on brick walls do not perform as well as the ReductoClip Independent or ReductoClip Direct to Wall system as the soundproofing is not de-coupled from the brick wall.

Soundproofing a brick wall using the ReductoClip System

The ReductoClip system is a highly effective soundproofing solution specifically designed to combat unwanted noise issues from noisy neighbours travelling through brick walls. An innovative sound isolation clip and bar solution creating a "decoupling" layer, prevents sound vibrations from easily passing through brick wall structures. Extremely high performing and the slimmest clip and bar system on the market, achieving excellent sound reduction and minimal space loss.

Here’s a guide to soundproofing with the ReductoClip system:

How the ReductoClip System Effectively Soundproofs a Brick wall

The ReductoClip Independent System works by creating a floating wall (or ceiling) separated from the main wall structure by isolation clips and acoustic furring channels. This separation helps block airborne noise across all frequencies, including lower bass tones from music or male voices.

Installation Steps for Soundproofing a brick wall with the ReductoClip System

ReductoClips are attached to an independent stud frame built a minimum of 10mm away from the offending brick wall. High mass layers and sound dampening materials are attached to the Reducto Furring Bars which are slotted in-between the ReductoClips.

The ReductoClip Independent Wall System effectively blocks noisy neighbour sounds through a brick wall. With a total build-up of just 120mm, it stands as the slimmest independent soundproofing system on the market.

Soundproofing a solid brick wall with the ReductoClip Independent System

Alternatively, ReductoClips can be attached directly to the brick party wall. This will give an excellent sound reduction and is a slim 60mm (again the slimmest direct to brick wall clip and bar system on the market). Not as high performing as the ReductoClip Independent System which fully decouples the soundproofing layers from the brick wall, it is still an outstanding system for performance v's space loss.

Soundproofing a solid brick wall with the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System

Acoustic mineral wool is slotted between the stud frame (ReductoClip Independent System) or attached directly to the brick wall between the clips and bars using contact adhesive spray (ReductoClip Direct to Wall System).

Acoustic channels (also known as furring channels or bars) are 'snapped' into the ReductoClips. Soundproofing layers are then installed onto the Reducto furring channels. By using The ReductoClips and bars, soundproofing materials remain decoupled from the main brick wall structure. This separation is essential for absorbing sound energy from a noisy neighbour before it passes into your room.

A first layer of Acoustic Plasterboard is fixed to the ReductoClip Furring Channels. Leaving a 5mm gap around the perimeter edge of the wall, floor and ceiling.

FlexiSound 5 is then attached to the Acoustic Plasterboard. FlexiSound is self-adhesive and requires no fixings. Is ultra thin (5mm) and adds a huge amount of mass to the brick wall. Used as part of the ReductoClip buildup, it also helps to dampen sound energy and vibration.

A second layer of Acoustic Plasterboard is then installed, sandwiching the FlexiSound between the two layers.

Acoustic sealant is then applied around the perimeter of the soundproofing layers. A high strength, flexible sealant specifically formulated to seal perimeters and gaps where sound may escape.

Full installation instructions can be downloaded from The Soundproofing Store

Conclusion: Soundproofing a brick wall

To effectively soundproof a brick wall, it's essential to reduce sound transmission by decoupling surfaces and enhancing the walls ability to absorb and dampen sound energy. Sound travels through solid materials via direct contact. Therefore, create a separation, such as building a new stud wall with a 10mm gap, making it harder for vibrations and sound transfer to travel.

Adding resilience to a brick wall with ReductoClips, allows the wall to absorb vibrations, much like how a car's suspension smooths out road bumps.

Additionally, adding layers of dense materials like FlexiSound and Acoustic Plasterboard blocks airborne noise. These two types of materials are used as both are effective at reducing different sound frequencies.

For superior noise reduction through a solid brick party wall, the ReductoClip Independent Wall System offers an all-encompassing solution that meets all soundproofing needs.

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How To Soundproof A Stud Wall

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 12:45:46 GMT

How To Soundproof A Stud Wall

Reducing Noise Through An Internal Hollow Wall

Here at The Soundproofing Store, most of our calls tend to be about blocking noise from neighbours, but what about if the noise is in your own home? If you are looking to reduce noise from your teenagers bedroom, blocking the noise of a snoring husband, or maybe you are planning to separate a room into two with a partition stud wall and want to soundproof while you're there... below you should find the answers to all your questions!

The 3 best ways to soundproof a stud wall

A quick science of soundproofing

1. Airborne Sound (voices, television, music etc) is only blocked by mass. Mass = weight, so we want to add materials to the wall that are heavy and dense, and this will block more sound. Soundproofing materials like Mass Loaded Vinyl and Acoustic Plasterboard, which make up three of the four layers within the direct to stud wall soundproofing panel - SoundBoard 4 .

2. When sound hits a surface it becomes a strong vibration energy. We need some resilience in the wall to absorb/dampen the vibration.

These rules apply to all walls, for stud walls we have one more important factor;

3. If the wall is hollow inside, it is a sealed cavity. When sound gets into this cavity, it echoes, resonates and amplifies becoming louder. This is called the drum effect. We need to fill the cavity with acoustic insulation, this absorbs the sound and reduces the resonance.

Soundproofing An Existing Stud Wall

So how do we soundproof a stud wall that is already in our home, but we just want to upgrade/improve it?

Well, there are two stages. For best results we would advise on doing both. However the first stage can be messy and inconvenient, in which case you can skip to stage two, but remember the results won't be quite as good!

Stage One - Insulating The Cavity.

We need to fill the cavity with acoustic insulation, using Acoustic Mineral Wool . The best way to do this is to remove the plasterboard on one side of the wall, exposing the framework. We can then fill between the frame studs with acoustic insulation, by just inserting the insulation and letting it hold itself with friction.

There are many different types of insulation but the best for absorbing sound in our experience is acoustic mineral wool. We find the ideal density for our purposes is 60kg. This is dense enough to absorb the sound, rather than letting the sound pass through, but not too dense that sound is reflected off it instead.

Find out more or order yours here - Acoustic Mineral Wool 60kg

After installing the insulation, we then want to make the wall whole again by replacing the layer of plasterboard. You can use standard plasterboard, or acoustic grade plasterboard for an even better result. This has far more mass than regular plasterboard.

Stage Two - Add Mass

Now that we have a complete surface again, we can now install one of our SoundBoards. The SoundBoards are made up of one layer of acoustic grade plasterboard, one or two layers of mass loaded vinyl, and a thick layer of acoustic foam.

The plasterboard and vinyl layers add a huge amount of mass to block the airborne sound, while the foam isolates the solid parts of the SoundBoard form the wall and dampens the vibration energy.

You can choose between two ProSound™ SoundBoards;

ProSound™ SoundBoard 3 - Which is perfectly sufficient for a good result when soundproofing an internal stud wall.

ProSound™ SoundBoard 4 - For blocking louder noise through a stud partition wall.

Skipping Stage One?

Well I can't blame you! It is extra work and mess, but you can expect the effectiveness of the soundproofing to be around 10 - 15% less. Therefore I would strongly recommend to opt for the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard 4 to go on top to make up for not insulating the stud wall cavity.

Stud Wall Sound Insulation: Building A New Stud Wall

If you are building a new stud wall from scratch, then there are some extra improvements that you can make for maximum results.

Isolate Your Frame

The more of the frames surface that is in contact with the structure, the easier it is for sound vibration to transfer into it. For best results we can float the frame on an Isolation Strip . This is a self adhesive, 6mm rubber crumb strip, that dampens vibration. We can stick this around the perimeter of the frame to isolate the frame from the structure. This means that the only points of contact between the frame and the structure are the screws. The amount of vibration that travels through a screw is so small that it is practically negligent.

Timber or Metal Frame?

Generally timber absorbs sound better than metal and resonates less than metal. For example, if you hit a piece of metal with a hammer, it rings out for quite a long time. This is the metal resonating. If you repeat the process on wood, you tend to get a quick, dull knock, because the wood doesn't resonate as much.

There are acoustic metal frames on the market that are designed to dissipate the sound and convert the vibration energy to heat, but generally timber is better to use than standard metal framing.

Frame Thickness

The thicker the frame, the more insulation you can install and so you will get a slightly better result. A 100mm frame with 100mm Acoustic Mineral Wool will reduce more sound that a 50mm frame.

Plasterboard

Most stud walls are built with standard 12.5mm plasterboard. This is relatively lightweight and has little mass. If you want an even higher result from your wall, cover one or both sides of the frame with 15mm Acoustic Grade Plasterboard which is far higher in mass. Combined with the SoundBoard, this should block a great deal of airborne sound.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to block out noise from a snoring partner, reduce sound from a teenager’s bedroom, or enhance the privacy of a newly divided space, upgrading your internal walls with soundproofing solutions can make a significant difference. By insulating the cavity with Acoustic Mineral Wool and adding mass with ProSound™ SoundBoards, you can dramatically improve the soundproofing capability of your internal stud walls.

Do you think you may need to also soundproof the internal doors? Check out this blog - How To Soundproof A Door

Need to know more about soundproofing a solid wall? - How To Soundproof A Wall

If you need further advice or guidance, The Soundproofing Store is always here to help you choose the best solution for your needs

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Do Soundproofing Wall Panels Work?

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:03:21 GMT

Do Soundproofing Wall Panels Work

An overview of the best soundproofing panels and acoustic wall panels

The award winning and best selling soundproofing panel for soundproofing a wall is the ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™ . The best selling acoustic wall panels for improving the acoustics within a room are the ProSound™ Acoustic Wall Panels .

Are you looking for soundproofing Panels or sound absorption?

Soundproofing wall panels and acoustic wall panels are completely different products and can't be interchangeably used.

So what is the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption? How do you know if you need to use soundproofing wall panels or acoustic wall panels?

If you are trying to block noise from getting into or out of a room, then you need to look at soundproofing the wall with soundproof wall panels. This could be trying to block the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours through your party wall from. e.g. TV noise, music, talking, snoring etc. Research from Compare the Market revealed that noise complaints to UK councils happen every two and a half minutes, with the top nuisance complaint being that of noise.

However, if you are looking to improve the room acoustics within a space, then you need to look at sound absorption and acoustic wall panels. This is common in communal spaces such as classrooms, village halls, schools, restaurants and also used to reduce echo and reverberation in music studios and home cinema rooms.

Learn more about the difference between Sound Absorption and Soundproofing Panels

How Soundproofing Panels Work

The SoundBoard 4 is the biggest selling direct to wall soundproofing wall panel. Unlike acoustic wall panels, the SoundBoard 4 is used to help reduce unwanted airborne noise through a party wall. So how do you know if the SoundBoard 4 is the correct soundproofing solution for you?

SoundBoard 4™ Soundproofing Panel

Soundproofing Wall Panels FAQ's

How Do Acoustic Wall Panels Work?

What happens if you are looking to improve the acoustics within a room, rather than soundproof a wall?

If you are looking to improve the acoustics within a room, then this can be done easily with sound absorption products.

Sound energy will bounce off smooth, hard surfaces (in a similar way a rubber ball bounces off the ground). This repeated bouncing of sound energy creates an amplifying effect and makes the noise within a room appear much louder. This is why it can sometimes be hard to have a conversation within a communal space such as a restaurant even when the person you are trying to speak to is only a few feet away.

How sound absorption acoustic wall panels work

The image above shows how the soft material used in the blue acoustic wall panel (shown on the right hand image) is designed to absorb sound energy helping to stop it from bouncing around the room.

This in turn helps to make the room acoustics become clearer and quieter because less sound energy is travelling and amplifying around the room. The below video highlights the big improvement in acoustics within an office space once the ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels have been installed.

Acoustic Treatment: Before and After Test

The Best Acoustic Treatment Panels

Sound Absorption Acoustic Wall Panels FAQ's

High performance acoustic wall and ceiling panels are available in a large variety of colours, shapes and sizes to suit the aesthetics of any room. They make a big difference to the acoustics within a room and are very simple to install.

Soundproofing Panels For Walls Summary

The advice of the expert team at The Soundproofing Store is to always use the highest performing system you can depending on the space you can lose from your wall and also the budget you have to spend. There is no such thing as over soundproofing, but there is such a thing as under soundproofing.

Soundproofing panels such as the SoundBoard4 are an excellent solution when used in the correct circumstances and are especially suited to the use on internal stud walls, or for clear, higher frequency airborne noise on solid walls.

It is important to use the correct wall soundproofing solution depending on the type of noise problem being heard and the construction of the wall. If you are looking for soundproofing wall panels to reduce the noise being heard from noisy neighbours and are unsure if they are the right choice of soundproofing, then please speak to an expert. Feel free to contact us on the number below, or by filling in the below contact form. Whatever your soundproofing or sound absorption question, we are here to help.

Author

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

What is the cost of soundproofing v's moving house?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 15:16:03 GMT

What is the cost of soundproofing v's moving house?

Is soundproofing your home cheaper than moving house?

According to a survey by Halifax Homes, nearly 1 in 10 people claim to have moved to a new house because of poor relations with their neighbours. The survey also highlighted that people living next door were a bigger influence on a decision to move house than schools.

The types of behaviour behind most of the decisions to move house include (53%) being attributing to the noise from their neighbours, such as; loud voices, music, and Television noise. If you are having to deal with unwanted noise from your neighbours, then you are not alone. A survey from Which? discovered over 3 million UK adults suffer with noisy neighbours.

Should I stay, or should I go?

Many customers contact us at their 'wits end' due to the unwanted noise of noisy neighbours. The unwanted noise can be so bad that anxieties around noisy neighbours can mean in some instances, people start looking exclusively at detached properties. All of which come at a premium and in 90% of cases are cost prohibitive.

Latest figures from Gov.UK report the average price of a detached property in England being £463,000, compared to the average price of a semi-detached property of £288,000, or terraced property £244,000.

If you currently live in a semi-detached property, on average it will be an extra £175,000 for a detached house. This doesn't include the actual cost of moving, such as; solicitors fees, valuation fees (some lenders don't charge for this), stamp duty, surveyor's fees, estate agent fees, removal costs and higher mortgage costs on a more expensive home. There are also more expensive running costs, or higher council tax costs to consider. On average, the cost of moving in the UK is nearly £12,000 ( Halifax 202 4 )

Average house price by property type for England

Average price by property type GOV.UK (Jan 2024)

Average cost of soundproofing walls, floors and ceilings

Average soundproofing costs for walls, floors and ceilings (Sept 2024)

Will Soundproofing stop all noise from noisy neighbours?

If you are very sensitive to sound, you’re not going to find a better solution than a completely detached property. Soundproofing can greatly improve the sound transference between attached properties.

Why soundproofing isn't an exact science

The difficulty with sound is that it's extremely complex, as sound is an energy and a vibration. The vibration travels very easily through solid material and can transfer from one surface to another if in direct contact. So once the sound energy gets into a structure it can easily spread through different surfaces. As sound isn't visible, it is often difficult to know exactly what surfaces the sound is travelling through. Every property is different and the way sound travels through it is unique to that property. This is why, for soundproofing to be successful, it is advisable to speak to an expert who can discuss your particular noise issue in more detail, learn about the types and levels of noise being soundproofed against and importantly the type and structure of the property.

Different property structures and soundproofing

If you have noisy neighbours and the sound is coming through the party wall of the house, you would be correct to soundproof the wall of your home. However, in some properties, some of the sound could also be leaking through the floor, or the ceiling or the adjoining walls. It could even be travelling out of the neighbour's windows and back in through yours. (Or potentially all of these!).

There are also many different types of party wall that all perform to different levels. Along with lots of potential flaws and weaknesses that can occur in party walls. Therefore, if the noise from next door is excessively bad and the construction of the party wall is incredibly poor, then even a very high performing soundproofing system can only do so much. It would certainly improve things greatly but doesn’t mean it will block out 100% of the noise.

It is rare that a lot of sound will be leaking through other areas, but it certainly can happen. And if it does, realistically the only way to combat it, would be to soundproof the wall, floor and ceiling in that particular room. Like you would if you were building a soundproofed music studio.

Will soundproofing an attached house make a difference?

In all likelihood it is possible to soundproof an attached house to a level that would make a huge difference to the unwanted noise being heard from noisy neighbours. The thousands of extremely satisfied customers The Soundproofing Store have helped is certainly testament to this, along with a very impressive independent review rating (Trusted Shops) of 5 stars.

A detached house means no noise from neighbours can directly pass through any part of the structure but comes at a premium cost, whereas soundproofing your existing home comes in at a fraction of the cost v's that of moving to a detached property.

If you love your home and the location, but don't enjoy living there due to noisy neighbours, then soundproofing can certainly help to improve the soundproofing capabilities within your home. Many soundproofing solutions can be installed by a competent DIY'er or local tradesperson and are far less hassle than moving house. Check out this blog for more information on the steps and time it takes to move house .

Click the buttons below for different performing soundproofing solutions for walls, floors and ceilings:

How to soundproof a solid wall - the top 3 soundproofing solutions

How to soundproof walls, floors and ceilings videos

Highlighted below are useful videos of soundproofing solutions and installation videos:

1. The ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Solution

2. ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Solution

3. The SoundBoard 4™ Direct to Wall solution

4. SoundMat™ 3 Plus floor solution

5. ReductoClip™ ceiling system

The wall, floor and ceiling systems vary depending on the levels of noise needing to be soundproofed against. They do demonstrate the alternative to having to move house and are much cheaper alternatives.

The ReductoClip Wall Soundproofing Solution - achieve the highest level of soundproofing

1. Installing the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Soundproofing Solution

2. Installing the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Clip Soundproofing Solution

SoundBoard 4 Direct to Wall Soundproofing Panels

3. Installing SoundBoard 4™ Direct to Wall soundproofing Boards

SoundMat 3 Plus Floor Soundproofing Solution

4. SoundMat 3 Plus™ Floor Soundproofing Installation

5. ReductoClip™ Ceiling Soundproofing

Effective soundproofing provides a much cheaper alternative to moving house

The correct soundproofing solution for walls, ceilings and floors depends on the structure of the home, the type of noise (airborne, impact, or a combination of both) and how loud the noise is.

It is certainly possible to soundproof a home against noisy neighbours, rather than having to move to a detached property. As a rough guide, based on the average figures mentioned earlier, the cost of soundproofing an average sized wall, floor AND ceiling would be more than 97% cheaper than the cost of moving house to a detached property.

Author

Ian Baker is the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

Ian is passionate about helping individuals find effective solutions to their unwanted noise issues and his extensive knowledge and insights are invaluable in helping to transform noisy environments into peaceful spaces.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Which is the best soundproof isolation clip?

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:48:11 GMT

Which soundproofing clip should I choose?

When choosing the right soundproofing clip, consider the following:

1. Type of Noise

Airborne Noise (e.g., voices, TV noise): If you're mainly concerned with blocking airborne noise, a high-quality clip will work well.
Impact Noise (e.g., footsteps, vibrations, low bass noises e.g. music or snoring): For dealing with impact noise, you might want to choose a clip with superior decoupling properties, like the ReductoClip which has a dual rubber design compared to the single rubber designs of other clips. The two different types of rubber used in two separate areas of the clip makes the ReductoClip better able to absorb different frequencies of sound.

2. Application Area

Residential or domestic homes: A high quality clip will work well. Often there are space constraints within homes, so choose a clip which takes up the least amount of space like the ReductoClip which is the not only the highest performing, but also the thinnest on the market
Home Theaters or Recording Studios: For spaces where superior soundproofing is crucial, again the ReductoClip offers an exceptional performance in reducing unwanted noise in high performance situations.

3. Budget

Many clip and bar systems are a similar price point (give or take £80-£100). It is worth paying slightly more for a market leading clip and bar solution which has performance test data and is a tried and tested soundproofing solution.

4. Ease of Installation

The majority of soundproofing clip systems can be fitted by a competent DIYer. Usually it is recommended that two people do the installation once the clips and bars are fitted as soundproofing materials are extremely heavy. Another alternative would be to use a local tradesperson. Most clip and bar systems come with a comprehensive installation guide and often with videos detailing step-by-step instructions

5. Space Considerations

The ReductoClip Direct to Wall soundproofing clip system is by far the slimmest on the market and the full system only takes up 60mm.

Recommended Clip

If you are unsure of which soundproofing clip to use, then the best advice would be to speak to an expert. With soundproofing, it's advisable to do it once and do it right.

What are soundproof isolation clips?

Soundproof isolation clips are used in domestic homes to reduce unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. Soundproof isolation clips are also used to soundproof the walls and ceilings of recording studios, cinema rooms and home theatres. Isolation clips are used as part of a full soundproofing system to dramatically reduce sound transmission through walls and ceilings. They help to decouple structures, e.g. solid brick walls in terrace houses separating your house from your neighbours. Soundproof clips help to reduce the transfer of sound vibrations from one part of a structure to another.

How do soundproofing clips work?

Decoupling: The primary function of isolation clips is to decouple the offending wall from the soundproofing layers, such as Acoustic plasterboard and FlexiSound . This separation reduces the direct path that sound vibrations can travel through, significantly lowering noise transmission.
Vibration Dampening: The clips often include a rubber component that helps absorb and dampen vibrations. This material acts as a cushion, reducing the energy of sound waves and preventing them from travelling through the structure.
Installation: The clips are attached in two ways. 1. to an independent stud frame built 10mm away from the offending wall (for optimal soundproofing results) or 2. attached directly to the wall or ceiling. Furring channels are then clipped into the isolation clips and the soundproofing layers are then attached to these channels. The result is a soundproof wall or ceiling that is isolated from the original structure.

Key benefits of soundproof isolation clips

Improved Sound Isolation: By decoupling surfaces, soundproof isolation clips significantly reduce the transmission of sound energy and vibration. Making them ideal for environments where sound control is critical, such as domestic homes with noisy neighbours, recording studios and home theaters.

Enhanced Privacy: Soundproofing clips are effective in residential settings where privacy is important, such as between flats and apartments or between rooms within a home.

Compliance with Building Regulations: Many new homes and those undergoing conversions require a certain level of sound isolation. In England and Wales this is regulated using Part E1 Building Regulations . When used as part of a full system, Isolation clips help buildings meet these standards.

Best sound isolation clip

The most popular soundproof isolation clip is the ReductoClip. The ReductoClip is the winner of the SME UK Enterprise Awards - Soundproofing Solution of the Year 2024.

Which is the best soundproofing clip: comparisons

What makes the ReductoClip the best isolation clip for soundproofing? The figures below are based on the soundproof clips attached directly to a solid brick wall. Performance for clip and bar systems can be further improved by attaching them to an independent stud frame built a minimum of 10mm away from the offending wall.

When comparing the ReductoClip, MuteClip, and GenieClip, the ReductoClip stands out as the top choice for effective soundproofing with minimal space loss. It offers the highest noise reduction (19dB) perfromance and the slimmest profile, making it ideal for projects where space is at a premium. Its dual isolation points and wider furring channel provide superior soundproofing and easier installation. The MuteClip and GenieClip, while still effective, offer slightly lower performance and take up much more space. They also have limitations in lower sound frequency performance. The ReductoClip provides the best combination of performance, space efficiency, and installation convenience.

Soundproof isolation clips: comparisons

Soundproof isolation clips: installation tips

Use with the correct channels: Isolation clips are used alongside furring channels or furring bars which clip into the isolation clips. Make sure to use the correct channels for the clips being used. The soundproofing layers of high mass materials such as Acoustic Plasterboard and FlexiSound are then attached to the furring bars allowing the soundproofing clips to isolate the soundproof materials from the offending wall or ceiling.

Clip spacings: Follow the manufacturers spacings to ensure the correct installation. There are different spacings for different clip and bar systems.

Optimal performance: If space allows, build an independent stud frame 10mm away from the offending wall and attach the soundproofing clips to this. This further decouples the soundproofing making it even harder for unwanted noise to travel from one house or room to the other.

Do soundproofing clips work?

Yes, soundproofing isolation clips are extremely effective at reducing noise transmission travelling between walls and ceilings. They work by decoupling and creating a break in the sound path.

Soundproofing clips are a proven and effective method for reducing noise transmission in various settings, from residential homes to professional studios and work best when installed correctly and as part of a soundproofing system which utilises high mass materials such as Acoustic Plasterboard and FlexiSound.

Choosing the best soundproof isolation clip - overview

When choosing the right soundproofing clip, consider your specific needs, such as the level of noise reduction required, the type of structure you’re working with, and any space constraints. If maximum sound isolation is your top priority, opt for premium clips that offer high decoupling and enhanced noise reduction.

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How can I soundproof an existing wall?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:55:31 GMT

What is the best way to soundproof an existing wall?

How do you stop noise coming through shared existing walls?

Many of us share walls with our neighbours and as a consequence hear unwanted noise from next door. Soundproofing existing walls in your home, which are already built, such as a shared wall or a party wall can greatly improve privacy. Here are some key soundproofing methods to follow when soundproofing a dividing wall that you share with a neighbour:

1. Add Mass to the Wall

Acoustic Plasterboard: Adding two layers of Acoustic Plasterboard with FlexiSound sandwiched in between, when used with ReductoClips will significantly reduce unwanted noise from passing through a wall.

Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV): This is a dense material that is used as part of direct to wall soundproofing panels such as SoundBoard 4. Particularly effective at soundproofing existing lightweight stud walls.

2. Decoupling

Create a physical gap: Isolate the soundproofing by creating an air gap and building an independent stud frame (a minimum of 10mm) in front of the existing wall. This delivers the highest level of soundproofing.

Sound Isolation Clips: These can further improve soundproofing by providing additional decoupling. ReductoClips are extremely high performing and are the slimmest on the market.They can also be attached directly to the existing wall.

Resilient Channels: Furring bars are metal channels that clip into the ReductoClips and help to create a gap between the wall and the build up of soundproofing which helps in breaking the path of sound.

3. Damping

ReductoClips, FlexiSound and Closed Cell Foam: Are effective damping materials to help absorb sound energy and vibrations.

4. Sealing Gaps and Cracks

Acoustic Sealant: Use this to seal any gaps, cracks, and perimeter edging of the wall. Small openings or cracks can allow sound to pass through.

5. Absorption

Acoustic Panels: These panels absorb sound waves, reducing echo and noise, but don't soundproof or stop noise from travelling through an existing wall. Learn more about Acoustic Panels.

Key soundproofing materials when soundproofing an existing wall

How not to soundproof a shared wall with your neighbour

Here are some key things to avoid when soundproofing an existing wall:

Using Thin Materials:

Simply adding a layer of plasterboard to a brick wall without using a proper soundproofing system or specialist soundproofing materials such as Acoustic Mineral Wool, Acoustic Plasterboard, FlexiSound and ReductoClips and bars, will not soundproof the wall.

2. Not Sealing Gaps and Cracks:

Make sure the soundproofing is properly sealed around the perimeter of the wall, along with any gaps using Acoustic Sealant

3. Leaving Outlets Unsealed: Leaving gaps and creating weak points around e.g. electrical sockets. Be sure to use surface mounted socket boxes, or Acoustic Socket Putty Pads to ensure these aren't weak points in the soundproofing.

4. Not Decoupling: With no decoupling from the existing wall the soundproofing performance will be limited. Creating a physical air gap between the soundproofing and the existing wall and using ReductoClips will give the highest level of soundproofing.

5. Not Using Isolation Clips: Without using isolation clips it is hard to achieve the best soundproofing results. Using isolation clip and bar systems like the ReductoClip and bar system will achieve the best results when soundproofing an existing brick wall

6. Not Adding Mass: By not adding mass to the wall, such as Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) , FlexiSound and Acoustic Plasterboard it will be hard to block unwanted airborne noise

7. Simply using more of the same material: Use a combination of high mass materials as different materials block different frequencies of sound

Make sure to follow the key principles of soundproofing, otherwise the wall will remain ineffective at blocking sound, leading to poor soundproofing results.

The 3 main principles of soundproofing an existing brick wall

Isolation

Concept: Isolate or 'decouple' soundproofing by leaving a physical gap between the existing wall and the soundproofing layers to create a sound breaker.

Top-Tip: ReductoClips are highly effective at isolating soundproofing layers from the wall, preventing sound transfer.

2. Damping

Concept: Use elastic or damping materials like FlexiSound and Closed Cell Foam to absorb sound energy and vibrations.

Top-Tip: ReductoClips provide excellent sound damping, helping to reduce sound energy and vibrations and reduce sound transmission through an existing wall.

3. Mass

Concept: Increase the density of walls to reduce unwanted airborne noise. Utilise materials like Mass Loaded Vinyl, FlexiSound, and Acoustic Plasterboard.

Top-Tip: Combining different types of mass can effectively block a wider range of sound frequencies.

Key steps to soundproofing a wall that is already built

Identify the Source: Is the noise coming through the wall airborne (talking and voices) or impact noise (footsteps and banging) or a combination of both?
Use Decoupling Methods: For the best performance in sound reduction and a necessity against impact vibrations and low bass frequencies (such as deep voices, snoring and music) use isolation clips (ReductoClips) and resilient furring channels (Reducto Furring Bars) on an independent stud frame
Insulate cavities: Use Acoustic Mineral Wool to insulate cavities between the decoupled structure, which separates the soundproofing layers and the existing wall. Mineral wool doesn't soundproof the wall, but absorbs sound within the cavity to stop it amplifying within the space
Seal Gaps and Cracks : Use acoustic sealant to seal the perimeter of the soundproofing layers and in any gaps around windows, and doors.
Add Mass to the Wall: Add a layer of Acoustic Plasterboard, a layer of FlexiSound and a second layer of Acoustic Plasterboard. The combination of these different layers of mass work better when soundproofing an existing wall, as the different materials block different sound frequencies
Install Soundproofing Panels: Direct to wall soundproofing panels like SoundBoard 4 can be added to the wall to help block unwanted airborne noise. These are particularly effective on internal stud walls
Final Touches: Use a plaster skim and decorate the wall as usual

These key soundproofing steps are important if you want to achieve the best soundproofing results.

How to soundproof an existing wall cheaply?

So called 'cheap' soundproofing hacks although mentioned online, really don't exist. You will end up wasting money on things which yield no soundproofing results and will be disappointed with the results. There are many supposedly cheap ways to soundproof a wall and highlighted below are the most popular, along with the reasons as to why they won't work:

Add Mass with Furniture and Decor

Bookshelves and Cabinets: Placing heavy furniture like bookshelves or cabinets against the wall to add mass and absorb sound is a misbelief. For a wall to be soundproofed the whole wall needs to be soundproofed with tried and tested soundproofing materials. Noise will simply travel through, around the back and over the top of bookshelves and cabinets

Curtains or Tapestries: Hanging thick curtains or tapestries on the wall to help stop sound is also a misconception. This will deliver zero soundproofing. What it might help with is absorbing sound within the room. Think of the acoustics within an empty room compared to a room with carpet and soft furnishings. However, it is important to stress again that this will have absolutely no soundproofing benefits whatsoever at blocking sound from passing through an existing wall.

Use Soft Furnishings

Rugs and Carpets: Adding upholstered furniture, cushions and pillows to the room to reduce echo. Again, adding soft furnishings will help absorb some of the sound within the room, rather than it reflecting off hard surfaces, but this is not soundproofing. Sound will still pass from your neighbour through your wall and vice versa.

DIY Acoustic Panels

Egg Cartons: The idea that attaching egg cartons to the wall will help with soundproofing is a complete fallacy. Adding something lightweight to the wall won't block airborne noise from passing through the wall.

Many 'cheap' soundproofing options don't soundproof, they won't block unwanted noise from your neighbours room from passing into your room and vice versa. They simply help with the acoustics within the room. There are also dedicated acoustic panels and solutions to help reduce echo and noise within a room and this is separate to soundproofing.

How can I sound proof my wall cheaply?

Many of the 'cheap' soundproofing options which come up time and time again (as mentioned above) aren't remotely effective at soundproofing a wall. It is much better to save your money and to soundproof the wall properly using a tried and tested soundproofing system and doing it once and doing it right. Based on an average wall size of 3m x 2.4m for the highest performing ReductoClip Independent Wall System the cost would be around £900 including delivery and VAT.

For the same size wall and for the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System (without the independent stud frame) the cost would be around £835, including delivery and VAT.

For the SoundBoard 4 which is an excellent direct to existing wall soundproofing panel for studs walls, the cost would be around £570.

The 3 best ways to sound proof an existing brick wall

Conclusion: How to soundproof an existing wall

Soundproofing an existing wall can significantly enhance the comfort and privacy of your living space by reducing unwanted noise, especially from noisy neighbours. The key to effective soundproofing lies in understanding and applying the three main principles: isolation, damping, and mass.

Isolation involves creating a physical gap between the existing wall and the soundproofing layers using methods such as building an independent stud frame 10mm away from from the existing wall and using ReductoClips and resilient channels. This decoupling is crucial for breaking the path of sound and preventing it from travelling through the structure.
Damping focuses on absorbing sound energy and vibrations using materials like FlexiSound and Closed Cell Foam. ReductoClips also contribute to damping, further reducing sound transmission.
Mass requires adding dense, heavy materials like Mass Loaded Vinyl, Acoustic Plasterboard, and FlexiSound to increase the wall's density and block airborne noise effectively. Combining different materials can block a wider range of sound frequencies.

By following these principles and using proper soundproofing materials and techniques, you can achieve significant noise reduction in your existing walls. Avoid common mistakes such as using thin materials, neglecting to seal gaps and cracks, and failing to decouple and isolate the soundproofing layers.

Although some "cheap" soundproofing hacks might seem appealing, they often yield disappointing results. Investing in a tried and tested soundproofing system is more effective in the long run. Depending on your budget, noise reduction needs and space you can lose from the wall, systems like the ReductoClip Independent Wall System , ReductoClip Direct to Wall System , or SoundBoard 4 can provide excellent levels of soundproofing performance.

Ultimately, proper soundproofing requires a thoughtful approach and the right materials to ensure the best results. By understanding the principles and following best practices, you can transform your space into a quieter, more serene environment.

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Sound Absorption and Acoustic Panels: A Comprehensive Guide

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 13:02:09 GMT

A Complete Guide to Sound Absorption and Acoustic Panels

Outline

1. Introduction

Definition of Sound Absorption
Importance of Acoustic Panels

2. Basics of Sound Absorption

What is Sound Absorption?
How Sound Absorption Works
Key Terminology

3. Types of Acoustic Panels

Fabric Wrapped Panels
Felt PET Panels
Wooden Panels

4. Applications of Acoustic Panels

Residential Use
Village halls
Commercial Use
Industrial Use
Educational Facilities
Recording Studios

5. Benefits of Acoustic Panels

Improved Sound Quality
Noise Reduction
Enhanced Clarity
Aesthetic Appeal

6. Challenges and Limitations

Cost Considerations
Installation Challenges
Maintenance Requirements
Effectiveness in Different Environments
Handling and Storage
Repairing Damaged Panels

7. Comparative Analysis

Acoustic Panels vs. Soundproofing Materials
Cost Comparison
Effectiveness Comparison

8. Case Studies

Successful Acoustic Panel Installations
Real-Life Examples

9. FAQs

Common Questions About Acoustic Panels
Solutions to Frequent Problems

10. Conclusion

Summary of Key Points

Sound Absorption and Acoustic Panels: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In the modern world, managing sound within spaces has become essential for various reasons, ranging from improving audio quality in recording studios to ensuring a peaceful environment in residential and commercial spaces. Sound absorption, particularly through the use of acoustic panels, plays a crucial role in achieving these objectives. This comprehensive guide delves into the importance, types, applications and benefits, of acoustic panels, offering a detailed understanding of how they work and how to utilise them effectively.

Basics of Sound Absorption

What is Sound Absorption?

Sound absorption refers to the process by which sound energy is absorbed by materials or objects, rather than being reflected or transmitted.

This absorption reduces the amplitude of sound waves, effectively lowering noise levels and improving sound quality in a given space.

How Sound Absorption Works

Sound absorption works through materials that can capture and dissipate sound energy.

These materials convert sound energy into a small amount of heat through friction and other mechanisms within their structure, thereby reducing the overall sound energy in the environment.

Key Terminology

NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient)

A measure of a material's ability to absorb sound. Higher NRC values indicate better sound absorption.

Sound absorption class

The sound absorption classes range from "A" to "E" the higher being the best performance. ProSound Acoustic Panels deliver an outstanding sound absorption performance and are Class A performance.

Class A: Highly absorbent, with an absorption coefficient of 0.90 or above across a wide frequency range. Ideal for any space that requires noise control, such as recording studios, classrooms, village halls, offices and large rooms.

Class B: Moderately absorbent, with an absorption coefficient between 0.80 and 0.90.

Class C: Reasonably absorbent, with a coefficient between 0.60 and 0.80.

Class D: Slightly absorbent, with a coefficient between 0.30 and 0.60.

Class E: Minimally absorbent, with a coefficient below 0.30. Mainly used for aesthetic purposes rather than noise control.

Reverberation Time

The time it takes for sound to fade away in a closed space after the source has stopped emitting.

Types of Acoustic Panels

Fabric-Wrapped Acoustic Panels

Fabric-wrapped panels combine aesthetic appeal with functionality. They come in various colours and designs, making them ideal for spaces where both sound control and visual appeal are important.

Felt Acoustic Panels

Felt acoustic panels are made from 100% PET fibre of which +/- 50% are derived from recycled plastic water bottles.

Wood Slatted Acoustic Panels

Wood slat panels come in different wood finishes and are backed with acoustic felt. They offer a warm finish to rooms while providing class B sound absorption.

Applications of Acoustic Panels

Residential Use

In homes, acoustic panels are used to reduce noise in large open plan living spaces.

Village Halls

Large rooms with hard surfaces can create large amounts of echo and acoustic panels can dramatically reduce the noise levels.

Commercial Use

In offices and commercial buildings, acoustic panels help to create a more productive and comfortable environment by reducing noise levels and minimising distractions.

Industrial Use

Companies use acoustic panels to control noise levels from machinery and equipment, ensuring a safer and more pleasant working environment.

Educational Facilities

Schools and universities utilise acoustic panels in classrooms, lecture halls, and auditoriums to enhance speech clarity and reduce noise.

Recording Studios

Acoustic panels are essential in recording studios to reduce echo, and ensure high-quality audio recordings.

Benefits of Acoustic Panels

Improved Sound Quality

By absorbing unwanted noise and reducing echo, acoustic panels significantly enhance the overall sound quality in a space.

Noise Reduction

Acoustic panels help to lower noise levels, creating quieter and more comfortable environments in both residential and commercial settings.

Enhanced Privacy

In offices and meeting rooms, acoustic panels can prevent sound from travelling between rooms, ensuring conversations remain private.

Enhanced Clarity

Improved clarity of sound and reduced reverberation within a room.

Aesthetic Appeal

Modern acoustic panels come in various designs and finishes, allowing them to blend seamlessly with interior design trends while providing functional benefits.

Challenges and Limitations

Cost Considerations

Cheap foam panels are often without a classification and don't add any aesthetic quality to a room. High performing, Class A acoustic panels can make a huge improvement to room acoustics and can greatly improve the aesthetics of a space.

Installation

Installing acoustic panels can be undertaken by a good DIY'er or tradesperson.

Please see the relevant data sheets for the best practice for the type of panel you are fitting.

Handling and Storage

Handle panels with care to avoid damage, using white gloves to avoid marking the panels. Store in a clean, dry place when not in use.

Acoustic Panels vs. Soundproofing Materials

Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound, while soundproofing materials block sound transmission. Both have their own applications and benefits.

Effectiveness Comparison

The effectiveness of each solution depends on the specific requirements of the space and the type of noise issue being addressed.

Case Studies

Sound absorption FAQ's

Conclusion

Sound Absorption is designed to reduce the echo and reverberation of a room to make the space quieter and give the sound within the room much more clarity.

Echo is sound energy repeating around a room. Sound energy will bounce off smooth hard surfaces much in the same way a rubber ball bounces off the ground. Although the direction of the sound changes, the echo sounds the same as the original sound. This creates an amplifying effect and makes everything seem very loud, often making conversation in these kind of spaces hard to understand. You might have encountered this whilst sat in a restaurant where you can barely hear what the person opposite you is saying.

Sound absorption can be used in any situation where reverberation is a problem. Examples of this include noisy offices, village halls, museums, sports halls, classrooms, meeting rooms and music studios.

Sound absorption will reduce the reverberation in any type of space to create a quieter, clearer atmosphere.

Author

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof an existing floor between rooms

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:32:38 GMT

How to soundproof an existing floor between rooms

Step-by-Step Guide to Soundproofing an Existing Floor Separating Rooms

The Soundproofing Store is a multi-award winning soundproofing company selling high performing soundproofing and acoustic solutions. The Soundproofing Store was contacted by Jamie Carter, the owner of The Sportsman's Arms, a hotel and restaurant nestled in picturesque Nidderdale, North Yorkshire.

Jamie explained that there was a converted barn next door to The Sportsman's with three separate bedrooms for residents. Two rooms upstairs and one room directly below one of the upstairs rooms. Jamie went on to explain that he was looking for a soundproofing solution to minimise the impact noise (mainly footsteps) travelling from the room above into the room below and airborne noise (voices and TV noise) travelling between both rooms.

This step-by-step guide highlights the SoundMat 3 Plus floor solution which was used to combat the unwanted impact and airborne noise, along with the full DIY installation process and results.

How to soundproof a floor separating rooms with SoundMat 3 Plus

Case Study: Soundproofing an Existing Floor

Project Overview

Client: Jamie Carter, owner of The Sportsman's Arms, a highly acclaimed hotel and restaurant

Rooms: Floor separating guest bedrooms

Objective: Reduce noise transmission between two bedrooms, targeting both impact and airborne noise

The best way to soundproof a floor separating bedrooms

Identify the type of noise

Determine whether you need to address impact noise (footsteps, moving furniture) or airborne noise (voices, music). This will help you select the appropriate soundproofing materials and methods.

Final Flooring

Different floor soundproofing solutions are better suited for different types of final floor finishes. When choosing the most suitable option, consider not only the noise you want to block but also the type of final floor finish you plan to use.

Acoustic Insulation

Add acoustic insulation between floor joists prior to installing the floor soundproofing. The bedroom at The Sportsman's Arms hotel already had acoustic insulation within the joists, so no acoustic mineral wool was needed to be added in this instance.

Preparation

Clear the room of all furniture and existing floor coverings (in this instance carpet).

Sealing Gaps and Cracks

Identify and seal all gaps and cracks in the subfloor using an acoustic sealant, which will help prevent sound leakage.

Perimeter Edging

Add carpet gripper rod risers around the perimeter for carpet final floor finishes.

Soundproof Solution

Choose the most effective soundproofing solution for your individual situation. SoundMat 3 Plus is the most popular soundproofing solution for timber floors and carpet final floor finishes. A high performing direct to floor soundproofing mat, sometimes referred to as an underlay mat.

Seal Edges and Perimeters

Use acoustic sealant to seal the edges where the soundproofing meets the walls, ensuring no sound leakage through these joints.

Final Flooring

The final floor finish of choice is carpet and SoundMat 3 Plus will also act as a luxury carpet underlay.

Timber floor soundproofing solution: SoundMat 3 Plus

SoundMat 3 Plus is an exceptional soundproofing mat specifically designed to minimise unwanted impact and airborne noise. Ideal for carpeted final floor finishes, this thin (only 15mm thick) and highly effective floor soundproofing significantly enhances the soundproofing capabilities of existing floors and was the perfect choice for the timber floor separating the two bedrooms at The Sportsman's Arms.

SoundMat 3 Plus achieves superior soundproofing results for timber floors

Key Features of SoundMat 3 Plus

High Performance Soundproofing: The SoundMat 3 Plus significantly reduces unwanted impact and airborne noise

Clever Layering: Different layers of high mass materials are combined in one easy-to-install product:

3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl: Acts as a high-mass acoustic barrier to effectively block airborne noise
9mm Closed Cell Foam: Dampens sound energy and vibrations, such as those caused by footsteps
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl: Provides a second layer of high mass to further enhance the blocking of airborne noise

Slim Design: At only 15mm thick, SoundMat 3 Plus minimises floor height build-up allowing for seamless integration with existing flooring

Simple Installation: A huge benefit of SoundMat 3 Plus is its simplicity of installation. With no adhesive required, the mat can be easily loose laid, making it a hassle-free soundproofing solution

Versatile: Suitable for all final floor finishes. For more details, you can explore SoundMat 3 Plus

System components when installing SoundMat 3 Plus

The materials used when installing the SoundMat 3 Plus on a timber floor at The Sportsman's Arms:

SoundMat 3 Plus - High performing floor soundproofing solution to help block impact and airborne noise.

9mm Gripper Rod Soundproofing Riser - Designed for use under standard carpet gripper rods and used with the SoundMat 3 Plus. Risers are constructed with mass-loaded vinyl to enhance soundproofing around the perimeter. Featuring a wooden layer for securely fixing carpet gripper rods and a foam edge to create an airtight seal against the wall.

When used with the 15mm Floor SoundMat 3 Plus system, the gripper rod risers add mass to the perimeter's weak points, blocking airborne noise. Additionally, they raise the carpet gripper rods to the optimal height for gripping the carpet correctly.

Acoustic Sealant (900ml) - A specialist sealant used to fill any small gaps between floorboards prior to laying the SoundMats and also used to seal around the perimeter of the SoundMats. This helps to prevent any air gaps through which sound could travel through.

Jumbo Sealant Applicator Gun for 900ml Tubes - A heavy-duty applicator gun designed to dispense acoustic sealant smoothly and accurately whilst helping to ensure the precise application of sealant along seams and edges.

High Tack Tape - Used to tape over the joins of the SoundMat 3 Plus to prevent any movement once the SoundMats are laid in place.

Acoustic Mineral Wool - Acoustic mineral wool is designed to improve acoustic performance and reduce reverberation within cavity spaces. It is added to the cavity space underneath the floorboards prior to laying SoundMat 3 Plus. Acoustic mineral wool wasn't added in this situation because there was already insulation within the joists.

Easy DIY installation of SoundMat 3 Plus

Jamie had never installed any type of soundproofing before and quickly and easily installed the SoundMat 3 Plus.

By following these steps, you can easily and effectively reduce noise transmission between rooms, creating a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

Step 1: Preparation of the base floor:

Ensure the floor is smooth, flat, and level
Remove any dust or debris
Seal any gaps between the floorboards prior to laying the SoundMat 3 Plus

Step 2: Installation of Gripper Rod Risers:

Add Gripper Rod Risers around the perimeter of the floor with the foam edge placed up against the wall. This isolates the hard part of the riser and the floor from the wall. Helping to limit flanking vibration where the vibration from impact on the floor can transfer into the wall

Step 3: Laying SoundMat 3 Plus:

Lay the SoundMats in a brick bond pattern butting them up against the gripper rod risers. Simply loose lay the SoundMats and make sure not to screw or nail through them

Step 4: Secure the SoundMats:

Tape over the joins using high tack tape to prevent any movement over time

Step 5: Sealing with Acoustic Sealant:

Apply acoustic sealant around the perimeter, including around any pipework. This helps to prevent any air gaps which sound can pass through

Jamie followed the above process and was able to easily install SoundMat 3 Plus on the bedroom floor.

DIY Installation of SoundMat 3 Plus

Results

Footsteps which were very loud and clear before the soundproofing have been dramatically reduced. Music which was played before the soundproofing was also very loud and very clear and is now muffled and much harder to hear.

Impact Noise: Significant reduction in footstep noise

Before soundproofing: 50dB

After soundproofing: 36dB

(The lower the value the better)

Airborne Noise: Noticeable decrease in the transmission of voices and music between the bedrooms

Before soundproofing: 27dB reduction

After soundproofing: 33dB reduction

(The higher the value the better)

A reading was also taken with the dB reader with no noise being played and when the room was silent. The reading was 35 - 36dB. The reading with the noise playing following the installation of the soundproofing was only a couple of decibels over the background silent noise level, which is a fantastic result.

SoundMat 3 Plus client testimonial

Jamie, with no prior experience, effortlessly installed the soundproofing and was thrilled with the results. He also found the SoundMats 'remarkably easy' to lay down.

According to Jamie, “The product is absolutely great; installation was much simpler than I’d anticipated. The SoundMat’s manageable sections made it easy for me to fit myself - it was a simple job.”

Jamie continued, "We're due to have the carpet fitted tomorrow and the carpet fitter came and was really impressed with the job that we'd done. The gripper risers are in place and it means that the carpet fitters can just come in and lay the carpet straight down."

Expressing his satisfaction, Jamie added "We're really pleased with the results, we've had customers in the room directly below and people working in here and I'm really impressed with the amount of sound it's stopped. A really successful project and really really happy we've worked with you on it".

Top-tips for effective floor soundproofing

Choose Quality Materials: Investing in high-quality soundproofing materials like SoundMat 3 Plus will significantly improve the results of your soundproofing

Seal small gaps: Use acoustic sealant to seal any gaps. Think of soundproofing like waterproofing. Any gaps and sound will find a way out

Don't drill or nail through the SoundMat 3 Plus: The SoundMat's are loose laid. Don't mechanically fix them down as this will compromise performance

Consider Professional Help and Advice: If you’re unsure as to which soundproofing solution to use, speak to a professional to ensure you achieve the best possible results (01423) 206208.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates that soundproofing an existing floor between bedrooms can be easily achieved through the use of a high-quality, tried and tested soundproofing solution. By addressing both impact and airborne noise, Jamie's DY installation of SoundMat 3 Plus made a significant improvement in noise reduction between the two rooms. An excellent result meaning a quieter and more peaceful environment for guests to enjoy during their stay.

Whether you’re a hotel owner, or a homeowner, SoundMat 3 Plus offers an exceptional and efficient soundproofing solution. Designed to minimise unwanted impact and airborne noise. Ideal for carpeted final floor finishes, it offers a slim profile (only 15mm thick) while significantly enhancing soundproofing capabilities. Whether you’re dealing with footsteps from guests in a hotel, noisy neighbours, or ensuring privacy between floors within your own home, SoundMat 3 Plus is the ideal solution.

Timber floor soundproofing products

Below are the products used in soundproofing the bedroom floor separating rooms at The Sportsman's Arms. (Based on a carpet final floor finish).

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Ultimate DIY Soundproofing: Using SoundBoard 4 Soundproofing Panel for Stud Walls

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:04:02 GMT

Ultimate DIY Soundproofing: Using SoundBoard 4 for Stud Walls

DIY Soundproofing Made Easy: Using SoundBoard 4 Soundproof Panels on Stud Walls

The Soundproofing Store is the largest online retailer of high-quality soundproofing solutions. A UK based company specialising in award-winning soundproofing products and solutions for all unwanted noise issues.

The Soundproofing Store serves both DIY enthusiasts, professional installers, and local tradespeople - providing expert advice, technical support, and comprehensive guides and step-by-step installation videos to help customers choose and install the right soundproofing solutions for their specific requirements. An award-winning company which is known for its high-quality products and commitment to helping customers create quieter, more comfortable environments.

SoundBoard 4 in Action: Soundproofing a Hotel Room

Background

The Sportsman's Arms is a hotel and restaurant nestled in the heart of Nidderdale. Regularly voted as one of the best hotels in England by the likes of The Telegraph .

The Soundproofing Store was contacted by owner Jamie Carter because of unwanted noise travelling through the internal stud wall separating rooms within a converted barn. When both rooms had guests staying it meant that often one or both parties were being disturbed by the guests in the next door room and vice versa.

Objectives

Reduce noise intrusion: Minimise the noise between adjacent rooms when residents were staying at the hotel. This included unwanted airborne noise heard either side of the internal dividing stud wall. Noises such as talking,TV, music and snoring
Use high performing soundproofing solutions which were trusted and proven
Soundproofing solutions which were an easy and quick DIY install, to limit the time the rooms would be out of action to potential customers
Soundproofing which minimised any space loss within the room

Stud Wall Solution: SoundBoard 4

SoundBoard 4 is a soundproofing board or soundproofing panel designed to enhance the soundproofing capabilities of an internal stud wall. Composed of 4 layers of dense materials that effectively block and absorb sound waves, reducing noise transmission between spaces.

SoundBoard 4 is particularly effective on low mass stud walls and is a slim soundproofing solution at only 30mm thick. A direct to wall soundproofing panel which is also an easy DIY install. SoundBoard 4 was the obvious soundproofing solution for the internal bedroom wall at The Sportsman's Arms.

Key features of SoundBoard 4 for Superior Soundproofing:

High Density: SoundBoard 4 is constructed from high-density materials such as acoustic plasterboard, which is heavier and more dense than standard plasterboard. This density is crucial for blocking airborne noise. The board includes two layers of mass loaded vinyl, acting as an acoustic barrier to further prevent sound transmission. Additionally, it features a layer of closed cell foam that effectively dampens vibrations and sound energy, enhancing overall soundproofing
Multi-Layer Construction: SoundBoard 4 consists of a combination of 4 layers of soundproofing materials designed to block airborne noise. Each layer works in synergy to provide maximum sound insulation, making SoundBoard 4 an ideal choice for creating a quieter environment
Easy Installation: SoundBoard 4 panels are designed for straightforward DIY installation, making them a convenient choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Panels can be mounted directly onto walls using screws, without the need for specialised skills or equipment. This user-friendly approach allows for professional-quality results with minimal fuss

Materials used

SoundBoard 4 The primary soundproofing material, designed with high-density construction and multiple layers to block and absorb sound

Acoustic sealant A specialist sealant used to fill the small 5mm gaps around the perimeter of the SoundBoard 4 panels. It prevents sound leakage and enhances the overall effectiveness of the soundproofing

Jumbo sealant applicator gun A heavy-duty applicator gun designed to dispense acoustic sealant smoothly and accurately. This tool is essential for applying sealant along seams and edges

Packers Small, adjustable spacers used to ensure precise alignment and 5mm perimeter spacing of SoundBoard 4 panels during installation

Acoustic socket putty pads These pads are used to seal electrical sockets. They prevent sound from passing through these potential weak points, maintaining the integrity of the soundproofing

Drywall screws for fixing the SoundBoard 4 into the stud work

SoundBoard 4 Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Effective Soundproofing

By following these simple installation steps, Jamie simply and effectively installed SoundBoard 4 panels on the dividing stud wall separating the two bedrooms:

Step 1: Preparation

Remove Skirting and Coving:

Begin by carefully removing all skirting boards and coving

Install Acoustic Mineral Wool:

If installing acoustic mineral wool, remove the existing plasterboard and fit the mineral wool between the existing stud work

Step 2: Locate the Timber Studs

Identify Stud Positions:

Use a stud locator to find the timber studs in the wall. Mark their positions for accurate placement of SoundBoard 4 panels

Step 3: Start the Installation

Begin in the Bottom Corner:

Start the installation in the bottom left or right-hand corner of the wall. Ensure the edges of the boards meet on the center of a stud for optimal stability
Position the first panel and using the 5mm packers leave a 5mm gap around the edge of the wall, floor (and also the ceiling)
Hold the SoundBoard 4 panel in position and use suitable length drywall screws to securely fix the board into the stud work
Position the second panel tightly against the first, ensuring there are no gaps between them
Start the second row from where the first row ended to create a staggered joint

Step 4: Plug Sockets

Use acoustic putty pads:

Use acoustic socket putty pads (double or single) or surface mounted plug sockets. This reduces any weak spots for sound to travel through

Step 5: Seal the Gaps

Apply Acoustic Sealant:

Fill the 5mm gap around the perimeter of the whole wall with acoustic sealant. Additionally, apply sealant over the joints between the boards to prevent any sound leakage

Step 6: The final finish

Prepare the Plasterboard:

Once all the SoundBoard 4 panels are securely in place and sealed, the wall is ready for a standard plasterboard finish

The goal was to minimise the noise transfer between two rooms, thereby enhancing the comfort and satisfaction of hotel guests. By adhering to the above installation process, the hotel successfully achieved superior soundproofing, creating a quieter and more enjoyable environment for their guests. Let's take a look at the results..

DIY Installation of SoundBoard 4

SoundBoard 4 on a hotel stud wall - results

Noise Reduction:

There was a significant reduction in airborne noise following the installation of SoundBoard 4:

Before soundproofing: 13dB reduction

After soundproofing: 32dB reduction

Client Satisfaction:

Jamie completed the installation himself with the help from Phil from The Soundproofing Store . Jamie goes on to say how "the product is great" and was "actually really surprised how easy it was to do" and having now done it that he'd "recommend that it's easy enough for anyone to do at home" installing SoundBoard 4 is "surprising simple."

The soundproofing was a huge success and Jamie goes on to say:

"We haven't heard a peep coming through the wall."

Dramatic noise reduction from SoundBoard 4 Soundproofing Panel

Conclusion

By using SoundBoard 4 Jamie effectively soundproofed the internal stud wall separating two bedrooms within his family run country Inn.

This case study illustrates how SoundBoard 4 can be a practical and efficient solution for DIY soundproofing projects, offering significant benefits in noise reduction and acoustic enhancement on stud walls.

Residents can now enjoy a beautiful tranquil setting during the day and a peaceful, undisturbed sleep at night.

Stud wall soundproofing products

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a wall (The 3 best acoustic wall solutions) 2024

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 10:14:06 GMT

How to soundproof a wall

(The 3 best acoustic wall solutions) 2025

The easiest and most effective way to soundproof a brick wall in a semi-detached or terraced home against the unwanted noise of noisy neighbours. A recent study highlighted in The Express details how more than 250,000 noise complaints were made in the UK in the last 12 months , with loud music accounting for 50% of all complaints.

Key questions to answer before soundproofing a wall

Before soundproofing a wall, there are some key questions to answer, which help to ensure the correct and most informed soundproofing decision.

1. What is the wall constructed of?

Knowing if the wall is a solid brick / block or light weight timber stud construction, will help to determine how well the current wall performs for blocking noise. (This will help determine the correct level of soundproofing needed).

2. What level of noise is being heard?

Is the noise a quiet muffled noise?
Clearer noise such as the odd clear word / make out which TV programme they are watching?
Or excessive levels of noise such as dogs barking, snoring, doors slamming, clear conversation or music?

3. What type of noise is being heard?

There are two types of noise. Airborne or impact noise, or a combination of both. This will help you determine the correct wall soundproofing system.

4. Is there a chimney breast on the wall?

Chimney breasts normally perform better for soundproofing than the alcoves. This is due to their higher mass, compared to the alcoves which may just have a single brick. (Put your ear to the alcove wall and take a mental reading of the level of noise and then compare it to when you put your ear to the front of the fireplace). Learn more about soundproofing a chimney .

Addressing these key questions before soundproofing a wall is essential when choosing the correct soundproofing system. By understanding the walls construction, noise level, type of noise, and presence of features like chimney breasts (and if noise can be heard through the chimney breast) allows for an informed decision to be made about the appropriate soundproofing measures needed.

How to soundproof a brick wall?

Soundproofing a brick wall can be easily achieved by decoupling from the offending wall, adding mass to the wall and using soundproofing materials which absorb sound energy and vibrations.

In the UK brick walls usually separate attached and semi-detached houses. Because you are sharing a party wall with your neighbour it often means you can hear unwanted noise coming through the connecting wall, and because they are usualy constructed with just a singal brick, which does not have enough mass to block noise. to soundproof this type of wall we need to :

1. Decouple the wall

Create a sound breaker by leaving a gap between the soundproofing and the original wall. This helps to stop sound vibrations from travelling though the structure.

2. Add mass to the wall

The heavier and more dense a material is, the more airborne sound it will block.

3. Add different types of mass to the wall

Different types of mass block different sound frequencies. Always use a combination of high mass materials for the best results.

4. Dampen sound vibration and energy

When sound hits a wall it becomes a vibration. Damping materials help to absorb sound energy and vibrations.

5. Add acoustic insulation

Use acoustic mineral wool in cavity spaces to stop sound from resonating and amplifying. (This is called the drum effect).

To achieve the highest level of soundproofing, decouple from the offending wall. Use different layers of mass such as Acoustic Plasterboard and FlexiSound 5 and dampen sound energy and vibrations using the ReductoClip system.

This can be easily achieved as a full system by using the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution .

The 3 best wall soundproofing solutions for an existing wall

Wall soundproofing case study - key questions

Our client (Mr and Mrs Wheeler) contacted us due to being disturbed by the noise coming from next door within their mid terrace house.

1.What level of noise is being heard?

The noises they could hear from next door were described as medium levels of conversation. We asked Mrs Wheeler to clarify the levels and types of noise and she explained it was low levels of conversation, whereby you could hear the odd word, but not the whole sentence. They could also hear music coming through the party wall.

The Soundproofing Store further clarified if the noise being heard from next door was just the airborne noise of people talking, or could Mr and Mrs Wheeler also hear impact noise, such as footsteps and doors banging.

Mrs Wheeler explained that it was only airborne noise she was experiencing coming from her neighbour's house, although along with the conversations and talking, she could also hear their TV and music.

2.What is the makeup of the wall?

The Soundproofing Store then needed to ascertain which room within the house Mrs Wheeler was looking to soundproof and what the makeup of the wall was.

It was within the lounge where they were being disturbed the most and Mrs Wheeler confirmed that her wall was a solid, brick party wall.

3.Is there a chimney in the room?

The next important question was to check if there was a fireplace within the lounge. Mrs Wheeler confirmed that there was and when we asked her to do a simple ear test next time she heard the noise, she confirmed she could only hear the noise coming from the alcoves of the wall within the lounge and the noise through the chimney was much quieter.

This is often the case, due to firebricks containing more mass than standard bricks and having two layers of them often provides enough 'natural' soundproofing. Meaning the sound coming through the alcoves often can't be heard through the chimney breast. However, this isn't always the case and we discuss later within this article on what to do if you can hear noise coming through the chimney breast, or if indeed there are weaknesses, e.g. the chimney has been removed from your neighbour's house.

The next stage is to select the best wall soundproofing solution

Once the right questions have been asked and answered, The Soundproofing Store can then discuss with Mr and Mrs Wheeler the best wall soundproofing solution options for their noisy neighbour problem. Highlighted below are the 3 most effective wall soundproofing options. The ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution, ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution and the SoundBoard 4.

With each system we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each wall solution, to help Mr and Mrs Wheeler and all of our customers make an informed choice.

Option 1: The ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

The ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution delivers the highest level of soundproofing.

Installing the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

The ReductoClip™ Independent wall system is the slimmest and highest performing clip and bar solution, delivering the highest level of soundproofing for your home. Often used in recording studios and night clubs, as well as domestic properties, the ReductoClip independent wall system will result in an approximate 80-90% noise reduction with a loss of space of 120mm.

The new soundproofing layers are effectively creating a 'room within a room' (50mm timber stud) a minimum of 10mm away from the wall. Sound travels easily via connected surfaces, so by fully decoupling from the offending wall, this helps to deliver the highest performing soundproofing solution.

ReductoClip / furring bar and two layers of acoustic plasterboard and FlexiSound 5 . These materials are extremely efficient at blocking airborne sounds from travelling through. This is because their weight and density increase the overall mass, which (as mentioned above) is crucial for soundproofing against airborne sounds.

Because these layers are fixed onto the ReductoClips and furring channels instead of directly to the stud frame, sound vibrations cannot easily pass. The clips act like shock absorbers and absorb the vibration energy, stopping the vibrations (sound) from travelling into the new wall layers.

The ReductoClip Product Overview

Advantages of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System:

Creates a 'room within a room' isolated from the original structure, which offers the highest level of soundproofing possible
The perfect solution for soundproofing against loud noises, recording studios or band practice rooms
Can be used on solid, or stud walls
The thinnest independent clip system on the market (by up to 15mm)
Dual rubber clips for higher performance, due to being able to absorb different sound frequencies
Exceeds Part E Building Regulations
DIY install
A proven performance of airborne noise: 77dB (DnT,w) on a solid wall and 69dB (DnT,w) on a stud wall

Disadvantages of the ReductoClip Independent Wall System:

The system takes up 120mm of space from the original wall, and although is the thinnest independent wall system available on the market, can still sometimes be too much space to lose in domestic properties. Especially where there are sometimes space constraints such as door frames and window ledges.

Installing the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

1. A timber stud frame is built in front of the existing wall, de-coupling the new wall from the existing wall to minimise the transferral of sound energy

2. The inside of the frame is insulated with an acoustic mineral wool . Subsequently, the ReductoClips and are fixed onto the frame

3. Finally, a new wall layer, of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard is added to the frame

4. A specialist material called FlexiSound 5 , is added to the acoustic plasterboard

5. A second layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard is added to the frame, sandwiching the FlexiSound 5 between both of the acoustic plasterboard layers.

Step-by-step installation of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

Was the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System the chosen system for this case study?

Although offering superior soundproofing, Mr and Mrs Wheeler felt they didn't have the space to lose from the alcoves within their lounge for this particular wall soundproofing solution. It was also decided that the levels of noise they were experiencing, although having a negative impact on their everyday enjoyment within their home, wasn't excessive enough to warrant the highest performing capabilities of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Solution.

Option 2: ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System is installed directly to a solid wall, bypassing the process of building an independent stud frame in front of the wall you are soundproofing. It has a total build up of 60mm.

The ReductoClips are installed directly to the existing wall, instead of building an isolated frame.

Advantages of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System:

The ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution offers an excellent performance given its slim profile.

Only 60mm loss of space
Offers the highest level of soundproofing, combined with minimal loss of space to the home
The perfect wall soundproofing solution for soundproofing against medium to loud levels of noise, (such as clear conversation, TV noise and music)
Suitable for use on solid or stud walls
Dual rubber clips for higher performance in absorbing different sound frequencies
Exceeds Part E Building Regulations
DIY Install

Disadvantages of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System:

Can’t be used for excessive noise levels, or music studios

Step-by step installation of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Soundproofing System

ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Customer Testimonial

Installing the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System:

1. ReductoClips are attached directly to the wall

2. Furring channels are attached to the ReductoClips

3. Acoustic mineral wool is added to the wall (between the bars) using contact adhesive spray

3. A new wall layer, of 15mm Acoustic grade plasterboard is added

4. The specialist material FlexiSound 5 , is added to the acoustic plasterboard

5. A second layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard is added, sandwiching the FlexiSound 5 in between.

Was the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Soundproofing System the chosen system for this case study?

The beauty of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall soundproofing system is that it still offers a dramatic noise reduction, with only 60mm loss of space. This would be our recommendation to Mr and Mrs Wheeler, given their noise problem and with them also wanting to minimise any space loss.

They had also read abut the SoundBoard 4, a direct to wall soundproofing panel. This is an excellent solution for stud walls, but not as effective on solid walls, we will go into more detail below as to why this is the case:

Option 3: ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™

The Soundboard 4™ is a direct to existing wall system and is very easy to install, taking up just 30mm of space. It is ideal for blocking noise on stud walls.

The SoundBoard 4 is constructed from 4 layers of different high mass soundproofing materials to block a wider range of sound frequencies. The different layers that make up the SoundBoard 4 work by adding mass to the wall and by improving the walls ability to absorb sound energy. The final layer is an acoustic grade plasterboard meaning that following the easy DIY installation, you are then left with a plaster boarded finish, ready to add a skim coat of plaster to and decorate. Due to the weight of each board it must be installed using a suitable hammer fix screw and although an easy DIY installation, it does require two people to lift, hold and fix to the wall.

SoundBoard 4 Product Overview

Advantages of the SoundBoard 4™ Soundproofing Wall Panel:

Ideal for situations where space is of a premium. For a more slim-line solution, such as where space cannot allow for the ReductoClip™ Independent or ReductoClip Direct to Wall systems. The loss of space with the SoundBoard 4 is only 30mm
Can be fitted directly to solid or stud walls
Thinner and a very straightforward DIY install, meaning minimal disruption to your home
The SoundBoard 4 is constructed from 2 layers of mass-loaded vinyl for blocking airborne noise, a closed cell foam to absorb vibration and then bonded to a final layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard. This means there is only one board to install straight onto the wall, rather than multiple layers or build work
Acoustic grade plasterboard is higher in mass than regular plasterboard, and can be skimmed and decorated as normal
Passes Part E Building Regulations (as part of a system)

Disadvantages of the SoundBoard 4™ wall solution:

On a solid brick wall, the SoundBoard 4 can be used for airborne noise at higher frequencies, but is limited at blocking lower base frequencies from the likes of music, deep voices and snoring. This is when it would be advised to use one of the ReductoClip Systems.
Using SoundBoard 4 on a solid wall would only be advised when space constraints are essential, such as door fames, or windows making it physically not possible to use the 60mm ReductoClip Direct to Wall System.

Installing the SoundBoard 4:

The SoundBoard 4 is a direct to wall soundproofing panel and is an easy DIY installation:

All skirting and coving is firstly removed and any dust is wiped away to ensure the wall is flat and clean
It's recommended to start the installation in the bottom left or right corner
The first SoundBoard 4 is offered to the wall making sure it sits square
A 5mm gap is left around the perimeter edge of the wall, floor and ceiling (to prevent any flanking vibration)
The SoundBoard 4 is attached to the wall by drilling 9 holes per board and fixed with hammer screw fixings
Once the first SoundBoard 4 is in place, the second is applied by butting it up tightly to the previous board and so on
The second row of boards needs to start from where the first ended to give a staggered joint
Fill the 5mm gap with acoustic sealant and seal between any gaps within the boards
The SoundBoard 4 is now ready for a plaster skim finish, or use of a heavy duty backing paper

Was the SoundBoard 4™ the chosen system for this case study?

The SoundBoard 4™ offers an excellent performance on stud walls, however its performance is limited to airborne noise on solid walls and it doesn't perform effectively against lower bass noises such as music.

Mr and Mrs Wheeler wanted to use the RedutoClip Direct to Wall Solution, as this is a higher performing solution than the SoundBoard 4 on a solid wall and didn't take up as much space as the ReductoClip Independent System.

The ReductoClip Direct to Wall System can also be installed by a competent DIYer, although in this case Mr and Mrs Wheeler wanted to use their local handyman who had previously done work for them in the past.

Things to consider when soundproofing a wall

Plugs and Radiators

If you are unable to, move the sockets to another wall (with the help of an electrician), this would be the preferred option. Alternatively, the best way is to fit the soundproofing across the whole wall and make a small hole in the soundproofing and pull the cable for the socket through and then fill with acoustic sealant.

You would then refit the socket on as a surface mounted socket.

Another option is to fit the soundproofing around the socket and fit a socket putty pad in the back box of the socket.

Acoustic Mineral Wool

In an ideal world, we would also recommend adding Acoustic Mineral Wool to the cavity below your floorboards in between your floor’s timber joists for the first 1.5m away from the offending wall. If sound is getting into this cavity it will bounce around, resonate and amplify. It is a bit like shouting down a cardboard tube, by adding the mineral wool, we stop this effect.

Soundproofing chimney breasts

When soundproofing the alcoves of a wall, in most cases the chimney breast doesn't need the same level of soundproofing. This is because chimney breasts are normally constructed of a double layer of fire bricks which are far heavier and denser than the standard bricks (normally) used in the alcoves.

However, there are always exceptions and a top tip of you are unsure is to do a simple ear test by putting your ear to the alcove wall when you hear the noise from next door and do the same at the chimney and compare.

If you hear noise coming through the alcoves and the chimney breast then there are a number of options.

Top tips for achieving the best wall soundproofing results

Soundproofing is like waterproofing, it is only as good as the weakest point. An example: If you are in a car and the window is only slightly open, you can normally hear all the sound outside perfectly clearly. Close the window fully and the car becomes soundproofed and all sounds are reduced to a quiet muffle. This illustrates how much sound can travel through any small gaps. This is why it's important to remove all skirting boards and coving before installing the wall soundproofing solutions, to ensure the whole wall is covered.

Brick wall soundproofing products

Author

Ian Baker is the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a wall

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Mon, 13 May 2024 09:02:32 GMT

How to soundproof a wall?

How to soundproof a wall from noisy neighbours

The Soundproofing Store has been soundproofing walls in the UK for over 10 years and have hundreds of 5* reviews on Trusted Shops .

In the United Kingdom, brick walls frequently act as a partition between connected and semi-detached residences. When you have a shared wall with your neighbour, known as a "party wall," noise can easily pass through it. If the wall lacks proper construction, you may be subjected to unwanted sounds from the adjacent side.

To enhance the soundproofing of your brick wall, consider separating it from your neighbour's wall to create a gap, and then use professional soundproofing materials to absorb sound energy and vibrations.

When considering ways to soundproof a wall, various methods are available, depending on the noise level and the type of wall (solid or stud). Here are some effective techniques to assist you in minimising noise.

1. Identify where the noise is coming from

Press your ear against different sections of the wall to identify the areas where most noise is coming through (for instance, alcove walls are usually much thinner than chimney breasts) this will help you identify the areas that need sound proofing.

2. Add mass to the wall

One of the simplest ways to reduce noise through a brick wall is to add heavy/dense materials to your wall.

Installing soundproofing layers such as SoundBoard 4 or FlexiSound 5 with a layer of acoustic plasterboard on top can significantly reduce unwanted noise.

(Please note this solution is not effective for low bass frequencies)

SoundBoard 4 Test data

2. Add a new wall in front of the existing wall

Adding a new fake wall is the most effective way to soundproof a wall although you will lose more space. Soundproofing clips such as the ReductoClip can be fitted directly to the wall if space is a premium, or for higher performance they should be fitted to a new independent stud wall. These clips will reduce the amount of sound energy and vibration that can be transmitted through the wall. You should then add further layers of high density materials.

(These systems offer a higher performance than just adding mass directly to the wall and work better for lower bass frequencies)

ReductoClip Direct to wall Test Data

ReductoClip on a independent stud wall Test Data

3. Use acoustic insulation in any cavities

Enhancing the soundproofing of walls is possible by integrating soundproofing insulation in cavities or sealed areas. Acoustic grade mineral wool slabs are designed to optimise sound absorption within the cavity between the new wall, consequently boosting acoustic performance and reducing reverberation.

4. Seal all gaps and holes

Minor gaps and holes can allow a significant amount of noise to pass through, which is why it's important to apply acoustic sealant along the perimeter of the wall and around small openings for electrical wiring and pipework. Enhance the soundproofing of electrical sockets by using acoustic putty pads .

5. Additional tips

Address any flanking paths

Sound may also move through alternative paths like ceilings, floors, and side walls. Place your ear against these surfaces and compare the noise levels with the wall. If the noise is just as loud as through the wall, you may be dealing with a flanking noise issue.

Do not use acoustic foam panels for soundproofing

Acoustic panels DO NOT BLOCK NOISE they only help with sound reverberation and echo within a room.

Helpful wall soundproofing guide

Author

Ian Baker, the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store, is a prominent figure in the soundproofing sector. His distinguished history of award-winning achievements and development of trademarked, superior wall soundproofing solutions establish him as a revered and reliable expert in the field.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to reduce echo using acoustic panels

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:33:21 GMT

How acoustic panels dramatically reduce echo

How to solve the problem of echo!

Sound absorption, or acoustic treatment is used to reduce echo and reverberation within a room.

Acoustic panels help to reduce echo and increase the clarity of sound within any space
Using high performing ProSound acoustic panels help to absorb echo and reverberation
Acoustic treatment can be chosen based on the room's characteristics for example using ceiling panels if there is limited wall space or based on a personal design preference
Acoustic options include Acoustic Wall Panels, Acoustic Ceiling Rafts, Acoustic Ceiling Baffles, Acoustic High Impact Sports Panels
Using a high performance Class A sound absorption acoustic panel will give optimum performance in reducing echo
Speak to The Soundproofing Store about an acoustic report which will show the improved reverberation times of the proposed sound absorption

By selecting appropriate acoustic treatment, you can easily and significantly improve room acoustics.

How to reduce echo in a church hall: Case Study

Members of St Andrew's Church in Starbeck, North Yorkshire, contacted The Soundproofing Store with a familiar concern. They were looking for a way of reducing excessive echo and noise within their church hall.

St Andrew's Church hall is regularly used for a variety of proposes, from meetings, scout groups, film nights, dance classes and events. The hall serves as a central hub to the local community and often has a number of people taking part in activities at any one time.

The committee were looking at how to solve the problem of noise and echo within the hall, which was making it hard for people to hear each other, or hear an instructor or teacher when activities were taking place.

What causes echo?

The noise problem within St Andrew's Church hall is an extremely common one. This is because within communal spaces there are often hard surfaces, such as wooden floors and solid stone walls. These are very hard, reflective surfaces (reflective from an acoustic point of view). This causes problems, because when a sound is projected e.g. when playing music or talking, the sound travels out into the room and hits one of the hard reflective surfaces and bounces back into the room again. It will then hit another surface and bounce again and with every bounce a copy of the sound is created (known as an echo).

The more echo the noisier and more amplified the sound gets. Now multiply that by having several people all talking at the same time creating multiple echoes. This often results in not being able to concentrate on the sound you are trying to listen to, as there is so much distraction with unwanted noise. Think about being in a restaurant and not being able to hear the person sat opposite you because of multiple echoes all bouncing around creating a 'messy' noisy atmosphere.

This is a problem in so many settings, not just church halls. It's the same in any shared space such as; school halls, classrooms, restaurants, meeting rooms and even open plan living spaces in peoples homes.

How to solve the problem of echo?

The most effective way of reducing echo is by using acoustic panels, often referred to as acoustic treatment, or sound absorption.

Acoustic panels are easily installed within a space and either fixed onto the walls, or suspended from the ceiling.

Acoustic panels are filled with a sound absorbing core, so once a sound is projected it travels out into the room and hits the panel and instead of bouncing back creating the echo, it stays in the panel where that sound is absorbed, converting it into a tiny amount of heat.

With the right amount of sound absorption panels for the size and shape of the room, the echo can be reduced so much so that it is no longer a problem.

Acoustic panel options

Which acoustic treatment should be used to reduce echo?

Acoustic wall or ceiling panels can be used interchangeably within the same project and it really boils down to individual preference or constraints from the the shape or aesthetics of the room. For example, with the St Andrew's Church hall project it was important to keep the walls clear for notices and displays and although ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels can be used as a pin board, it is important not to cover the entire surface of the panels.

In this instance the obvious choice was to use either ProSound Acoustic Ceiling Rafts or ProSound Acoustic Ceiling Baffles which are suspended down from the ceiling to keep the wall free for their decorations and displays. The committee of the hall chose Acoustic Ceiling Baffles which offer increased coverage within the hall.

How many acoustic panels are needed to reduce echo?

By looking at pictures and dimensions of the hall The Soundproofing Store's acoustic team were able to model out the space and calculate how much echo and reverberation there is currently within the hall and how much sound absorption is needed to reduce it by a significant amount.

The acoustic report below shows how the sound within the hall can be brought down to a level where the space becomes a lot more user friendly and the echo is dramatically reduced.

Lowering reverberation times with acoustic treatment

The Soundproofing Store produced an acoustic report showing the reverberation time of the church hall (in seconds) and at different frequencies in hertz (Hz).

The reverberation time is the time it takes for the sound to dissipate by 60 decibels after the source stops. A lower reverberation time means the sound is absorbed faster and the room is quieter. A higher reverberation time means the sound lingers longer and the room is more echoey.

The below graph compares the reverberation time of the church hall without any sound absorption (red line) and with sound absorption (green line).

The green line shows the reverberation time within the church hall with the addition of ProSound Acoustic Baffles. The baffles significantly reduce the reverberation time (from 4.05 seconds to 1.96 seconds) meaning the room becomes less echoey and noisy and much more comfortable acoustically.

Acoustic Report for St Andrew's Church

Before and after acoustic sound test

What are ProSound Acoustic Ceiling Baffles?

ProSound Acoustic Ceiling Baffles are all custom made to order and made to any size or shape requirements. The acoustic baffles are wrapped in an acoustic fabric in an extensive range of colours to suit the decor, style or brand of the space. All panels are manufactured here in the UK and with extremely quick delivery lead times of 4-7 days.

Inside of the baffle is a class A absorption core, which means it absorbs a very high level of sound (90-100%) so the majority of sound that hits the baffle will stay in the baffle, instead of bouncing back into the room.

ProSound Acoustic Baffles Synopsis:

Acoustic Baffles DIY Installation

ProSound acoustic insulation products are extremely easy to install. If you have basic DIY skills then you will have no trouble installing the acoustic ceiling baffles, rafts, or wall panels yourself. As with all of The Soundproofing Store's acoustic panels, all fixing kits are fully supplied along with instructions and the sound absorption team at The Soundproofing Store are only ever a phone call away (01423) 206208.

Because the baffles are attached to the ceiling of St Andrew's Church hall, to aid installation, a scaffolding tower was hired from a local tool hire merchant. This was delivered to the church hall on the morning of the installation and picked up again the following morning.

Step-by-step installation of ProSound Acoustic Baffles

Find the long edge of the baffle which feels softer than the other. The one without the hard edge frame, as this is the top of the baffle
In this instance the baffles are 2.4m long which means there will be 3 suspensions installed per baffle. One in the centre and two towards the edges. The centre point of the baffle is 1200mm and this is where the first corkscrew spiral is inserted. It is simply pushed through the fabric and twisted into the core of the baffle. It is important to keep it straight, making sure the spiral does not pop out trough the face of the baffle
The second and third spiral hooks are then inserted at 300mm from each edge
The suspension cable is then fixed by attaching the bullet to the ceiling using appropriate fixings. (Because the baffle was being fixed into a timber ceiling, timber screws are used)
The suspension wire is then screwed into the bullet letting the cable hang down
The eyelet of the suspension wire is then attached to the spiral spring within the baffle
The cable length is then adjusted using a spirit level to ensure the baffle is level. The height of the baffles can be easily adjusted by pulling the excess cable through the eyelet to lower or raise the baffle
Once the correct height is achieved and the baffle is level, the excess wire is then simply cut with cable cutters

Improving both the sound and aesthetics with acoustic ceiling baffles

Once installed, the ProSound Acoustic Ceiling Baffles made a huge difference, not only to the acoustic quality of the church hall (as demonstrated in the earlier before and after clap test) but also visually. The acoustic ceiling baffles have given the hall a fresh and modern look and a vibrant burst of colour has really brightened up the space.

The committee members of St. Andrew's Church were delighted with the transformation of their hall. The acoustic treatment significantly reduced echo and noise, creating a more comfortable environment for their various activities and events. With improved acoustics, the church hall could now better fulfill its role as a vibrant community space and become a more commercially viable space to rent out for future events and activities.

Acoustic ceiling baffles can be used on ceilings within any space and with over 70 different colours to choose from (and with photo print options also available) there is a design to suit any room.

A summary of how to reduce echo

The noise issue in St Andrew's Church hall occurred because sound was bouncing off the hard surfaces (wooden floors and solid stone walls) which reflected, rather than absorbed the sound.

These surfaces are highly reflective acoustically, causing projected sounds to bounce off them and create echoes within the hall
Multiple echoes intensify noise levels, making it difficult to hear or be heard
This problem isn't unique to church halls but extends to any kind of shared spaces like school halls, classrooms, gymnasiums, meeting rooms, restaurants, scout huts and open-plan living spaces
The most effective solution for reducing echo is using acoustic panels, also known as acoustic treatment or sound absorption
Acoustic panels suspended from ceilings, or installed on walls contain a sound-absorbing core that prevents sound from bouncing back into the room and effectively reduce echo

Sound absorption panels can be easily tailored to the room's size and shape and can significantly reduce echo and improve the overall acoustics and aesthetics.

Examples of acoustic panels

Acoustic panels are available in a range of colours, shapes, and sizes. If you're seeking to minimise echo and reverberation in any space, The Soundproofing Store is here to help you.

Simply get in touch with your room dimensions and any images of the space and The Soundproofing Store will work out the correct amount of sound absorption panels needed.

Acoustic Panels FAQ's

Author

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

Best Floor Soundproofing: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 11:52:03 GMT

Floor Soundproofing: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Acoustic Underlays 2024

Noise can be a significant issue in our day-to-day lives. If you live in a noisy environment or have noisy neighbors, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with unwanted noise. Soundproofing your floor with acoustic underlay can help reduce noise transmission and improve your quality of life. In this article, we'll go over some of the most effective ways to soundproof a floor and answer some common questions about the process.

Can you soundproof an existing floor?

Yes, it is possible to soundproof an existing floor. The method used will depend on the type of floor you have and the level of soundproofing required. One effective option is to use acoustic underlay, such as SoundMat 3 Plus , which can reduce noise transmission by up to Airborne Noise: 51dB Impact Noise: 51 dB. This underlay is easy to install and can be used under various floor coverings, including carpet and engineered wood (if over 18mm thick)

SoundMat 3 Plus: Easy DIY Installation

What is the cheapest way to soundproof a floor?

Another option is to use Reverso SoundMat , which can reduce noise transmission by up to Airborne Noise: 51dB and Impact Noise: 58dB. This system can be used where harder final floor finishes are used such as laminate as these types of final floor finishes need a more stable base to prevent any movement over time.

Be wary of 'cheap' soundproofing solutions, or companies promising soundproofing for every budget. The hard truth is that your noise problem doesn’t care what your budget is. The soundproofing solution you need is determined by the construction of your floor, the noise issue you are experiencing and your final floor finish (e.g. carpet or hard floor finishes).

There are certain things you physically need to do to solve certain noise problems, and those things may cost more money, but need to be done to solve the problem. If you don’t have the budget, you would be better to wait, save up your money and eventually do it properly and solve the problem, rather than rushing into buying a cheap solution that isn’t suitable for your problem. You’ll only be disappointed in the results and will have wasted the money you did spend.

Remember the old saying “you get what you pay for”, and in soundproofing, that is certainly true.

What is the best way to soundproof a floor for noise from below?

The best way to soundproof a floor depends on the type of floor you have, the level of soundproofing required, and your budget. One of the most effective methods for noise from below is to use a a high mass material, which involves installing a new layer of flooring over the existing one with a dampening between the two layers (such as SoundScreed WF28 ) to help reduce noise transmission. This method provides excellent soundproofing results for loud levels of noise but can be more expensive than other options but you can apply any final floor finish directly on top such as laminates, wood, vinyl and tiles. It is also recommended that the void (the space between the ceiling below and the floor above) be filled with acoustic mineral wool to stop sound amplifying in this sealed chamber.

How do you soundproof a floor from the room below?

If you can't soundproof the floor and use any of the methods mentioned above. You can use a ceiling soundproofing system (see below) such as the ReductoClip Ceiling System

Best Floor Soundproofing - Conclusion

Soundproofing a floor can make a significant difference in reducing unwanted noise transmission and improving your quality of life. By using the right soundproofing materials and techniques, you can achieve a quieter living space. Consider consulting with a professional for more specific guidance such as the soundproofingstore.co.uk to ensure the best results for your situation.

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding how to soundproof a floor and the different options available. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information or questions you may have.

Remember, a quieter home is just a few steps away.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Does Soundproofing Foam Work To Block Noise?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 15:45:49 GMT

What kind of foam is best for soundproofing?

"Soundproofing Foam" - Understanding the difference between Soundproofing and Sound Absorption

Here at The Soundproofing Store we get inundated with enquiries regarding soundproofing and the best way to do this. Quite often customers think they can just stick soundproofing foam to a surface but unfortunately it isn't that simple.

Whether it be soundproofing against noisy neighbours, or building your own home studio we are always asked the same question regarding soundproofing foam and egg box acoustic foam. "Is it good for Soundproofing?"

The short answer is No .

Unfortunately egg box type soundproofing foam does not stop sound transferring through your wall from your neighbour or from leaving your room. All it will do is absorb some of the sound within your room and stop it echoing and amplifying. It will not block sound from neighbours or escaping out of your room.

To soundproof a room we need to address the below points:

Sound (noise) is normally broken down into two categories.

The most common is airborne noise such as people talking and TV noise; the second is vibration impact noise such a machines vibrating against the wall and live musical instruments

To soundproof a wall effectively you need to:

Improve the mass of the wall - This is normally achieved by adding different high mass/density products.

However, when sound hits a wall it turns in to a vibration and an energy, so mass alone will not solve the problem. You also need to:

Improve the ability of the wall to absorb sound energy and vibration s . Without this, the addition of the mass will have very little impact.

Use different materials of high mass . Different materials perform better for different sound frequencies, so using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than simply using more of the same material.

For louder more powerful sound energy you also need to decouple the new wall from the existing wall. Many vibrations and noises, especially low bass frequency sounds (such as music, deep male voices, dogs barking and snoring) can be too strong to be blocked by simply connecting onto the existing structure.

How to stop noise coming through walls

We've highlighted that soundproofing foam definitely does not block noise from passing from room to room.

Key reasons why soundproofing foam doesn't block noise:

It does not add mass. Foam, regardless of how dense it is will never be made heavy enough to block sound from transferring from room to room.
Soundproofing foam does not offer any decoupling, meaning vibrations will continue to travel through the wall and through the foam.
Soundproofing foam should really be called sound absorption foam. The term soundproofing foam is misleading to many people looking to soundproof their homes.

So, if soundproofing foam is not the correct product for soundproofing a wall, what is? Below are the best sound insulation solutions when needing to block the unwanted noise from a neighbouring room. This could be any and all types of noise; neighbours TV's, loud music, conversations or even shouting.

Wall soundproofing solutions instead of soundproofing acoustic foam

The most effective way to soundproof a room is to use an independent clip system like the ReductoClip System . This system delivers exceptional soundproofing and is used in both domestic properties, recording studios and home cinemas:

Completely isolates and decouples from the existing wall delivering an exceptional soundproofing performance
Absorbs high levels of sound vibration and energy
Adds a huge amount of mass to block airborne noise

Why it is best to use ReductoClips for soundproofing NOT egg box soundproofing foam

If soundproofing foam doesn't work: What Are The best soundproofing solutions for brick walls

Learn more about Soundproofing a Wall

So why do people buy soundproofing foam and use it? What's the point of soundproofing foam? Why do I see it on walls in images of loud music studios?

Answer : It is there to improve the internal rooms internal acoustics. Essentially it helps to reduce Echo and Reverb within a space.

Imagine being in a room with hard surfaces, a sports hall, or village hall for example. Clap your hands in a room like this with hard surfaces and the sound appears to reverberate and echo around the space for ages.

Do the same in a room with lots of soft furnishings and the reverberation is very limited and appears flat, with a very short continuation.

Now imagine very bouncy basketballs being thrown around the room. You throw them everywhere, in all directions and they continue to bounce around the room.

Now imagine the walls, floor and ceiling lined with foam. You throw the balls again, only this time they hit the foam and drop to the floor stopping them from continuing to bounce, the energy from the ball has been absorbed by the foam.

This is no different to a soundwave inside a room, it reflects and bounces off any hard surfaces, but will be absorbed by soft surfaces. This is when the ProSound room acoustic treatment systems are used. They absorb the sound and stop the reflected sound travelling back into the room.

Room acoustics BEFORE installing ProSound™ Sound Absorption Panels

Room acoustics AFTER installing ProSound™ Sound Absorption Panels

The soft material used in the panels are designed to absorb sound energy and stop this energy from bouncing around the room and reflecting off the surfaces.

Class A panels like the ones at The Soundproofing Store are tested to absorb 90-100% of sound energy that hits them. This means you require less panels in an area to achieve good results compared to lower performing foam tiles where nearly the whole surface needs to be covered to get good results.

As a general rule of thumb we look to cover around 20- 30% of the surface area of the room.

Before & After Test: With and Without Acoustic Treatment

Sound absorption will therefore improve the rooms overall noise volume and improve the clarity of the sound in the room. However, it does not ultimately stop the sound energy within the room from travelling through the structure to a neighbouring space.

There are many way of applying sound absorption to different situations such as; music studios (once soundproofed), village halls, sports halls and offices. Some of the most popular options are our ProSound Wall Panels , Ceiling Rafts and Suspended Baffles

Why you shouldn't use egg box acoustic foam for soundproofing - a summary

What Soundproofing Foam Doesn't Do:

Soundproofing (Blocking Sound): Acoustic foam is not effective in blocking sound from entering or leaving a room. Soundproofing requires materials that add mass and density, such as FlexiSound , Mass-loaded vinyl, Acoustic plasterboard, or soundproofing panels such as SoundBoard 4 . These direct to wall acoustic panels feature mass-loaded vinyl, acoustic plasterboard and closed cell foam, which help block and dampen sound transmission.

The highest performing soundproofing solutions such as the ReductoClip System highlighted above, also isolate the soundproofing layers from the offending structure and dampen sound energy and vibrations.

Effective Soundproofing Strategies:

Mass: Adding heavy, dense materials to walls, floors, and ceilings can help to block airborne sound.
Damping: Using materials that absorb sound energy and vibrations like ReductoClips which act like shock absorbers to dampen high levels of sound energy and vibrations.
Decoupling: Creating air gaps to separate surfaces can prevent sound from travelling directly through solid structures.
Sealing: Ensuring all gaps and cracks are sealed with acoustic sealant to prevent sound leakage.

Soundproofing Foam Summary:

While soundproofing foam is sometimes used to help with the acoustics within a room by reducing echo and reverberation, it is not effective for soundproofing. It DOES NOT block sound from entering or exiting a space. For effective soundproofing, a tried and tested soundproofing solution is required such as the ReductoClip System .

Author

Ian Baker is the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

"We don’t expect you to become an expert overnight , that’s what we’re here for."

Are Acoustic Wood Wall Panels Good For Soundproofing?

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 15:38:36 GMT

Do Acoustic Wood Wall Panels Soundproof Against Unwanted Noise?

Soundproofing a room using acoustic timber slatted panels

Timber slatted acoustic panels can be effective for sound absorption and improving the acoustics within a space, but it's crucial to clarify that they are not designed to be an effective soundproofing solution. Soundproofing typically involves preventing sound from entering or leaving a space and acoustic panels are designed to absorb and dampen sound within a room, not to soundproof it.

Therefore, the function of acoustic timber slatted panels lies in absorbing and dampening sound within a room, not blocking its transfer in and out.

Wooden acoustic wall panels are a hugely popular design trend, elevating the aesthetics of walls and ceilings in a range of diverse settings, from residential and domestic DIY projects - to commercial refurbishments in restaurants, hotels and office spaces. The popularity of these panels is evident, with the TikTok hashtag #WoodPanel amassing over 51 million combined views, making them a sought-after choice when seeking both style and functionality.

Acoustic slat wall panels are easy and quick to install and add a visual feature to any wall or ceiling space with many interior designers praising them for 'adding texture, warmth and bringing a more modern and contemporary style to any room'. Wood slat acoustic panels for walls and ceilings can also be used as a clever design technique. For example, when used vertically they help to contribute to the illusion of higher walls and increased ceiling height.

Acoustic timber panels are readily available through outlets such as The Soundproofing Store , Acupanel, B&Q, and Amazon and are often marketed by other sellers as cutting-edge soundproofing solutions. However, whilst they bring a great modern design feature to a room and also help with sound absorption, they are definitely not a soundproofing solution. The reasons for this are discussed in more detail below.

The difference between soundproofing and sound absorption explained

What are acoustic panels?

Acoustic panels are specialist wall or ceiling treatments designed to improve the sound quality within a room by addressing issues such as echoes, reverberation, and unwanted noise within a space. Acoustic wall panels are commonly used in (various) settings, including open plan living spaces within homes, offices, studios, auditoriums, schools, and other places where controlling sound is important.

The primary purpose of acoustic panels is to absorb sound waves, preventing them from bouncing off hard surfaces and creating echoes. Sound absorbing acoustic panels contribute to creating a more balanced and controlled acoustic environment by reducing noise levels, minimising reverberation, and improving speech clarity.

Acoustic panels are typically made from materials with sound-absorbing properties and come in various shapes, sizes, and designs to cater to different aesthetic preferences and acoustic needs.

Sound absorbing acoustic panels can be strategically placed on walls and ceilings to target areas where sound reflection and reverberation are prominent. Additionally, acoustic panels are commonly used in recording studios, home cinemas, conference rooms, and open-plan offices to create an acoustically comfortable and controlled environment.

The most effective uses of timber slatted acoustic panels

Sound Absorption: Timber slatted panels are often used to absorb sound waves, reducing echo and reverberation within a room. This can improve the overall acoustics of a space, making it more comfortable and suitable for various activities.

Aesthetics: Timber slatted panels can contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a room while serving a functional purpose. ProSound Acoustic Timber Slatted Panels come in 5 different veneer colour finishes, allowing for customisation to complement the overall design of any room.

Versatility: Acoustic panels are versatile and can be used in various settings, including residential, commercial, and public spaces. They are commonly found in homes, hotels, offices, conference rooms, restaurants, and home cinemas.

Limited Soundproofing: While timber slatted panels can absorb and reduce sound within a room, they have serious limitations in terms of preventing sound transmission through walls or ceilings. If your goal is to block noise, it will be necessary to use tried and tested soundproofing measures, such as the ReductoClip Soundproofing System which is highlighted in more detail below.

How do timber slatted panels help with sound absorption?

Revamping your space with timber slatted acoustic panels is a popular interior design trend and wooden acoustic panels are celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and ease of installation. These panels also help to improve the aesthetics within a room, making them a go-to choice for various settings.

However, if your aim is to tackle significant echo challenges, especially in expansive communal areas like village halls, offices, schools, hotels, and restaurants, while timber slatted panels add a visually striking touch and offer some echo reduction, they may not deliver optimal performance compared to specialised sound absorption panels. Let's delve into why this is the case:

Sound energy will bounce off hard surfaces back into a room, creating an echo. High performing Class A Sound Absorption Panels are filled with a soft, specialist sound absorbing material, which absorbs sound and traps the sound inside. So when a sound wave hits the panel it stays there and doesn’t bounce back into the room.

Therefore, given this principle you might be asking, so how do wooden slatted timber panels absorb sound?

Timber acoustic panels have a layer of sound absorbing felt that sits behind the wooden slats which helps absorb sound. The surface area of the absorbing material isn't as large as traditional sound absorption panels like ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels and the felt isn't the same high performing absorbent core, which limits their sound absorption capabilities.

In essence, while timber slatted acoustic panels contribute to an aesthetically pleasing environment and offer some acoustic benefits, for spaces with pronounced echo challenges, exploring alternative sound absorption solutions might be a more effective approach.

Specialised panels like the ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels are designed with advanced acoustic principles to deliver superior performance in minimising echo and enhancing overall sound quality in any space.

Do timber slatted acoustic panels work for soundproofing?

Acoustic timber slatted panels are not soundproofing. The term 'Acoustic Panels' is a generic term and can often be confusing for those people looking at solutions to soundproof their home. When looking at Acoustic Panels be sure to check if these relate to sound absorption panels or soundproofing panels like the SoundBoard 4 .

ProSound SoundBoard 4 Soundproofing Wall Panel

Timber slatted panels, while effective for certain acoustic purposes, do not provide the same level of soundproofing as materials specifically designed for that purpose. Timber slatted panels are often used for acoustic treatment, which focuses on controlling and improving the quality of sound within a space, rather than blocking or isolating sound from entering or leaving a room.

Here are some points to consider regarding timber slatted panels and soundproofing:

Absorption vs. Isolation:

Timber slatted panels are more geared towards sound absorption by minimising echoes and reverberation within a room.

Soundproofing on the other hand, involves preventing sound from travelling through walls or other structures, and this requires materials with different properties, such as mass and density.

Material Characteristics:

Timber slatted panels are designed for aesthetics and acoustic treatment, providing a visually appealing solution for managing sound within a space. Whereas effective soundproofing typically involves using materials with high mass, density, and damping properties to block or isolate sound transmission.

If your primary goal is to prevent sound transmission between rooms, you need to use a tried and tested soundproofing solution such as the ReductoClip Soundproofing Solution for walls.

What is the best way to soundproof a wall?

If you're seeking soundproofing solutions instead of sound absorption, the video below proves exceptionally valuable. It delves into the top three wall soundproofing techniques, offering practical insights into the most effective noise reduction systems when soundproofing a party wall.

The 3 best ways to soundproof a wall

Achieving effective soundproofing for a wall involves a comprehensive understanding and application of three fundamental principles:

1. Isolation:

A key principle in soundproofing is isolating or 'decoupling' one side of the structure from the other. This involves creating a sound breaker by minimising direct contact between the surfaces. By breaking the direct connection, vibrations and sound waves are less likely to transfer from one side to the other. This principle is crucial in preventing the transmission of sound vibrations

2. Damping:

Damping is another essential aspect of soundproofing. Elastic or damping materials are strategically employed to absorb sound energy and vibrations, thereby reducing the extent to which these elements can travel through the structure. Damping materials play a crucial role in enhancing the overall effectiveness of soundproofing solutions.

3. Adding Mass:

Increasing the mass of a wall is a fundamental strategy in blocking airborne sound. Different materials have varying densities and thicknesses, making them more effective at blocking different frequencies of sound. By incorporating materials with greater mass, such as Acoustic Plasterboard and FlexiSound , the wall becomes more resistant to the passage of airborne sound waves.

In summary, successful soundproofing involves a strategic combination of all three of these key principles. Isolation creates a sound breaker and minimises the direct transmission of vibrations, damping absorbs sound energy and vibrations, and adding mass enhances the wall's ability to block airborne sound.

The ReductoClip Independent Wall solution is a tailored soundproofing solution which incorporates all three of these key principles and ensures the highest level of soundproofing.

ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution

Conclusion: soundproofing with acoustic timber slatted panels

Timber slatted acoustic panels offer an effective solution when combining wood effect interiors and also improving the acoustics within a space. However, it's crucial to clarify that they serve a different purpose compared to tried and tested soundproofing solutions. While timber acoustic panels contribute to the visual appeal of a room and offer some echo reduction, they do not help in the soundproofing of a room.

Timber slatted panels can be aesthetically pleasing and versatile, making them suitable for various settings such as homes, offices, hotels and restaurants. However, when it comes to true soundproofing—preventing sound from entering or leaving a space—specialised soundproofing measures are essential. The ReductoClip Soundproofing Solution , with its principles of isolation, damping, and adding mass, ensures the highest level of soundproofing for walls (and ceilings).

Author

Sam Fessey heads up the Sound Absorption department within The Soundproofing Store. With a wealth of experience in acoustics, his extensive knowledge is invaluable when collaborating with customers to address and diminish reverberation and echo in any space and in creating environments with increased clarity and acoustic comfort.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof against noisy neighbours- top tips!

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:33:06 GMT

Soundproofing against noisy neighbours - top tips!

Top tips to successful soundproofing against noisy neighbours

Living with noisy neighbours can be more than just an inconvenience. The unwanted noise from noisy neighbours can pass through the walls of our homes straight into our wellbeing. The adverse effects of living with noisy neighbours on mental health and overall quality of life is well-documented, echoing the need for quiet living spaces at home.

The Soundproofing Store is an authoritative voice within soundproofing, with a track record of contributing to key articles across a variety of publications and earning accolades for exceptional, award-winning soundproofing solutions. As featured in The Sunday Times , This is Money and The Yorkshire Post .

Many thousands of customers contact The Soundproofing Store for advice and acoustic solutions to unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. This can range from unwanted noise being heard through a connecting party wall, to the unwanted noise from neighbours living above or below in flats, apartments and converted houses.

This article aims to provide a handy guide and explanation of key steps and top tips when it comes to soundproofing against the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours.

Soundproofing against noisy neighbours - first steps

Before you embark on your soundproofing journey, there are some essential first steps:

Identify the noise source. Before you start soundproofing, decide where the noise is coming from e.g. is it coming from above through the ceiling, below through the floor, or through the party wall

Next, categorise the type of noise? Is the noise airborne (e.g. voices) or impact noise (e.g. footsteps), or perhaps it’s a combination of both

Make sure you know the structure of the area you are wanting to soundproof e.g is it a stud or solid wall, or a timber or concrete floor or ceiling

When researching the best soundproofing solution for your noise problem, follow the main principles of soundproofing. There are both similarities and variations on the key principles depending if you are soundproofing a wall, floor or ceiling. These are highlighted in more detail below:

What are the 3 key principles when soundproofing a wall against noisy neighbours?

When soundproofing a wall it is important to combine the below 3 principles of soundproofing:

If you’re wondering how to tick off all 3 of these principles, then The ReductoClip Independent System delivers the best possible solution. It effectively covers off all of these points and as a result is the highest performing soundproofing solution for walls.

To learn more about the most effective soundproofing solutions for solid walls, take a look at the below video:

The best 3 wall soundproofing solutions for noisy neighbours

The top 3 soundproofing solutions for solid party walls

What are the 4 key principles when soundproofing a floor against noisy neighbours?

When soundproofing a floor the principles of soundproofing differ slightly to those when soundproofing a wall. Let's take a look at the 4 main principles when soundproofing a timber floor:

When soundproofing a floor, a combination of mass and cushioning materials are used to address both airborne and impact noise effectively.

On a timber joist floor, the Reverso SoundMat is an excellent choice for hard floor final finishes and SoundMat 3 Plus for carpet finishes.

For concrete floors, adding a cushioning layer to absorb impact vibration helps to absorb the impact vibration before it enters the structure of the floor. A proven soundproofing solution like the SoundMat 2 Plus is an excellent solution for impact noise on concrete floors.

When it comes to unwanted airborne noise being heard through a concrete floor, this can be sightly more complex. This is because concrete naturally has more mass to block airborne noise. When experiencing unwanted airborne noise through a concrete floor, it is advisable to contact us to discuss potential weak points.

What are the top 3 soundproofing solutions for timber floors?

The top 3 soundproofing solutions for timber floors

What are the 4 key principles when soundproofing a ceiling against noisy neighbours?

When soundproofing a ceiling, there are four main principles which are highlighted below:

The most effective ceiling system which covers off all these principles is The ReductoClip Ceiling Solution , which provides the highest performing system when looking to soundproof a ceiling.

How to soundproof a timber ceiling using the ReductoClip Ceiling System

Soundproofing top tips

Seal any gaps, cracks, and holes with acoustic sealant . Think of soundproofing like waterproofing. Any gaps and the sound will leak through

Think of Soundproofing like baking a cake. There are different acoustic materials such as acoustic plasterboard , acoustic mineral wool and FlexiSound , which are all important soundproofing ingredients. However, they are not soundproofing on their own. As with baking a cake, you need the correct mix of ingredients, in the correct quantities and in the correct order to get the best results and this is the same for soundproofing

Beware of the law of diminishing returns. If the same type of material simply keeps being added, every time you add another layer of the same material directly on top, each layer gets less effective. For example, simply adding more layers of acoustic plasterboard to a wall will be of little or no benefit

Be mindful of soundproofing hacks promising quick, easy and cheap soundproofing options. These can range from soundproof paint, wallpaper or simply adding acoustic plasterboard. They will not work! Save your money and always use a tried and tested soundproofing system

Invest wisely. Be wary of ‘cheap’ soundproofing solutions. The truth is your noise problem doesn’t care what your budget is. The soundproofing system you need is determined by the type of noise problem you have and the construction of the building. One size fits all is not the case with soundproofing. You need the right system for your individual noise issue and situation

The saying ‘you get what you pay for’ is certainly true when it comes to soundproofing. There are fundamentals that must be adhered to solve certain noise problems, so saving up and using the correct system is really the only option to achieve the best results

And finally, the main tip is to speak to an expert . Soundproofing can be complex and it’s always better to do it once and do it right.

Soundproofing is a science, not a shortcut. Save time, money, and headaches by consulting experts. Whether it's walls, ceilings, or floors, The Soundproofing Store are here to help you achieve the peace and quiet you deserve

Conclusion: successful soundproofing against noisy neighbours

In conclusion, achieving effective soundproofing against noisy neighbours means following a few fundamental key steps. When soundproofing a wall, floor or ceiling it involves selecting and combining the right acoustic materials.

Soundproofing materials such as acoustic plasterboard , acoustic mineral wool , and FlexiSound , should be used in the right quantities and in the right order. It is also vitally important to use these acoustic materials alongside the ReductoClip System (for walls and ceilings) to decouple from the offending structure.

It's crucial to recognise that simply using individual acoustic materials on their own won't produce the desired outcome and you will most likely be disappointed with the results.

Beware of tempting soundproofing hacks promising quick fixes and instead, invest wisely by choosing tried-and-tested soundproofing systems (such as the ReductoClip System ) which is tailored to your specific noise issue and building construction.

While budget considerations are natural, it's vital to understand that effective soundproofing is an investment. Cutting corners with cheap solutions may not address the root cause of your noise problem.

Embrace the principle that "you get what you pay for" with soundproofing and that recognising and adhering to fundamental principles and choosing the right system is the key to achieving optimal results.

In the pursuit of creating peace and quiet in your home, a methodical, informed approach following the principles of soundproofing (as highlighted in this article) will undoubtedly provide you with the best outcome.

Author

Phil Lyons heads up the technical team within The Soundproofing Store, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in the field of soundproofing and acoustics. With considerable experience in addressing a variety of noise-related challenges, Phil plays a crucial role in assisting domestic customers in finding effective solutions to all types of unwanted noise problems.

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

How to improve the acoustic environment of SEN classrooms

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:21:04 GMT

How to reduce echo and reverberation within classrooms

How to improve the acoustics within SEN classrooms

The Soundproofing Store regularly work with educational settings to improve and enhance the room acoustics within classrooms and communal spaces. With an expert team who understanding the importance of creating an improved acoustic environment within educational settings and particularly within Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) classrooms and communal areas.

GOV.UK highlights how SEN and SEND can affect a child or young persons ability to learn by affecting their:

Behaviour or ability to socialise, for example they struggle to make friends
Reading and writing, for example because they have dyslexia
Ability to understand things
Concentration levels, for example because they have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Physical ability

SEN students often require a different learning and teaching approach to help them reach their full potential. This can further be aided by improving the acoustics within their educational setting. The Soundproofing Store offer a range of high performing Class A sound absorption solutions to choose from, which results in the acoustics of shared spaces being greatly improved. This helps to provide a positive atmosphere that caters to the unique learning and well-being requirements of students with diverse needs and helps to create an improved acoustic environment that empowers every student to thrive.

The importance of acoustics in learning spaces

The effectiveness of teaching and the welfare of staff and pupils can be greatly influenced by the acoustics of educational spaces.

Research shows that good acoustic quality means lower levels of unwanted noise, greater teaching effectiveness and improvements in pupil behaviours and concentration. Improving the room acoustics within SEN settings can help to enhance communication and promote effective learning.

Suitable acoustics in schools have long been a requirement since 2002, with the need for adequate acoustics as follows:

Department for Education. Acoustic design of schools: performance standards March 2014

1.2.2 School Premises Regulations & Independent School Standards

"The acoustic conditions and sound insulation of each room or other space must be suitable, having regard to the nature of the activities which normally take place therein."

Department for Education. Acoustic design of schools: performance standards March 2014

1.4.1 Acoustic considerations

"Pupils with special educational needs are generally even more reliant on good quality acoustic environments than others. Consequently, required reverberation times should be shorter, sound insulation between adjacent spaces higher and indoor ambient noise levels (and the capacity for distraction) lower than in environments for other pupils."

BB93: performance standards for acoustics in schools

BB93 sets out minimum performance standards for the acoustics of school buildings, and describes the normal means of demonstrating compliance with the Building Regulations. It also provides guidance in support of the School Premises Regulations (2012) and the Independent School Standards (2013).

Published by the Department for Education in England, the document states the minimum performance standards for acoustics in schools. The document is intended for designers and building control bodies to ensure that school buildings provide the right acoustic conditions to enable effective teaching and learning. BB93 covers aspects such as reverberation time, sound insulation, indoor ambient noise levels, and speech intelligibility. BB93 also gives guidance on how to meet the acoustic requirement of the School Premises Regulations and the Independent School Standards.

How sound absorption can lower reverberation times

Average Reverberation Time Above 250hz

The above graph shows a real-life acoustic report for a school assembly hall. The hall is a multi-use hall within a school committed to a high quality education for pupils who experience a range of special educational needs.

The graph shows the reverberation time of the room in seconds at different frequencies in hertz. Reverberation time is the time it takes for the sound to dissipate by 60 decibels after the source stops. A lower reverberation time means the sound is absorbed faster and the room is quieter. A higher reverberation time means the sound lingers longer and the room is more echoey.

The graph compares the reverberation time of the room without sound absorption (red line) and with sound absorption (green line). (Sound absorption is the process of reducing the sound energy that reflects off the surfaces of the room and this is explained in more detail within the videos that follow below).

The green line on the graph shows the reverberation time with the addition of ProSound Sound Absorption added to the wall ( ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels ) and the ceiling ( ProSound Easy-Fix Foam Panels ). The acoustic panels significantly reduce the reverberation time at all frequencies, especially above 250 hertz. This means that the room becomes more acoustically comfortable and less noisy with the addition of sound absorption panels.

The required reverberation time (as set out in the BB93 performance standards) for an indoor hall is less than 1.5. The addition of ProSound acoustic treatments easily brings the average reverberation time under the 1.5 requirement for this type of room.

Key considerations when improving the acoustic environment of SEN classrooms

Low Noise Levels: SEN classrooms benefit from low background noise levels. Excess noise can often be distracting and overwhelming for students with sensory sensitivities or attention issues. Sound-absorbing materials like acoustic panels can help to reduce unwanted noise.

Sound Insulation: Ensuring that the classroom is well-insulated can help to minimise external noise intrusion. The use of double-glazed windows and doors (where possible) and soundproof walls can further help in creating a quiet space where students can focus.

Clear Speech Perception: In SEN classrooms, making sure that students can clearly hear and understand the teacher or speaker can be enhanced by improving the rooms acoustics using sound absorption which will help with clear and even sound distribution.

Quiet Spaces: Designate quiet areas or sensory-friendly spaces within the classroom where students can retreat when they need a break or a quieter environment. These spaces can include comfortable seating and sensory tools to help regulate sensory input.

Minimise Echoes: Echoes can make it challenging for students to understand spoken language and can be disorienting. The use of acoustic treatments can help to reduce echo in the room.

Minimise Auditory Overload: Sound absorption can help prevent auditory overload, a common challenge for SEN students who may struggle to filter out irrelevant sounds. A well-controlled acoustic environment reduces the cognitive load associated with processing excessive auditory information.

Individual Learning Support: Sound absorption solutions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of SEN students. For example, within a treated room, soft furnishings, such as bean bags or padded panels, can also be added to create quiet corners or sensory-friendly zones where students can retreat when they need a break or a quieter space.

Consider Lighting: In addition to acoustics, consider lighting in the classroom or sensory room. Some students with SEN may be sensitive to fluorescent lighting. Natural lighting or adjustable, dimmable lighting options can be more comfortable for these students.

Collaborative Spaces: Effective sound absorption allows for group discussions and teamwork while maintaining a controlled and supportive acoustic environment.

The Soundproofing Store offer a range of sound absorption solutions to greatly improve the room acoustics within all types of SEN settings. The range of different sound absorption products are highlighted in more detail below.

However, before looking at the different types of sound absorption solutions for SEN settings, lets take a quick look at what sound absorption is and how it works:

What is sound absorption?

Occasionally the terms 'sound absorption' and 'soundproofing' can be confused. Soundproofing is trying to stop sound from getting into, or out of a room. Whereas sound absorption is improving the acoustics within a room by restoring clarity and making the room quieter. This is achieved by reducing the amount of echo and reverberation in the room.

How does sound absorption work in SEN settings?

Sound energy will bounce off hard surfaces back into the room, creating an echo.

Sound absorption panels are filled with soft, absorbing material which absorbs sound and traps the sound inside. This means when a sound wave hits the panel it stays there and doesn’t bounce back into the room.

The soft materials used in ProSound Sound Absorption Panels are designed to absorb sound energy. This means when a sound wave hits the panel it stays there and doesn't bounce back into the room.

Sound absorption before and after example

What are the different sound absorption solutions?

Conclusion: improving SEN provision with acoustic treatment

The Soundproofing Store is a leading provider of acoustic solutions, with a focus on helping to create optimal learning environments for students with special educational needs by reducing the reverberation time and noise levels in classrooms, corridors, halls, and other shared spaces.

The Soundproofing Store has a wealth of experience and expertise in working with schools to meet the acoustic standards and regulations set by the Department for Education and is committed to improving the acoustic quality of educational settings for all students by advising on and supplying the most effective acoustic solutions.

The focus on this article has been on sound absorption and improving the acoustics within a room by restoring clarity and making the room quieter. As highlighted, this is achieved by reducing the amount of echo and reverberation in the room. However, should your educational setting also require soundproofing (which helps to stop sound from getting into, or out of a room) then this is also an area of expertise.

Please feel free to contact a member of the team to discuss the acoustic needs within your school and they will advise on the best solution and calculate the required amount of acoustic panels to lower the reverberation time and improve the acoustics within any given space.

Author

Sam Fessey heads up the Sound Absorption department within The Soundproofing Store. With a huge amount of experience in acoustics, his extensive knowledge is invaluable in working with education settings in helping to transform noisy environments into peaceful, productive spaces for students to learn and thrive within.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

The 3 best ways to soundproof a stud wall

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 10:12:06 GMT

The 3 best ways to soundproof a stud wall

Differences between stud and solid walls

Stud walls are usually internal walls separating living spaces within the same property. Solid walls on the other hand are usually made of brick and separate attached properties. If you live in a terraced property, the wall separating you and your neighbours property (even though they are attached) will be a solid brick wall.

The internal walls separating e.g. bedrooms, bathrooms to your bedrooms, or the kitchen to your lounge will usually be stud walls.

Stud wall soundproofing common scenarios

There are a range of situations when soundproofing an internal stud wall becomes a necessity. These commonly range from wanting to soundproof the connecting stud wall between bathrooms and bedrooms. It might also be the separating wall between bedrooms to reduce the unwanted noise of e.g. snoring coming from an adjoining room. Also popular, is the soundproofing of children's games rooms and play rooms from connecting rooms in the house.

Soundproofing stud walls

There are two main differences between a solid wall and a stud wall when it comes to sound:

1. Stud walls are hollow. The empty space within the frame creates a sealed chamber where the sound bounces around, echoes, and amplifies becoming even louder. This is called the drum effect because that’s exactly how a drum works. If you want to see the drum effect in action, the video below goes into more detail.

2. Stud walls are very lightweight. This is a problem because mass plays a huge part in blocking sound. The heavier, and more dense the wall is, the harder it is for sound to pass through. A solid brick or concrete wall has a much better starting point than a stud wall because it already has much more mass. Therefore, to effectively soundproof a stud wall, a lot of extra mass needs to be added to the wall.

Sound energy and vibration

Sound is a physical energy (a vibration) and sound vibrations travel through solid materials and through the contact of solid materials. To stop the sound coming through an internal stud wall, it's important to stop the vibration from coming through.

There are two ways to reduce this vibration:

1. T he best way is through de-coupling . In other words, building another wall in front of the existing wall with a gap in between so they are completely disconnected. This makes it much more difficult for the vibration to travel through as it has to jump across a physical gap.

2. A dd resilience to the wall , which allows the wall to flex and dampen the vibration.

So how is this achieved? The three most effective soundproofing solutions for stud walls are highlighted in more detail below.

How to soundproof an existing stud wall

The first step when soundproofing a stud wall is to fill the depth of the frame with a high density acoustic mineral wool . This absorbs the sound that gets inside and stops the sound from bouncing around and amplifying.

This alone isn’t going to block the sound, but helps to minimize the drum effect before adding a soundproofing solution to the wall and will lead to a higher sound reduction in the end.

In the majority of cases when soundproofing an existing stud wall it is more common to treat one side. If building a new stud wall, or if able to treat both sides, then the following still applies, but there may be a little more flexibility.

The benefits of using acoustic mineral wool in soundproofing and the drum effect

1. SoundBoard 4 Direct to Stud Wall Soundproofing Panel

The most popular and most cost effective solution, is the ProSound SoundBoard 4 . This is a 30mm thick direct to wall soundproofing panel and is installed as one single, easy to install panel.

SoundBoard 4 is made up of 4 layers consisting of a 3mm mass loaded vinyl, a 9mm closed cell acoustic foam, another 3mm mass loaded vinyl and finally a 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard. The acoustic plasterboard and the mass loaded vinyl layers add an extra 29kg of mass per meter square to the wall and add different types of mass to block different frequencies of sound. The closed cell foam separates the hard plasterboard layer from the stud wall and adds some resilience, which helps to dampen some of the sound energy.

The SoundBoard 4 is easily installed directly onto the stud frame. For an even higher performance, you can cover the stud frame with a layer of acoustic grade plasterboard first, then install the SoundBoard 4 over the top and this gives you even more mass.

For domestic properties wanting to reduce standard household noise between rooms, SoundBoard 4 is a thin, simple and effective solution.

How to soundproof an existing stud wall with SoundBoard 4

2. ReductoClip Direct to Stud Wall Soundproofing System

If a higher level of sound reduction is needed, the next level up is the ReductoClip Direct to Stud Wall System . ReductoClips are fixed onto the front of the stud frame and act like shock absorbing brackets. ReductoClip furring channels are then easily inserted into the clips to allow for somewhere to fix the acoustic plasterboard layers to. The wall is then covered with a layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard, a layer of FlexiSound membrane, and then a final layer of 15mm acoustic plasterboard. These layers add an extra 35kg of mass per meter square to the wall, and combine different types of mass to block different frequencies of sound.

The ReductoClip Direct to Stud Wall System de-couples the mass layers from the stud frame, and gives the system resilience and flexibility to dampen high levels of sound energy. A useful analogy of how it works is to think about how the suspension springs in your car dampen the impact of potholes and bumps in the road to give you a smoother ride. The ReductoClip System dampens and absorbs the energy of the soundwaves that hit your wall.

This system is 60mm thick, which is the slimmest system of its kind on the market, so if you can afford to take up 60mm of space, this system will give you a very high level of sound reduction. The ReductoClip Direct to Wall System will achieve a higher performance than the SoundBoard 4, particularly for lower frequency sounds such as low male voices, snoring, or bass from music or TV.

3. ReductoClip Independent Stud Wall System

The final soundproofing option for stud walls is a little more extreme and more aimed at people trying to block out loud music, or heavy bass. This could be for people building a home cinema room or music space within their home, or if you just want to achieve the highest possible sound reduction you can.

This is using the ReductoClip Independent Stud Wall System . The same system as the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System, but this time, instead of installing it directly onto the existing stud wall, the existing plasterboard is removed and the frame is filled with acoustic mineral wool (the same as with our previous options) then a gap of at least 10mm is left and then a new stud frame is built in front of (but not touching) the existing stud wall. This achieves a complete de-coupling. The new frame is then filled with acoustic mineral wool and the ReductoClip System is installed onto the new frame.

Again, this adds a high level of resilience and a high level of mass. Still the slimmest clip and bar system on the market, this is going to take up 120mm space including the decoupling element, but delivers by far the highest level of sound reduction.

Frequently asked questions when soundproofing a stud wall:

1. How do you decorate a soundproofed stud wall?

All three stud wall soundproofing solutions have a 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard finish. This means they are decorated just as you would standard plasterboard. Usually a skim plaster on top of the plasterboard to cover any screw holes or joins. This then provides a flat even surface which can be painted, or wallpapered. For wallpaper, the recommendation would be to use a heavy-duty dry lining wallpaper first prior to the final wallpaper finish.

2. Should I insulate the cavity of my stud wall?

Yes. As highlighted in this article, the recommendation would be to use acoustic mineral wool to insulate the cavity prior to soundproofing. If this isn't done, the cavity can act as a sealed chamber with the sound amplifying and resonating inside.

3. Can I install the soundproofing myself?

The ReductoClip stud wall solutions and SoundBoard 4 direct to stud wall soundproofing panel can be installed by a competent DIYer. If you don't feel confident installing the soundproofing yourself, a local tradesperson will have no difficulty. The Soundproofing Store supply comprehensive installation instructions and videos for a fuss free installation. Our expert team is also on hand to answer any questions prior, or during installation.

4. How much does it cost to soundproof a stud wall?

The cost depends on the size of the wall and the solution that's needed for your noise issue. A m² guide price is shown at the bottom of the below chart.

Stud wall soundproofing comparisons

Highlighted within this article are three excellent options for soundproofing a stud wall, depending on different levels and types of noise needing to be soundproofed.

The 3 stud wall soundproofing solutions are compared below:

Which soundproofing system should I use?

Remember soundproofing isn’t a one size fits all, it’s important to use a system that will be suitable for your specific situation to really have the greatest chance of solving that problem. If you’re unsure of which solution is best for your situation, then the best thing to do is speak to an expert. Please give us a call and speak to one of our highly trained technical advisors who can talk through the level and type of noise you are trying to block and give you the best advice. As always, we’re here to help.

Author

Ian Baker is the Managing Director of The Soundproofing Store and a leading name in the soundproofing industry.

With a prestigious track record of award-winning credentials, Ian is a trusted and respected authority in his field.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

What are the most popular soundproofing solutions for walls?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 13:42:27 GMT

The top 3 soundprooing solutions for solid walls

When it comes to soundproofing a wall against noisy neighbours, how sound travels through connecting solid structures and how best to block it can be quite complex. The focus of this article is to highlight the top 3 soundproofing solutions for solid walls. Covering off the performance of the systems, the space loss and cost. It is worth remembering that you cant 'over' soundproof but you can certainly 'under' soundproof. The recommendation would be to always go for the highest performing system you can afford to do in terms of monetary value and space loss.

Having to listen to unwanted noise coming though a neighbours party wall can have a huge impact on the health and wellbeing of the unfortunate people having to listen to it. Such unwanted noise can come in many guises from TV,'s, music, shouting, dogs barking, running up and down stairs and even noisy boilers .

Soundproofing isn't a one size fits all

Everyone's noise issue is different, everyone's property is different which also means the soundproofing solutions need to be different and able to accommodate different variables. Acoustic solutions can vary in performance, space loss and cost.

When looking for the correct soundproofing system to soundproof a solid wall, it is important to consider:

What is the noise you are trying to block? e.g. impact or airborne noise (or a combination of the two)
How loud is the noise you are trying to block?
How much space can you afford to lose from the wall?

What is the science behind soundproofing?

Before focusing on soundproofing solutions, it is useful to cover off the basics of soundproofing to understand how different solutions work.

To get the best results when soundproofing a wall, there are 2 main objectives:

The first is to increase the mass of the wall. Mass is basically weight and density. Airborne sound is blocked by mass, so for example 300mm of concrete is going to naturally block a lot more sound than 10mm of timber, because it has many times more mass and is much denser.
Secondly, it is important to improve the walls ability to absorb and dampen sound energy. Sound is basically a vibration and vibration travels through solid materials, and through the contact of solid materials. This means when you create a sound on one side of the wall, the vibration energy of the sound travels straight through the wall to the other side.

What is the best way to reduce sound vibration?

The best way to reduce sound vibration is through de-coupling. In other words, building another wall in front of the existing wall with a gap in between. This makes it much more difficult for the vibration to travel through as it has to jump across a physical gap. The second is to add resilience to the wall, allowing the wall to flex and dampen the vibration.

An example of de-coupling to stop the transference of sound energy can be highlighted in the simple practical example shown below. Have you ever used two connected cans to communicate to another person (a very basic telephone!)?

If you speak into one of the cans and someone else holds the other to their ear, they can hear what you are saying as the sound vibrations are travelling down the string. However, if you cut the string, this stops the energy being able to travel to the other can and when it is pressed to your ear, you can no longer hear the other person.

What is the highest performing soundproofing solution for a solid wall?

Given the importance of the above objectives to successfully soundproofing a wall, the obvious question is, 'so what is the best soundproofing solution'? We will cover off the top 3 soundproofing solutions for solid walls and will start with the highest performing ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Solution .

Solution 1: ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution - Highest Performing Wall Soundproofing Solution

The ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution covers off all of the above criteria and ticks all of the soundproofing boxes. It decouples from the offending wall and also absorbs sound energy and vibration.

How the ReductoClip Independent System works:

A new stud frame is built at least 10mm away from the existing wall (even further if space allows). This gives the de-coupling as the soundproofing system won't be touching the offending wall at all.
The stud frame is filled with acoustic mineral wool so that there isn't a hollow cavity being created. This is important, because if the cavity isn't insulated, the sound will resonate and amplify in there (like a drum).
The ReductoClip System is then installed onto the front of the frame. The ReductoClips act like a shock absorbing suspension system that dampens and absorbs sound energy in the same kind of way that your cars suspension absorbs the impact of pot holes in the road.
Next, different layers of mass is added onto the ReductoClip system. This is made up of two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard , sandwiching a layer of FlexiSound 5 (an excellent and cost effective alternative to Tecsound SY1000). These layers are adding over 35kg of extra mass per meter square to create that barrier of mass to reduce airborne sound.

ReductoClip Independent System Buildup

The ReductoClip Independent Wall System is an incredibly high performing system (65dB Airborne noise performance) and is used in situations from domestic properties reducing noise from noisy neighbours all the way up to recording studios and home cinemas. The system reduces high levels of sound across the whole spectrum of frequencies from low bass up to high treble. It also reduces impact noises such as banging doors and cupboards as well as airborne noise and will massively upgrade any wall type including brick walls, block walls and even stud walls.

In an ideal world this system is the perfect choice and the recommended solution for almost everyone and for almost every situation. The only reason why it won’t always be suitable is because of the space it takes up. Even though the ReductoClip is the slimmest isolation clip system on the market and the total space loss is only 120mm (when also including the 10mm gap and a 50mm stud frame). There might be situations in which 120mm is too much space to lose.

However, if the space isn't an issue, then it is absolutely worth using this soundproofing solution to provide the highest chance of solving all noise issues and delivering the peace of mind and performance expectation needed.

The ReductoClip System - highest performing wall soundproofing solution

Solution 2: ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Soundproofing Solution

So, what happens if you don't have the (120mm) space for the ReductoClip Independent Wall System? (Which, to visualise is about the same size as a can of soft drink turned on its side). It might be that you have doorways, or windows close to the offending wall, so in these instances the second best solid wall soundproofing solution is the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System .

This system is the same system as the RedictoClip Independent System highlighted above, with the only difference being that instead of building a stud frame a minimum of 10mm away from the offending wall, the ReductoClips are installed directly onto the wall. This gives the space saving element which might be needed, as it only takes up 60mm instead of the 120mm.

However, with a space saving of half the thickness, there is going to be a compromise on performance as there is no de-coupling from the original wall. The ReductoClip Direct to Wall System still does a good job at reducing sound energy because of the resilience the clips provide, however, it won't perform as highly as the independent system.

As with the ReductoClip Independent System, the ReductoClip Direct to Wall solution can also be installed on brick, block or stud walls and will give a very good reduction in all noise types from low pitch, to high pitch and against both impact and airborne noise. The ReductoClip Direct to Wall solution ultimately delivers the perfect compromise between performance and space loss.

How to install the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System

Solution 3: SoundBoard 4 Direct to Wall Soundproof Panel

The third and final solution is the SoundBoard 4 . This is the slimmest option at just 30mm thick and is specifically designed to offer a solution for those who are really limited to space. It is installed as one single, easy to install panel and is made up of 4 layers consisting of:

3mm mass loaded vinyl
9mm closed cell acoustic foam
3mm mass loaded vinyl
15mm acoustic grade plasterboard

The SoundBoard 4 is fixed directly against the offending wall, so there is no de-coupling, (although the foam layer does give a small level of resilience to dampen some sound energy). The SoundBoard soundproof panel 4 adds around 29kg per meter square of mass, including different types of mass which help respond to different sound frequencies.

The SoundBoard 4 can be used on solid walls, but does have some limitations. Any solution of this type which has no de-coupling and limited resilience is going to be quite effective for mid to high frequencies, so things like high pitch voices for example, but it’s not going to be very effective for stronger vibration, such as low pitch sounds, bass from music, snoring and impact noises.

The construction of the wall is also an important consideration when using SoundBoard 4. If the wall is a thick solid wall it might be that it is already doing a good job at blocking the higher pitch sounds. This is often the case if you can hear lower, more muffled sounds coming through and if this is the case, SoundBoard 4 isn’t going to give much improvement and the ReductoClip would be the required solution.

However, if you have a very thin, very old wall circa pre 1950's then the party wall is probably going to be thin, potentially only a single layer of brick and not naturally providing much mass. In these situations where you can hear high pitch sounds coming through, then SoundBoard 4 should give you a pretty good improvement.

It is important to point out that the limitations of SoundBoard 4 are the same for all solutions which are designed to add more mass to a wall, with no de-coupling and limited resilience.

The SoundBoard 4 soundproofing panel really comes into it’s own when used on a stud wall as they have such a low mass starting point. The addition of the 29 extra kg of mass per meter square will make a huge difference. So if you are looking to soundproof an internal stud wall or even a dormer style timber external wall, SoundBoard 4 is a great option.

SoundBoard 4 Direct to Wall Soundproofing Panel

What is the difference in cost for the top 3 wall soundproofing systems?

Depending on the size of the wall, there is often only a marginal difference between the cost of the ReductoClip Systems.

Below is an overview of the cost of all 3 systems (based on an average wall size of 4m wide x 2.3m high).

The cost includes unlimited (free) advice, materials, VAT and delivery costs. Because all of the systems supplied by The Soundproofing Store can be fitted by a competent DIYer the below costs don't include installation. For those customers who don't feel confident to install the systems themselves, then a local tradesperson will have no difficulty installing the systems (detailed guides and videos are also supplied) and the experts at The Soundproofing Store will happily speak to the person doing the installation should they need any help.

ReductoClip Independent Wall System from £1,045 (doesn't include the stud frame)
ReductoClip Direct to Wall from £985
SoundBoard 4 from £705

Do cheap soundproofing hacks work?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 13:46:28 GMT

Cheap Soundproofing Hacks - the do's and don'ts

The internet is full of articles, blogs, YouTube videos and cheap soundproofing hacks promising quick, easy and cost saving ways to soundproof your room. The big question is, do they work?

In this article we’ll focus on the most common of these hacks and explain why they aren’t always the miracle cure they claim to be. In fact, more often than not, they’re less of a hack and more of a myth!

Cheap soundproofing hacks uncovered

How does soundproofing work?

Sound and soundproofing is a very complex subject and to know if a soundproofing hack is going to work or not, it's useful to understand the basics of soundproofing and the science behind it.

To get the best results when soundproofing a structure (e.g. a wall) there are 2 main objectives:

The first is to increase the mass of the structure. Mass is basically weight and density and is very important for blocking sound. For instance, 300mm of concrete is going to naturally block a lot more sound than 10mm of timber, because it has many times more mass. Therefore, an effective soundproofing system needs to add lots of extra mass to the structure. It is also important that the extra mass covers the entire wall, floor or ceiling that is being soundproofed. A barrier is being created to block the sound and if there are any gaps for air to get around the soundproofing, then sound can get around too. Think of soundproofing like waterproofing, it’s only as effective as the weakest point.
Secondly, it's essential to improve the ability of the structure to absorb and dampen sound energy. Sound is a vibration energy and vibration travels through solid materials and transfers through the contact of solid materials. This means when you create a sound on one side of the wall, the vibration energy of the sound travels straight through the wall to the other side. This is why, if you have a party wall separating your home and your neighbours it's not uncommon to hear unwanted noise, such as their TV, radio, footsteps or voices.

What is the best way to soundproof a wall?

There are two ways to reduce the sound vibration mentioned above and the best way is through de-coupling.

In other words, building another wall in front of the existing wall with a gap in between. This makes it much more difficult for any sound vibrations to travel through, because it needs to jump across a physical gap.

The second is to add resilience to the wall, allowing the wall to flex and dampen the vibration in the same way as the suspension springs in your car dampen the effect of bumps in the road.

The most effective soundproofing will do both of these and the ReductoClip System is one of the most popular and effective systems on the market. If you’re looking at an alternative which doesn’t de-couple or add resilience, then quite simply, it won’t work.

So, how does the science of soundproofing fit with the many soundproofing hacks out there? Do they or don't they deliver on the above 2 objectives?

Does soundproof paint and soundproof wallpaper really work?

Let’s start with the widespread hack of using soundproof paint and soundproof wallpaper. If we consider the fact that a typical brick party wall has around 300kg of mass per metre square, can we realistically expect that adding a mere 1 or 2mm of wallpaper or paint, (which weigh less than 1kg per metre square) to effectively block any more sound?

If we approach this from a scientific standpoint and examine the principles of soundproofing, the answer becomes clear - no , the addition of wallpaper or paint, which weighs next to nothing will not block sound.

Not only does paint fail to contribute any additional mass to the wall, it also doesn’t de-couple the wall or dampen any sound energy vibrations.

It's important not to be misled – soundproofing paint or wallpaper does not exist. Save yourself the trouble and avoid wasting your time and money on any paint or wallpaper claiming to be soundproof.

How to soundproof a room with carpets and curtains

Another popular hack involves adding soft furnishings, such as carpets, curtains, and rugs to a room.

These items are often recommended for their supposed soundproofing benefits, which is actually misleading. This hack can be quite deceptive as it clouds the distinction (and confusion) between soundproofing and sound absorption.

Soundproofing aims to prevent sound from entering or leaving a room. A practical example would be blocking the sound coming from your neighbours property and stopping it from entering your own space, or preventing the sound within your property from disturbing your neighbours.

Sound absorption on the other hand enhances the acoustics within a room by reducing the amount of echo.

Have you ever moved house and tried to have a conversation in a completely empty room? The sound is much more echoey as the sound is bouncing off the hard surfaces creating echoes of the original sound and reverberating round the room.

However, once the room is furnished there is less echo as some of the sound is now being absorbed by the curtains, carpet, cushions etc.

By adding soft furnishings to your room, you can reduce the echo and improve the acoustics. It's important to note though, that this won't prevent sound from outside the room from entering or sounds from inside the room from escaping.

The difference between soundproofing and sound absorption

Can you soundproof a room with egg boxes or foam tiles?

A similar hack to the addition of soft furnishings is advocating the use of egg boxes and the modern equivalent, foam tiles. You’ve probably seen YouTube videos where people have these on the walls in the background and people often assume that it’s soundproofing.

Again, they are very lightweight, so they don’t add mass to block sound, and they don’t cover the whole surface so sound goes around them. They also don't add any resilience, or decoupling and therefore, the answer is no , you can't soundproof a room with egg boxes or foam tiles.

Once again, what egg boxes and foam tiles do is help with sound absorption. If you add these around the room they will help to some small degree with reducing echo in the room, but they definitely don’t stop sound getting in or out.

If your goal is to enhance room acoustics and minimise echo, there are more effective products available for you to use. The video below showcases a variety of high performing acoustic treatment solutions:

High performing acoustic treatment solutions

Is adding acoustic plasterboard a quick and cheap soundproofing fix?

Another soundproofing hack and quick fix which is bandied around is that of simply adding layers of acoustic plasterboard to the offending wall to help soundproof it. This will add some extra mass to the wall, but won't add any of the de-coupling, isolation or dampening which is crucial for effective soundproofing.

The best way to think about acoustic materials such as plasterboard or acoustic mineral wool is that they are ingredients used for soundproofing, they are not soundproofing on their own.

Soundproofing is a bit like baking a cake. You need the correct mix of ingredients, in the correct quantities and put in the correct order to get the result you need. (A bowl of sugar on its own will never make a cake).

Using the cake analogy, acoustic plasterboard is a useful soundproofing ingredient, but to get the desired result, you also need other ingredients, and to use those ingredients in the correct way and in the correct order.

Simply putting acoustic plasterboard straight onto the wall is not going to block any more sound. If you have noisy neighbours and a solid party wall the wall will already be performing at a certain level blocking the sound (even though you can still hear unwanted noise). The addition of a layer of acoustic plasterboard will not make any significant improvement to how the existing wall is performing.

This is where tried and tested soundproofing solutions come into play. Systems like the ReductoClip System (as demonstrated in the video below) can significantly improve the wall's ability to absorb and block sound:

Soundproofing do's - the best way to soundproof a wall

Cheap soundproofing

Cheap soundproofing isn't a hack as such, but it's important to be wary of “cheap” soundproofing solutions, or companies promising soundproofing for every budget.

The hard truth is that your noise problem doesn’t care what your budget is. The soundproofing system you need is determined by the type of noise problem you have and the construction of the building. This means there is different criteria that needs to be met to solve different noise problems.

The correct solution may cost more money or take up more space, but this needs to be done to solve the problem. If you don’t have the budget for the correct solution, you would be better to wait, save up your money and eventually do it properly and solve the problem. This is preferable to rushing into buying a cheap solution that isn’t suitable for your noise issue, as you’ll only be disappointed in the results and will have wasted your money.

Every situation is different, and in some cases, a thinner, simple, more cost effective solution is going to be enough. However, this should be determined by your situation, not your budget.

Remember the old saying “you get what you pay for” - in soundproofing, this is certainly true.

The do's and don'ts of soundproofing

There are a number of soundproofing hacks across the internet, which we've hopefully explained are more don'ts than do's!

Do: Make sure to choose a tried and tested soundproofing system. The science doesn’t lie and cheaper alternatives, or quick fixes will only lead to disappointing results.

Don't: Believe all the soundproofing hacks out there. Ask yourself the question - will this add mass, de-couple from the original structure and add resilience? If the answer is no, then it's not soundproofing.

If you’re experiencing an unwanted noise problem and are feeling overwhelmed by options and information, or if you need a helping hand to point you in the right direction, please give us a call and speak to one of our highly trained technical advisors.

You can also find a wealth of honest and accurate information on our website at soundproofingstore.co.uk

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Case Study: How to soundproof a timber ceiling

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:39:51 GMT

Case Study: How to soundproof a timber ceiling

The most effective way to soundproof a ceiling using the ReductoClip™ Timber Ceiling System

This case study highlights the step-by-step process of soundproofing a timber ceiling against unwanted impact and airborne noise using the ReductoClip Ceiling Soundproofing Solution. As featured in The Yorkshire Post :

The noise issue

Mr and Mrs Helliwell live in a 3-bedroom 1930's semi-detached house and have a one storey, flat roof extension. Since the extension was built they have had a long-term problem with hearing excessive levels of noise on the roof every time it rains.

What they are experiencing is not dissimilar to those people living in properties with noisy neighbours living above.

When the rain hits the roof it creates an impact vibration which travels from the roof, into the joists and down into their room below. The exact same principle applies when it comes to soundproofing against unwanted impact noise from above, regardless of the type or source of impact vibration (whether this be rain, footsteps, or dragging furniture etc).

A soundproofing system such as the ReductoClip System which decouples layers of mass from the original structure provides the most effective solution for all unwanted noise situations. The big benefit of this system is that it decreases high levels of both impact and airborne noise.

In this instance, for Mr and Mrs Helliwell it isn't unwanted airborne noise such as talking, shouting, TV noise or music, but unwanted traffic noise from a nearby busy road.

Important questions before soundproofing a ceiling:

What type of ceiling do you have? Is it timber or concrete?
What is the noise being heard? Is it impact noise such as footsteps, dragging furniture, or as in this case, rain?
Is the unwanted noise airborne noise such as voices, music and TV noise? Or is it a combination of both impact and airborne noise?
Do you need to pass Part E Building Regulations?

What are the benefits of the ReductoClip Timber Ceiling System?

Sound energy vibrations travel very easily through solid materials. Hence why the impact from the rain is easily travelling from Mr and Mrs Helliwells roof, through the ceiling, down the joists and into the room below. It has a path to travel because as all of these materials are connected together. To stop this from happening there needs to be a de-coupling, or separation and that's where there ReductoClips come into play.

ReductoClips act like shock absorbers, absorbing the sound vibrations creating a de-coupling suspension system for the furring bars and soundproofing layers to be attached to. Once they are in place, when an impact noise is made above it gets to the clips, which then absorb it and stop it from getting into the ceiling layers.

ReductoClips de-couple from the original ceiling delivering the highest level of soundproofing
Minimal loss of space. The full system including the layers of mass results in only 60mm loss of ceiling height
At only 25mm, The ReductoClip and bar combined is the thinnest clip and bar system on the market
Dual rubber design which enables the ReductoClips to absorb different sound frequencies achieving a higher level of performance
A wider clip face space means wider furring bars, which allow for a greater surface area to attach acoustic plasterboard to. This makes installation of the clips and bars much easier

ReductoClip Exceptional Performance - Soundproofing Product Overview

How to install the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution

Step-by-step installation of the ReductoClip Ceiling Soundproofing System

The ReductoClip Timber Ceiling Soundproofing Solution can be installed by a competent DIYer. Mr Helliwell is an electrician by trade, but without any experience of installing soundproofing. With the help from a colleague, they installed the system themselves following The Soundproofing Store's comprehensive installation guide.

1. Firstly remove any fixtures, fittings and coving

Light fittings were removed from the ceiling. The same would also need to happen for smoke detectors etc which might be fixed onto the ceiling.

The next step is to remove any coving. In some cases, if you are careful when removing the coving it can be reused once the ceiling has been soundproofed. In this instance the coving was being fully replaced, so didn't need to be saved.

2. Remove the existing ceiling

Many customers ask if they can keep their existing ceiling and simply add the ReductoClips, Reducto furring bars and soundproofing layers to it.

Keeping the existing ceiling can be an option if really needed. However, the soundproofing improvement can potentially be compromised by doing so. This is for 2 reasons:

1. Removing the existing ceiling allows access to the joists which can then be insulated with acoustic mineral wool

2. If there is the mass of the floor above, mass of the existing ceiling and the mass of the new ceiling it complicates things as to how soundwaves actually travel through different structures. By creating what is essentially an air cavity can sometimes reduce the performance of the soundproofing

Taking down the exiting ceiling, insulating the joists and putting the ReductoClips onto the existing joists and adding the soundproofing layers of a new ceiling is certainly best practice to achieve the best results and is highlighted in this case study.

3. Add acoustic mineral wool to the exposed timber joists

Acoustic mineral wool is then added to the timber joists. If the joist cavity isn't insulated then essentially there is a void space between the floor above and the ceiling below. When sound gets into this void the sound bounces around, resonates, echoes and amplifies which makes the noise louder. This is called the drum effect, as it's basically how a drum or acoustic guitar work. The addition of acoustic mineral wool helps to absorb this sound.

In this instance, because there wasn't a room above and the roof was exposed to the elements, thermal installation was also added, followed by the acoustic mineral wool.

60g Acoustic mineral wool was added in slabs slightly wider than the joists. The space between the joists of this ceiling were on average 350mm - 360mm, so the slabs were simply cut to 400mm. These were then simply friction fitted between the joists.

Top tip, once you know the measurement of the slabs, keep the mineral wool in the packaging and cut it all in one go. (It can be easily cut using a normal saw).

Learn more about the role of acoustic mineral wool in soundproofing

4. Installing the ReductoClips

The next step is to install the ReductoClips onto the exposed timber joists using timber screws. It is important not to overtighten them too much as this will reduce their ability to absorb the sound energy. (They still need to squish slightly once installed).

The ReductoClips are marked out at specific spacings (as per the below diagram):

Maximum space between clips 1200mm
Maximum space between furring bars 400mm
Clips should be a maximum of 150mm away from the perimeter

5. Installing the ReductoClip Furring Bars

Once the ReductoClips have been fitted, Reducto Furring bars are then attached to the ReductoClips. They are simply clipped into the ReductoClip brackets. The 50mm furring bar has been designed to be wider to make installation easier by having a larger surface area to screw plasterboards onto. There is also a useful centre line marking which makes it even easier when butting up the acoustic plasterboards.

The furring bars are installed with an overlap of 150mm and secured with 4 self tapping screws. Overlaps need to occur between clips, not on the clips.

Top tip: To utilise furring bar quantities and maintain joins between clips, cut a 600mm length bar and start with this, then start the second row with the offcut. Furring bars can easily be cut with a pair of tin snips.

At only 25mm thick (the ReductoClip and Reducto Furring Bar together) this makes it is the slimmest isolation clip system on the market. This is really important as it means minimal loss of height to the ceiling.

6. First layer of acoustic plasterboard

The nest step is the addition of high mass layers to help block airborne noise. The first layer to be added is a layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard, which is heavier and more dense than standard plasterboard and therefore more effective at helping to block airborne sound. To make the installation of these high mass materials easier, a plasterboard lift was hired and is definitely recommended.

Top tip, before fixing the first layer of plasterboard, because there are two layers, it is important to know where the furring bars are as these will be covered once the first layer is in place. Simply mark the positions of the centre of the furring channels on the wall round the perimeter of the room.

The first layer of acoustic plasterboard is fixed using 25mm length self drilling screws (it's important not to screw through to the timber as this will short circuit the furring bars). Start the installation in one corner and make sure to leave a 5mm gap around the perimeter between the acoustic plasterboard and surrounding walls. The system needs to be isolated from the perimeter walls (packers and shims can be used if needed).

In this instance the ceiling was just over 2.4m (the full size of the acoustic plasterboard) and because one full board won't therefore cover the full width of the ceiling (still keeping the 150mm perimeter gap) it will mean there are lots of small gaps at the end. To avoid having lots of tiny pieces to make up the remaining gaps, instead cut the original board further down and use a bigger piece to make up the remaining (bigger) gaps.

7. Adding Tecsound to the second layer of acoustic plasterboard

The next step is to add a layer of Tecsound, which adds a huge amount of mass compared to its thickness.

Tecsound is used because at only 5mm thick, it weighs an impressive 10kg per m2. Being a viscoelastic material it means that when it's added to a surface it helps to dampen and absorb energy and vibration whilst also adding more mass to help block airborne noise.

In soundproofing, different materials perform differently to different frequencies of sound. By having a combination of the Acoustic Plasterboard and Tecsound, a higher level of performance is achieved than simply adding multiple layers of the same material.

A self-adhesive version of Tecsound is used, which is simply stuck to the second layer of acoustic plasterboard before being raised to the ceiling using the plasterboard lift. The Tecsound is then sandwiched between the two layers of acoustic plasterboard.

Top tip, Tecsound is very sticky and difficult to remove if stuck down incorrectly. It is often easier to cut it into smaller more manageable pieces rather than trying to stick the whole piece down in one go. Tecsound can easily be cut with a Stanley knife.

Remember to leave the 5mm gap around the perimeter.

Learn more about how Tecsound is used in soundproofing

An excellent alternative to Tecsound is FlexiSound 5 .

FlexiSound 5 is also self-adhesive and offers the same mass and dampening properties, whilst also being cheaper than Tecsound.

Learn more about how FlexiSound is used in soundproofing

8. Acoustic Sealant

Once the Tecsound and second layer of acoustic plasterboard has been installed, simply seal round the 5mm perimeter gap using acoustic sealant. Any small gaps between the acoustic plasterboard sheets can also be filled with sealant where they perhaps haven't fully butted up together (very small mm gaps).

Ceiling final finish

Once the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution has been installed, the only thing left is for a plaster skim finish. Fixtures and fittings can then be reinstalled.

What lighting should be used on a soundproofed ceiling?

When it comes to lighting, ideally pendant lights, or surface mounted lights are the best option. In a perfect world it is best to avoid spotlights and downlights because they require big holes to be cut out of the soundproofing and by removing these layers of mass it is going to reduce the performance.

However, if the preferred option is to use spotlights then you can use acoustic hoods or covers which will help to minimise the negative effects of cutting into the soundproofing.

Performance of the soundproofed ceiling

A sound test was carried out using a hand held recorder prior to installing the soundproofing. The background noise without any distinguishable sound measured at around 40dB. When impact noise was made on the roof to recreate the impact of the rain, the reading was 55-60dB.

Following the installation of the ReductoClip Ceiling Soundproofing Solution, the same test was carried out again. The aim was to get as close to 40dB (i.e. the original silent ambient noise) as possible. The second test reading with the same level of impact noise being made measured at between 43-45 dB. This means the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution achieved an incredible reduction of 10-12 dB. This is a huge reduction, as the logarithmic scale of decibels means that for every 10dB reduced it is actually a halving of the volume, so in real world terms this is a huge improvement.

How much did it cost to soundproof the ceiling?

The size of the ceiling was just over 2.5m by just under 3m and the cost including all materials, fixings, delivery and VAT came in at just over £1,100. This didn't include installation costs as Mr Helliwell and his colleague fitted it themselves.

Customer testimonial

The sound test above showed a brilliant result. However a further test would be the 'real world' one when there was next heavy rainfall and the feedback from Mr and Mrs Helliwell.

"I had a look online and found The Soundproofing Store. After discussing our noise problems with them, they advised on the best solution. They recommended the ReductoClip Ceiling Soundproofing System. We can no longer hear the rain and we also live fairly close to the A1 and we are no longer hearing that sound anymore either. Thanks ever so much to The Soundproofing Store, they really helped us and it's just nice to know that these companies are out there, willing to help."

Always speak to an expert

Soundproofing can be complex and it isn't a case of one size fits all because there are so many variables. This can range from the construction of the ceiling and the floor above. The final floor finish above the ceiling, the level of noise and type of noise needing to be soundproofed against and the height that can be lost from the ceiling.

The best advice would be to always speak to an expert to ensure the correct soundproofing solution is used in the correct situation.

The Soundproofing Store is an award winning company with a dedicated team of experts who will happily advise on the correct soundproofing solution whatever the unwanted noise issue. Please feel free to contact a member of the team via the form or telephone number below.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Does Green Glue Work For Soundproofing?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 12:06:26 GMT

How does green glue work for soundproofing?

What is green glue and how does it work for soundproofing?

Green Glue is very popular in America and is becoming a more recognised brand in the UK. This is largely because a lot of houses in the states are timber based constructions, basically the equivalent to what we'd refer to as stud walls in the UK. These constructions are very lightweight with very little mass compared to the brick structure of buildings and homes in the UK. Therefore, because the walls are very lightweight they are naturally doing a poor job at blocking any noise which means it is easier to see a greater increase in sound blocking performance by adding what to is referred to in America as dry wall and green glue. However, we will discuss alternative solutions to stud walls and also why this combination of materials doesn't perform well on solid brick walls.

What is Green Glue?

Firstly, the name Green Glue is slightly misleading as it isn't actually a glue as we think of it. It never fully sets hard, so it shouldn't ever be used to stick materials together. it's important to still use mechanical fixings as well as the Green Glue to fix any materials together.

Green Glue is actually a dampening compound with the idea that acoustic glue is added to what they refer to as dry wall in the states (plasterboard in the UK) followed by a second layer of plasterboard (dry wall). Basically the Green Glue is sandwiched in between two layers of plasterboard.

How does Green Glue Work?

Because the Green Glue never sets hard it remains flexible, separating the two layers of plasterboard with a flexible material. This means it creates a vibration dampening effect. Because sound is a vibration energy, by dampening that energy, there should be a reduction in sound.

Does Green Glue Work?

Well... to a certain extent it does. Green Glue does increase the walls ability to dampen sound energy. However there are some key limitations:

It is only a very small amount of difference. When soundproofing any surface (a wall, floor or ceiling) it is important to look at soundproofing as a full system. The vast majority of any improvement gained by using the Green Glue and the plasterboard will have come from the extra layer of plasterboard (especially so when using acoustic plasterboard). This is because of the increase in mass which has been added to the wall. (One of the key fundamentals to soundproofing against airborne noise is to add mass)
Because it is only a small amount of dampening, it is only effective for higher frequency sounds. So will not be effective in the majority of situations and especially lower frequencies such as deep voices, bass tones from music and even snoring
It is only going to be useful on low mass structures such as stud walls. Adding some acoustic glue and a sheet of plasterboard to a solid brick wall in the UK to block unwanted noise is not going to make anywhere enough difference to make any noticeable improvement. Because the walls in the UK are constructed with much more mass to start with, a more effective and higher performing soundproofing solution is required to gain significant improvement. Basically, to get results on walls in the UK you need to go a lot further than simply adding acoustic glue and a sheet of acoustic plasterboard. The bricks themselves are already doing the equivalent (and more) than these materials
Green Glue It is an expensive product for the small amount of benefit which certainly does not live up to the marketing "Green Glue - The Ultimate Noise Proofing Compound - Dissipates up to 90% of Noise!"

A useful overview of Green Glue

What are the alternatives to Green Glue?

We know that Green Glue is used sandwiched between the existing plasterboard and a new layer of plasterboard. The material we would recommend to be the sandwich filling between two layers of acoustic plasterboard is FlexiSound . Similarly to the acoustic glue, FlexiSound is also viscoelastic. When FlexiSound is placed between two sheets of acoustic plasterboard it gives the wall the ability to dampen sound energy and vibration. However, unlike the acoustic glue the FlexiSound also creates a barrier of mass. This is important (as previously mentioned) as it's mass that predominantly blocks airborne sound. FlexiSound adds an extra 10kg per m2 and is only 5mm thick. Compare this to the Green Glue which is adding absolutely no mass whatsoever. Also, because the acoustic glue doesn't uniformly cover the entire wall, it doesn't create any kind of air tight sealed barrier to help block sound.

Learn more about FlexiSound - an alternative to Green Glue

Soundproofing lightweight stud walls

Green Glue is a noiseproofing compound (used more readily in the states) on timber stud walls. So what if you are looking to soundproof a stud wall? What is the alternative to Green Glue? For soundproofing a stud wall, the recommendation would be to use the ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™ this is a direct to wall acoustic board with a layer of acoustic grade plasterboard laminated to two layers of mass loaded vinyl which again greatly increases mass. There is also a layer of closed cell foam to give the wall the vibration dampening element. The SoundBoard 4 soundproofing wall panel easily outperforms the combination of acoustic glue and plasterboard and is a much quicker and easier installation.

The 3 best ways to soundproof a stud wall

SoundBoard 4™ a higher performing alternative to green glue and plasterboard

How to Soundproof a stud wall with SoundBoard 4

Soundproofing for all types and levels of noise with the ReductoClip

It is apparent that Green Glue isn't suitable for loud noises or across a full range of frequencies. So what happens if the unwanted noise is airborne and impact noise such a loud music, or low bass frequencies such as snoring? Also, what about in situations such as music rooms and home cinemas where high levels of dampening is needed? For these situations the recommendation would be the ReductoClip™ System , which is a high performing resilient dampening system. This dramatically outperforms the acoustic glue in both volume reduction and the range of frequencies.

Learn more about the ReductoClip System for soundproofing

Should I use acoustic Green Glue for soundproofing?

Green Glue used in the right situations on the right wall construction combined with plasterboard can give some sound reduction improvement. However, it's definitely not the miracle cure it seems to suggest. Without a doubt there are soundproofing materials and systems that will give much, much better results.

Soundproofing is not a one size fits all. If you are unsure as to which will be the most effective soundproofing solution for walls, floors and ceilings for your individual situation, then our advice would be to always speak to an expert. Should you have any questions, or require any advice, please don't hesitate to call a member of our expert team on (01423) 206208.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

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What is the best sound proof acoustic insulation?

Tue, 02 May 2023 08:28:13 GMT

What is the best soundproof acoustic insulation?

Lets dispel the myths between acoustic insulation and soundproofing. Often, we think of insulation as having thermal connotations -keeping buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. Acoustic insulation and soundproofing are pretty much interchangeable terms and when people are using these terms, it's usually to look at ways in which to block the passage of sound.

However, acoustic insulation ( acoustic mineral wool ) is only designed to absorb sound in cavities, and is not a full soundproofing system in its own right.

What is soundproofing?

Soundproofing is the process of blocking the transmission of sound between different spaces. For example, blocking sound through a party wall from noisy neighbours. Or blocking unwanted sound and noise from above or below in rooms within flats and shared buildings.

When we talk about soundproofing we are talking about reducing unwanted noise from the source. Often in domestic situations this comes from noisy neighbours and the transference of that sound energy to the recipient (you). For more of an in depth read take a look at how to soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours .

Soundproof Insulation Materials Explained

Soundproof insulation, also known as acoustic insulation or soundproof acoustic insulation, refers to the materials and techniques used to reduce or block the transmission of sound between different spaces. The primary goal of soundproof insulation is to create a more comfortable and quiet environment by preventing the passage of sound waves.

There are various types of soundproof insulation, and they can be applied to walls, ceilings, floors to minimise the impact of noise. Here is a list of some common materials which are often classed as soundproof insulation materials, however lets separate the fact from the fiction:

Fiberglass Insulation:

Fiberglass is not dense enough to provide effective sound insulation, a more effective option would be to use Acoustic Mineral Wool.

Foam Panels:

Egg box type foam panels are not to be used as soundproof insulation. They are sometimes used in the likes of music studios to help reduce echo and reverb. A higher performing alternative would be ProSound Acoustic Wall Panels, which are specially designed for sound absorption, (also not suitable for soundproofing). Acoustic Wall Panels are extremely effective at reducing echo and reverberation (often in communal spaces such as village halls, schools, offices and music studios and restaurants).

Acoustic Mineral Wool Insulation:

Acoustic mineral wool is a dense material that effectively absorbs sound. It is commonly used in wall and ceiling cavities. It is not soundproofing on its own, but is used alongside tried and tested wall and ceiling systems such as the ReductoClip Wall and ReductoClip Ceiling Systems.

Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV):

MLV is a dense, thin rubber-like material that adds mass to surfaces, reducing sound transmission. Again, used as part of a soundproofing solution such as the SoundBoard 4 Direct to Wall Acoustic Panel.

Green Glue:

Green Glue is a dampening compound applied between layers of plasterboard (or drywall) to help dampen vibrations. A more effective alternative to Green Glue would be to use FlexiSound 5 .

Cork Insulation:

Cork is sometimes marketed as having sound-absorbing properties when looking to reduce impact noise. The recommendation would be to use a tried and tested floor soundproofing solution such as SoundMat 3 Plus , which is effective at blocking both airborne and impact vibrations as it adds far more mass to the floor which is essential for blocking airborne noise whilst also featuring a layer of closed cell foam to help dampen vibrations and sound energy from the likes of footsteps.

Learn more about Green Glue and soundproofing

What is the best way to soundproof a room?

Phil Lyons is head of soundproofing at the UK's largest supplier of soundproofing materials The Soundproofing Store . He explains how for successful soundproofing there are some essential key principles which need to be followed.

Phil goes on to explain the 3 main principles of soundproofing: Adding mass, isolating (or decoupling) and damping.

1. Decoupling:

Decoupling and isolation involves breaking the direct connection between surfaces to reduce sound transmission. Phil explains how sound waves travel easily through connected surfaces, so breaking this connection is important for effective soundproofing.

2. Adding Mass:

Increasing the mass of walls, floors, or ceilings can help block airborne sound transmission. Phil explains how this can be achieved by using dense materials like Acoustic Plasterboard , FlexiSound and direct to wall acoustic panels like SoundBoard 4 which features two layers of Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV).

3. Damping:

Damping involves reducing vibrations in walls, floors and ceilings by using materials that help to absorb sound energy and vibrations. Phil uses the analogy of how the suspension in your car works when it absorbs bumps the road. He goes on to explain that in walls and ceilings, "ReductoClips do this by acting like a shock absorbing suspension system to dampen high levels of sound energy and vibration."

Is Acoustic Insulation the same as Soundproofing?

Soundproofing solutions can include the use of acoustic insulation materials to help block noise within peoples homes, places of work and studios. Acoustic mineral wool is one of those products and is designed to absorb airborne sounds in the cavities of timber and metal party walls, timber joists and any sealed chambers where sound can reverberate. Using an acoustic insulator can effectively absorb sound and when used with other soundproofing solutions, can help to bring floors and walls into compliance in meeting (and when used as part of a build-up) exceed Part E Building Regulations .

Featured below is the ReductoClip System which includes the use of acoustic mineral wool (soundproof insulation) as part of the complete soundproofing system. It is important to note that acoustic insulators are not a loft type insulation wool with high thermal qualities. This is because they are produced to a specific density to give maximum sound absorption. Acoustic mineral wool delivers a high level of sound absorption and acoustic insulation within cavity partitions.

Top tip - there are many branded products out there which claim to offer effective acoustic insulation. Always check the mass of the product. This is key as to how well it will perform in blocking sound when soundproofing your wall, floor or ceiling. This is discussed in more detail below.

Acoustic Mineral Wool and Soundproofing

Why is acoustic insulation not a solution for soundproofing on its own?

Acoustic insulation (or soundproofing) is all about adding mass, mass and more mass. This helps to stop airborne noise from passing so easily through a structure. The most effective soundproofing solutions don't just add more of the same mass, they add mass which is comprised of different materials. This is very important, as different materials are better than others at blocking different types of sound.

The other principle in effective soundproofing is to decouple or dampen the building. Sound travels as a vibration when it hits a wall or floor. To prevent sound vibrations travelling through buildings, the vibration needs to be dampened to stop it from travelling through. The most effective way to stop sound vibration energy from travelling through is to decouple the structure and then add mass.

What is the highest performing acoustic insulation system?

The ReductoClip System for walls decouples the original structure by creating a room within a room. This achieves the highest level of acoustic insulation and soundproofing. Not only does the ReductoClip System create an exceptional soundproofing performance within domestic homes against noisy neighbours, but it is also used as a professional system in soundproofing recording studios and music rooms. The ReductoClip System is also the go to system for Trade and Building specifiers when needing to exceed Part E building regulations .

How does the ReductoClip™ System for walls work?

How to soundproof a wall using the ReductoClip™ Independent System

The ReductoClip System for walls, works against both airborne noise (talking, TV noise etc) and Impact noise (moving furniture, footsteps etc). One of the elements to the system is the use of acoustic mineral wool (as mentioned above) which acts as an acoustic insulator. The acoustic mineral wool is added between the timber battens to absorb airborne sound in the cavities of timber and metal party walls. The acoustic mineral wool provides acoustic insulation by significantly improving acoustic performance and reducing reverberation.

Acoustic insulation boards for walls

The best performing direct to wall acoustic insulation board is the ProSound™ SoundBoard4 ™ If you don't have the space to lose (building a room within a room) with the ReductoClip System, then this space saving option offers a good performance against noisy neighbours. The SoundBoard 4 acoustic board is only 30mm thick and can easily be installed by a competent DIYer or tradesperson.

As previously mentioned, the best performing acoustic insulation needs to be heavy (mass blocks sound). Unlike other acoustic insulation solutions, the SoundBoard 4 features 4 layers of different high mass soundproofing materials, (which block a wide range of sound frequencies) all laminated together in one board. The SoundBoard 4 adds 34.83kg of mass to your wall and a dampening layer to prevent the sound energy (vibration) from travelling through.

SoundBoard 4™ Components:

15mm Acoustic Plasterboard finish (ready for a plaster skim finish, or heavy duty backing paper finish)
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl (doesn't absorb sound and designed to replace lead in soundproofing)
9mm Closed Cell Foam (dampens sound energy and vibrations)
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl (a further layer of Mass Loaded Vinyl)

Does thermal insulation reduce noise?

The short answer is no. We often get asked if products used for thermal insulation (the likes of Kingspan or Celotex) will also be effective at soundproofing. To a certain extent by having the thermal material added it arguably offers more mass than it did before, but this would be so negligible that it wouldn't mean walls, floors, or ceilings had any further soundproofing capabilities than they did previously.

Acoustic insulation for ceilings

In this article we have so far focused on acoustic insulation for walls. If you are looking at acoustic insulation for your ceiling , then similar to walls, you also need to:

Improve the mass of the ceiling, by adding high density materials.
Improve the ability of the ceiling to absorb sound energy and vibrations. (Without this part, the adding of any mass will have very little effect on impact noise).
Use different materials of high mass (as we discussed above for walls).

A useful exercise is to do a 4 point acoustic insulation check:

1. Is the ceiling a timber joist ceiling, or a concrete ceiling?

2. Where is the noise coming from?

3. What type of noise is it? Airborne, Impact, or both?

4. How loud is the noise?

Further information on acoustic insulation for ceilings, is highlighted within our blog How to Soundproof a Ceiling .

ReductoClip System for ceilings

How to install the ReductoClip Timber Ceiling Solution

What is acoustic flooring?

By limiting the transference of sound travelling through concrete or wooden floors, you can create peace and quiet in your own home by laying acoustic matting.

Again, it's useful to do the 4 point acoustic insulation check:

1. What is the floor made of? Timber joist, or solid concrete?

2. Where is the noise coming from? The room below, or above?

3. Is the noise vibration impact, or airborne?

4. How loud is the noise on your side of the floor?

Can you insulate between two floors to reduce noise?

Yes, absolutely and the process couldn't be easier when using an acoustic underlay such as the ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat or the ProSound™ SoundMat™ 3 Plus . Both of these acoustic mats help to block noise from above, or below.

To successfully insulate a floor against sound you need to:

Improve the mass of the floor, by adding high mass density products (a running theme for walls, ceilings, and floors!)
Improve the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibrations (footsteps). As mentioned previously, without this, the addition of any mass will have very little effect on impact noise.
Use acoustic insulation between the timber joists to eliminate any sound resonating and amplifying within this sealed chamber.
Use different materials of high mass, as simply using more of the same material will never have the same result as using different materials. (For all of the reasons we have mentioned above).

What is the best acoustic matting?

ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat ™ is the only high performing soundproofing mat designed for both hard and soft floor finishes. When used hard side up, (unlike with other acoustic underlays) there is no need for an over boarding layer before installing most final floor finishes. The Reverso SoundMat is ideal for blocking loud levels of airborne and high impact noises and is suitable for all final floor finishes.

Reverso SoundMat Components:

6mm Fibre Cement Board (provides a stable base for hard final floor finishes and adds mass to block airborne noise)
9mm Closed Cell Acoustic Foam (for impact noise such as footsteps and unlike open cell, or recycled chip foam will not absorb water should there be any water damage in the future)
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl (further airborne noise blocking capabilities and acts as a luxury carpet underlay)

The Reverso SoundMat is a simple DIY install, without the need of adhesive and can be used under underfloor heating (hard side up).

ProSound™ SoundMat™ 3 Plus features an innovative 3 layer design which is effective in helping to tackle the unwanted noise of everyday living. This particular acoustic mat delivers an outstanding performance against loud levels of noise, such as clear conversation, TV noise and heavy footsteps. At only 15mm thick, this acoustic matting saves you space compared to other traditional acoustic underlays.

SoundMat™ 3 Plus Components:

3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl (designed to replace lead in soundproofing)
9mm Closed Cell Foam (for impact noise, such as footsteps)
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl (further airborne noise blocking capabilities)

These acoustic sound mats are simple to install by a competent DIY'er or tradesperson and are applied directly to the floor, without the need for any adhesive. The video below shows the easy installation of the acoustic mats.

Installing SoundMat 3 Plus acoustic underlay matting

Installing Reverso SoundMat acoustic underlay

Summary of the best soundproof acoustic insulation

Acoustic insulation can be applied to walls, floors and ceilings to soundproof against unwanted noise. By following the 4 step acoustic checker, this can help you to help make the correct product choice. Top performing solutions like the ReductoClip System and SoundMats have also been highlighted, due to their superior performance in soundproofing, along with their ease of installation (all of which can be fitted by a competent DIY'er or tradesperson).

Author

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

What are the 3 best ways to soundproof a timber floor?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 11:42:27 GMT

The top 3 ways to soundproof a timber floor

How easy is it to soundproof a timber floor?

If you are living with the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours living above, or below, then the good news is that there are a number of timber floor soundproofing solutions which are highly effective and easy to install. If the floor is a concrete floor, then take a look at this article to learn more about the the most effective soundproofing solutions for concrete floors .

Unfortunately, for many people living in converted buildings such as flats and apartments, unwanted impact and airborne noise from noisy neighbours can be a common and unwelcome problem. A noisy neighbour article in The Mirror highlights an example of this with neighbours below banging constantly on their ceiling when the people living above were just going about their everyday lives (not even making excessive noise). So extreme was the constant banging coming from below, that the gentleman living above didn't feel comfortable living in his own flat. However, rest assured that if you are in a similar situation and living with noisy neighbours above or below, there are a number of effective floor soundproofing solutions to help reduce unwanted impact and airborne noise.

The basics of soundproofing when soundproofing a timber floor

To understand how to soundproof a timber floor, it's helpful to understand a little about sound itself. When sound waves hit a solid surface, they can bounce off and continue to travel through the air or through the solid material. This is why sound can be transmitted through floors, walls and ceilings.

When soundproofing a floor, the aim is to reduce the amount of sound that is travelling from a room through the floor to the room below, or from the room below travelling up through the floor to the room above.

This is achieved by using specialist soundproofing solutions which help to absorb or block sound waves. Different materials perform differently at blocking certain frequencies of sound and adding different high mass products will help block different frequencies of unwanted airborne noise.

However, the addition of high mass materials is only one part of the solution. The second is to add resilience to the floor, as it's this resilience which helps to absorb impact vibration such as footfall.

3 essential steps to follow when soundproofing a timber floor

Increase the mass of the floor. Mass is basically weight and density and airborne sound is blocked by mass. e.g. 300mm of concrete is going to naturally block a lot more sound than 10mm of timber
Add a layer onto the floor that adds cushioning so that when impact, such as footsteps or dragging furniture occurs, this impact is cushioned and absorbed creating less vibration in the floor. Without this cushioning layer the vibration can easily spread through the structure to the room below
Stop the amplifying of sound within the sealed chamber between the floor and celling void. This is achieved by adding acoustic mineral wool between the joists

The 3 best soundproofing solutions for timber floors

This article highlights 3 proven soundproofing solutions for timber floors to help reduce unwanted impact and airborne noise. This could be from unwanted noisy neighbours being heard above or below, or in reducing noise between rooms within your own home.

Firstly, it’s important to explain that soundproofing is not a one size fits all solution. Everyone’s situation is different, every property is different, every noise problem is different, so to get the best noise reduction, you need a solution that is suitable for your noise issue and also one that is most suited to your final floor finish.

The purpose of this article and also highlighted in the video below is an overview of The Soundproofing Stores 3 most popular floor soundproofing solutions for timber floors. Featuring the differences between each solution to help narrow down which system is best for different scenarios and indeed your own.

What are the top 3 soundproofing solutions for timber floors?

Choose a floor soundproofing solution specific to your situation

The correct soundproofing solution is dependent on each individual situation and variations can include:

The level and type of noise you are trying to block. e.g. is it impact noise on the floor above such as footsteps, dragging of furniture or airborne noise from above or below such as voices, TV noise or even shouting? It is worth highlighting that the distinction between airborne and impact noise, especially in relation to timber floors isn't quite as black and white as having two separate types of noise. Often, even though the cause of your noise problem might be an impact, what you are actually hearing is an airborne noise. For example if you clap your hands together, the impact vibration can be felt travelling up your arms. However, what you are actually hearing is an airborne noise. So, to get the best results for impact vibration you also want to reduce as much airborne sound as possible as well as cushioning the impact itself
What is the construction of the floor? e.g. Timber or concrete (if concrete please click here )
The other important factor when soundproofing a timber floor is taking into consideration the final floor finish. Is this going to be a soft finish such as carpet, or a hard floor final finish such as wood, tiles, vinyl or laminates?

Because of the variables highlighted above The Soundproofing Store offers a wide range of timber floor soundproofing solutions. This article covers the 3 most popular solutions, but is by no means exhaustive of every floor solution offered.

Floor Solution 1: SoundMat 3 Plus

When bearing the above principles in mind, the highest performing solution against BOTH impact and airborne noise and especially suited for soft floor final finishes such as carpet is the SoundMat 3 Plus floor solution.

SoundMat 3 plus is made up of three layers and is only 15mm thick:

The top and bottom layers are a 3mm mass loaded vinyl which add 16kg per metre square of mass to the floor. It's this mass and density which helps to create a barrier to block airborne sound
In between the mass loaded vinyl layers is a layer of 9mm closed cell foam which compresses underfoot just enough to cushion footfall and other impact noises, while supporting weight without crushing. Closed cell foam also gives a much more consistent performance compared to chip foams (used in other floor solutions). This is because chip foams have inconsistencies (certain parts are harder or softer than others) which means the impact performance can vary within different areas of the same mat. Closed cell foam also doesn’t absorb water like chip foam, which makes it more suitable for domestic use where spillages and water leaks could be a consideration.

SoundMat 3 Plus is a proven soundproofing floor system against both impact and airborne noise, whilst being thin and very simple to install. An easy DIY installation is achieved by simply loose laying the SoundMats on top of the existing floor. This makes it a hugely popular choice for use in domestic homes. Particularly for people living in flats or apartments with noise between neighbours above or below. SoundMat 3 Plus is also regularly used within detached houses, separating for example any unwanted noise being heard from bedrooms above to living areas below and vice versa.

SoundMat 3 Plus is an ideal floor soundproofing solution for reducing unwanted household level noise such as footfall on the floor, TV noise and general conversation type airborne noise. However, if you’re struggling with more excessive levels of airborne noise, then you may need to upgrade to an even higher performing system such as SoundScreed 28. This solution is discussed in more detail below (please see Floor Solution 3).

SoundMat 3 Plus is an extremely popular solution for carpet final floor finishes as it also acts as a luxury carpet underlay. Carpet can be installed directly on top, which helps to reduce costs and keep the final floor height to a minimum.

The below video goes into more detail about the SoundMat 3 Plus:

SoundMat 3 Plus Timber Floor Soundproofing Mat

How to soundproof a timber floor using SoundMat 3 Plus

SoundMat 3 Plus can also be used by developers needing to meet Part E Building Regulations.

Floor Solution 2: Reverso SoundMat

So, what happens if your final floor finish is a hard floor finish and not carpet? This leads nicely into our second solution which is the Reverso SoundMat .

The Reverso SoundMat has the same excellent soundproofing capabilities as the SoundMat 3 Plus. Performing well against both impact and airborne noise, but uniquely, one of the mass loaded vinyl layers has been replaced with a very stable 6mm cement fibre board. This means that where hard floor finishes such as laminates, engineered wood and tiles are needed, it is perfect because of the built-in stabilizing layer.

The Reverso SoundMat also has 3 layers and is 18mm thick:

The mass loaded vinyl and the cement board layers are very heavy and very dense, adding 17.5kg per metre square of mass and density to the floor. Again, it's this mass which helps to create a barrier to block airborne sound
In between the 3mm mass loaded vinyl layer and 6mm fibre cement board layer is a 9mm closed cell foam layer, which in the same way as it performs in the SoundMat 3 Plus compresses underfoot just enough to cushion footfall and help absorb impact noises, while supporting weight without crushing

The Reverso SoundMat was developed this way because in the past soundproofing mats such as the SoundMat 3 Plus, which is perfect for carpets, had too much flex to install finishes like laminates directly on top. So after installing the SoundMat 3 Plus you then need to install a 6mm plywood over the top to make the floor more stable, and then install your hard floor finish.

Uniquely, with the Reverso SoundMat that stabilizing layer is built into the product using the 6mm cement board, which saves floor height, installation time and also money.

Similar to the SoundMat 3 Plus, the Reverso SoundMat is also very popular for domestic homes with timber joist floors. The Reverso SoundMat is thin and simple to install which makes it perfect for retro fitting in existing homes. Perfect for use on floors separating neighbours in flats and apartments, or floors separating living spaces from bedrooms in the same house and especially suited to hard floor final finishes.

The Reverso SoundMat is beneficial in all of the above situations and is ideal for reducing unwanted household level noise (both airborne and impact). The Reverso SoundMat is also a great choice for projects where multiple rooms are being soundproofed with multiple floor finishes. So rather than having different soundproofing products in different rooms for different floor finishes or having to have overlay boards in some rooms and not others, the same product can be installed in every room. Simply install the Reverso SoundMat hard side up for hard floor finishes and soft side up for carpet finishes. This allows for an even floor height in every room which also makes it a great product for developers and contractors.

The below video goes into more detail about the Reverso SoundMat:

Reverso SoundMat Timber Floor Soundproofing Solution

How to soundproof a timber floor using Reverso SoundMat

The Reverso SoundMat can also be used by developers needing to meet Part E Building Regulations.

Floor Solution 3: SoundScreed WF28

What happens if the noise you are trying to block is a louder, more excessive level of airborne noise?

SoundScreed WF28 , the third floor soundproofing solution for timber floors is an overlay board which is used to reduce higher levels of airborne sound than the SoundMat 3 Plus or Reverso SoundMat.

SoundScreed WF28 reduces even higher levels of airborne noise as it adds even more mass at 22kg per meter squared.

SoundScreed WF28 has 2 layers, is an engineered high performance soundproofing floor panel and is 28mm thick:

18mm dry screed gypsum bonded to a 10mm wood-fibre resilient layer
The wood fibre layer also adds some cushioning to the floor to help with low levels of impact vibration. However, SoundScreed 28 doesn’t perform as well at reducing impact vibration as SoundMat 3 Plus or the Reverso SoundMat

SoundScreed 28 has an overlap join on all 4 sides allowing for a very easy installation without any gaps. This closely joined overlap makes it even more airtight and even more effective at blocking airborne sound.

An extremely versatile product, SoundScreed 28 can be used in any situation where high levels of airborne noise need to be reduced. This can range from domestic properties to commercial spaces like shops, offices and music studios.

SoundScreed 28 is also a great soundproofing product for new builds, conversions and refurbishments and is an excellent choice for tradespeople and specifiers needing to pass Part E building regulations (when used as part of a full system).

SoundScreed 28 is also very quick and easy to install.

A big benefit of SoundScreed 28 is that it also provides a strong and stable base, so any final floor finish can be installed on top including carpet, laminate, engineered wood, tiles and even LVT.

SoundScreed 28 Timber Floor Soundproofing Solution

Unwanted noise from above and no access to the floor?

This article focuses on the most effective ways to soundproof a timber floor. However, what happens if there is unwanted noise being heard from above, but no access to the floor above to lay the soundproofing? The recommendation is to soundproof against impact vibration at the source. Therefore, if impact noise is being heard from neighbours living above, the most effective solution is to soundproof the floor. The reality is that this isn't always an option as it depends on the neighbours above allowing access to their floor.

Luckily there is another option, which is to soundproofing your ceiling using the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution for timber ceilings.

ReductoClip Timber Ceiling Soundproofing Solution

How to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 12:19:18 GMT

How to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours

Soundproofing a ceiling against unwanted noise

For people living in an apartment, flat, or a property converted into multiple occupancy, they can often be in the unfortunate situation of having noisy neighbours living above, below or next door. A recent article published on the MailOnline highlights a couple blighted by nuisance neighbours living in a Victorian terraced house divided into two leasehold flats. The owners of the top flat were repeatedly woken in the early hours of the morning by noisy neighbours playing music so loudly that "the building vibrated".

Soundproofing a ceiling against Impact and/or Airborne noise

If you are experiencing the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours travelling from above down into your room below, more often than not you'll be able to work out what kind of noise it is.

Sound is usually broken down into two categories:

Airborne Noise - people's voices and TV noise
Impact and Vibration Noise - footsteps, doors banging and vibrations from appliances such as washing machines

Should I soundproof the ceiling or floor?

If you have access to the floor above, then this would always be the preferred option (when soundproofing against impact noise and vibrations), over and above soundproofing the ceiling. Why? Absorbing the impact noise at source, before it enters further into the building achieves a better result than trying to absorb the vibrations once they have travelled further into a structure.

Soundproofing the floor is an easy option if you are soundproofing against unwanted impact noise within your own home and not such an easy option in instances where there is no access granted to the floor above, (especially if relations with the neighbours making the noise are somewhat strained).

If the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours is originating from the property above and access to the floor above isn't an option, then soundproofing the ceiling would be the way to go.

Where to start when soundproofing a ceiling against noisy neighbours

Determine if the noise coming from your neighbours (above) is impact noise, airborne noise, or a combination of both.

Next, it is important to know if the ceiling is concrete, or timber joist? This will determine which system buildup will be needed (both options of soundproofing a timber ceiling and soundproofing a concrete ceiling are highlighted in more detail below).

How to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours

Improve the mass of the ceiling by adding high mass/ density products
Improve the ability of the ceiling to absorb sound energy and vibrations (e.g. footsteps above). Without dampening vibrations, the addition of any mass will have very little effect on reducing the unwanted impact noise
If the ceiling is a timber joist ceiling, add acoustic insulation, such as acoustic mineral wool to absorb any sound between the timber joists. This will help to eliminate sound resonating and amplifying in what is essentially a sealed chamber. For concrete ceilings, a thin layer is also added as part of the ReductoClip™ System (more details on this system below)
Using different materials of high mass. Different materials perform better for different sound frequencies, so using a combination of high mass materials will perform better than simply more of the same material added to the ceiling

What is the best way to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours?

The best ceiling soundproofing system to soundproof against noisy neighbours is the ReductoClip™ Ceiling System . This system offers the slimmest clip system on the market. Only 60mm of living space is taken up with the ReductoClip system when used to soundproof a ceiling from noisy neighbours.

The ReductoClip ceiling solution delivers the highest level of soundproofing against the unwanted heavy footsteps, banging of doors and loud airborne noise from noisy neighbours, such as music and shouting. The ReductoClip™ Ceiling System means that high mass ceiling layers are decoupled from the structure, delivering the highest level of soundproofing against impact noise from above. This system is also used for soundproofing recording studios and band practice rooms and can also be used on walls as well as ceilings.

For builders and specifiers needing to meet Part E Building Regulations , then the ReductoClip ceiling system offers an exceptional choice in ceiling soundproofing as the ReductoClip Ceiling System exceeds Part E Building Regulations.

How to soundproof a timber joisted ceiling against noisy neighbours

Firstly, the current ceiling plasterboard is removed, exposing the timber joists. Acoustic Mineral Wool is then added into the void space, to stop any sound amplifying. Think of shouting down a cardboard tube, then filling the tube with cotton wool and shouting again. The sound is greatly reduced by the addition of the cotton wool.

ReductoClips™ are then fixed onto the bottom of the timber joists and ReductoClip Furring Bars are then then fixed into the ReductoClips. The ceiling is then rebuilt by fixing the plasterboard layers onto the furring bars (instead of them being fixed directly to the timber joists). This de-coupes the ceiling and any vibrations that travel down from above will be absorbed and further reduced by the ReductoClips, which act like shock absorbers.

The ceiling is then built with two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard , sandwiching a layer of FlexiSound 5 in between. These layers are extremely heavy and high in mass and block a high level of airborne noise.

How to soundproof a timber joisted ceiling with the ReductoClip System

How to soundproof a concrete ceiling against noisy neighbours

Timber battens are attached directly to the concrete ceiling using suitable fixings. acoustic mineral wool is then added in between the timber battens.

ReductoClips are then attached to the timber battens and installed as per the above for timber ceilings.

If you can't lose 110mm, then ReductoClips can be attached directly to the concrete ceiling (only 60mm of space loss) and installed with the correct fixings.

With a concrete ceiling, mineral wool is also added in between the first layer of plasterboard and the original concrete ceiling, to stop any sound from amplifying within this space.

When soundproofing a concrete ceiling against noisy neighbours, the sound can in some instances also travel down the walls. It is worth doing an ear test when you can hear the noise and listening for any noise coming through the walls. If this is the case, then soundproofing the wall will also be required.

What to do about lighting when soundproofing a ceiling against noisy neighbours?

The recommendation would be to use surface mounted lights and not spotlights. This is because to install spotlights the layers of soundproofing will need to be drilled through, which will consequently create multiple weak points for the sound to leak through.

Top Tip - Soundproofing is like waterproofing, it is only as good as the weakest point. Like water, sound can travel through small gaps. For example, if you are driving in a car with the window slightly open, you can hear all of the outside noise perfectly clearly. Once you close the window, the sounds are reduced to a quiet muffle.

Summary of soundproofing a ceiling against noisy neighbours

To soundproof against the unwanted noise from above travelling to the room below, it is always best to soundproof the floor at the source (for impact noise).

However, soundproofing a ceiling against noisy neighbours can be effectively and easily done by installing the ReductoClip Ceiling System which can be used on both timber joisted and concrete ceilings. The ReductoClip ceiling System can be installed by a competent DIYer, or local tradesperson.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Does soundproofing really work?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 16:40:07 GMT

Does soundproofing really work?

Does soundproofing actually work? Yes, absolutely soundproofing works if the correct acoustic solution is used. The correct sound insulation depends on the property, the level and type of noise being heard and ensuring any soundproofing is installed correctly.

Soundproofing is an excellent solution if you are experiencing unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. This unwanted noise could be coming through your walls, floors or ceilings, or being heard through a combination of all three.

Acoustic panels are also effective at soundproofing between internal walls to help limit unwanted noise passing through rooms within the same property.

What is the alternative to soundproofing?

Lionel Messi reportedly bought his neighbours house when he experienced his own noisy neighbours issue! However, back to the real world and if buying your neighbours home, or move to a detached property in a remote location, however if moving house yourself isn't an option, This article goes on to explain the best ways to soundproof your home with proven solutions.

The expert team at The Soundproofing Store advise and speak to hundreds of customers every week on the correct soundproofing solution for their individual noise issues. There are also those customers who get in touch, who have unfortunately had soundproofing (the term is used loosely) installed elsewhere and it hasn't worked. They then need to speak to an expert to ask advice on how to rectify what they have had done previously. The main reasons for the disappointing performance they are experiencing is usually because:

What has been added to their wall, floor or ceiling isn't the right soundproofing material
The soundproofing solution used isn't high enough performing for the noise needing to be blocked
The soundproofing used doesn't perform well enough against the type of noise. e.g. airborne or impact or a combination of both
The soundproofing hasn't been installed correctly

Our advice to ensure soundproofing does work is to always speak to an expert. 'Do it once and do it right.' Quick fixes don't exist when it comes to soundproofing and more often than not, starting from scratch is usually the best way to rectify any problems, which ends up costing more in the long run.

What is soundproofing and how does it work?

Soundproofing is blocking the transference of sound from one room to another. There are three main scientific principles of effective soundproofing:

Improve the mass of the wall, floor or ceiling to help limit airborne noise. Soundproofing materials are solid and heavy and need to be dense enough to stop airborne noise from leaving or entering a room.
Improve the mass of the wall by using a combination of different high density materials. This is because different types of materials perform better for different sound frequencies. Simply using more of the same high mass material will not be as effective as using different combinations of high mass materials.
Improve the ability of the wall, floor or ceiling to absorb sound energy and vibrations. The highest performing soundproofing solutions will always include a dampening, or decoupling effect. Without this any addition of mass will have little benefit.

What parts of a house can be soundproofed?

It is possible to soundproof any surface within the home - walls, floors and ceilings. Often it can be very obvious as to where the unwanted noise is coming from. However, if you are unsure, then the best tip is to do a simple ear test. When you can hear the noise, listen to the wall, or floor and and check where the noise can be heard.

Differences between soundproofing and sound absorption

As mentioned, soundproofing is stopping the transference of noise from entering and leaving a structure. Where as sound absorption is not soundproofing. Sound absorption will only reduces echo and reverberation within a room and will not block noise. Sound absorption materials, such as acoustic panels are added on walls or ceilings to absorb sound energy. Perfect for noisy communal areas such as offices, schools, restaurants and meeting rooms to reduce echo and sound reverberation.

Below is an example of sound absorption in situ. The before and after picture of ProSound™ Acoustic Ceiling baffle s , which have been added to the ceiling of a busy restaurant to reduce the echo and reverberation. This results in a much more pleasant dining experience for customers, especially when there are lots of people talking. The acoustic panels help to create a quieter atmosphere in which individuals can talk to each other, be heard and enjoy their dining experience.

Conversely, with soundproofing, once the system has been installed and the wall, ceiling or floor is then redecorated, to look at, there would be absolutely no way of knowing that the soundproofing was even there.

The differences between soundproofing and sound absorption explained

Does soundproofing work both ways?

Yes, soundproofing works both ways. If you are soundproofing your home to stop the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours, then it will also work at blocking any noise from your house from passing into your neighbours property. This is an added benefit by further increasing the privacy of your own home.

Can I install soundproofing myself?

Anyone with good DIY skills will be able to install soundproofing themselves. 80% of customers at The Soundproofing Store install the systems themselves and they are supplied with comprehensive installation guides, videos and our expert team are on hand to answer any questions, prior or during installation. However, due to the soundproofing having a lot of mass, it will be heavy, so the recommendation would be to have two people to lift it. If you don't feel confident installing the soundproofing yourself, then a local tradesperson will have absolutely no difficulty at all installing it.

Top tip: Soundproofing is similar to waterproofing in that any gaps or weaknesses and the sound will find a way to 'leak' through.

Can you soundproof an existing wall?

Yes, absolutely existing walls can be soundproofed effectively. Soundproofing solutions and acoustic insulation can be added to existing walls without any damage or loss of much space. Once the correct acoustic panels are chosen, soundproofing can be installed by a competent DIYer.

Different acoustic solutions are available depending on if the existing wall is a stud or solid wall. However, the main principles of soundproofing still apply: See our wall soundproofing page for more details.

Improve the ability of the existing wall to absorb unwanted sound energy and vibrations by using acoustic clips such as ReductoClips
Add mass to the existing wall to help block airborne noise
Add different materials of high mass
Combining mass and decoupling or dampening from the original wall will result in the highest soundproofing performance

The 3 best ways to soundproof a solid wall

What are the benefits of soundproofing?

Soundproofing against the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours means being able to regain peace and quiet within your own home. Many customers have their lives turned upside down from the intrusion of unwanted noise in their homes. This can also have health implications such as; increased stress, high blood pressure and sleep disturbance.

Soundproofing also increases your own privacy. You can no longer hear your neighbours, which also means your neighbours can also no longer hear you.

Soundproofing alo has practical and essential benefits. E.g. contractors needing to pass building regulations for the passage of sound. Learn more about passing Part E Building Regulations .

What materials are most commonly used in soundproofing?

As highlighted, the most effective soundproofing solutions use a combination of different materials. Adding more of the same material will have limited benefit to the overall performance of the soundproofing. For soundproofing to work and be successful it is the combination of different materials which increases the overall performance of the acoustic solution.

A key material within soundproofing solutions which works well includes mass loaded vinyl which was originally designed to replace lead in soundproofing. Acoustic grade plasterboard is another material often used to soundproof walls and ceilings, as it is 50% more dense than standard plasterboard. This makes it much more effective at blocking airborne noise due to its increased mass. Another proven material in soundproofing is closed cell foam, which helps with any impact noise and helps to dampen sound vibrations and energy.

To achieve the highest level of soundproofing, decoupling soundproofing from the existing structure will result in the highest possible performance. The ReductoClip is a market leading independent clip system and more information on what makes it so effective and such a successful soundproofing solution is highlighted in the below video:

ReductoClip™ Solution for walls and ceilings - soundproofing that works

SoundMat™ Solutions for floors - soundproofing that works

How to soundproof cheaply?

The Soundproofing Store are an online retailer and as such, prices are completely transparent all year round. Without sales, or seasonal discounts, after all, noisy neighbours are noisy all year round!

The expertise, advice and time customers receive from The Soundproofing Store is unrivalled. As a company we would always advise a solution depending on the individual factors from each customer. Soundproofing is not a one size fits all. Cheap alternatives exist in all walks of life, but when you are dealing with proven solutions and science, then our advice would always be to use a proven and tested system. Short cuts often lead to disappointing results with soundproofing and often end up costing more to rectify.

Do soundproofing hacks work?

Soundproofing hacks such as adding 2 layers of plasterboard, adding soft furnishings to a room, e.g. rugs and carpets, will help with the sound absorption of a room, but won't remotely help with soundproofing. The same goes for so called soundproof wallpaper or paint. The science of soundproofing requires mass to help block sound. No amount of paint or wallpaper is going to come close to blocking unwanted noise travelling through a party wall v's using an approved soundproofing solution.

Does soundproofing work - final checklist

Yes, absolutely soundproofing works. There is no need to live with the stress of unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. Effectively soundproof walls, floors and ceilings by:

Using a tried and tested soundproofing solution
Choosing the right soundproofing solution for the right type of noise
Choosing the right acoustic solution for the level of noise being heard
Installing the system as specified by the expert
Not using quick fixes. Soundproofing quick fixes rarely work and more often than not end up costing more to remove and put right

If you are unsure about whether soundproofing will work, always speak to an expert.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Reduce Reverberation and Echo with Sound Absorption

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:04:19 GMT

Dramatically Reduce Echo and Reverberation with Sound Absorption

The difference between soundproofing and sound absorption

There is often confusion between the difference in soundproofing and sound absorption. In its simplest terms, soundproofing blocks the passage of sound from one room to another, whereas sound absorption is used to improve the internal sound quality of a room by absorbing echo and reverberation within in the room. In turn this helps reduce the volume of the noise within the space but does not help to stop it travelling out of the space.

Sound Absorption products are used to improve the sound quality within a room. Think of a noisy restaurant, it can often be difficult to hear and have a conversation with the person sat right next to you. That is because these types of spaces are big open spaces and have lots of hard reflective surfaces, wooden floors, high ceilings, large glass windows etc. Couple this with lots of people talking and enjoying themselves at the same time and the noise volume in the restaurant goes up. More sound energy is continuing to bounce off these hard surfaces and stay inside the room for longer. Making the clarity of the sound in the room very poor.

Sound absorption and soundproofing explained

How to reduce sound reverberation within a room

Absorbing echo and reverberation within a room (sound absorption) and blocking, or reducing sound transfer from one room to another (soundproofing) require different approaches and solutions.

For soundproofing there are 3 fundamentals:

1. Increase the mass (weight) and density of the wall to make it heavier, as mass helps to block sound

2. Decouple the wall meaning one side of the wall doesn't touch the other. Creating a 'room within a room' and isolating it from the existing structure offers the highest level of soundproofing

3. Dampen the vibration energy of the wall

For sound absorption it is about stopping the reflection of the sound energy off the hard surfaces back into the room.

A useful analogy is to think of soundproofing like waterproofing. If you wanted to build a tank to contain water, would you use glass or sponges? A ridiculous question, however, one that allows a visual of how similarly sound acts to water. Sealed glass would block and hold the water. Sponges would absorb the water but quickly let it seep through. Acoustic treatment using sound absorption products are going to absorb the sound, whereas heavy, dense airtight materials will block the sound (soundproofing).

Echo and Reverberation

Do the same in a room with lots of soft furnishings and the reverberation is very limited and appears flat, with a very short continuation.

The below video is a great example of this. Have a listen to the differences in the clap being heard in a room without any sound absorption and again following the installation of the ProSound™ Acoustic Wall Panels.

Acoustic Treatment: Before & After Test

Now imagine very bouncy basketballs being thrown around the room. You throw them everywhere, in all directions and they continue to bounce around the room.

Room acoustics BEFORE installing ProSound™ Sound Absorption Panels

Room acoustics AFTER installing ProSound™ Sound Absorption Panels

Echo in a village hall - case study

If you are reading this blog, it's more likely that you are looking to absorb sound and need acoustic treatment, rather than blocking sound (soundproofing).

The Soundproofing Store were contacted by 1st Gresley Scout Group, who in their own words, were looking at sound absorption to "deal with a horrendous echo issue."

In this instance it was sound absorption and acoustic treatment, rather than soundproofing which was needed to reduce the echo and overall noise volume in the hall.

In this very real example, it's the same as discussed above. The problem with big halls is that the sound bounces off hard surfaces and continues to reflect and reverberate around the room. This makes hearing very difficult as the sound becomes very "wet" with no clarity to it. The noise volume rises too as the sound energy is staying in the room for longer whilst more sound is being created.

Sound Absorption wall panels need to be added inside the room, as they are designed to absorb the sound waves, reducing the reflections and therefore reducing the reverberation and echo.

People often ask, how many wall panels or ceiling rafts they should use. There is no hard and fast science in terms of how many panels you need or what size etc. It’s a case of the more of the surfaces that are covered, the less echo you will get. However, as a general rule of thumb, look to cover around 25% - 30% of of the wall / ceiling area to achieve a good high level of sound absorption.

Sound Absorption panels come in various shapes, sizes and colours, they can be hung from the ceiling, or fixed onto the walls. This allows for some real creativity and can be used as an artistic feature within the room.

The Solution To The Sound Problem

Mr Barnes the Group Scout leader contacted the Soundproofing Store for advice. Hanging ceiling baffles or rafts were not really an option in this instance, due to ball games being played in the hall and a low ceiling height. Therefore, ProSound™ Acoustic wall panels were added and fixed directly to the ceiling.

It was an ideal solution for their needs as it limited the loss of wall space and ceiling height. They chose a variety of black and red coloured panels to match the "troop colours" of the Gresley Scout Group.

Sound Absorption Wall Panels

In this instance, ProSound™ Wall Panels, 1.2m x 2.4m (Class A) were used within the hall. They were easily fitted by using Sound Absorption Contact Spray Adhesive and Impaling Clips.

Did the ProSound™ Sound Absorption Wall Panels Work?

Mr Barnes, the Group Scout Leader, got in touch to tell The Soundproofing Store how delighted he was and what a difference the sound absorption had made:

"We installed them due to having a real “bounce issue” around the hall. Kids couldn’t hear leaders and leaders really struggled to hear the kids.

Since we installed the sound absorption wall panels, we have had numerous comments about how people can now finally hear each other. One child who wears cochlear implants normally just took them off as soon as they arrived, as they couldn’t hear a thing. They now can!

Another user wears hearing aids and has said how they can now finally understand things that are being said… Honestly it is a real game changer for our site…"

A brilliant result for the 1st Gresley Scout Group and sound absorption reducing the echo within their hall. The Soundproofing Store were delighted to hear it made such a difference to the space, whilst also having such a positive impact on individuals and their enjoyment of the sessions held within the hall.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

Soundproofing A Bell Tower

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 13:35:05 GMT

How to Soundproof A Bell Tower

The most effective soundproofing solution when soundproofing a bell tower

Surprisingly, in the last few months we've had not one but four enquiries about soundproofing a bell tower, so we thought it would make an interesting blog subject.

Here in the UK we love our bell towers! Did you know that there are over 5,000 bell towers for change ringing in England, with less than 300 in the rest of the world.

First of all...Bell towers were obviously created to be LOUD... VERY LOUD. But nowadays the good folks working in the church, and teams of bell ringers don't necessarily want to be deafened by them while working. So we don't want to stop the bells we just want to reduce the volume levels directly below.

The second issue is weather. Most bell towers have large windows or openings for the sound to float out through. Unfortunately that also means that the rain, snow and everything else can get in.

How to soundproof the floor of a bell tower

The key to soundproofing a floor is to:

Improve the mass of the floor - this is normally achieved by adding high mass/density products.
Improve the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibration. Without this, the addition of the mass will have very little effect on impact noise.
Use acoustic insulation between the timber joists to eliminate sound resonating and amplifying in this sealed chamber.
Use different materials of high mass. Different materials perform better for different sound frequencies so using a combination of high mass materials will perform better than simply using more of the same material.

Recommendation for soundproofing a bell tower

We would recommend using our SoundScreed 28 solution on the bell tower floor, as this will add 20kg of mass per m2 to the floor to reduce the amount of airborne sound travelling down into the church.

SoundScreed 28

SoundScreed 28 is 28mm thick and is made up of two layers:

1.The top layer is an 18mm dry screed gypsum bonded to a 10mm wood fibre layer.

2. The boards come in sizes of 1200mm x 600mm and add 20kg of mass per m2

SoundScreed 28 also has an overlap join on all 4 sides which means it is easy to install without any gaps. The closely joined overlap also makes it even more airtight, with only a tiny seam, making it even more effective at blocking airborne sound.

SoundScreed 28 Performance

The main benefit of SoundScreed 28 is that it reduces very high levels of airborne sound from travelling to the room, or space below and from airborne sound below travelling to the room, or space above. This is because of the large amount of mass it adds to the floor. It’s the addition of mass by adding weight to the floor which helps creates a barrier to help block airborne sound. The wood fibre layer also adds some resilience to the floor to help reduce low levels of impact vibration.

Learn more about SoundScreed 28

Soundproofing top tip

As the bells are rung from below with ropes, it means that the bell tower floor may have several holes in it for these ropes to pass through. For the best sound reduction, make these holes as small as the ropes will allow. Every open gap is a weakness, so reducing these holes to the bare minimum will improve the soundproofing.

Do you have a bell tower or another unusual place that needs soundproofing? Visit The Soundproofing Store or contact us via the form below.

It may be of interest to read about other unusual soundproofing projects, such as How to Soundproof a Shipping Container .

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Are landlords responsible for soundproofing their properties?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 13:14:44 GMT

Is soundproofing the responsibility of landlords?

Are landlords responsible for soundproofing their tenants properties?

According to Uswitc h there are currently around 2.74 million landlords in the UK, with the average UK landlord having eight properties in their portfolio. Whether landlords should provide soundproofing in their rental properties depends on a number of factors, including any laws and regulations in the area where the property is located, the terms of the lease agreement between the landlord and the tenant, and the specific needs of the tenant.

In most instances there isn't a necessity for landlords to provide soundproofing or to rectify any noise issues unless the neighbours making the noise are the landlords tenants.

In some cases, it may be necessary (or desirable) for landlords to provide soundproofing in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of tenants. For example, excessive noise levels can cause sleep disruption, which can have negative impacts on physical and mental health.

Ultimately, the decision whether to provide soundproofing should be based on the specific circumstances of the rental property and the requirements of the tenant. It could be that there is excessive noise from neighbours in which case it is always preferable for landlords and tenants to communicate openly and honestly about their concerns and needs, and to work together to find a solution that meets the needs of both parties.

Part E Building Regulations

On the 1st July 2003 the Building Regulations for Soundproofing Part E were introduced to improve sound insulation in buildings.

These regulations highlight the national standard for the construction of buildings in the United Kingdom (different requirements exist for properties in England & Wales and Scotland).

Part E of the Building Regulations covers the "Resistance to the passage of sound" and sets out requirements for the sound insulation of buildings to ensure that they provide a reasonable degree of acoustic privacy for the occupants. These requirements apply to new buildings, as well as to certain types of alterations and extensions to existing buildings. The specific requirements for Part E depend on the type of building and its intended use, as well as its location in relation to other buildings and noise sources. It is important to note that the Building Regulations are minimum standards, and it is possible to exceed these requirements if desired.

Soundproofing to achieve compliance with Part E, or achieving a pass doesn't necessary mean there is adequate soundproofing for individuals living in the property. Learn more about How to Pass and exceed Part E Building Regulations.

Houses and flats which have met the requirements of Part E can still experience unwanted noise issues. For older properties which haven't had to pass any kind of acoustic regulations there is a huge opportunity to improve any unwanted noise passing between walls, floors and ceilings with effective soundproofing.

Is it cost effective for landlords to soundproof their rental property?

According to propertyreporter.co.uk over half (53%) of those people living in rented properties have complained about late night parties and loud noise, compared to just over 35% of those with a mortgage. Almost two thirds (64%) of homeowners with mortgages consider themselves to be 'fairly friendly' with their neighbours, compared to 46% of those living in rented properties.

One of the most common complaints tenants make to their landlords is about unwanted noise issues.

How much soundproofing will cost depends on:

The surface and structure needing to be soundproofed. e.g. is it a wall, floor or ceiling. Is it a concrete or timber floor or ceiling or is it a stud or solid wall?
How loud is the noise needing to be blocked and what type of noise it is. e.g. is it impact or airborne noise (or a combination of the two) is it raised voices or excessive music?
The size of the area that needs soundproofing
Installation costs. The soundproofing solutions provided by The Soundproofing Store can all be fitted by a competent DIYer or local tradesperson

Soundproofing a rental property can have long term benefits and is certainly an investment. Soundproofing can help minimise complaints not only from exiting tenants, but also from any future tenants who might also experience unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. These kind of complaints can often be costly and time consuming for landlords.

Soundproofing rental properties - benefits to landlords and tenants

1.Improved tenant satisfaction: Soundproofing can significantly reduce noise levels in a property, leading to increased tenant satisfaction. Tenants who are happy with their living environment are more likely to stay longer, leading to reduced turnover and costs for the landlord

2. Greater privacy: Soundproofing can help to reduce the amount of noise that travels between properties, providing greater privacy for tenants. For people who work from home or have other responsibilities that require a quiet environment, soundproofing can help to create a more conducive environment for productivity and focus

3. Increased property rental value: Soundproofing can also be a huge positive for rental properties, as it can make them more attractive to potential tenants. This can potentially increase the value of the property for the landlord. Properties that have soundproofing are more attractive to potential renters, leading to higher demand and potentially a higher rental income

4. Increased comfort: Loud noises can be a source of stress and discomfort, particularly for people who are sensitive to noise. Soundproofing can help to create a more peaceful and comfortable living environment, which in turn can lead to tenants wanting to rent a property for longer

Overall, soundproofing can provide numerous benefits for tenants and landlords alike, including improved sleep, increased comfort, greater privacy and better work-life balance. Investing in soundproofing can lead to increased tenant satisfaction, fewer complaints and phone calls to landlords about unwanted noise and increased property value.

What is the best way to soundproof a rental property

When looking at soundproofing solutions for rental properties there are 6 important factors to consider:

1.The construction of the surface needing to be soundproofed. What type of wall or floor is it e.g. is it a stud wall, or solid wall, or a concrete or timber joist floor? This will help determine the most effective soundproofing solution

2. Where is the source of the unwanted noise? e.g. is it through a party wall, noise from above, or noise from below?

3. The type of sound needing to be blocked. Different soundproofing solutions work better against different sound frequencies

4. The level of noise. Is it loud, or excessive noise or lower levels of noise? Again this will determine the soundproofing solution required (it is not possible to over soundproof, but it is certainly possible to under soundproof)

5. The space there is to lose from the wall or floor build-up. As a guide, the higher performing the soundproofing system generally the more space it takes up

6. Budget. The best advice would be to do it once and do it right. Trying to cut corners or use cheaper materials which aren't tried and tested soundproofing solutions can often lead to disappointing results and work out more expensive for landlords in the long run.

What is the best way to soundproof a wall in a rental property?

What is the best way to soundproof a floor in a rental property?

How to soundproof the floor of a rental property with SoundMats

A typical noise complaint from the Housing Ombudsman Service

This case study is a typical example of a noise complaint by a tenant highlighted in the Housing Ombudsman Service 'spotlight on noise' Complaints 'Time to be heard' October 2022

Housing Ombudsman.org.uk

Mr C lives in a ground floor flat and was concerned by the amount of noise transference coming from the flat above him. He could hear creaking floorboards and daily living noises, which he feels was amplified by the fact they had laminate flooring. Mr C works nights, and so the noise in the daytime was particularly troublesome for him.

Having tried to resolve the issue informally with his upstairs neighbours, Mr C reported the issue to the landlord in November 2019. The landlord opened an ASB case, issued Mr C with the Noise app, visited Mr C’s property to witness the noise, and wrote to the neighbour.

In December, the landlord concluded the noise was daily living noise and closed the ASB case. Frustratingly for Mr C, he had stated as much from the outset and had never indicated his issue was with the neighbours or their ‘behaviour’, but with the laminate flooring.

Mr C continued to make noise reports from March 2020 onwards, and the landlord reiterated its position about daily living noise in response. Their suggestions to Mr C included earplugs and changing his shift pattern at work. Mr C’s position remained that the issue was to do with the laminate flooring.

It took until October 2020, 11 months later, and Mr C going through the formal complaints procedure, for the landlord to inspect the upstairs property, acknowledge that the laminate flooring should not have been fitted without their consent, and to write to the leaseholders of the property to request the issues be resolved by way of laying rugs, installing carpet with acoustic underlay, or soundproofing.

Outcome:

Service failure regarding the landlord’s delay in contacting the leaseholder to resolve the issue of the carpets, and also a failure to sufficiently manage Mr C’s expectations. The landlord was ordered to pay Mr C £150 in compensation.

The Soundproofing Store receive hundreds of calls from people in a similar situation whereby the person living above has changed their final floor finish from carpet to a hard floor finish and in doing so has greatly increased the amount of unwanted noise which can now be heard below. The below blog goes into more detail:

What is the best way to soundproof a ceiling in a rental property?

If there is access to the floor above, then the preferred option would be to soundproof the floor above rather than the ceiling. This is because it is always more beneficial to soundproof (especially against impact noise) at the source of the noise before it travels further into the structure of the building.

However, if there is no access to the floor above then it is important to consider:

Is the noise coming from above impact or airborne noise (or a combination of both)
Is the ceiling concrete or timber

How to soundproof a timber ceiling with the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution

The below blog goes into more detail about how to soundproof both concrete and timber ceilings:

Soundproofing rental properties - Summary

Although in most cases there is no legal obligation for landlords to soundproof their properties, there are certainly many benefits in doing so.

There are a number of extremely effective soundproofing solutions for different structure types with differing performance levels. These different tried and tested soundproofing solutions for walls, floors and ceilings have been highlighted above and to ensure the correct system is used in the correct circumstances, then our advice would be to always speak to an expert.

Should you have any questions, or need any soundproofing help or advice, then please don't hesitate to call the number below and a member of our expert team will be more than happy to help.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a garden shed as a music room?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:36:55 GMT

How to soundproof a garden shed?

At The Soundproofing Store we speak to customers on a regular basis who are enquiring and needing advice on how to soundproof a garden shed and turn it into a music studio.

The starting point when soundproofing any space and especially important when looking to soundproof a music room or recording studio is 'what is the structure made of'?' If the structure is wood, then this can pose potential problems, the reasons as to why are highlighted below.

Why lightweight wooden structures are not good for soundproofing

There can be a big variation in 'sheds' and timber structures. A flimsy garden shed is going to be different to a more sturdy garden room or summer house. Any wooden frame with more substance and weight will always be a better starting point than a thinner, more flimsy prefabricated timber structure such as a garden shed.

Why a garden shed doesn't make a good starting point for a music studio

Airborne noise is blocked by mass and timber structures don't have much mass, especially when compared to concrete or block structures such as garages
They are not a strong enough structure to take the weight of soundproofing materials which are very heavy. Usually a garden shed is designed to only take the weight of itself
To soundproof a timber structure to the same standard as a solid structure will require a 'room within a room' to be built (at least 10mm away from the existing structure). and a small shed may not have enough room to accommodate this
A secondary ceiling is also needed and usually the ceiling height is too low to be able to do this in most garden sheds
Most prefabricated garden sheds have flimsy doors and single glazed windows, which are not sealed or airtight. These are a serious weaknesses for noise to travel through

A garden shed does not offer a heavy or substantial enough starting point to soundproof and turn into a music studio. More sturdy wooden structures such as garden rooms can be adapted as they are often much more substantial. If you are unsure if your wooden structure (whether it be a shed, shepherds hut, summerhouse or log cabin) is a suitable structure for a music studio, then feel free to send images and dimensions (ceiling height is important) to us and we will happily advise you.

How to soundproof wooden garden room: 10 key steps

However, we have successfully soundproofed 100's of garden sheds providing that the structure is more substantial than a standard garden timber shed and there is enough head height for a secondary ceiling.

There are some key steps to follow when soundproofing a music studio within a timber structure:

Remove any internal plasterboard or cladding
Insulate the existing frame with acoustic insulation such as mineral wool
Build a 'room within a room' (with the ReductoClip System ) A stud frame is built a minimum of 10mm away from the existing structure to decouple the soundproofing layers from the original structure
Also insulate the independent stud frame with acoustic mineral wool
Add isolation clips and bars such as ReductoClips and Reducto Furring bars to the new timber frame. ReductoClips are designed to absorb sound energy and vibration. They allow the soundproofing layers to flex and add resilience once the acoustic layers are added
Add mass. Heavy and dense materials block airborne noise
Use a combination of different heavy soundproofing materials (the law of diminishing returns if you simply use more of the same)
Attach a recommended build up of acoustic insulation materials such as: acoustic grade plasterboard, FlexiSound and a further layer of acoustic grade plasterboard
Upgrade windows and doors. Upgrade to heavy fire doors and install a double door system and install either acoustic triple glazing or two sets of double glazing. (even better have no windows)
Use acoustic ventilation which is designed to ventilate and reduce the transference of noise (more details in the acoustic ventilation section below)

ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System Build-up

The importance of creating a 'room within a room' when soundproofing a music studio

For optimum results when soundproofing to the high level required for a music studio it is important to create 'a room within a room'. The new soundproof resilient walls of ReductoClips and high mass and vibration absorbing materials are built in front of the existing wooden structure, along with a suspended ceiling and floating floor above the subfloor. Basically creating a soundproof box. This stops any energy vibration from transferring through the structure of the original wooden building and spreading through the walls, floor and ceiling. This is why it's important to soundproof every surface. e.g if you only soundproof the walls the vibration will just travel through the floor and ceiling.

Add Acoustic Mineral Wool Between Joists and Voids

Acoustic mineral doesn't block sound, it is used to absorb sound within the cavities of the timber studio structure. The recommendation would be to remove any existing plasterboard or cladding within the timber structure and fill the exposed frame with acoustic mineral wool . This absorbs any sound within this void from amplifying and resonating within the space.

Acoustic mineral wool is also added between the independent stud frame, ceiling joists and floor joists. More details on each of these can be found below.

What is the preferred soundproofing system for a garden shed

As highlighted, it isn't possible to soundproof a flimsy garden shed and turn it into a music or recording studio. However, if the shed or wooden structure is more substantial the recommended solution would be to use the ReductoClip Independent System .

Why use the ReductoClip System to soundproof a music studio?

The ReductoClip soundproofing solution is an exceptionally high performing system which can be used on the walls and ceilings to soundproof a music studio.

Whilst delivering an outstanding performance against excessive noise, there are many benefits to the ReductoClip acoustic solution over and above other clip and bar systems:

Slimmest isolation clip system on the market at only 25mm thick - almost half the thickness of other clip and bar systems
A more substantial and robust clip compared to other clips to take the weight of heavy soundproofing materials
Dual rubber isolation which means the ReductClip can absorb different sound frequencies compared to other clips which have only one type of rubber
Wider spacings for the furring bars at 50mm wide mean a much wider fixing plate than alternative furring bars used with other clips. This makes installation much easier and much quicker, as there is more surface area to work with
Furring bars have a central middle groove which makes finding the midpoint when butting up acoustic plasterboard much easier
High density foam on the back of the ReductoClips which separates the clip from the timber frame allows flex to further absorb sound energy and vibrations. (Very similar to the way the suspension in a car absorbs the impact of a rough road and potholes).

Benefits of the ReductoClip compared to other isolation clip systems

How to soundproof the floor of a timber structure

With concrete floors there is the added benefit of them already having a great deal of mass. The Soundproofing Store have a number of floor solutions which also include thin acoustic solutions to minimise any floor height buildup. However, if the floor is timber then it's a little more complex as the wooden floor doesn't provide the same level of 'natural' soundproofing qualities as that of a heavier floor such as concrete.

4 ways to soundproof the timber floor of a music studio:

Lift the existing wooden floor and add acoustic mineral wool between joists
Refit the the existing floor over the top of the insulated floor space
Add more mass to the floor to help block airborne noise. Our recommendation would be SoundScreed WF28
Add a further layer of soundproofing on top of the SoundScreed WF28 to add more mass and to also add resilience to help with impact vibrations. Our recommendation would be to add SoundMat 3 Plus or SoundMat 2 Plus

Floor soundproofing solutions for a timber floor within a music studio

Firstly remove the existing wooden floor and add acoustic mineral wool between the joists. Acoustic mineral wool isn't a soundproofing material, but is important to use as it stops any sound reverberating and amplifying within what will effectively become a mini sealed chamber.

Once the acoustic mineral wool has been added and the original wooden floor has been relayed it is important to add a soundproofing product that will add a large amount of mass to the floor.

SoundScreed 28 is an overlay board for timber floors and is used for reducing high levels of airborne sound. This is because of the large amount of mass it adds to the original timber floor. SoundScreed WF28 adds 22kg of mass per m2. The equivalent in weight of two cases of beer per m2 (other 24 packs of cans are available!)

This addition of mass helps to create a barrier to help block loud levels of airborne noise, such as music:

SoundScreed WF28 :

28mm thick
2 layers: top layer is an 18mm dry screed panel bonded to a 10mm wood fibre layer
Simple DIY installation
Delivers superior sound control for airborne noise
Cost effective - cheaper than other timber floor soundproofing solutions

Learn more about SoundScreed WF28 as a soundproofing solution for studio timber floors

Soundproofing the timber floor of a music studio

SoundScreed WF28 is a great solution for the timber floors of music studios when blocking airborne noise. However, the recommendation would be to further upgrade the performance of the timber floor by also adding SoundMat 3 Plus or SoundMat 2 Plus on top of the SoundScreed WF28.

Adding one of the SoundMats is beneficial as they add further mass for blocking airborne noise and importantly also add resilience to block impact noise and vibration.

SoundMat 3 Plus :

15mm thick
3 layers of soundproofing: 3mm Mass loaded vinyl, 9mm closed cell foam and a further 3mm layer of mass loaded vinyl
Used to block both high impact noise and loud levels of airborne noise
Acts as a luxury carpet underlay
Easy DIY installation

SoundMat 2 Plus :

12mm thick
2 layers of soundproofing: 3mm Mass loaded vinyl and 9mm closed cell foam
Used to block both high impact noise and medium levels of airborne noise
Acts as a carpet underlay
Easy DIY installation

Learn more about SoundMat 3 Plus and SoundMat 2 Plus acoustic floor insulation

How to soundproof the ceiling of a timber structure

Depending on the ceiling height within the timber structure, there are a couple of options when it comes to soundproofing the ceiling of a music studio and the main principles remain the same:

Improve the mass of the ceiling by adding different high mass soundproofing materials such as Tecsound and Acoustic Plasterboard
Use high impact clips and bars

ReductoClips can be added directly to the joists of the ceiling. However, this depends if the existing timber joists are strong enough to take the weight of the soundproofing which is then added to the ReductoClips and Reducto Furring Channels (similar to the walls solution described at the start).

Secondary ceiling joists when soundproofing the ceiling of a timber music studio

Acoustic mineral wool is added between the original ceiling joists
Secondary jousts are added with an air gap below the existing timber joists. The secondary joists are attached to the top of the timber frame used in the independent wall solution. (The room within a room)
Acoustic mineral wool is also added between the secondary joists. The ReductoClips are then attached to the secondary joists

The thickness of the timber stud frame needs to be thick enough to take the weight of the secondary joists and the thickness is also determined by the size of the timber room being soundproofed.

Upgrade the windows and doors of a music studio

Windows and doors will always be a weak point as they contain less mass and therefore don't naturally block noise. In a perfect world there would be just one single width door and no windows at all. However, this often isn't realistic if people want a view and/ or natural light within the studio.

If removing windows isn't an option then it is important to double them up. Because of the new soundproofed independent wall on the inside of the timber structure there will be one window on the external structure and another window (secondary glazing on the inside). This will still be a weak point, but this is the best way to minimise this weakness.

Recommended double window detail within a music studio

Single entrance doors within a music studio

The heavier and more mass a door has, the more sound it will block. As with any windows the preferred option would be to double up the door with one door on the external structure and the other door on the internal soundproof wall. Upgrading to heavier fire doors is also recommended.

Double doors when soundproofing a music studio

Acoustic ventilation comparisons for music studios

Acoustic ventilation within a music studio is tricky a it's basically the complete opposite of what is trying to be achieved when soundproofing. With the soundproofing described above the objective is to create an airtight room within a room. A barrier of sealed mass to stop air from passing in and out. When air can pass in and out, so can sound. However, when soundproofing a music studio the likelihood is that acoustic ventilation is needed. The practicalities of a musician in an airtight studio working long hours without any airflow, just isn't an option.

How to ventilate a music studio

How to achieve the best sound reduction whilst also ventilating a music studio:

Use the best location to position the vent e.g. if possible, choose an external wall not pointing towards neighbours
Absorb the sound by lining the vent with soft absorbent material such as acoustic mineral wool and open cell foam
The longer the vent ducting is, with with more turns forcing the sound to bounce off the sound absorbing material, the more sound is absorbed before it leaves the vent
Use a baffle box or sound maze which forces the air to turn multiple times and bounce off soft absorbing materials

Learn more about acoustic ventilation for music studios

ProSound™ Acoustic Vent System

The ProSound Acoustic Ventilation System 55dB is an example of an acoustic ventilation system used in music studios which provides the required ventilation, whilst also reducing the transfer of noise.

Is it possible to soundproof a shed as a music room - summary

The weaknesses of a wooden structure as a starting point of a music studio have been highlighted. If the wooden structure is more substantial than the likes of a garden shed then the key steps to soundproof a music studio within a timber structure include:

Insulating the existing timber frame with acoustic insulation such as mineral wool
Build a 'room within a room'. A stud frame is built a minimum of 10mm away from the existing structure to decouple the soundproofing layers from the original structure
Add isolation clips and bars such as ReductoClips and Reducto Furring bars to the new timber frame
Add mass. Heavy and dense materials are needed to block airborne noise
Use a combination of different heavy soundproofing materials (the law of diminishing returns if you simply use more of the same)
Attach a recommended build up of acoustic insulation materials such as: acoustic grade plasterboard, FlexiSound and a further layer of acoustic grade plasterboard
Add more mass to the floor to help block airborne noise, such as SoundScreed 28
Add a further layer of soundproofing on top of the SoundScreed 28 to add more mass and to also add resilience to help with impact vibration, such as SoundMat 3 Plus
Add secondary ceiling joists with an air gap below the existing timber ceiling joists
Acoustic mineral wool is also added between the original and secondary joists to stop sound from amplifying and vibrating
ReductoClips are then attached to the secondary ceiling joists
Upgrade windows and doors. Upgrade to heavy fire doors and double them up
Use acoustic ventilation which is designed to ventilate and reduce the transference of noise

Should you have any questions, or need any advice on your studio build, please don't hesitate to get in touch with a member of our expert music studio team on (01423) 206208, or via the contact form below.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How Much Does Soundproofing Cost?

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 01:00:00 GMT

How Much Does Soundproofing Cost?

When living in the UK, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reportedly spent £50,000 on soundproofing, (as reported in The Daily Mail ). Not to block out noise from their son Archie, who was only young at the time, but from Jets at Heathrow - 8 miles away from their former (UK) residence at Frogmore house.

Unsurprisingly, one of the most common questions we get asked is - How Much Does Soundproofing Cost?

Fear not, you don’t need to be royalty or a millionaire to soundproof your home from noisy neighbours, build a recording studio, create a home cinema room, or soundproof a garden room. The short answer to this question is, it varies, depending on four key factors:

4 key factors that affect the cost of soundproofing:

1. What type of structure are you trying to soundproof? Is it a wall, floor, ceiling or studio?

2. What is the noise you are trying to block? (noisy neighbours - TV noise, music, talking, shouting, footsteps, dogs barking) the list can be pretty endless

How loud is the noise you are trying to block? e.g low conversational tones or excessive shouting or loud music
What type of noise are you trying to block, e.g. impact noise or airborne noise or a combination of both

3. The size of the area that needs soundproofing? A larger space will require more soundproofing materials n potentially take longer to install

4. Installation costs. Many standard soundproofing systems can be fitted by a competent DIY or local tradesperson. However, some more complicated systems may need professional installers (e.g. home cinema rooms).

Installation costs:

Local tradespeople may charge around £300 per day

A professional soundproofing installer may charge around £500 per day

Below is a useful guide showcasing some of our most common and effective soundproofing systems per meter squared to give you a rough idea of the materials cost (updated September 2024). The systems highlighted all come with comprehensive installation guides and videos and can be installed by a competent DIYer. (Over 80% of Soundproofing Store customers install the soundproofing themselves).

How much does it cost to soundproof an existing wall?

Solid Walls Soundproofing Cost:

Below are the 3 main solid wall soundproofing solutions and their respective costs (ex VAT) per m2. Each offering a different sound insulation performance. For example, wall soundproofing solutions that are extremely effective at blocking low levels of noise, ranging to those wall soundproofing solutions that are exceptional at blocking excessive noise.

The correct system depends on how much sound you want to reduce and how much space can you afford to lose. Generally, the higher performing the system, the more space you will lose.

The Top 3 Soundproofing Solutions for Solid Brick Walls

1. ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

Level of Noise: Excessive and high levels of noise across all frequencies. Providing an excellent performance against impact and airborne noise such as loud music, shouting, babies crying, very loud TV noise and impact noise. This system is the highest performing wall soundproofing solution and is also used in recording studios and home cinemas.

Solution: ReductoClip™ Independent Stud Wall System (120mm thick)
Materials cost: From £69.00 per m² Ex VAT (Based on a wall size of 3.6m x 2.4m)

How to soundproof a wall using the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

2. ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall Soundproofing Solution

The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System transformed the home of Mr and Mrs Billanie and their young children. They had fallen out of love with their home because of the excessive noise they were experiencing from their noisy neighbours. The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System helped to restore peace and quiet within their home and was invaluable in giving them back the privacy and sanctuary they were missing. The cost came in at just over £1,000 (inc VAT) for around 10m2.

A full case study on this wall soundproofing project can be found below:

Level of Noise: Loud levels of noise, e.g. clear words, music, dogs barking, babies crying and dampening of impact noise. An excellent compromise on performance v's space loss.

Solution: ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System (60mm thick)
Materials cost: From £63 per m² Ex VAT (Based on a wall size of 3.6m x 2.4m)

How to soundproof a solid wall using the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

ReductoClip™ Soundproofing System Product Overview

3. SoundBoard 4™ Soundproofing Panel

SoundBoard 4 is a direct to wall soundproofing panel and is an excellent soundproofing choice for low mass structures such as internal stud walls.

SoundBoard 4 direct to wall soundproofing panels are used on a solid brick walls if space constraints mean the ReductoClip System can't be used. However, the SoundBoard 4 soundproofing panel isn't suitable for impact noise, bass sounds, music, deep voices or snoring. This would also be a limitation for any direct to wall soundproofing board. For these types of sounds and impact vibrations you need a system that decouples from the existing structure, such as the ReductoClip™ System (as highlighted above).

Solution: Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard 4 ™ System (30mm thick)
Materials cost: From £47 per m² Ex VAT

SoundBoard 4 Product Overview

How to soundproof a brick wall against noisy neighbours using SoundBoard4™

By using the SoundBoard 4 soundproofing panel, the level of noise was reduced from 64dB of noise (the equivalent of loud TV or loud conversations) to 37dB (a mere 2dB above quiet ambient noise). For a soundproofing cost of less than £500 (not including installation) with the result of blocking nearly all noise coming from noisy neighbours. The level of noise reduction, satisfaction and relief this provided, arguably means that the cost of soundproofing can in fact be priceless.

Stud Walls Soundproofing Costs:

The SoundBoard 4 is a direct to wall soundproofing panel and is an excellent choice for soundproofing an internal stud wall. The below video shows a detailed installation and before and after sound test of SoundBoard 4 installed on a dividing wall separating bedrooms in a hotel. The size of the wall was roughly 12m² and the cost of the soundproofing panel was just under £900 including VAT and delivery. There were no installation costs as the soundproofing panels were installed by the owner of the hotel.

How to install soundproofing panels SoundBoard 4 on a stud wall

How much does it cost to soundproof a floor?

Soundproofing a floor is an excellent solution to reduce noise from footsteps, furniture movement, and general activity. Whether you live in a multi-story building or want to minimise noise between floors in your home, soundproofing a floor can be an effective way to create a quieter environment. The cost of soundproofing a floor varies depending on the type of soundproofing materials, the size of the space, and whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself. let's take a look at 3 floor soundproofing solutions and their costs.

Timber Joist Floors Soundproofing Cost:

The below video highlights 3 tried and tested timber floor soundproofing solutions to help reduce unwanted noise from noisy neighbours. The video highlights the differences between each solution, how they perform against impact and airborne noise and their suitability for different final floor finishes.

The Top 3 Soundproofing Solutions for Timber Floors

The 3 floor solutions mentioned in the above video, plus a further 2 solutions are highlighted below detailing their performance against airborne noise, impact noise, or both. Along with a guide of how much each floor soundproofing solution costs.

Reverso SoundMat Floor Soundproofing Solution

1.Level of Noise: Loud levels of airborne noise and high impact noise

Solution: Reverso SoundMat™
Materials cost: From £45.76 + VAT per m²

Reverso SoundMat™ Floor Soundproofing Product Overview

SoundMat 3 Plus Floor Soundproofing Solution

2.Level of Noise: Loud levels of airborne noise and high impact noise

Solution: SoundMat™ 3 Plus
Materials cost: From £34.68 + VAT per m²

SoundMat 3 Plus and SoundMat 2 Plus Floor Soundproofing Overview

SoundMat 2 Plus Floor Soundproofing Solution

3. Level of Noise: Medium levels of airborne and high impact noise

Solution: SoundMat™ 2 Plus
Materials cost: From £23.22 + VAT per m²

SoundScreed WF28 Floor Soundproofing Solution

4. Level of Noise: Excessive levels of airborne noise and low impact noise

Solution: SoundScreed 28mm
Materials cost: From £52.70 + VAT per m²

SoundScreed 28 Floor Soundproofing Product Overview

ImpactoMat Floor Soundproofing Solution

5. Level of Noise: Low levels of impact noise only

Solution: ImpactoMat™ 5mm
Materials cost: From £11.43 + VAT per m²

ImpactoMat 5mm Floor Soundproofing Product Overview

How to soundproof a floor against noisy neighbours using SoundMat™ 3 Plus

The cost of soundproofing an average floor size of 4m x 4m using SoundMat 3 Plus (as shown in the video) was £949 (inc VAT). This didn't include installation, as the SoundMat 3 Plus is an easy DIY install.

How to soundproof a floor with ProSound™ SoundScreed 28

Concrete Floors Soundproofing Cost:

1.Level of Noise: Low levels of impact / footsteps noise only

Solution: ImpactoMat™ 5mm
Materials cost: From £11.43 + VAT per m²

How much does it cost to soundproof a ceiling?

Timber Joist Ceilings Soundproofing Cost:

1.Level of Noise: General conversation and footsteps noise

Solution: ReductoClip™ Ceiling System
Materials cost: From £89.00 + VAT per m²

How to soundproof a timber joisted ceiling using the ReductoClip™ Ceiling System

How much does it cost to soundproof a music room?

Building a soundproof music studio is crucial for producing high-quality recordings and keeping external noise from affecting your work. Crucially it also helps contain sound within the studio, preventing it from disturbing nearby spaces. The cost of soundproofing a music studio can vary significantly based on factors like the size of the space, the level of soundproofing needed, and the materials you choose. As a rough guide, to fully soundproof an existing average sized garage and turn it into a soundproof music studio the materials cost would be about £5,500 ex VAT.

Studios / Soundproof rooms Cost:

How to soundproof a garden room music studio

The benefits of investing in soundproofing

The cost of soundproofing walls, floors or ceilings within your home have been highlighted within this article and the benefits of investing in soundproofing can have huge benefits.

People often talk about a 'cost per wear' especially when justifying buying an expensive new item of clothing, or a pair of shoes etc. When applying the same principle to soundproofing within your home, where many, many, many hours are spent every day and night, then this is a sound investment (no pun intended!). Many of the benefits of soundproofing are emotional and the positive difference a quiet living space can have to mental health and wellbeing can make it near impossible to equate a monetary value. Transforming a home which is riddled by unwanted noise (often from noisy neighbours) and then achieving peace and quiet within your home through soundproofing can often be perceived as priceless:

Improved sleep by helping to block out unwanted noise which aids concentration and has many health benefits
Reduced stress by creating a more peaceful and quiet environment within your home
Increased privacy. Soundproofing works both ways, so helping to block unwanted noise from neighbours also helps reduce the noise your neighbours may have been hearing from your home
Increased home value, as soundproofing will be seen as a desirable feature for many buyers

To learn more about our the award winning soundproofing products from The Soundproofing Store , please feel free to call a member of our expert team on 01423 206208.

Alternatively, if you would like to find out the cost of soundproofing a wall, floor, or ceiling you can always 'Request a Quote' as found in the 'Need Help?' section below.

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Sound Absorption

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 10:56:21 GMT

Sound Absorption

Maximising your Acoustic Environment with Sound Absorption

According to an article in the Sunday Times some restaurants are so noisy it would be quieter to sit down and eat next to a lawnmower. A minimalist trend in interior such as hard floors and bare walls is a large cause for the amplified noise.
Action on Hearing Loss, a charity for the hard of hearing, measured noise levels in restaurant chains and found one restaurant with levels of noise, measuring a staggering 90db which is the equivalent of beeing sat next to a loud motorbike. With The World Health Organisation (WHO) defining excessive noise as a serious health hazard perhaps it is time look at what Sound Absorption is available.

In this blog we are going to break down Sound Absorption (it isn't as complicated as some suggest) and highlight sound absorption solutions for walls and celings. Loud restaurants gain a lot of attention when it comes to noise problems, however - noise reverberation, amplification and noise echo can occur in any space; school halls, village and sports halls, studios, meeting rooms and cinemas to mention a few.

All of the options we detail below are designed so that they can be installed anywhere.

What is Sound Absorption?

Sound Absorption is quite straight forward in that it is designed to reduce the echo of a room and allows for clearer sound, making it easier to hear.

What is the difference between Sound Absorption and Soundproofing?

Sound absorption is the reducing of echo and noise reverberation within a room and in doing so helps to reduce the volume of noise, whilst increasing the clarity. Think of a noisy restaurant where noise energy is being amplified with sound continuously bouncing off the hard surfaces and therefore being magnified throughout the room. It can often be incredibly difficult to hear the person sat opposite, or even next to you.

Soundproofing is the stopping of sound energy in blocking noise from transferring through a structure and into another room. Soundproofing can block noise from entering a room, or block noise from leaving a room.

The difference between soundproofing and sound absorption

Echo and Sound Absorption

Echo is sound energy repeating around a room. Sound energy will bounce off smooth, hard surfaces much in the same way a rubber ball bounces off the ground. Although the direction of the sound changes, the echo sounds the same as the original sound. This creates an amplifying effect and makes everything seem very loud, often making conversation in these kind of spaces hard to understand. The louder the source the more energy that sound wave has and therefore the more voices in a space, the louder the noise in that space gets.

The below video shows a simple before and after test highlighted by clapping hands in a room without any acoustic treatment and again in the same room following the installation of ProSound™ Acoustic Wall Panels.

Before acoustic treatment and after acoustic treatment

How do Sound Absorption Panels work?

The soft material used in sound panels is designed to absorb sound energy and stop this energy from bouncing around the room and reflecting off the surfaces. Class A panels like the ones available from The Soundproofing Store, are tested to absorb 90-100% of sound energy that hits them. This means you require less panels in an area to achieve good results, compared to lower performing panels. You may have seen panels that look like the image above and these require nearly the whole surface covering to get good results. Plus, aesthetically, they don’t look particularly appealing.

Where would you need to use Room Acoustic sound Absorption?

Social spaces such as; restaurants, bars, schools, offices, and large halls would require some degree of sound absorption. Whenever you have a large space with hard surfaces coupled with noise, such as lots of voices. The noise will resonate / echo around the room, amplifying the noise resulting in the noise taking longer to dissipate.

When wouldn't Room Acoustic Treatment be required?

If an airborne or impact noise travels through a ceiling, wall or floor causing a problem to the neighbour then you would want to block (or Soundproof) the surface against the noise with some effective soundproofing or sound insulation materials.

What is best practice for improving Room Acoustics with sound absorption?

Aim to fill a third of the space with good quality class 'A' sound absorption, such as the ProSound™ Wall Panels, Ceiling Rafts, or Hanging Baffles. It is better to fill a thirdof a space with a quality class 'A' panel than fill a whole space with inferior SoundAbsorption products.

Choosethe right acoustic product for the right room type. With an array ofacoustic products out there all with individual merits, it is important to use productsfit for purpose. For example, if you are trying to dampen noise in a restaurantand the ceiling is high you may want to use something like the ProSound™ Hanging Baffles . Or if you are implementing wall panels on a sports hall then you maywant to consider thicker sound absorption panels able to resist high impact.

Understand your room space and consider how muchnoise reverberation you require. For example, in a restaurant you don’t want thenoise to drop too flat as you want atmosphere, but equally you want yourcustomers to be able to hear their friends.

Use different types of sound absorption ensuringsound is being absorbed from different parts of the room. Use a mixture of ProSound™ Wall Panels and ProSound™ Ceiling hanging baffles to reduce more echo and sound reverberation.

How many Sound Absorption Panels are needed?

As a general rule of thumb we look to cover around 30% of the surface area of the room, whilst also placing the absorption panels as close to the source as possible, without interfering with the look of the room.

What Acoustic Panel options are available for sound absorption?

The Soundproofing Store supply panels in three categories. Wall Panels, Ceiling Rafts and Hanging Baffles. Find out more by watching the below video, or feel free to contact us on 01423 206208, or via email sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk

Sound Absorption: ProSound™ Ceiling Rafts

ProSound™ Ceiling Rafts are a high quality sound absorption panel, used to control reverberant noise and echo in rooms and areas with hard surfaces. With high impact resistance, they are also suitable for use in sports areas.

The stunning visual effect of acoustic ceiling rafts are also designed to look great, giving you the ability to use panels as part of your internal design and decor.

ProSound™ Ceiling Rafts are available in a range of over 90 colours to suit all designs and are easy to install, without the need of specialist tools.

ProSound™ Ceiling Rafts are designed to absorb sound energy from the front and the back making them ideal for high reverberation areas. This isnt the case with ceiling panels that are attached directly to the ceiling, as they aren't able to absorb sound energy on the back side of the panel. Therefore meaning you would need more panels to absorb the same amount of energy than with the ProSound™ Ceiling Rafts.

Sound Absorption: ProSound™ Hanging Ceiling Baffles

ProSound™Hanging Baffles are used to reduce reverberant noise and echo in areas with hard surfaces. Used in buildings such as studios, lecture theatres, music rooms, offices, boardrooms, sports and community halls, cinemas and interview rooms. They can also be used to meet BB93 regulations for reducing reverberation in school classrooms. ProSound™ baffles transform stark, echoing areas into warmer, quieter and congenial places to work.

ProSound™ Hanging Baffles are designed to reduce reverberation and reflected sound within rooms, without taking up valuable wall space and obstructing ceiling furniture such as lighting and air-conditioning.

As with the ceiling rafts, the hanging baffles are also available in a variety of colours and sizes. The baffles are easy to install, as they don't require any specialist tools. No additional trims are required, as the ProSound™ baffle fabric is fully wrapped on all 4 edges.

ProSound™ ceiling baffles are designed to absorb sound energy from the front and the back, making them ideal for high reverberation areas where space is limited.

Sound Absorption: ProSound™ Acoustic Wall Panels

ProSound™ Acoustic Wall Panels are high specification acoustic panel systems. These are the most popular aesthetic sound absorbing panels. They are durable, fire rated, visually pleasing and offer excellent acoustic performance. They are the decorative solution to your sound control needs. The panels are used extensively to transform areas such as multi-purpose halls, open-plan offices, conference suites, studios and interview rooms into softer, quieter and workable environments.

Panels are finished in high quality acoustic fabrics and are available in a wide range of colours. Are easy to install, without the need of specialist tools and can be installed without any additional edging trims, as the fabric is fully wrapped on all 4 edges.

Specification

Panel thickness: 25mm or 40mm
Available in multiple colour options
For other shapes please contact us
Wall surfaces must be flat and level

Sound Absorption Summary

To conclude, areas of space with hard surfaces allow noise to reverberate, amplify and echo. Consider your space and the purpose of the space and use 'Class A' Sound Absorption solutions to reduce this problem. Remember when considering your space, reduce the noise problem to the right level rather than killing it completely. After all, we all like some ambient background sound in certain locations such as restaurants and bars.

If you have enjoyed this blog, please have a look at our wall blog - How to soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours .

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

What is flanking noise?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Sun, 23 Oct 2022 10:30:53 GMT

What is flanking noise and how best to stop it?

What is flanking sound?

Flanking sound, or flanking noise typically refers to the sound that travels around or bypasses a barrier, such as a wall, floor or ceiling. In the context of acoustics and sound transmission, flanking sound occurs when sound waves find paths of least resistance. Often travelling through, around, or over structures. This can lead to sound leakage or transmission through indirect routes, even if the main barrier itself is designed to be soundproof.

For example, if you have a soundproof wall between two rooms, flanking sound could occur if sound waves travel through gaps around windows, doors, vents, or other structural elements attached to the wall.

Why does flanking sound occur?

Flanking noise happens because sound waves can travel through solid materials and structures. When sound encounters an obstacle like a wall, it can continue to be transmitted through the wall itself. In the case of flanking noise, sound waves find a path of least resistance (a sort cut), leading them to travel around or through building elements that are not well-sealed or insulated.

Factors that contribute to flanking noise include:

Structural Weak Points: If there are gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed joints in walls, floors, or ceilings, then sound can find its way through these openings

Flanking walls, floors and ceilings: Vibrations from one area can transmit sound to another through shared structural elements, like studs or beams, creating a flanking noise effect

Airborne Sound: Airborne sound waves can enter one space, travel through gaps or openings, and then re-emerge as flanking noise in another space

Impact Noise: Footsteps or other impact sounds can generate vibrations that travel through floors and walls. For example, impact noise from footsteps above can produce flanking noise in adjacent areas, such as the walls

Voids: Areas such as wall cavities, raised floors and suspended ceilings which create a space for sound to be amplified in creating 'the drum effect'

Suspended Ceilings: Are commonly used in commercial buildings and office spaces as well as residential properties. The space created between the original ceiling and secondary ceiling can act as a void for sound to amplify and echo within

Ducts and Pipework: When sound travels along pipes and through the buildings structure, this can create a path for noise to enter adjacent spaces

Dot and Dab Plasterboard: Creates small gaps behind the plasterboard and the wall which can contribute to flanking noise

Chimney Flues: Sound can be transmitted through or around the chimney structure from one area to another. Chimney flues are designed to vent gases and smoke from fireplaces, stoves, or heating appliances safely out of a building. However, they can sometimes transmit sound to different parts of the building

Doors: If the wall is well soundproofed then the door will be the weakest point (especially the gaps around the door if it is not airtight)

Ceiling holes for lighting: Spotlights and downlights require big holes to be cut out of the ceiling which sound can pass through

How to stop flanking noise

Stopping or reducing flanking noise involves identifying and addressing the paths through which sound waves can bypass or travel around. Here are some steps you can take to minimise flanking noise:

Seal any obvious small gaps and openings. Inspect the area for potential gaps around doors, windows, electrical outlets, and any other openings. Use acoustic door seals and acoustic sealant to close these gaps and prevent sound from leaking through
When soundproofing a wall, also use acoustic mineral wool in voids between joists in the floor along the party wall up to about 150cm in from the offending wall
Adding Acoustic Mineral Wool also helps to stop sound from travelling round and amplifying in wall, floor and ceiling cavities
Decouple Structures: Decoupling involves creating an air gap to prevent vibrations and sound from easily travelling through structural connections. This can be achieved by using tried and tested isolation solutions such as the ReductoClip System for floors and ceilings
Address floor and ceiling flanking by using acoustic SoundMats directly to the floor, or resilient ReductoClips to the timber joists of ceilings to isolate these surfaces and minimise the transmission of any flanking sound
Sound can travel through ventilation systems. Use acoustic ducting and consider adding baffles or dampening materials within ducts to reduce noise transmission
Double glazing for windows: If windows are a source of flanking noise, consider using double glazing (two layers of glass with an air gap in between) to improve sound insulation
Choose solid doors: Opt for solid core doors instead of hollow doors, as they offer better sound insulation due to having more mass and use drop down door seals
Electric sockets: Can create holes in the wall and gaps for sound to pass through. Soundproof socket box inserts such as acoustic putty pads can be used in this instance
Remove dot and dab plasterboard prior to installing soundproofing
Soundproof around the chimney breast (as well as the alcoves) if you can hear sound coming through the chimney breast. Learn more about how to soundproof a chimney
For lighting, when soundproofing a ceiling the recommendation would be to use pendant lights or surface mounted lights

Insulating cavity spaces using acoustic mineral wool

If I soundproof my wall, will there still be flanking noise?

Every building and every structure is different and occasionally even though the sound appears to be coming through the party wall, occasionally it can also be heard through the connecting floor. This flanking noise can occur when timber floor joists run parallel to the treated wall and the cavity space within the joist space below the floorboards acts as a chamber for sound to resonate and amplify within.

An easy way to check this is to do a simple ear test and listen to the floor at different points in the room and about 1m from the party wall. If you can still hear some noise, then the best way to treat this is by adding acoustic mineral wool to the void below the floor boards, up to 1.5m into the room from the wall.

For any help and advice, or if you are unsure if flanking is an issue in your property, then the recommendation is to always speak to professionals who can provide tailored solutions based on your specific situation.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Changing from carpet to a wood floor in flats

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 15:25:15 GMT

Changing from carpet to a wood floor in flats

How to change from carpet to wooden flooring and achieve the same level of soundproofing

Hard floor finishes such as wood are an extremely popular choice for modern living. Benefits can include being easier to maintain and clean, the fact that wood looks good and is often a more practical and durable option for certain rooms within a property compared to other final floor finishes such as carpet. .

If you hold a lease on a flat or apartment it's not always as simple as changing from carpet to wooden flooring as this can increase noise levels and especially impact noise above travelling to the room below. In many instances permission is required to make changes, as the lease may have restricted covenants on floor coverings and freeholder consent may even be required.

In some multiple occupancy situations, (such as flats) there can even be a covenant banning the use of wood flooring within the property.

Leases with a licence to alter

Leases can vary enormously as to what is and isn't allowed when it comes to changing the final floor finish. In some cases some leases require a licence to alter and the freeholder or agent needs to be advised about the flooring type being changed from and to e.g. from carpet to wood, along with stipulating the type and thickness of the proposed acoustic insulation.

Within each lease it should state what improvements are permitted and what a licence to alter is needed for. The types of improvements a licence to alter may be required for include alterations such as; changing heating systems, moving or adding internal walls and the focus of this article - changing the flooring type, especially from carpet to a hard floor.

Acoustic solutions for wooden floors

So what happens if the lease does stipulate that if changes to the flooring from carpet to a hard floor finish are to take place then some level of acoustic insulation or soundproofing also needs to be applied? If you are planning to remove carpet and replace it with a hard floor finish, such as wood, the noise your neighbours will be able to hear below will be increased. This is why it's important to add some kind of acoustic insulation or soundproofing to the floor prior to laying the final floor finish.

How far you need to go with regards to the acoustic insulation can often depend on the regulations within the lease. It can range from stipulating the use of: 'suitable materials for avoiding transmission of noise, instead of carpets' to needing to comply with Part E Building Regulations . We will go into more details on how each of these are achieved.

Why soft floor finishes are better than hard floor finishes for reducing impact vibration

The reasons restrictions exist in changes from carpet to hard floor finishes is that the noise heard below you by your neighbours will be increased. This is regardless of the soundproofing or acoustic insulation used. EVERY solution will always be compromised by adding a hard floor finish on top.

A recent article in This is Money highlights the legalities regarding a neighbour removing their carpets and the increase in the noise heard below.

The increase in noise happens because hard floor finishes will increase the impact noise heard below compared to using a soft finish such as carpet, (which helps to absorb the footfall energy at the source). Once a vibration energy gets into a solid structure it will travel and spread through the structure very easily so is therefore harder to control and reduce. Essentially, the harder the floor finish, the more vibration energy is put into the structure.

A very public court case came to press when a family living in a luxury London flat were ordered to pay their neighbour below more than £100,000 in damages due to the noise of their young family playing on new wooden floors. The judge ruled that they "did not provide good enough insulation against sound transmission". Read more

Soundproofing options for wooden final floor finishes

If you don't need to meet Part E building regulations, but do need to make an effort to reduce footfall noise from above when changing from carpet to wood, our advice would be to go for a a thin and effective soundproofing solution such as the ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus (15mm thick), or the ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat (18mm thick).

Both of these acoustic floor solutions help to reduce impact and airborne noise without excessively raising the height of the floor. The Reverso SoundMat can be installed hard side up and most final hard floor finishes can be laid directly on top (a stabilising board or levelling screed may be required for certain LVT, vinyl's and tiles). With the SoundMat 3 Plus, a 6mm over boarding layer is needed prior to laying a hard final floor finish. The performance and comparison of both acoustic solutions can be found below:

Reverso SoundMat and SoundMat 3 Plus - acoustic solutions for floors

Learn more about the SoundMat™ 3 Plus

Easy DIY Installation of SoundMat™ 3 Plus

Learn more about the Reverso SoundMat™

Easy DIY installation of Reverso SoundMat™

How to meet Part E Building Regulations when changing from carpet to wooden floors

In some instances the lease may stipulate the meeting of Part E Building Regulations (less than 64dB for impact performance and higher than 43dB for airborne performance).

It is important to highlight that this isn't achievable with any single flooring soundproofing solution simply being added directly to the floor.

It isn't the single product that achieves the Part E Building Regulations , it is the construction of the building. Therefore, to pass Part E, it isn't just the floor, but also the ceiling and the performance of both of them combined which enables the pass. The addition of a thin, direct to floor soundproofing solutions adds to the performance of the structure and other additions will also be needed.

The SoundMat 3 Plus does pass building regulations when applied to a timber joist floor, however - this is also dependent on adding acoustic mineral wool between the floor joists and resilient bars and two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below. Exactly the same build up also applies to the Reverso SoundMat when passing Part E Building Regulations.

To pass Part E Building Regulations:

Add soundproofing to the floor to reduce impact noise at the source. Use SoundMat 3 Plus or Reverso SoundMat
Insulate between the joists with acoustic mineral wool (100mm 60kg)
Add soundproofing to the ceiling below. Use a suspended 'de-coupled' ceiling system such as the ReductoClip Ceiling System

Summary - achieving the same level of soundproofing when changing from carpet to hard flooring

When needing to reduce footfall noise by adding acoustic insulation then the Reverso SoundMat and SoundMat 3 Plus will certainly do this. However, there is no magic solution to reduce impact noise with a hard floor finish when swapping from carpet.
To achieve Part E Building regulations, again this can be achieved with the Reverso SoundMat or SoundMat 3 Plus. However, as highlighted, it requires the correct build-up for the floor and the ceiling below. It can't be achieved by one single product.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Ceiling Soundproofing: Frequently Asked Questions

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 15:19:06 GMT

Ceiling Soundproofing: Frequently Asked Questions

Often, in shared houses, or converted flats, the unwanted noise from neighbours above can be extremely common. A recent article in The Mail Online talks about what to do when living in a converted flat and being able to hear everything your neighbours do upstairs. Within this article, The Mail also called upon the expertise of The Soundproofing Store for the best soundproofing advice and sound insulation solutions.

Commonly asked questions and answers when soundproofing a ceiling

The Most Popular Ceiling Soundproofing Solution

The Soundproofing Store's most popular ceiling soundproofing solution is the ReductoClip Ceiling System. The thinnest clip system on the market. The total build up from the bottom of the timber joist to the final layer of plasterboard is an incredibly slim 60mm. The ReductoClip ceiling solution is the perfect sound insulation for reducing airborne and impact noise through ceilings. Suitable for noisy neighbours and in meeting Part E building regulations. This system is used in recording studios as well as domestic properties and the ReductoClips can also used on walls as an outstanding and high performing wall soundproofing solution.

How to soundproof a timber ceiling with the ReductoClip Ceiling Solution

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How To Soundproof A Door

Sat, 09 Jul 2022 13:56:20 GMT

How To Soundproof A Door

Soundproofing Doors for domestic and professional use

When it comes to containing sound within a room or blocking unwanted sounds from getting into a room, doors are always a big problem! Whether you are trying to soundproof a room in a household because you don't want to listen to your teenagers playing their music... or if you are building a recording studio... there is no point in soundproofing the walls if all the sound can escape through the door.

So what are your options...

In this blog i'm going to talk you through a few different options from easy hacks to upgrade your existing door, which doors to buy if you want to upgrade, all the way up to professional studio acoustic doors.

But first we have to look at a couple of basic principles that we need to address.

1. Airborne Sound Is Blocked By Mass - Therefore the heavier and more dense a material is, the more sound it blocks. If your door is light weight and hollow, sound will travel through it very easily. A heavy, dense fire door for example will block much more sound.

2. Sound Can Travel Through Air Gaps - If air can get through a gap, sound can travel through it. Soundproofing needs to be properly sealed to work, and so does your door. If there is a gap between the door and frame, or between the door and floor, sound will just leak out. By installing an acoustic or draught excluding seal to the door or frame, we can minimise this leak.

So let's break this down into two categories.

1) Lower level noise - Domestic/Office

This is for lower level sound in more domestic applications. For example trying to stop noise getting into your children's bedroom, minimising the noise between rooms in a shared house or student accommodation, or possibly even minimising sound leakage in offices or work spaces. You don't need to block huge decibel levels of sound, but just want to improve the level of soundproofing as much as you can on a budget.

Hollow Core Door vs Solid Core Door

Most internal doors are hollow. Mostly built with a wooden frame, a veneer on both sides, and either completely hollow inside or with a cardboard filling to help give the door more strength (as in the picture above).

Hollow doors are very light, therefore have very little mass to block sound. Sound will just pass through the door.

This leaves us with two options... Change the door to a more expensive, solid door... or ... Try to add more mass to the door you have.

How To Soundproof Your Door Hack!

You can upgrade your current hollow door, by adding heavy, dense material to it. One perfect solution is FlexiSound 5 . This is a thin 5mm visco-elastic rubber (mass loaded), which has the same density as lead! It is self adhesive on one side and can then be stuck onto the back of your door to add extra mass. We would also recommend adding some good quality draft exclusion material around the perimeter of the door to make it as airtight as possible

FlexiSound isn't exactly a good looking final finish, so we would advise to fix a thin layer of ply wood over the top, to give you a more natural wooden finish.

Let's also be realistic, this isn't suddenly going to block out high levels of sound! Its not going to be the same as a £2,000 acoustic studio door, but it will certainly improve the sound reduction for lower level noise in a household type environment.

Replacing Your Door

Probably the easier option is to replace the hollow, light door with a solid core, thick, heavy door. Fire doors are a great option. Fire doors are rated by their burn time, a door rated FD30 or FD60 have a slow burn time and so they will have more mass to block sound. Fire doors are relatively easy to source, and aren't too expensive. You are looking in the region of £100 to £300 for a plain finish FD30 or FD60 door.

Seals for domestic level doors

As mentioned earlier, we want to minimise the amount of sound that can leak through the air gap around the door. No point in upgrading the door if the sound can still get around it! Cheap draught excluding style seals can be easily sourced and stuck onto the frame quickly and easily. Or a more expensive acoustic seal can be screwed onto the frame.

2) High Decibel Sound / Music Room / Recording Studio / Home Cinema etc...

This gets a little trickier and a little more expensive! The same principles apply, we need lots of mass to block sound and a seal to stop sound leakage. However for higher levels of sound we need LOTS of mass, and top quality seals!

Like above, upgrading to heavy, solid core fire doors is one option, except for high decibel levels you should double up! Two FD60 solid core fire doors, back to back, one door opening in and the other opening out, with a gap in between will give you a very good result.

More professional acoustic 'drop down' acoustic seals can sourced to really minimise leakage.

Acoustic drop down door seal

An acoustic drop down door seal is activated once the door is closed and this means the door threshold remains clear without the need for a high fixed threshold. This high-performance seal provides an effective barrier against noise.

Below is a double stud wall with a double door example

Professional Acoustic Doors

The final option is to upgrade to custom built acoustic studio doors. These are hand made by experts, the door, frame and seals are built to your custom specifications and are built to fit perfectly with no gaps. Their are many variables on the doors including things like steel cores, acoustic glazing etc. These doors can perform up to around 55dB! These are great for professional studios with a big budget as you can easily pay £2-3k per door. Also, as they are custom built, you can also expect a long waiting time for them to be manufactured just for you.

Conclusion

We hope this has been informative and hopefully given you some ideas of what you can achieve with your budget. The bad news is that doors are definitely a weakness that need to be addressed. However, the good news is that there are multiple options to suit different needs and budgets.

Enjoyed this blog? Try our Garden Studio blog.

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof awkward areas

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:49:15 GMT

How to Soundproof awkward areas

How to soundproof around awkward areas such as: Chimney Breasts, RSJs, Columns and Boxed in Piping, using the ReductoClip system

When using the ReductoClip™ Wall System to soundproof around awkward areas, (such as RSJ's, chimney breasts, boxed in piping or electrics) it is important to leave a 5mm gap. This is because each soundproofed surface needs to be isolated from the next and not touching. This ensures that the ReductoClips are able to flex and absorb sound energy. If the finished system on the protruding surface was touching the system on the back wall, then this would mean a rigid build without any room for flexing. The 5mm layers are then filled with acoustic sealant once the remaining layers of the ReductoClip System have been installed, prior to the final layer of plasterboard being installed.

For the front layer, this needs to stick out by 35mm, so that the final build up on either side makes for a flush finish.

Below are diagrams showing the spacings needed based on soundproofing a brick column using the ReductoClip System. This would be the same whether using the ReductoClip Independent or ReductoClip Direct to Wall System. The same principle also applies when soundproofing any two right angles.

How To Soundproof Around A Chimney Using The ReductoClip System

Overhead View:

Leave a 5mm gap between side layers and alcove layers
Leave a 5mm gap between side layers and front layers
Plasterboard and FlexiSound layers on the front should stick out 35mm from the front of the furring channel on the sides. Ensuring the front layer will end square with the front of the side layers

Soundproofing a chimney showing the first layer of the ReductoClip System

Soundproofing a chimney showing final layers of the ReductoClip System

How to Soundproof a chimney using the ReductoClip System

Side view:

Showing the attachment of the ReductoClips and Furring Bars to a brick chimney.

Notice the overhang of the first layer of plasterboard (circled in red). Once the additional layers of the ReductoClip System are added, this will then become flush with the overhang.

Fully Soundproofed brick chimney showing all layers of the ReductoClip System

The completed installation showing how the front layer ends square with the front of the side layers.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a chimney

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 14:24:26 GMT

How to soundproof a chimney

Chimney breast soundproofing

When soundproofing the alcoves of a wall, in most cases the chimney breast doesn't need the same level of sound insulation. Effective soundproofing is all about adding mass, so to soundproof a wall, heavy and dense materials are added to the wall. Chimney breasts are normally constructed of a double layer of fire bricks which are far heavier and denser than standard bricks (normally) used in the alcoves. More often than not, there is also a small air gap behind and then the same double layer of fire bricks on your neighbours' side. This extra mass (more so than the rest of the wall) naturally makes the chimney more soundproof than the alcoves. Therefore, in nine out of ten cases, it is only the alcoves that require soundproofing.

However, there are exceptions, such as:

Your neighbour has removed the chimney breast on their side
The flue has eroded over time and sound is passing through from your neighbours (through small gaps in their flue into your flue)
The current chimney may not be an original construction and may have been added at some point in the build's history
The chimney may have been widened to accommodate a stove (involving removal of some of the fire bricks)

How to soundproof the alcoves of a chimney

To soundproof the alcoves of a chimney, there are 3 key areas to address:

1. Improve the mass of the wall. This is usually achieved by adding different high mass / density products.

2. Improve the ability of the wall to absorb sound energy and vibrations. Without this, the addition of any mass will have very little impact.

3. Use different materials of high mass, as different materials perform better for different sound frequencies. Therefore, using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than simply using more of the same material.

Below are the three most popular wall soundproofing solutions when looking at effective sound insulation for chimney alcoves. Think about how much sound you want to reduce, i.e. how loud and what type of noise you are trying to block and how much space you can afford to lose. Generally, the higher performing the system, the more space it takes up.

1. ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System (120mm)

The highest performing system for party walls which is used not only in households with excessive noise problems, but also in high decibel situations, such as recording studios and home cinemas. The ReductoClip Independent System is completely de-coupled from the offending alcove wall, making it extremely difficult for vibration energy to travel through. The system also adds a lot of extra mass to the alcove walls to reduce airborne sound.

This is the ideal sound insulation for walls and all noise problems, including excessive noises such as very loud music from noisy neighbours, shouting, babies crying and very loud TV noise and impact noises.

How to soundproof alcoves using the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

2. ReductoClip™ Direct To Wall System (60mm)

If you don’t have 120mm of space and need a slimmer sound insulation system within your alcoves, then the same ReductoClip system as above can be used. This time installed directly onto the alcove walls, (without using the independent frame in front of the wall). This will reduce space loss within the alcoves to an incredibly slim 60mm, and still maintain a good reduction in both airborne and impact sound performance. Although a step down in performance from the full 120mm version, the system offers an excellent soundproofing compromise on space loss v’s performance.

How to soundproof alcoves using the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System

3. SoundBoard4™ (30mm)

The SoundBoard 4 offers a good performance for standard household noise. This direct to existing wall system is very easy to install, taking up just 30mm of space. The different layers that make up SoundBoard4 work by adding mass to the wall and by improving the walls ability to absorb sound energy. The final layer is an acoustic grade plasterboard meaning after installation there is a plaster board finish ready to add a skim coat of plaster to and decorate.

Unlike the ReductoClip soundproofing solutions above, the SoundBoard 4 isn't suitable for impact noise, or bass sounds from music, TV's with speaker systems, deep voices or snoring.

This system is designed for people with space limitations and lower levels of airborne sound. For just 30mm of space loss, there is no better sound insulation system on the market.

How to soundproof alcove walls using SoundBoard4

How to check if a chimney needs soundproofing?

Top tip - if you are unsure if the chimney breast needs soundproofing, put your ear up against the alcove wall and do a simple ear test. Next time you hear noise next door, put your ear against the alcove wall and get a good sense of what you can hear. Then put your ear against the chimney breast and compare. In most cases you will find you don't actually hear the sound coming through. If however you can hear noise through the chimney breast, fear not, simply read on!

Why does a chimney need soundproofing?

Every now and again, especially in older properties, weaknesses can form which allow the sound to get into the flu. This then acts like a chamber for the sound to resonate and amplify in (not dissimilar to shouting down a cardboard tube). Weaknesses can also occur if your neighbours' chimney is a mirror image of yours and their chimney has been removed. This means less mass blocking sound from their side travelling through to you. Weaknesses can also occur when old brickwork and render has become damaged over time, as soundproofing is much like waterproofing and any gaps act as a weakness for sound to travel through.

If your chimney needs soundproofing and you have done the ear test and can hear noise coming through the chimney breast, then depending on the type of fire you have, there are different chimney sound insulation solutions.

Soundproofing a chimney without a fire

If the fireplace exists, but with no fire, then you can soundproof the entire chimney breast. The chimney walls and also (if required) the inside of the chimney (fireplace) with the ProSound™ SoundBoard4™

SoundBoard4 offers a practical solution to soundproof the chimney, even if the ReductoClip system has been used for the alcove walls.

In this instance, where there is no fire in situ, the recommendation would also be to fill the flu with Acoustic Mineral Wool . Designed to offer the highest level of sound absorption in cavity spaces within walls, floors and ceilings. Acoustic mineral wool will also effectively absorb airborne noise within chimney flues. Think back to shouting down an empty cardboard tube and then stuffing it with cotton wool, shouting again and noticing the considerable difference.

Soundproofing a chimney with a log burner

As with the chimney above, the recommendation would be to soundproof the external chimney breast with SoundBoard 4 . The SoundBoard 4 can also be fitted behind the log burner, or stove and then importantly, a fire-retardant board must then be attached on top of the SoundBoard 4. The log burner would need to be removed to fit the SoundBoard4 and fire-retardant board behind the fire.

If you can hear noise coming through the chimney and it's not possible to soundproof behind the log burner then potentially you will have a weak point where sound can still come through and you may not achieve the full level of soundproofing required.

Soundproofing a chimney with an open fire

In the case of an open fire, again soundproofing the entire chimney breast with SoundBoard4 is the most effective way of stopping the transference of noise from noisy neighbours through the chimney breast. Because it is an open fire, there is no option of attaching any soundproofing materials behind the fire, as can be done with the log burner. This is the same for gas fires, unless they are the design of the log burner/stove styles, whereby the above log burner example would also apply.

Soundproofing a chimney when the chimney has been removed on your neighbours side

If the chimney on your neighbours side has been removed then it won't have the same amount of mass as a normal configuration of a chimney on both sides. Also, when a chimney breast is removed the original wall can be damaged. This will result in a lower than expected soundproofing performance for the chimney breast and we may have to recommend adding additional soundproofing to address this weak point.

Summary

Following a simple ear test, in most cases the chimney breast does not require soundproofing. However, on the odd occasion it does, then the SoundBoard4 would be the most practical solution.

For further insight on how to soundproof walls, have a look at our noisy neighbour blog.

"We don’t expect you to become an expert overnight , that’s what we’re here for."

9 ways to soundproof an existing internal wall

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:25:27 GMT

9 ways to soundproof an existing internal wall

The best way to soundproof an existing wall is to:

Add mass to the existing structure to block airborne sound
Add different types of mass. Simply adding more of the same won't double the performance
Decouple the soundproofing from the existing wall
Build a stud or metal frame in front of the existing wall
Add insulation to stud walls
Don't use acoustic panels designed for sound absorption
Install the soundproofing correctly, without any gaps or holes
Choose the correct system for the level and type of noise needing to be blocked
Use a proven and tested soundproofing solution like the ProSound™ ReductoClip™

Soundproofing a wall is like baking a cake

Think of soundproofing an existing wall like making a cake.

To bake the perfect cake you need lots of different ingredients. Once you have the ingredients it's important to add the right amount of ingredient in the correct order. A bowl of flour on its own, regardless of how much you use, will only ever be a bowl of flour, it will never be a cake. Key soundproofing materials like FlexiSound, acoustic plasterboard, mass loaded vinyl, are all brilliant ingredients, but they need to be used in the right combination in the right quantities to become an effective soundproofing solution. The Soundproofing Store have created the perfect soundproofing solutions (like the perfect ready made recipe), simply follow the instructions of our tried and tested systems and voila!

1. Add mass to existing internal walls

If your existing wall is a brick party wall between you and your neighbour or a stud wall within your own home one of the key elements of soundproofing is to add mass to the wall. Adding mass is key to blocking airborne noise such as voices, and TV noise. This is why the majority of acoustic soundproofing panels are made from acoustic plasterboard rather than standard plasterboard. Acoustic plasterboard has a higher density core than standard plasterboard and therefore adds more mass to a wall which makes it harder for sound to travel through. Adding mass to an existing wall works particularly well for higher frequencies. However, lower bass frequencies will need to be blocked by more than just mass. Using acoustic plasterboard rather than standard plasterboard will help increase the mass of the wall, but isn't a soundproofing solution in itself. Think back to the cake analogy - there are some other key ingredients which also need to be added.

Learn more about why simply adding acoustic plasterboard to an existing wall is not the most effective way to soundproof a wall:

2. Add different types of mass to soundproof an existing wall

When adding mass to an existing wall to block airborne noise, to further improve the results it is more effective to add different types of mass., rather than just more of the same. There are diminishing returns for each additional layer of simply adding more of the same material.

This is because different materials block different types of sound waves. Heavy materials which are good at blocking noise include; mass loaded vinyl, acoustic plasterboard and FlexiSound 5 .

3. Decouple soundproofing from the existing internal wall

The best way to stop sound vibrations from passing through an existing wall is to decouple any soundproofing from the original structure, as sound vibrations travel more easily through two surfaces that touch.

Did you ever do the experiment at school with two baked bean cans and a piece of string which acts like a very basic telephone? Sound waves travel through the string and the vibrations from the first can continue down the string producing sound waves meaning the second person can hear what the first person is saying. If the string is cut, there is nowhere for the sound to travel from one can to another, basically the pathway for the sound waves has been decoupled and the vibrations are stopped.

In soundproofing decoupling from the existing wall can be done with the ReductoClip and furring bar system . More details below..

4. Build a stud or metal frame in front of the existing wall

We know it's important to decouple soundproofing from the existing wall, as this helps to eliminate impact noises and reduce airborne noise. So, how is this done and what is the most effective way of doing it?

There are various clip and bar soundproofing solutions on the market and our recommendation would be to use the market leading ReductoClip System . The ReductoClip System can be applied directly to an existing brick wall, or to further enhance the performance, attached to an independent stud frame, which is built a minimum of 10mm in front of the existing wall. The stud frame attaches to the ceiling, floor and side walls, but doesn't touch the offending wall (the one needing to be soundproofed).

This increases the performance of the soundproofing as it provides an air gap between the offending wall and the soundproofing which makes it harder for the sound to pass through.

The ReductoClips and furring bars are then attached to the stud frame, which further isolates the soundproofing from the existing wall. This is the highest level of soundproofing and this independent system is also used in music studios and to block excessive levels of noise in domestic homes.

The ReductoClip System works by isolating existing walls which reduces the transference of sound vibration energy:

A timber stud frame is built a minimum of 10mm in front of the existing wall
ReductoClips and furring bars are attached to the stud frame which decouple the layers of soundproofing
Acoustic mineral wool is added in between the stud frame battens which absorbs airborne sound in the cavity between the soundproofing and the existing wall
Acoustic plasterboard is attached to the furing bars, which is 50% denser than standard plasterboard and adds much more mass to the existing wall
A layer of FlexiSound is added to the acoustic plasterboard, which again adds a huge amount of mass
A second layer of acoustic plasterboard is added sandwiching the FlexiSound in between

Back to the cake analogy, above is the correct ingredients, added in the correct order, to achieve the highest levels of soundproofing on an existing wall.

Learn more about the ReductoClip System v's other clip systems

Installing the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

5. Add insulation when soundproofing a stud wall

If the existing wall you are wanting to soundproof is a stud wall, rather than a solid brick wall, then it is important to firstly insulate the cavity. The recommendation would be to remove the plasterboard on one side of the existing wall and fill the exposed frame with acoustic mineral wool, this absorbs any sound which gets inside and stops the sound from resonating and amplifying in the void.

Plasterboard is then added back onto the wall. The next stage follows the same principle as when soundproofing a solid existing wall, which is to add mass and different types of mass. The Soundproofing Store have an award winning direct to wall acoustic solution called the SoundBoard 4 , which adds a great deal of mass to block airborne sound, whilst the closed cell foam within the acoustic board also helps to absorb vibrations.

SoundBoard 4 is only 30mm thick and is attached directly to the existing wall. The soundproofing panel is made up of 4 layers (4 ingredients, of the correct quantities, in the correct order):

15mm Acoustic Plasterboard
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl
9mm Closed Cell Foam
3mm Mass Loaded Vinyl

Why acoustic mineral wool is used in soundproofing

The 3 best ways to soundproof a stud wall

How to soundproof an existing internal stud wall

6. Soundproofing an internal wall with acoustic panels

There can often be a crossover in terminology when looking at soundproofing and sound absorption. Often acoustic panels are a sound absorption product, but sometimes come under the overall heading of soundproofing.

Most commonly acoustic panels are used in sound absorption. Sound absorption uses acoustic wall and ceiling panels to absorb sound energy to reduce echo and reverberation within a room

Soundproofing is different to sound absorption because soundproofing is designed to stop sound energy from travelling through one structure into another. Soundproofing can block sound from entering a room and at the same time block it from leaving a room.

If you are experiencing echo and noise in a communal area such as an office, school, village hall or restaurant, then to help with the echo and levels of noise within the room you would be looking at sound absorption.

If, however you have the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours through a party wall, floor or ceiling and you want to block that unwanted noise, then you would be looking at soundproofing.

The difference between soundproofing and sound absorption

7. Install soundproofing correctly

The beauty of the soundproofing solutions available at The Soundproofing Store is that they can all be installed by a competent DIYer. Over 80% of customers install soundproofing to an existing wall themselves. Detailed videos and installation guides are readily available and our technical team are on hand to answer any questions. For customers who don't feel confident installing soundproofing themselves, then it is very easy to ask a recommended local trades person, who will have no difficulty in installing the acoustic solutions.

Installing soundproofing isn't a trained skill, so anyone with experience of fitting plasterboard will find installing soundproofing solutions relatively easy.

When installing soundproofing it is important to think of it like waterproofing. Any weaknesses in the installation, or gaps will allow sound to leak out.

8. Choose the correct solution for your noise issue

There are different soundproofing solutions depending on the type of noise and level of noise you are trying to block. Sometimes there can be other considerations, such as how much space you have to lose. For example, the ReductoClip Independent System takes up 120mm and is the highest performing system. This is the equivalent of a soft drinks can laid on its side. There are occasions when this system simply isn't viable and a slimmer system is required. In this instance the ReductoClip Direct to wall solution can be used. The same as the ReductoClip Independent System, but without the stud frame, ReductoClips are attached directly to the wall, which still delivers a high level of soundproofing, but not as high performing as the independent system. Space loss is only 60mm and for performance v's space loss then this is an excellent solution.

There are many direct to existing wall solutions, including the SoundBoard 4 , which is only 30mm thick. These acoustic boards are great on stud walls, where there is already little mass and the wall is naturally performing badly at blocking sound. Adding the SoundBoard 4 will give a good improvement against airborne noise. Direct to wall boards are effective at blocking higher frequency airborne sounds, however, because they don't decouple from the original structure like the ReductoClips do, then the direct to wall boards panels should not be used in instances where impact vibrations, or loud levels of noise need to be blocked. Impact vibrations include not only loud music and bass tones, but also the likes of snoring, or deep voices. If there is any doubt as to whether the system you are considering will perform to your expectations and block the unwanted noise you are experiencing, then it is always best to speak to an expert.

Acoustic soundproofing panels overview

The below video highlights the features of the SoundBoard 4 direct to existing wall soundproofing panel. It also highlights the instances it shouldn't be used in. Such as blocking impact vibrations, loud noise and low bass frequencies. If these are the types of noises being heard through an existing wall, then a higher performing solution such as the ReductoClip System will be required.

9. Use a proven and tested soundproofing solution

Cheap alternatives exist under the 'soundproofing' umbrella. We speak to many customers who have purchased an inferior solution elsewhere, or installed a solution which isn't designed to block the level of sound they are needing to block. Our advice would be to do it once and do it right. Using cheaper alternatives, making up your own system, or only using part of a system usually ends up with customers having to spend more in the long run. The cake analogy comes back to play here, you need the right and different types of soundproofing materials, the correct quantity of materials, in the right order and installed in the right way.

if there is any doubt as to which soundproofing solution should be used for your individual noise issue when soundproofing an existing wall, then our recommendation would be to always speak to an expert.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Why just adding Acoustic Plasterboard directly to a wall is not an effective way to Soundproof a Wall

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 15:38:26 GMT

Can I soundproof a wall by just adding Acoustic Plasterboard?

We often receive customers calls asking us whether they can just add one or two layers of Acoustic Plasterboard to the wall between them and their neighbours for a good cheap wall soundproofing solution .

Unfortunately we probably receive 2 to 5 calls a week from customers whereby their builders have done exactly this and the reason they are contacting us is because it has not worked .

So why does this not work? After all it says Acoustic Plasterboard on the product so it must be good soundproofing. Right?

Unfortunately acoustic plasterboard is only part of a system and is not a solution in its own right.

When we soundproof a wall with any of our systems we always apply the three main principles of good soundproofing:

Improve the mass of the wall - This is normally achieved by adding different high mass/density products
Use different high mass materials . Different types of mass perform better for different sound frequencies, so using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than simply using more of the same material
Improve the ability of the wall to absorb sound energy and vibrations through dampening or decoupling. Without this, the addition of the mass will have very little impact

So, fixing a flat plasterboard to a flat existing wall is increasing the mass of the wall, however it will not stop the sound energy and the vibration that sound makes from travelling through (point three is not achieved). Noise can still pass through relativity easily (particularly the lower base frequencies). Think about double glazing, two layers of glass with an air gap performs far higher than one piece of glass that is twice as thick.

Secondly, plasterboard is commonly fixed with dot and dab adhesive which can also reduce the walls performance, as it creates a small cavity where sound can resonate and amplify. see our blog on Dot and Dab Plasterboard .

Can't I just add more Acoustic Plasterboard to the Wall?

Unfortunately it is not as simple as simply adding more and more of the same type of mass material. Doing this will give you next to no benefit because of the law of diminishing returns, (i.e 2 + 2 does not equal 4 you will only achieve 2.5).

What is The Law of Diminishing Returns?

The Law of Diminishing Returns is a fundamental principle of Economics, the same theory can also be applied to Sound and Soundproofing.

If one type of material keeps getting added on top of each other (e.g. Plasterboard in this case), there comes a point where it will become less productive and therefore there will eventually be a decrease in the amount of noise that is blocked through a wall. Another way of putting it is that if the first layer of plasterboard blocks the frequencies that it is good at blocking, this will leave next to nothing for the second layer to block and a third layer will have next to no benefit at all.

So to summarise - every time we add another layer of the same material, each layer gets less effective (Law of Diminishing Returns). This is because it’s letting through the same frequencies of sound that the first layer let through, and blocking the same frequencies of sound that the first layer blocked.

How do you avoid this?

An example of where you will see a build up utilising different materials with different properties and masses is with our ReductoClip Systems . Attached to the ReductoClips and Furring Bars we sandwich FlexiSound 5 between the two 15mm Acoustic Grade Plasterboard layers. (FlexiSound is an excellent and cost effective alternative to Tecsound).

This mixes different mass layers that block different frequencies, working together to block a wider range of frequencies when used in conjunction. This build up also provides a plasterboard finish which can be decorated like a normal plasterboard wall.

In Conclusion

To conclude, on the surface it may seem like just adding acoustic plasterboard to a wall will be a cheap alternative. However, in reality it actually makes very little difference to your soundproofing and adding a second layer on top is normally a waste of money.

You are much better off going with a tried and tested system for your wall like the ReductoClip System , that will give you real and noticeable results.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

The importance of a flat, even floor prior to soundproofing

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 12:49:50 GMT

The importance of a flat, even subfloor prior to soundproofing

When soundproofing a floor to help block the unwanted noise of impact and airborne noise above travelling to the room below, or in blocking airborne noise in the room below travelling to the room above there are a number of options. These acoustic options depend on the level and type of noise needing to be blocked. The Soundproofing Store offers flooring solutions such as The SoundMat 2 Plus , SoundMat 3 Plus and Reverso SoundMat . The benefit of these noise insulation solutions for floors is in not only in their performance, but also in the incredibly easy installation and versatility to be used alongside any final floor finish.

An overview of SoundMat acoustic flooring solutions

Why the base floor should be flat and level

Prior to laying any SoundMats it is important that the base or subfloor is smooth, flat and level. Any irregularities with subfloors usually fall into two categories - general sloping that affects the entire floor and irregularities that interrupt the floor without affecting how level it is overall. There are several ways a DIYer can fix minor irregularities, whilst larger sloping issues might require a professional.

Before laying any soundproofing, it is important to:

Replace any damaged floorboards
Make sure to fill any gaps in the subfloor with acoustic sealant
Ensure the subfloor is flat to provide a stable base for the acoustic flooring to be laid

It might be tempting to think that laying soundproofing will magically rectify an uneven and damaged subfloor. Afterall, the final floor finish will be installed on top of the soundproofing right? Wrong! It is vitally important that the subfloor is level and flat. If the subfloor is uneven with any dips and rises, then there are a number of issues which can potentially arise:

Potential failing of the final floor finish. Especially with the likes of ceramic tiles, which will probably see cracking in the grout or even broken tiles
The final floor won't sit flat and any raised edges can be unsightly and also be a potential tripping hazard

Tips on how to ensure a flat and even subfloor

It's worth pointing out that a flat and even subfloor is an important requirement prior to laying any kind of hard floor final finish, such as tiles, wood and laminate, regardless of whether you are installing any soundproofing.

Tips to level a subfloor:

Install a thick layer of tongue and groove over the top of the subfloor to make it more stable and then install the soundproofing
Use a shallow self levelling screed. A plyboard or waterproof membrane is added on top of the subfloor and a wet screed is added. Due to it being a liquid, it levels into a flat even surface. A benefit of this is that is also adds more mass to the subfloor further helping to block airborne noise, whilst also sealing any gaps and resulting in a level subfloor. This is an ideal solution to be used on timber floors and is en effective solution as it achieves a great result with minimum height loss. Again any soundproofing, such as the SoundMats are then added on top of the dry screed.

Do carpets need an even subfloor?

In a perfect world, the recommendation would always be to have a flat and even subfloor. As mentioned, this is vitally important for hard final floor finishes. However, when it comes to carpet, it is less of an issue as SoundMats act as a luxury carpet underlay and the carpet will follow any minor undulations without cracking, or breaking.

What about an even base on top of the soundproofing

What happens if the subfloor has been made flat and level, floor soundproofing has been installed and you are ready to install the final floor finish? Carpets can be installed directly on top of the SoundMats, as they act like a luxury carper underlay, but what happens if you are installing a hard floor final finish., such as engineered wood, laminate, vinyl or tiles?

Below are examples of acoustic floor solutions which offer a different performance depending on the type and level of noise needing to be soundproofed. Let's find out which of them require overboarding?

The most popular solution for loud levels of airborne noise and loud levels of impact noise for carpet final finishes would be the SoundMat 3 Plus.
For loud levels of airborne and loud levels of impact noise with a hard final floor finish it would be the Reverso SoundMat. This is because when installed hard side up, the Reverso SoundMat does not require any form of over boarding prior to laying most hard floor finishes. (Neither does SoundScreed 28, which is a perfect solution when airborne noise is an issue but not impact noise).
For SoundMat 2 Plus, SoundMat 3 Plus and ImpactoMat a 6mm over boarding layer needs to be installed on top of the soundproofing prior to laying a hard floor final finish.

Soundproofing and over boarding

As a rule of thumb, if you have laid soundproofing and the top of the soundproofing is playable (such as mass loaded vinyl) then you will need a stabilising / overboarding layer prior to installing hard floor finishes. If this doesn't happen, then it can create problems such as:

An unstable base when walking
Movement in the final floor finish
Warping and cracking of the final hard floor finish

Final checklist

Always ensure a flat, even subfloor prior to laying soundproofing. Especially important for hard floor final finishes
Choose the most suitable acoustic insulation depending on the level and type of noise you are trying to block, and be mindful of the final floor finish
Check if the soundproofing requires an overboarding layer (important for all hard final floor finishes) prior to laying the final finish
If you have any questions at all, the best advice is to 'do it once and do it right'' and speak to an expert.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to pass Part E1 Building Regulations

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:16:09 GMT

How to pass Part E1 building regulations

What are Soundproofing Building Regulations Part E1?

Anyone who has experienced noisy neighbours and the associated stress which can come hand in hand with unwanted noise within their own home, will appreciate the importance of Part E in its aim to reduce noise transmission between neighbouring homes as well as between internal spaces. This article will highlight the most effective soundproofing solutions for walls, floors and ceilings which all pass soundproofing building regulations Part E.

The building regulations Approved Document E, Resistance to the passage of sound (England and Wales only) sets out the soundproofing standards for new homes and those undergoing refurbishment or conversion from a different use. Applicable to all dwellings, attached houses, flats and rooms for residential use, along with also looking at the passage of sound within common areas such as flats and schools.

The Regulations also divide sound into airborne sound and impact sound:

The aim of the regulation is to protect residents from the noise of activities in other rooms or adjoining properties. This has been highlighted as a major cause of tension between residents.

Once buildings or conversions are completed you have to provide building control with proof of meeting part E building regulation or the building will not be pass building regulations, so it always best to plan soundproofing at the start of the project.

What are Building Regulations Part E?

Noise control in buildings for residential use in England and Wales is regulated using Approved Document E. This Building Regulation now applies to any kind of building used as a dwelling, including houses and apartments; and rooms for residential purposes, such as students and nurses accommodation, nursing homes and hotels. It also applies to dwellings that have been created as a result of a conversion or material change of use.

The aim of the regulation is to protect residents from the noise of activities in other rooms or adjoining properties. This has been highlighted as a major cause of tension between residents.

Performance ratings for Internal Constructions

The onus is on the builders of the constructions to demonstrate that the required levels of sound insulation have been achieved through executing Pre-Completion Testing of the built constructions on site. Approved Document E requires that 1 in 10 constructions be tested.

Control of Sound Reverberation

Approved Document E also makes provisions for ensuring that common circulation areas of residential buildings, e.g. corridors and stairwells in apartment buildings and hotels must have sound absorptive treatments to control noise reverberation

Part E Building Regulations

You may also need to consider Part E2 and Part E3 Requirements

Part E 1 – Provides protection against sound from separating walls and floors from other parts of the same building and adjoining buildings.

Part E 2 – Provides protection against sound internally within a dwelling-house, for example internal walls between a bedroom or a room containing a water closet and other rooms, and internal floors.

Part E 3 – Provides protection against reverberation sound in the common internal parts of buildings containing flats or rooms for residential purposes.

England and Wales Target Figures

How are Part E building regulation tests carried out?

Part E building regulation tests can be carried out in two ways. Via Pre-completion testing and Robust Details.

Pre-completion testing has applied to rooms for residential purposes, houses and flats formed by conversion of other buildings since 1st July 2003 and to new houses and flats from 1st July 2004. Also introduced as of the 1st July 2004, was Robust Details in new houses and flats as an alternative to Pre-completion testing.

What is Pre-completion testing (PCT)?

Pre-completion testing (PCT) is the usual way of showing how soundproof a building is by testing for sound insulation as a means of complying to Part E Building Regs.

To pass, sound insulation tests must meet the required airborne and impact noise insulation levels. Sound tests are carried out on both airborne noise (sounds transmitted through the air, such as talking and TV noise) and impact noise on floors (structurally borne noise, such a footsteps and moving furniture). To read more about airborne and impact noise, click here .

Failure to meet Part E building regulations can be extremely costly and will result in any sound insulation needing to be improved and re-tested. Test failure is an area we will discuss later within the article.

The following video comes from Adrian James Acoustics providing an introduction to sound insulation testing and demonstrating compliance with Part E of the Building Regulations (Resistance to the Passage of Sound):

What are Part E Robust Details?

Robust Details Ltd was formed in response to the housebuilding industry and their request for an alternative to pre-completion sound testing to meet Part E building regulations. The Robust Details scheme is used for new adjoined dwellings, (not for conversions, home extensions, or building refurbishments).

Robust details are high performance separating wall and floor constructions (with associated construction details) that are expected to be sufficiently reliable not to need the check provided by pre-completion testing.

Developers choose details from The Robust Details handbook, register their plots prior to starting work on site and build by following their specifications.

How to pass Part E soundproofing building regs

Property type and construction can vary dramatically from building to building, therefore it would be virtually impossible to write an article covering off every single variation of build and every possible Part E building regs pass solution for every scenario. This article covers examples of the most effective soundproofing products in passing Part E building regs for walls, floors and ceilings based on the most common build of brick party walls, timber stud walls and timber and concrete floors.

The Soundproofing Store offer expert advice across all types of construction and how to pass soundproofing building regulations (Part E). It is always recommended to speak to a professional, (like The Soundproofing Store ) before any Part E regs work is undertaken. Failing Part E can be very expensive and in our experience, avoidable had the right advice been sought at the start.

How to pass Part E building regulations for party walls?

Highlighted below are three wall soundproofing solutions all of which pass Part E Building Regulations based on a brick party wall and timber stud wall. The key to effective soundproofing against airborne noise is all about adding mass to block any unwanted noise. Effective soundproofing solutions also contain different types of materials. Simply adding more of the same material results in less efficient soundproofing than a combination of different materials. This is because different materials offer different soundproofing capabilities against different types of sounds.

Our Most Common Soundproofing Solutions:

Solid Wall Soundproofing: ProSound™ SoundBoard3

The ProSound™ SoundBoard3 is a direct to wall soundproofing solution made up of 3 layers of high mass soundproofing materials and ideal for low levels of noise. At only 27mm thick, this is The Soundproofing Store's thinnest direct to wall soundproofing solution to pass Part E building regulations.

Using soundproofing acoustic boards direct to a brick party wall will ensure that separating walls meet the required sound levels, without compromising living space. When using soundproofing boards on stud walls, (separating walls between rooms and walls between dwellings and communal areas) a combination of the soundboards with acoustic plasterboard and acoustic insulation is required (see below).

Brick party wall

Direct to wall

44dB

Timber stud wall

Build-up of: 50mm stud frame with 15mm acoustic plasterboard on both sides and 50mm acoustic mineral wool and SoundBoard3 on one side only.

43dB

All results data has come from independent laboratory tests and therefore it's important to be aware that performance will vary with different structural make-ups.

Passing soundproofing building regulations (Part E) for walls with SoundBoard3

Solid Wall Soundproofing: ProSound™ SoundBoard4

The ProSound™ Soundboard4 is also a direct to wall soundproofing solution, but made up of 4 layers of different high pass soundproofing materials and ideal for medium levels of noise such as normal conversation, music and TV noise. The SoundBoard4 can be easily applied to a brick or timber stud wall, with minimal loss of space to pass Part E Building Regulations. For timber stud walls, using the SoundBoard4 would also result in a pass for Part E Building Regulations (with the following build-up).

Brick party wall

Direct to wall

48dB

Timber stud wall

Build-up of: 50mm stud frame with 15mm acoustic plasterboard on both sides and 50mm acoustic mineral wool and SoundBoard4 on one side only.

47dB

Performance and product overview of the SoundBoard 4™

Passing Part E building regulations for walls with SoundBoard4

How to soundproof a wall using SoundBoard 3 or SoundBoard 4

How to soundproof a stud wall using SoundBoard 4

Wall Soundproofing for Stud walls: ReductoClip System

The ReductoClip system is the highest performing wall soundproofing solution. Used in domestic solutions to achieve exceptional performance against noisy neighbours and as the perfect solution for soundproofing music studios. The ReductoClip system creates a room within a room which is then isolated from the existing structure. Outperforming resilient bars by up to 7dB and not only meeting Part E Building Regulations, but exceeding them. More and more often we are receiving calls from contractors whereby local councils are insisting on higher airborne dB levels (up to 55dB) and the most effective way for this to be achieved is by using the ReductoClip system for walls.

Brick party wall

65dB results (as shown below) are based on a solid wall, 10mm air gap, timber stud frame, Acoustic Mineral Wool between studs, ReductoClips , furring channels , 2 layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard with FlexiSound 5 sandwiched between boards. It's worth noting, as previously mentioned, that performance will vary with different structural make-ups.

Timber stud wall

60dB results (as shown below) are based on a stud wall, with 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard on one side, timber stud frame, 50mm Acoustic Mineral Wool, ReductoClips, furring channels, 2 layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard and Tecsound SY100 sandwiched between boards.

(Independently tested at a WAS certified acoustic test laboratory)

Learn more about the exceptional performance of the ReductoClip™ System

Passing soundproofing building regulations (Part E) for walls with the ReductoClip system

Highlighted above are 3 different wall soundproofing solutions which all pass Part E Building Regulations (when used with the build-ups specified). Next we will discuss the best performing soundproofing solutions for floors in order to pass soundproofing Part E Building regulations.

Floor Soundproofing Solutions

How to pass soundproofing Part E building regulations for floors

The two most common floor types when soundproofing floors to meet Part E Building Regulations are wooden timber beams and concrete floors. As with walls, the most effective way of soundproofing a floor is by improving the mass of the floor by adding high density soundproofing mats on top (to combat airborne noise) and by improving the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibration (to combat impact noise).

ProSound™ SoundMat™ 3 Plus floor soundproofing

Unlike alternative soundproofing mats, the SoundMat 3 Plus features an innovative 3 layer design of soundproofing technology, making it the highest performing soundproofing mat in the industry. With direct to floor installation (no adhesive) SoundMat3 Plus is easy to work with (cut) and install. Offering soundproof insulation by blocking impact and airborne noise whilst exceeding Part E Building Regulations. The SoundMat 3 Plus is ideal for loud levels of noise from above, such as clear conversation, TV noise and heavy footsteps.

SoundMat™ 3 Plus Product Overview

Passing soundproofing building regulations (Part E) for floors with the ProSound™ SoundMat™ 3 Plus

How to soundproof a floor with SoundMat 3 Plus

SoundMat 3 Plus delivers a pass for Part E building regulations against impact and airborne noise with the correct build-up (as highlighted above). An alternative soundproofing solution used to pass Part E building regulations for impact and airborne noise on timber floors is the Reverso SoundMat™ which is discussed in more detail below.

ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat™ floor soundproofing

An alternative sound insulation option when soundproofing a floor to pass Part E building regs, is to use the Reverso SoundMat . This high performing acoustic floor panel offers an exceptional performance to height ratio of only 18mm thick.

With a similar performance to the SoundMat 3 Plus, but with the added benefit of being reversible. Soft side up for soft carpet final floor finishes and hard side up for hard floor final finishes. No underlay is required when installing carpet and uniquely, unlike other floor soundproofing solutions, there is no over boarding layer required prior to most hard floor finishes. (Which would be the case with other soundmats on the market). This unique, dual purpose soundproofing solution means soft and hard floor finishes are at the exact same height. Perfect for soundproofing floors with multiple final floor finishes throughout.

Reverso SoundMat™ Product Overview and Benefits

Passing Part E building regulations for floors with the Reverso SoundMat

How to soundproof a floor with the Reverso SoundMat™

Timber Floor Soundproofing: ImpactoMat 5mm (Impact noise only)

Another floor solution when looking to pass Part E building regs is ImpactoMat 5mm. A cost effective choice in reducing noise at the source and particularly suited to reducing impact noise from travelling down through the floor to the room below (on timber joisted floors). Where space is at a premium and where part E building regulations need to be met. At only 5mm thick ImpactoMat 5mm offers the ideal solution (Must also be used with a resilient bar and two layers of plasterboard on the ceiling below).

ImpactoMat™ Product Overview

Passing Part E building regulations for timber floors with ImpactoMat 5mm

ImpactoMat is a high performance material that has been acoustically tested at a WAS certified independent acoustic test laboratory and passes Part E building regulations with the following build-up:

Example build up on a timber floor:

18mm subfloor, 100mm acoustic mineral wool and two layers of acoustic grade plasterboard on resilient bars on the ceiling.

50dB for impact noise (Pass for Part E building regulations).

Concrete Floor Soundproofing: ImpactoMat (Impact noise only)

How to pass Part E building regulations for ceilings

When looking to pass Part E for ceilings, this usually falls under the flooring umbrella. As mentioned above when passing soundproofing building regulations Part E for floors, the SoundMat 3 Plus , resilient bars and two layers of acoustic plasterboard on the ceiling below and the 100mm 60kg Acoustic Mineral Wool between the joists would result in a soundproofing regulations Part E pass.

This is because absorbing impact noise at the source, (before it has chance to enter the structure of a building) is much more effective. Soundproofing the floor to pass Part E would always be our recommendation, rather than trying to absorb the vibration from the ceiling below.

However, occasionally there are circumstances when the ceiling itself needs to be soundproofed to pass Part E. For example, a flat above a shop, whereby the flat has already been converted and doesn't need to comply to Part E building regulations. To convert the shop below into a dwelling means that it will need to pass Part E building regulations. To learn more about how to soundproof a ceiling to pass Part E by using the ReductoClip System for soundproofing ceilings, click here

Causes of test failure in meeting Part E building regulations?

One of the common causes of Part E building regulation failures comes down to a poor system. Often not enough money has been spent on an effective soundproofing system in the first place. Soundproofing is very similar to waterproofing and sound will always look for the weakest point in order to make its escape and limit the acoustic performance of the products. In our experience, if an effective soundproofing system has been successfully installed and the building still doesn't pass Part E building regulations, then this can be due to flanking sound transmission.

How does flanking sound effect Part E building regs sound insulation?

Sound doesn't always travel through the building element you are looking to soundproof. If the wall or floor has effective sound reducing capabilities, then similarly to the water example above, sound will find an alternative path. This is called flanking and occurs when sound travels along materials shared by adjacent structures. If sound can't go through the e.g. wall, then it will travel up, over, or around the side. Flanking is a common cause of sound test failure in meeting Part E building regulations.

Sound can travel through air pockets, within the likes of stud and ceiling joist cavities and also along rigid surfaces like pipes, concrete and glass. Think of the films you have watched where inmates communicate with each other by banging pipes in non-adjoining cells.

How to combat flanking sound

Flanking sounds can be dealt with by using the likes of isolation strips around the perimeter edge of floors and walls and beneath all types of wall partitions and on top of timber joists to provide a very simple and effective way to reduce structure borne flanking noise. In refurbishment projects isolation strips are typically used to isolate the partition / floating floor from the sub-base / joists below.

The use of soundproof acoustic sealant is also effective in helping to seal perimeter gaps where sound can escape and in dampening vibration around perimeters to reduce flanking vibration. It can also be used to fill and seal any holes during installation.

Summary

Highlighted in this article are The Soundproofing Stores recommendations for passing Part E for walls and floors, based on common build up examples. Ceilings have also been included, (should the situation arise where the floor can't be soundproofed to pass Part E).

As previously mentioned, every situation and building make up is different when looking to pass Part E, so our best advice would be to always speak to a professional. Our specialist team are available from Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm to advise on any Part E building regulation questions you might have.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to manage different floor heights when soundproofing floors

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 16:07:45 GMT

How to manage different floor heights when soundproofing floors

How to transition between final floor finishes and heights when soundproofing a floor

When soundproofing a floor, a common question we often get asked, is 'what do I do about the difference in floor height?'

How to install a door threshold between rooms

A door threshold plate will sit at the bottom of the doorway and provide the transition space between one room and another over the soundproofed floor.

Once installed, a threshold plate will provide a seamless transition between different floor heights and types.

There are an abundance of different types to choose from depending on the final floor finish and personal preference e.g. wood, aluminium and varying colours to tie in with specific room decor. The recommendation would be to always check with the final flooring manufacturer to make sure the correct one is used.

How to install a door threshold between rooms

If you have installed your floor soundproofing in one room and the difference in the final floor finish occurs between a doorway then the below video shows joining a carpet to another carpet. However, the exact same principle also works with all types of floor covering. The door will line up and sit directly over the top of the threshold with means you shouldn't be able to see the joining strip from either room when the door is closed.

Step 1: After installing the floor soundproofing. If using one of The Soundproofing Store's SoundMats, such as the SoundMat 3 Plus , SoundMat 2 Plus or Reverso SoundMat , then these acoustic solutions act a a luxury carpet underlay and no further carpet underlay is required

Step 2: If using carpet gripper rods, then firstly use a carpet gripper rod riser at the opening of the door

Step 3: Place the gripper rods over the riser

Step 4: Lay the carpet over the gripper rods

Step 5: Add the cover plate, or threshold strip and screw it down

Don't drill into the floor soundproofing as this will create a weakness in the system.

How to transition between different final floor finishes on a soundproofed floor

With many people opting for modern open plan living, it is not uncommon for a floor to be soundproofed which needs a dual purpose final floor finish. For example the practicality of a hard floor finish in the kitchen area, such as wood and laminate and a carpet finish in the living area. Again, there are a number of transition options available depending on which final floor finish needs to be joined and it is always worth checking with the flooring manufacturer as to the correct one to use.

The image below shows the Reverso SoundMat which is the ideal floor soundproofing solution for multiple final floor finishes. The Reverso SoundMat is installed soft side up for carpet finishes and hard side up for hard floor finishes, which maintains the soundproofed subfloor height throughout. To transition between the two, the recommendation would be to use a Z style threshold bar to transition between (for example), a laminate hard final floor finish and soft carpet finish as shown below.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof a Home Cinema

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 11:48:27 GMT

How to soundproof a home cinema

What is the best way to soundproof a home cinema?

The latest research by TV manufacturer Hisense shows that 3.6 million Brits have invested in their home viewing experience over the last 12 months, with the purchase of new TV's, sound systems and projectors. With a further 9.2 million households considering creating a cinema in their homes.

The Entertainment Retailers Association report that two thirds of UK audiences name film and TV as their favourite form of entertainment and this combined with the launch of extra-large screen TV's all helps to create the same magic of the cinema at home. Therefore it is no surprise that early forecasts suggest that 2022 may be the biggest year on record for Home Entertainment. Liz Bales, Chief Executive, BASE said: “Throughout the pandemic, entertainment at home was the refuge that many chose to take from an uncertain world. Continuing to serve audiences the content they love is driving a new, innovative world of Home Entertainment."

How to Soundproof a home cinema room?

Soundproofing a home theatre room isn't as complicated a you might think. It is really no different to soundproofing any room within the home. What is important is using the correct soundproofing solution for they type of room being converted, e.g. is it a ground floor room, a detached room, a timber joist floor, or concrete floor? Other considerations will be how much height can be lost from soundproofing the ceiling? These are some of the important questions which need to be answered before soundproofing a home cinema or theatre room. We offer different levels of soundproofing as every home cinema is different and unique. If there is any doubt about which is the best soundproofing system for your own home cinema, then always speak to an expert.

One of the main problems with home cinema room soundproofing is the base frequency created by the sub-woofers as this can easily transfer into the structure of the building and travel up walls, through ceilings and floors.

4 key steps when soundproofing a home cinema

Blocking the sound from home cinemas

It is no surprise that the sounds needing to be blocked from a home cinema are loud and of varying frequency. Often with loud levels of bass frequencies.

Sound travels in waves and when they encounter a solid object some of these sound waves will be absorbed, but the rest will continue to travel as vibrations through the solid object. e.g. the wall, ceiling and floor.

The deeper the frequency, the more chance it has of travelling through solid objects, hence why a high level of soundproofing is required to effectively soundproof a home cinema or theatre room from the low bass frequencies often heard in films. This sound is amplified further by the viewing experience of high volume and modern speaker systems.

How to soundproof the walls of a home cinema

To soundproof the walls of a home cinema and achieve the 'room within a room' mentioned above, the recommended solution is the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution. Unlike traditional resilient bar soundproofing systems, the ReductoClip Independent System is easier to fit and offers the slimmest independent wall solution on the market delivering the highest level of soundproofing for home cinemas and theatre rooms.

Outstanding performance of the ReductoClip Solution and how it compares to other clip systems

How to soundproof home cinema walls with the ReductoClip Independent System

A stud frame is built a minimum of 50mm from the original wall. This stud frame is then isolated with Isolation Strip
60kg Acoustic Mineral wool is added to fill the frame
ReductoClips are fixed to the front of the frame and Reducto Furring Channels are attached to the clips
15mm Acoustic plasterboard is attached to the now independent wall
A layer of FlexiSound 5 is added to the acoustic plasterboard
Another layer of acoustic plasterboard is then added to the FlexiSound

How to soundproof the floor of a home cinema

Soundproofing the floor of a home cinema or theatre room depends where in the house the home cinema room is going to be, e.g. is the home cinema room in a detached construction, e.g. a garage or garden room, or within the main house and where in the main house? A bedroom, ground floor etc. What is also an important factor when determining the best soundproofing for the floor of the home cinema room is also the construction of the floor. e.g. is it timber joist or concrete?

How to soundproof a concrete floor of a home cinema

With a concrete ground floor there is already a great deal of mass which will naturally do a good job of blocking airborne noise. In this instance it is important to use a floor soundproofing solution which will absorb the vibration and energy of the sound.

Three key points to consider when soundproofing a concrete floor of a home cinema:

Reduce Impact Vibration:

The use of different types and thicknesses of high impact absorption (such as foam and rubber) will help to reduce different levels of vibration noise.

The Mass of the floor:

As mentioned above, concrete is naturally high in mass and more effective than a timber floor at blocking airborne noise. However, there are certain (very occasional) situations when the concrete floor doesn't perform as expected against airborne noise. This is explained in more detail below.

A proven floor acoustic solution when soundproofing the concrete floor of a home cinema:

Add ImpactoMat 5 or SoundMat 2 Plus (12mm) directly to the concrete floor. With the SoundMat 2 Plus, this also acts as a luxury carpet underlay and carpet can be installed directly on top. With the ImpactoMat 5, the recommendation would be to lay a carpet underlay first.

Carpet final floor finishes are always going to be the recommendation as the final floor finish for home cinemas (over and above hard floor finishes). This is because hard floor finishes do not absorb sound the same as soft floor finishes do, such as carpet.

Thickness of this solution: Only 12mm for SoundMat 2 Plus and 5mm for ImpactoMat 5 (not including underlay).

How to soundproof a timber floor of a home cinema

Three key points to consider when soundproofing a timber floor of a home cinema:

Improve the mass of the floor:

To achieve this, it is important to add high mass / density products.

Use high impact absorption foam:

Different types and thickness of foam perform better for different levels of impact noise.

Fill all cavities between joists with acoustic mineral wool:

This will prevent any sound resonating and amplifying within this sealed chamber.

An example of an acoustic floor solution when soundproofing the timber floor of a home cinema:

Fill joists with 60kg acoustic mineral wool
Board the joists using 25mm SoundScreed direct to joist board
Overlay SoundMat 3 Plus

Thickness of this solution: Only 40mm from the top of the floor joists.

SoundMat 3 Plus Product Overview

SoundScreed 25 Product Overview

How to soundproof the ceiling of a home cinema

When soundproofing the ceiling of a home cinema room, it is important to add mass and use a resilient clip system, such as the ReductoClip Ceiling System It is essential to use an acoustic ceiling system that will absorb the large amounts of vibration energy, especially the vibrations of loud, lower bass frequencies found within a home cinema room.

The soundproofing solutions for the ceiling of a home cinema or theatre room also depends on how much space there is to lose from the height of the ceiling within the home cinema room.

Three key points to consider when soundproofing the ceiling of a home cinema:

Improve the mass of the ceiling:

Adding different high mass/density products helps to block airborne noise.

Use high impact absorption ReductoClip and bars:

It is important to absorb vibration and sound energy. Without this, simply adding mass will make little or no difference when blocking impact noise and vibration energy.

Fill ceiling cavities with acoustic mineral wool:

Adding acoustic mineral wool to the cavity between the ceiling and the floor above will prevent sound resonating and amplifying within this sealed chamber. Think about shouting down a cardboard tube and then filling the cardboard tube with cotton wool and doing the same again.

ReductoClip™ Independent Ceiling Solution for Home Cinema Ceilings

Similar to the independent stud frame for walls, secondary ceiling joists are built below the existing ceiling and the ReductoClip ceiling solution is then added to the secondary joists. If the independent stud frame of the walls are thick enough, the ceiling joists can sit on top of them.

An independent ceiling is built creating secondary joists
The ceiling joists are filled with 60kg acoustic mineral wool
ReductoClips and Reducto Furring Bars are fixed to the bottom of the independent joists
15mm acoustic grade plasterboard is added
FlexiSound 5 is added to the plasterboard layer
A final layer of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard then sandwiches the FlexiSound in between the first layer of acoustic plasterboard and the final layer

Designed to minimise ceiling height loss within a home cinema. The ReductoClip Ceiling Solution is the thinnest ceiling clip system on the market. A total ceiling height loss of only 60mm from the bottom of the secondary joist to the final layer of plasterboard. The total buildup depends on the size of the joists and the size of the joists is dependent on the width of the room. The bigger the room, the wider the joists will need to be. An average size garage home cinema conversion will usually work to 100mm stud frames for the walls and ceiling.

To minimise the loss of height to the room, there is also the option to attach the ReductoClip ceiling solution directly to the existing joists, rather than building the secondary joists. The space loss doing it this way would be 60mm from the bottom of the existing joists to the final layer of plasterboard, without any additional loss from the secondary joists.

The performance will be higher using the secondary joist system, especially in domestic situations whereby it is important to minimise the unwanted noise in a living space above the home cinema room. However this isn't always feasible when space loss is an issue.

Internal acoustics of a home cinema

Once soundproofed a good cinema room will also need acoustic treatment. Sound absorption solutions work by reducing the echo and reverberation within the home cinema room. This can be achieved by using acoustic solutions like ProSound™ Wall Panels , which are easily fixed directly to the soundproofed walls of the home cinema room. A selection of styles and colours are also available to complement the final decor of the home cinema room.

Plug sockets and lighting when soundproofing a home cinema

When soundproofing a home cinema room you want as few holes in the walls and ceiling as possible, as any unnecessary holes can act as a weakness for sound to travel through. The recommendation would be to use surface mounted sockets, and surface mounted or free standing lighting fixtures.

How to soundproof the door of a home cinema

Mass blocks airborne noise, therefore the heavier the door, the more mass it will have and the more sound it will block. Upgrading to heavier, more solid fire doors is a good option for home cinema rooms. To further improve their soundproofing capabilities, the recommendation would be to double up the doors. One door on the existing external wall and one on the internal soundproofed wall.

How to soundproof windows within a home cinema

Windows and doors will always be a weak point as they have far less mass than the walls. In a perfect world there would be no windows within the home cinema room and while this is possible in some cases, it isn't always practical.

If removing windows and bricking them up isn't an option, then double them up! With a 'room within a room' there is the existing window on the external wall and another window (secondary glazing) can then be added on the inside wall.

Ventilation when soundproofing a home cinema

A well soundproofed home cinema room will be highly insulated and air tight, i.e. warm and with little to no natural air flow. Therefore, the correct ventilation is an important part of the build when creating a soundproof home cinema room. Options can include air conditioning units and digital ventilation. However, a standard passive vent with a built in baffle box to attenuate some of the sound as the air passes through is a really good choice, such as the ProSound Acoustic Vent.

Soundproofing a home cinema - DIY

The soundproofing solutions provided by The Soundproofing Store can be installed by a competent DIYer. Due to the importance of adding mass and the heavy nature of materials it is always advisable to have a minimum of two people to do the installation. However, if the thought of soundproofing your own home cinema fills you with dread, then rest assured that any local tradesperson will easily have the necessary skills to install it for you. Soundproofing a home cinema room need not be cost prohibitive by using a more expensive supply and fit service.

How to Soundproof a Home Cinema Summary

Home cinema soundproofing solutions such as the ReductoClip wall and ceiling solution isolate the original structure of the home cinema room, providing the highest level of soundproofing. Adding mass to the structure and being mindful of unnecessary weaknesses such as lights, windows and doors have all been highlighted. As has the importance of ventilation.

Every potential home cinema room is different and The Soundproofing Store have soundproofing solutions for every eventuality. Feel free to call a member of the home cinema team on 01423 206208 and they will happily advise on the best acoustic solution for your home cinema room.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a loft

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 14:02:19 GMT

How to soundproof a loft

If you're looking for a practical solution for adding more space to your home, then turning a cluttered attic or loft into a usable living space can provide a more economical option than adding an extension, or moving. A ccording to a recent survey by sellhousefast.uk , a loft conversion adds an average of £23,754.57 to the value of your property.

Potential problems with noise

Noise problems within a loft to soundproofing against, often include reducing internal noise from travelling from the loft down to the rooms below. Noise travelling from below into the converted loft space. Noise travelling through any party walls and external noises such as traffic, airplanes and even pigeons!

Does (roof/ceiling) loft insulation reduce noise?

No, usually insulation is ineffective at reducing noise. Most lofts and attics will already include Celotex or an equivalent as part of the loft insulation. Often t he term 'insulation' is used to mean thermal, keeping attics and loft spaces warm in winter and cool in summer. The term acoustic insulation and soundproofing are often used when looking at ways in which to block the passage of sound. This article focuses on soundproofing a loft, rather than insulating a loft.

Learn more about acoustic insulation .

How to soundproof a loft floor

To soundproof the floor of a loft, or attic, you need to block impact noise (footsteps, moving furniture etc) and airborne noise (talking, music, TV etc).

4 point soundproofing checklist:

1. Improve the mass of the floor. Soundproofing is all about adding mass, so adding high density products to the floor is crucial.

2. Improve the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibration. Without this, the addition of mass will have minimal effect on reducing impact noise.

3. Use acoustic insulation between the timber joists to eliminate sound resonating and amplifying in this sealed chamber.

4. Use a combination of different high mass materials. This is because different materials perform better at blocking different sound frequencies. Therefore simply using more layers of the same material will result in a poorer performance than soundproofing solutions which combine different high mass materials.

Firstly lay acoustic mineral wool within the cavity of the floor joists. Acoustic grade mineral wool is designed to offer the highest level of sound absorption in the cavity partitions of timber floor joists (and partitions of timber and metal party walls).

Acoustic mineral wool is used within loft floors for soundproofing as it effectively absorbs airborne sounds, significantly improving acoustic performance and reducing reverberation. When acoustic mineral wool is used in conjunction with other acoustic materials, it also helps to bring separating floors and walls into compliance with Part E building regulations. (Find out more about how to pass Part E building regulations ).

After laying the acoustic mineral wool, fit an 18mm - 22mm chipboard floor as a sub floor, followed by a 5mm barrier mat to the sub floor of the loft, which then provides a base for a soundproofing sound mat acoustic underlay solution. The different SoundMat solutions are highlighted below:

What is the best soundproofing material for the floor of a loft?

Once the acoustic mineral wool has been added to the timber joists, the final floor finish of choice can determine the best floor soundproofing insulation to use. If a hard final floor finish is the final finish of choice (such as vinyl, laminate, engineered wood and tiles) then the Reverso SoundMat™ is an excellent acoustic floor solution, as it doesn't (in most instances) require a further over boarding layer before the final hard floor finish. The Reverso SoundMat can also be reversed with the soft side up for soft finishes such as carpet. Without the need of any kind of underlay.

An alternative to the Reverso SoundMat would be the SoundMat 3 Plus and SoundMat 2 Plus. As with the Reverso SoundMat, SoundMats can be added by simply laying them on top of the existing floorboards. They are constructed from layers of mass loaded vinyl for blocking airborne noise and closed cell foam to absorb impact vibration. Final floor finishes (like carpet) can then be installed directly on top, as the SoundMat act like a luxury carpet underlay. If using carpet gripper rods, then carpet gripper rod risers need to be used under the carpet gripper rods.

Laminate, tile, wooden or vinyl flooring can all be installed on top of the SoundMats. However, unlike with the Reverso SoundMat, (depending on the flooring choice) an over boarding layer is required. A 6mm bonded layer of MDF is added on top of the SoundMat for vinyl and bonded carpet finishes to give the floor a stable base. A min 9mm layer of MDF for tiles, (with 12mm being the standard).

Our recommendation would be to use the Reverso SoundMat for hard finishes and the SoundMat™ 3 Plus for soft final floor finishes. Both the Reverso SoundMat and SoundMat 3 Plus block loud levels of airborne and high impact noise. They are an extremely easy DIY instal and also offer an exceptional soundproofing performance, exceeding the new Building Regulations Part E target when used as part of a system.

Soundproofing a loft floor with the Reverso SoundMat (18mm)

The Reverso SoundMat is ideal for loud levels of airborne and high impact noise, such as clear conversation, TV noise and heavy footsteps. Suitable for all final floor finishes, without the need for an over boarding layer for most hard finishes and also acts as a luxury carpet underlay for soft carpet finishes. Only 18mm thick and is an easy DIY install, without the need for adhesive.

Innovative 3 layer reversible design:

6mm Fibre cement board - which provides a flat, stable base for hard final floor finishes. The mass of the board is 9.7kg per m2 which allows for the blocking of airborne noise.
9mm closed cell acoustic foam - provides a high level of impact absorption and unlike open cell or recycled chip foam, will not absorb water, should there be any cases of water damage in the future.
3mm mass loaded vinyl - offers a soft finish for carpet and also has a mass of 7.5kg per m2 to block airborne noise

Soundproofing a loft floor with SoundMat 3 Plus (15mm)

The ProSound™ SoundMat™ 3 Plus is ideal for loud levels of noise from above, such as clear conversation, TV noise and heavy footsteps.

SoundMat 3 Plus uses a specially developed innovative 3 layer design, and at only 15mm thick, means it saves space within your loft and with an easy DIY install results in minimal disruption to your home.

The innovative 3 layer design features:

1. An outer layer of 3mm mass loaded vinyl (7.5kg per m2) designed to replace lead in soundproofing. The 3mm mass loaded vinyl has the same mass and soundproofing qualities as lead, but with improved sound absorbing qualities.

2. The second and middle layer is a 9mm acoustic, closed cell foam designed to dampen and absorb impact energy (such as footsteps) from transferring through the loft floor. The foam doesn't degrade over time, is water resistant and acts as a luxury carpet underlay. The SoundMat 3 Plus also delivers a higher load capacity than standard mats meaning the internal foam layer doesn't compress as easily as the foam layer in other soundproofing mats, which compromises performance ability.

3. The third and final layer is an extra 3mm layer (7.5kg per m2) of mass loaded vinyl offering further airborne noise blocking capabilities.

Soundproofing a loft floor with SoundMat 2 Plus (12mm)

Depending on the level of noise you are trying to soundproof against within a loft, the ProSound™ SoundMat 2 offers an alternative to SoundMat 3 Plus and is another extremely effective floor soundproofing solution for lofts and attics.SoundMat 2 is ideal for loud levels of airborne noise and medium levels of impact noise (such as muffled conversation, TV noise and footsteps).

SoundMat 2 is a thin floor soundproofing mat (12mm), with 2 layers of two different soundproofing technologies laminated together for easy installation.

1. The top layer uses a specially developed thin 10kg per m2 soundproofing material of mass loaded vinyl, originally developed to replace lead in soundproofing, due to the associated health risks and with improved sound absorbing capabilities.

2. The second (middle) layer is a 9mm acoustic open cell foam designed to dampen and absorb impact energy from transferring through the base floor of the loft or attic. The 9mm soundproof foam does not degrade over time and also acts as a carpet underlay.

Floor build up using SoundMat 3 Plus and Reverso SoundMat to pass Part E building regulations

How to soundproof a party wall within a loft

We have so far concentrated on soundproofing the floor within a loft or attic and now we will look at the best wall soundproofing solutions for a loft.

The most effective wall soundproofing solution for lofts depends on what the wall make up is. A solid party wall, or stud wall?

Next, what are the levels and types of noise you are trying to soundproof your loft wall against? Is it airborne noise (conversation, TV, music) or impact noise (footsteps, doors banging, scraping of furniture) or both? Also, what are the levels of noise? Muffled conversation, footsteps, up to and including excessive airborne and impact noise.

Soundproofing a loft wall

When soundproofing a loft wall, (similarly to soundproofing the floor of a loft) there are 4 main points to consider:

1. The need to improve the mass of the wall. Achieved by adding high mass/density products.

2. Improve the ability of the wall to absorb sound energy and vibration. Without this, the addition of any mass will have very little impact.

3. Add acoustic insulation between timber battens (for stud walls only) to eliminate any sound reverberation.

4. The use of different high mass materials. Different materials perform better against different sound frequencies, so using a combination of high mass materials will perform better than simply using more of the same material.

Soundproofing a loft wall with the ReductoClip Independent System

The ReductoClip Independent System is the highest performing wall soundproofing system, delivering exceptional levels of soundproofing for loft walls. This system is so exceptional at blocking noise, that it is also used for recording studios.

The ReductoClip system works by creating a room within a room, which is isolated from the existing structure meaning it absorbs high levels of sound vibration energy. The ReductoClip system is suitable for use on both solid and timber stud walls.

The ReductoClip Independent System offers an exceptional soundproofing performance for loft walls, by creating a room within a room. The system involves building a timber stud frame in front of the existing loft wall, insulating inside of the frame with acoustic mineral wool and then attaching the ReductoClips and furring channels to the frame. Finally, a new wall layer is added, with two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard sandwiching a specialist material called FlexiSound 5 . This works by adding more mass to the loft wall to block airborne noise. When the FlexiSound is bonded to the acoustic grade plasterboard its viscoelasticity properties also reduce the sound resonance / vibration of impact noise.The total build up of the ReductoClip system is 120mm.

The completed ReductoClip system works in two ways:

1. The new wall layer (plasterboard and FlexiSound) are very heavy and dense and (as previously highlighted) therefore add a great deal of mass to block airborne sound travelling through the loft wall.

2. Because these layers are fixed onto the ReductoClips and furring channels, instead of directly to the frame, this means that the new layers are completely de-coupled from the structure of the building. The ReductoClip act like shock absorbers and absorb the vibration energy, stopping any vibration from continuing into the new wall layers.

How the ReductoClip Independent Clip System Works

How to soundproof a wall with the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution

How to soundproof a loft wall with the ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution

It may not always be an option to lose the space of 120mm within your loft (that the ReductoClip Independent system requires). Therefore an alternative would be attach the ReductoClips Directly to the attic or loft wall (without building the stud frame) meaning space loss would only be 60mm. This method delivers an excellent sound insulation compromise on space loss v's performance.

How to soundproof a wall using the ReductoClip direct to wall solution

How to soundproof a loft wall with SoundBoard4

If the space loss of the higher performing ReductoClip wall soundproofing solutions (either 120mm, or 60mm) are still too much to lose on the attic wall, then there is another option, that of the ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™ which is only 30mm thick.

The SoundBoard4 is a direct to existing wall system, is an easy DIY install and takes up just 30mm of space. The SoundBoard4 is ideal for blocking standard household noise, such as clear voices and TV. However, the SoundBoard 4 wouldn't be suitable for impact noise, bass sounds from music, deep voices and snoring. To block these kinds of noises, then the ReductoClip solutions mentioned above would be the only viable option.

The SoundBoard 4 delivers an airborne performance of 52dB direct to a solid wall and 54dB (for airborne noise), direct to a stud wall. In human terms it would mean a good halving of the noise. Further information on how sound is measured and decibels .

The 4 different layers that make up the SoundBoard4 work by adding different high mass soundproofing materials to block a wider range of sound frequencies and by improving the walls ability to absorb sound energy.

The 4 different layers of SoundBoard4:

1. 15mm acoustic plasterboard finish. M eaning that after installation, the SoundBoard4 is ready for a skim coat of plaster and ready to decorate.

2. 3mm mass loaded vinyl, designed to replace lead in soundproofing.

3. 9mm closed cell foam, which dampens sound energy and vibrations.

4. 3mm a further layer of mass loaded vinyl, offering greater soundproofing qualities.

Take a look at the below videos which use the same principles as those when soundproofing a solid party wall of a loft.

How to soundproof a solid wall using SoundBoard4

How to soundproof a stud wall with SoundBoard4

Soundproofing a loft wall with SoundBoard3

So far we have discussed loft wall soundproofing using the ReductoClip Independent Solution, ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution and the SoundBoard 4. The final acoustic soundproofing solution for soundproofing a loft wall would be the ProSound™ SoundBoard 3 . The SoundBoard 3 is a solution for soundproofing loft walls against low levels of noise, such as muffled conversation, background music and TV noise and is particularly suited to the application of stud walls (more so than solid walls). At only 27mm thick the SoundBoard3 is The Soundproofing Stores thinnest direct-to-wall soundproofing board. The SoundBoard 3 features 3 layers of different high mass materials.

The 3 layers of SoundBoard3:

1. 15mm acoustic plasterboard finish, ready for standard plasterboard decoration.

2. 3mm mass loaded vinyl, designed to replace lead in soundproofing.

3. 9mm closed cell foam, dampens sound energy and vibrations.

How to soundproof the plug sockets on a loft wall

Quick tip: Soundproofing is like waterproofing and is only as good as the weakest point. For example, if you are in a car and the window is only slightly open, you can normally hear all the sound outside perfectly clearly. When you close the window fully and the car becomes more soundproofed, all sounds are reduced to a quiet muffle. This illustrates how much sound can travel through any small gaps or weaknesses.

There isn't any point taking the time to soundproof a loft wall and then have gaps in the soundproofing where the plug sockets are. There are a few options in dealing with this.

Option 1. The most effective solution is to fit the SoundBoard across the whole wall and make a small hole in the soundboard and pull the cable for the socket through and then fill it with acoustic sealant . The socket would then be refitted as a surface mounted socket (so it would stick out).

Option 2: Is to fit the soundboard around the socket and fit a socket putty pad in the back of the socket.

Option 3: If the faceplate of the socket needs to fit as a regular fitting, then the back box will need to move forward 30mm by packing the wall behind the back box with a piece of wood and then remounting it. Again, a putty pad would need to be fitted at the back of this before refitting the faceplate.

How to soundproof the ceiling of a loft

Celotex will more often that not be present within your loft ceiling. This doesn't offer any soundproofing capabilities, so the loft soundproofing solutions highlighted below include the Celotex, plus the soundproofing solutions.

When soundproofing a loft or attic ceiling, due to there being no one above making impact noise (such as footsteps, or moving furniture) the noise being soundproofed against within an attic ceiling is usually airborne noise. Also, the loft ceiling isn't going to be made of concrete, it's going to be a timber joist ceiling, so this automatically means a focus on the best soundproofing solution for a timber joist ceiling to block airborne noise. Noises needing to be blocked from a loft ceiling can include voices from outside, traffic, airplanes and pigeons!

Airborne noise is only blocked by mass, (as mentioned previously) and mass comes from heavy, dense materials. Therefore to soundproof the ceiling of a loft or attic, soundproofing materials need to be added which are high mass and will improve the ability of the ceiling to block noise.

4 main points to consider when soundproofing a ceiling:

1. Adding mass and high density materials to the ceiling to block airborne noise. Using soundproofing materials such as FlexiSound and acoustic plasterboard .

2. Dampening vibrations . e.g. the noise of Airplanes through the ceiling of a loft can be a combination of both airborne noise and can also create a vibration.

3. Sound absorption , to reduce the sound echoing and amplifying in-between the timber joists. This is also known as the drum effect.

Soundproofing the ceiling of a loft with the ReductoClip ceiling system

The most effective soundproofing system for blocking high levels of noise within an attic ceiling, such as airplanes, trains, loud levels of shouting and any vibrations would be the ReductoClip System for ceilings . This would involve removing the current plasterboard ceiling, exposing the timber joists and adding acoustic mineral wool into the void space.

The ReductoClips are then fixed onto the bottom of the timber joists. Long metal furring bars are then run across the ceiling fixed into the ReductoClips. The ceiling is then rebuilt, by fixing the plasterboard layers onto the furring bars instead of them being fixed directly to the timber joists. This de-couples the ceiling and any vibrations travelling down from above will be absorbed by the ReductoClips. (Like sound shock absorbers).

The ceiling is built with 2 layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard, sandwiching a layer of FlexiSound 5 in between. these layers are very high in mass and will block a high level of airborne noise. The total loss of space when using the ReductoClip system for ceilings is 60mm as there is no need to build a separate stud frame, as with the ReductoClip system for walls.

How to soundproof a ceiling with the ReductoClip System

How to soundproof the ceiling of a loft with SoundBoard 4

If there isn't the space within the attic to lose 60mm from the ceiling, then an alternative solution would be to use the SoundBoard4 .

SoundBoard4 is usually used on walls to block airborne noise. Therefore, depending on the type and level of noise needing to be blocked from the loft ceiling, SoundBoard4 can be applied to the ceiling of an attic or loft. This is because, generally there will be no impact noise needing to be soundproofed against, due to no footsteps, moving furniture etc coming from above.

Firstly add acoustic mineral wool to the ceiling cavity in between the timber joists, as this significantly improves the acoustic performance by effectively absorbing airborne sound. Acoustic plasterboard then needs to be fitted and the SoundBoard4 can then be applied directly to the plasterboard on the ceiling. The SoundBoard4 is very easy to install and takes up just 30mm of space. It is ideal for medium levels of noise such as normal conversation, normal music levels and TV noise, resulting in a good halving of this noise.

The different layers that make up the soundboard work be adding mass to the ceiling of the loft and by improving its ability to absorb sound energy. The final layer is an acoustic grade plasterboard meaning after installation there is a plasterboard ready to add a skim coat of plaster to and then to decorate.

What is the best lighting to use within a soundproofed ceiling

Smart, flush spotlights inside a soundproofed loft ceiling can aesthetically look great, however they require multiple holes to be cut out. Once you have soundproofed the loft ceiling, the recommendation is to use surface mounted spotlights, or single pendant type lighting, which require just a small hole for one cable. The last thing you want to do is go to the lengths of soundproofing your ceiling and then put lots of holes in it for lighting. There should be no weaknesses in soundproofing and the addition of any holes for lighting simply creates a gap for noise to travel through.

We've mentioned it before... Soundproofing is like waterproofing. It is only as good as the weakest point.

How to soundproof the under eaves storage within a loft

Depending on whether under the eaves are used for storage, or if the space is closed off, depends on the best solution. If access is required to the eaves, then SoundBarrier mat (also referred to as mass loaded vinyl) should be applied to the floor, within the void storage area.

SoundBarrier Mat is used to combat airborne noise in floor, ceiling and wall constructions. Acoustic sealant is then applied around the perimeter to prevent any flanking vibration and seal any air gaps.

If the area under the loft is sealed with plasterboard and doesn't need to be accessed for storage, then in this instance SoundBoard4 can be fixed directly onto the plasterboard stud frame therefore blocking the noise at this point rather than on the floor in the void.

Summary

Highlighted in this article are examples of the different and most effective soundproofing solutions when soundproofing the walls, floors or ceilings within loft and attic conversions.

The main principles being that, adding mass is crucial to soundproofing. Also, using different layers of mass is more effective than more layers of the same material. Finally, ensuring the use of soundproofing solutions and materials to improve the ability of the loft (wall, ceiling, or floor) to absorb sound energy and vibration.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof a Concrete Floor Against Airborne Noise

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 15:47:24 GMT

How to soundproof a concrete floor

Concrete floors and unwanted noise

Concrete floors naturally contain much more mass than timber floors and are therefore (usually) good at blocking airborne noise. TV and conversation noise ordinarily does not transfer between the floors of buildings with concrete floors. The usual issue with unwanted noise and concrete floors is impact noise, the likes of footfall and movement of furniture. If you've even been on holiday and stayed in an apartment with concrete floors and no carpet, every time the person staying above drags their chair to sit down, the sound can be heard in your apartment below.

Airborne noise and concrete floors

So, what if the noise being heard is indeed airborne noise? We've already highlighted that concrete floors usually perform well at blocking the transference of airborne noise, however there can be exceptions.The 3 main reasons why airborne noise can be heard through a concrete floor are highlighted below.

3 reasons why airborne noise can be heard through a concrete floor:

1. Weak points within the concrete that airborne sound is passing through. e.g radiator pipes, or cracks within the concrete itself

2. Flanking noise transferring into other parts of the building, e.g. travelling down the wall. Flanking can occur when there is direct connection between the surface of the wall and the floor. This is often the case with concrete and steel structures and can be common in purpose built blocks of flats where there are lots of adjoining structures within a single building

3. Poor performing concrete structure . It could be that the concrete itself isn't a solid 200mm, but is a hollow concrete slab. e.g. hollowcore, which is often used in the construction of flats. Because of the large holes and air gaps, (which create a weakness for airborne noise to pass through), the concrete floor needs to be treated in the same way as a timber floor. Therefore a combination of high mass materials need adding to the existing concrete floor.

How to check if a concrete floor needs soundproofing?

If you can hear airborne noise through a concrete floor, the likelihood is that it's due to one or more of the above reasons. You might be thinking, how do I know if it's because of a weak point, flanking noise, or the poor structural performance of my concrete floor?

The easiest way to narrow down why airborne noise can be heard through a concrete floor is to do a simple ear test. When you can hear the noise, put your ear to any gaps or holes, e.g. where there might be radiator pipes and listen to hear how loud the noise is. Put your ear to another part of the floor and compare how loud the noise is in different areas of the floor.

To check for flanking noise, when you can hear the airborne noise, put your ear to the walls, listen again and compare.

It is difficult to know if the reason for hearing airborne noise is because of the concrete structure itself. In most cases you won't be digging up your concrete floor to check if hollowcore has been used. Access to builders and architect plans may help to answer this question. However, (by again) doing a simple ear test to the floor and moving to different positions across the floor will help ascertain if it is the structure itself. If you can hear airborne noise when doing an ear test to the floor in multiple positions then the likelihood is that it could be due to the poor performance of the concrete floor itself.

How to soundproof a concrete floor against airborne noise

If airborne noise can be heard through a concrete floor, then it is important to treat it as if it were a timber floor. Therefore, to soundproof a concrete floor effectively against airborne noise, it is important to add more mass to the floor. This is achieved by adding a combination of high mass / density products to the existing concrete floor. The Soundproofing Store ' s acoustic underlays feature this combination of high density products within their flooring solutions. The top performing floor soundproofing solutions for airborne noise are listed below.

How to soundproof a concrete floor against impact noise

We have so far focused on how to soundproof a concrete floor against airborne noise. To soundproof a concrete floor against impact noise, then it is important to use high impact absorption foam. A combination of different types and thicknesses of soundproofing foam perform better for different levels of impact noise.

A resilient layer is added over the concrete and below the final floor finish. The correct concrete floor soundproofing solution depends on factors such as the floor height and what the final floor finish will be. The highest performing floor insulation products for concrete floors for both impact and airborne noise can be found below.

Soundproofing solutions for concrete floors

How to soundproof a concrete floor against airborne noise - Summary

Concrete floors don't always perform as well at blocking unwanted airborne noise as they should. Occasionally unwanted airborne noise can travel down to the room below. Highlighted in this article are the three main reasons as to why this can happen, along with the best floor soundproofing solutions for both airborne and impact noise on a concrete floor.

If a concrete floor is poor at blocking airborne noise, then treat is like a timber floor and add more mass of high density products to the existing concrete floor before laying the final floor finish.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Soundproofing Kitchen Floors

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 10:57:04 GMT

Soundproofing Kitchen Floors

Which soundproofing products to use and how they are used with different kitchen floor finishes

For most people with their own home and a ground floor kitchen, soundproofing kitchen floors would never be something you need to think about. However, for those living in apartments and such, kitchens can be a very noisy place and can be a problem with your neighbours below.

The main issue with soundproofing kitchen floors is to combat footfall. With a nice soft carpet this would be minimised, but in the kitchen we tend to use much noisier Vinyl, Lino's, Laminates, Hard Wood Floors or even Tiles. These floor finishes do not absorb the impact of your footfall and to make things worse, airborne sound reflects off these smooth surfaces and resonates.

So ... the big question... 'can I install your soundproofing systems in my kitchen, and can I have my lino on top?'

These floor finishes require a solid, stable base underneath, and most of our floor soundproofing systems are soft to absorb impact.

The first option is to use our ImpactoMat 5mm which is especially suited to reducing impact noise on concrete kitchen floors.

ImpactoMat™ Product Overview

ImpactoMat 5mm is designed specifically to combat impact noise only, but with it's recycled rubber construction, it is also stable and therefore your kitchen floor finish can be installed directly on top. Unfortunately, ImpactoMat 5mm does not combat airborne noise, only impact.

'What if I need protection from airborne noise as well?'

We have a couple of simple solutions.

Reverso SoundMat Product Overview

The Reverso SoundMat is a totally unique and specially engineered dual purpose soundproofing mat suitable for both hard or soft floor finishes. A slim and effective floor soundproofing solution designed to reduce unwanted impact and airborne noise, helping you achieve peace and quiet in your home.

Different soundproofing layers of mass coupled with an impact dampening layer are cleverly combined in one easy to install product which greatly improves the soundproofing capabilities of timber kitchen floors.

The built in stabilising layer makes the Reverso SoundMat particularly suited to hard floor final finishes, as the majority of all hard floor finishes can be installed on top. This removes the need of a stabilising layer, which reduces time and costs.

SoundMat™ 3 Plus and SoundMat™ 2 Plus Product Overview

SoundMats are designed to reduce unwanted impact and airborne noise.

Different layers of mass are cleverly combined in one easy to install product which greatly improves the soundproofing capabilities of existing timber or concrete floors.

Whether you require peace and quiet from noisy neighbours living above or below, or privacy between floors within your own home, then SoundMats offer an excellent solution.

Our SoundMat 2 Plus and SoundMat 3 Plus systems combat both airborne and impact noise and are particularly suited to carpet final floor finishes.

However, (if not using the Reverso SoundMat for hard floor final finishes) they can also be used, but with the addition of a stabilising layer. If you install a layer of Ply / Chipboard / MDF on top of these mats, it does not effect their performance, but does give you a stable base for your kitchen floor finish.

For Vinyl, Laminate, Lino, and wood floors, a 6mm ply base should be stable enough. If using tiles, then a 12mm layer would be ideal.

Kitchen Floor Soundproofing Top Tip:

You don't need to pull out all of your kitchen cupboards to get soundproofing underneath, just use our system up to the cupboards. If you want to add extra soundproofing protection for the cupboard area, you can use our FlexiSound 5 underneath through the front panel. It's only 5mm thick and blocks airborne sound very well. As there is no footfall you don't need impact protection!

Compare the range of soundproofing solutions for kitchen floors

Need Help?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof Against External Noise

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 14:49:15 GMT

How to Soundproof Against External Noise

What do we mean by "External Noise"?

We often get people enquiring about soundproofing against external noise, such as car noise or shouting travelling into their properties.

When focusing on external noise, we would point you towards addressing your windows and doors to start with.

Many people contact us thinking that it is the wall itself that needs soundproofing. However in most cases it is the windows that are the weakest point as external walls are normally constructed of very high mass materials with insulation and normally perform very well for soundproofing.

Even if you have standard double glazing this can often not perform well enough for loud noises. (There is standard double glazing and good quality double glazing).

How to Soundproof a Window

The best way to fix sound issues of this nature would be to upgrade your windows and frames surrounding them. You should consider replacing the window with better performing double or even triple glazed windows. The addition of acoustic glass will make a huge difference to you. If the existing window is already in a good condition and changing to triple glazing is not a option then you can add secondary double gazing, (two sets of double glazing).

Finally, please make sure that all the frames fit the window opening correctly and that there are no small gaps which are sometimes just filled with a small amount of spray foam. This can then be a weak point where all the sound can leak through.

Do Soundproof Curtains work?

We have a number of people contact us about the use of “Soundproof Curtains” or “Blackout Curtains”, and whether we sell them/ if they work. The simple answer is soundproof curtains will only give you a small improvement at best. Therefore, we do not sell curtains, as their performance is not good enough to be called 'soundproofing'.

To successfully soundproof a surface, we must apply the following principles:

Improve the mass of the surface - This is normally achieved by adding different high mass/density products.

2. Improve the ability of the surface to absorb sound energy and vibrations. Without this, the addition of the mass will have very little impact.

3. Use different materials of high mass. Different materials perform better for different sound frequencies, so using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than simply using more of the same material.

Another key thing to consider is that sound travels like water, and soundproofing is very much like waterproofing. Therefore it is only as good as its weakest point. With this being the case the entire surface being soundproofed must be completely sealed for it to work, or sound will just leak in through any gaps left. This is simply impractical with curtains as they are designed to open to let light in, and there is always a gap between the curtain and the window.

You are indeed adding mass to an area in front of a window with the view to block sound, but as curtains are hung up usually on a pole they are unlikely to have the high level of mass required to make much of a noticeable difference for louder levels of noise. After all, curtains are expected to be light enough to open and not pull down the pole due to their weight!

Do Window Plugs work?

The answer to this question is very similar to the one regarding curtains.

A window plug can be a permanent, or removable object that sits on the inside of a window. They can make a little bit of difference, but not much and are generally very impractical. This is for a couple of reasons, in more detail:

Mass blocks sound, and this adds weight, so the heavier a material is the more airborne sound it blocks. Following this principle, anything heavy enough to really make a difference will be difficult for you to lift and put in your window every night and pull out every morning. We generally say our materials need two people to lift them, so in reality this just isn’t practical. Therefore you would need something lightweight, which then won’t add enough mass to block much sound.
Going back to the waterproofing analogy, soundproofing is only as good as the weakest point. Like waterproofing, you need to make sure everything is sealed and airtight, or the sound will just leak through the gaps. If you are wanting a plug to pull in and out regularly, it would not be properly sealed.

Next time you hear noise, do a quick ear test and compare the noise coming through your closed window, then place your ear near a point on the wall away from the window and see what the difference is.

Your Next Steps

Windows are not something that we specialise in. In our honest opinion we would recommend speaking to a glazing company and changing your windows for acoustic glazing and if possible even put in secondary glazing too, (as this is sealed and would greatly improve sound reduction). Aesthetically it would also look much better and keep your natural light, whilst still complying with safety and fire regulations etc. You will spend your money on a solution which will work far better!

Our blog on how to soundproof doors may also be of some use to you.

You are more than welcome to have a go at making / designing your own plug, feel free to browse the website for high mass materials. Below are a couple of suggestions for you:

ProSound™ SoundBoard 4

You could then combine that with acoustic mineral wool on the inside (against the window) so that you don’t create a cavity for sound to resonate in.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How To Soundproof A Bedroom Wall

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 14:40:43 GMT

How to soundproof a bedroom wall

How do I soundproof my bedroom wall against noisy neighbours?

Bedrooms are often a sanctuary within our homes where we go for peace and quiet. Often to unwind after a busy day and with the aim of getting a good nights sleep. This can often be blighted by the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours and these unwanted sounds can in time lead to a range of mental health effects.

Anxiety and stress can often be triggered as a result of a frequent or loud noise. With continued exposure to unwanted noise, a person’s sensitivity to stress increases. People living with noise pollution may feel irritable, on edge, frustrated, or angry. If a person feels they cannot control the amount of noise in their environment, its impact on their mental health intensifies.

Soundproofing your bedroom walls may be the only way to help reduce unwanted noise, especially if relations with your neighbours are strained and your requests for e.g. music to be turned down late at night have been ignored. The below article will take you through the top sound insulation solutions when looking to soundproof a bedroom wall.

Why noises at night appear louder

Firstly, we need to establish the level of noise coming through the bedroom wall. It is worth mentioning that any noises heard at night can often seem even louder. Without the background noise and distractions heard during the daytime, when it is dark and quiet around us at night we are more sensitive to noise (e.g you can hear a pin drop at night but would not notice this during the day time). Also, once a noise is heard, we tend to listen out for it more, which can also make the noise seem louder.

Learn more about why it is important to consider an individuals noise perception when soundproofing a bedroom .

3 points to consider before soundproofing a solid bedroom wall

How loud is the noise coming through the bedroom wall? e.g. Is it shouting and loud music, or quieter conversation. The answer to this will determine the right wall sound insulation system for your bedroom wall.
What types of noise are being heard? Is the noise airborne (e.g. voices and music) or impact (e.g. footsteps, banging doors) or a combination of the two. Again, the types of noise being heard will also determine which is the correct soundproofing solution for your bedroom wall.
How susceptible to noise are you? As previously highlighted, at night peoples sensitivity to noise can be heightened. If you naturally have a high sensitivity to noise, then a higher performing bedroom wall soundproofing solution will be required.

Soundproofing a bedroom wall checklist

Check the wall for weak points, such as gaps as this will be a weak point for sound to escape through. Treat the walls like waterproofing, it will only be as good as the weakest point
Improve the walls ability to block airborne noise by adding mass/weight to the existing wall. By adding weight and density, you are making it harder for airborne sounds to travel through the bedroom wall
Improve the walls ability to absorb the vibration energy (impact noise) by adding resilience to the bedroom wall
For stud walls dividing bedrooms, use acoustic mineral wool to absorb and prevent any sound from resonating and amplifying between the timber/stud frame
Using different layers of acoustic grade mass will perform better for different types of sound
What if my bedroom wall has a chimney? As a general rule, normally it is only the alcoves within the bedroom wall which need soundproofing, not the fireplace. See our blog on Soundproofing Chimneys if you also have noise coming through the chimney.

3 Proven Soundproofing Solutions when Soundproofing a Bedroom Wall

Answers to the questions above will determine the correct sound insulation solution for your bedroom wall.

For instance, if you are experiencing excessive noises such as very loud music, shouting, babies crying, snoring, very loud TV noise and impact noise you will need a bedroom wall soundproofing solution which can block these excessive noise levels.

Using a lesser performing system against excessive noises, or if the noise you are experiencing isn't excessive, but you are extremely susceptible to noise, will result in a poor performance and disappointing results. Our advice in this instance would be to use the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution which is our highest performing wall solution and achieves excellent results when soundproofing a bedroom wall. The ReductoClip Independent wall Solution is also used in the soundproofing of music studios.

Below are 3 bedroom wall soundproofing solutions in order of performance when looking to soundproof the solid party wall of a bedroom.

Option 1: The ProSound™ ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

The ProSound™ ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System - Is the ideal wall soundproofing solution for all noise problems. This acoustic bedroom wall solution delivers an exceptional performance against excessive noises such as shouting, very loud music, TV noise and impact noises.

The ReductoClip Independent Wall System is extremely effective against loud or excessive noises and will address both airborne and impact noises. This system really is the ultimate bedroom wall soundproofing solution and is based around the proven system of building a room within a room.

The ReductoClip Independent Wall Soundproofing System is designed to completely isolate the bedroom wall. By firstly building a stud frame, (a minimum of 10mm away from the party wall). Attaching the ReductoClips and Reducto Furring Bars to the new stud frame decouples the addition of high mass wall layers from the original bedroom wall. This greatly reduces the transference of sound vibration energy from the adjoining room into the bedroom and vice versa. The addition of high mass wall layers also block airborne noise.

ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution - Key Features

The new stud frame decouples the new wall from the existing bedroom wall to limit vibration transfer of sound energy
Ideal for blocking excessive noises through a bedroom wall, such as very loud music, snoring, shouting, babies crying and very loud TV noise and impact noise
Highest performing soundproofing solution for a bedroom walls and also used for homes cinemas and recording studios
Adds a high level of mass to the wall, made up of difference densities of material to block a wider range of sound frequencies
The ReductoClips and furring bars further help to absorb sound energy by working like shock absorbers to “decouple” and absorb sound energy as it passes through the structure
The ReductoClip independent system offers the thinnest independent clipsolution on the market (120mm thick)
DIY installation, or anyone with experience of fitting plasterboard can easily install the system
The final layer of acoustic plasterboard needs a simple skim finish and the bedroom wall is then ready for decoration as normal

ReductoClip product overview

Installation of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

Option 2: The ProSound™ ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

An alternative to building a stud frame, as per the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution above, is The ReductoClip Direct to Wall System. There are certain situations whereby the 120mm build up (although the thinnest on the market) is still too much to lose from the bedroom wall.

Therefore, an alternative option is to bypass the process of building the independent stud frame in front of the bedroom wall you are soundproofing and add the ReductoClips directly to the bedroom wall. This brings the total build up of the ReductoClip direct to wall system to only 60mm.

Although not as high a performing solution as the ReductoClip Independent System, The ReductoClip direct to wall system is still an excellent solution for loud noises such as music, clear conversation, babies crying and clear TV noise and is the perfect compromise on performance v's loss of space within the bedroom.

ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution - Key Features

Excellent solution for all noise problems. Loud noises such as music, clear conversation, babies crying, clear TV noise and dampening of impact noises
If you don’t have 120mm of space, you can install directly onto the bedroom wall, reducing space loss to an incredibly slim 60mm, still maintaining a good reduction in both airborne and impact sound performance
Although a step down in performance from the full 120mm version, the system offers an excellent compromise on space loss v’s performance
Adds a high level of mass to the wall, made up of difference densities of material to block a wider range of sound frequencies
The ReductoClips and furring bars further help to absorb sound energy by working like shock absorbers to “decouple” and absorb sound energy as it passes through the structure
DIY installation, or anyone with experience of fitting plasterboard can easily install the system
The final layer of acoustic plasterboard needs a simple skim finish and the bedroom wall is then ready for decoration as normal

Installation of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

Option 3: The ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™

The Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard 4 ™ System is a thin direct to wall solution, at only 30mm thick. SoundBoard 4 is a good solution where space is at a premium within the bedroom and where the ReductoClip Independent or ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solutions can't be used.

SoundBoard 4 is a good solution for blocking airborne noise, such as clear voices and TV. However, the SoundBoard 4 isn't suitable for impact noise, or bass sounds e.g. bass music, deep voices or snoring.

The Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard 4 utilises 4 layers of three different Soundproofing technologies all laminated together for easy installation.

The outer facing layer is a 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard which is 50% denser than standard plasterboard
The second layer is a 3mm high density mass loaded vinyl which was designed to replace lead in soundproofing. This mass loaded vinyl performs differently to the mass in the plasterboard due to the different construction helping to block a fuller range of sound frequencies
The third layer is a 9mm acoustic closed cell foam designed to dampen and reduce sound vibrations from transferring through the board.
On top of that is a second 3mm layer of high density mass loaded vinyl.

SoundBoard 4 Key Features

Only 30mm thick and ideal for reducing standard household noise (that is not excessive) from noisy neighbours. Not suitable for bass heavy music or bassey tones e.g snoring through a bedroom wall
Fixed directly to your existing wall (no stud frame or clips)
Minimal disruption to your home - very easy DIY installation with 9 screws per board
One installed the SoundBoard 4 is ready for a standard plasterboard finish, e.g. skim, or heavy duty backing paper and the bedroom wall can be decorated as normal

Installation of the SoundBoard 4™ Direct to Wall System

How to soundproof an internal bedroom (stud) wall?

So far we have concentrated on the best way to soundproof a solid party bedroom wall, which is usually between neighbouring properties.

However, there are instances when the bedroom wall needing to be soundproofed is to stop noise transferring between internal bedroom walls within the same property, rather than the neighbouring property.

In this instance, the internal wall will be a stud wall. The same principles apply as above with a solid party wall, however the recommendation when soundproofing a stud wall within a bedroom, would be to also add 50mm acoustic mineral wool between the stud frame.

The 3 best ways to soundproof an internal stud wall

How to soundproof an internal stud wall separating bedrooms

Soundproofing a bedroom stud wall

Thinking about the answers to the following questions will help with the correct sound insulation for the stud wall of a bedroom:

What type of noise are you trying to soundproof against? Airborne, impact noise, or both?
How loud is the noise between the stud wall of the bedroom?
How susceptible to noise are you?

The most effective way to soundproof a stud bedroom wall is to:

Improve the mass of the bedroom wall, by adding high mass products
Use different high mass products, as different types of mass perform better for different sound frequencies. Therefore, using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than using more of the same material
Dampen, or decouple the stud wall to improve the ability of the stud wall to absorb the unwanted sound energy and vibrations
Add acoustic mineral wool between the stud frame which absorbs any sound from getting inside and stops the sound from resonating and amplifying within the void

The best soundproofing options for a bedroom stud wall

Option 1:

The ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution is the highest performing solution, as detailed in the video above

Option 2:

The second option, if space for the independent system doesn't allow, would be the ReductoClip Direct to Wall Solution

Option 3:

SoundBoard 4 is a good performing direct to wall soundproofing panel providing a good performance and slim profile for stud walls

How to Soundproof a Stud Wall Within a Bedroom

How to Soundproof a Bedroom Wall Summary

Highlighted are the main points to consider before soundproofing a bedroom wall and answers to these key points and questions then form the basis of which sound insulation solution should be used.

The top 3 performing bedroom wall soundproofing solutions have then been discussed for both solid and stud bedroom walls.

Should you require any further information, help or advice on the correct soundproofing solution for your bedroom wall, then please don't hesitate to get in touch.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Why consider an individuals noise perception when Soundproofing?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 10:30:55 GMT

Why consider an individuals noise perception when soundproofing a room?

When talking about soundproofing, barely mentioned anywhere is the subject of hearing perception or auditory perception. There can often be a vast difference from one person to the next when it comes to an individuals susceptibility to noise or different frequencies.
It is not uncommon to come across people sharing a living space, who have different opinions about the same noise problem. That's why an important question to ask prior to choosing the right soundproofing solution is 'how susceptible to noise are you'?

For individuals who are extremely sensitive to noise, then they will need to install the highest performing soundproofing solution. This is also the case for those people living together where one person isn't as bothered by the unwanted noise as the other person. It is always important to soundproof based on the person who is more susceptible to the unwanted noise.

Why do sounds appear louder at certain times of the day?

Dr Bill Budd from the University of Newcastle highlights how hearing isn't like other senses. 'If a light is too bright, we can always close our eyes, or turn away, whereas our hearing is always 'on' even when we are sleeping'. This further highlights the recommendation to also install the best possible soundproofing system if the unwanted noise is being heard in a bedroom.

This is because at night peoples sensitivity to noise can also be heightened. Night time often means there is less distraction and ambient noise around us, so we tend to hear even the smallest of sounds and they can also appear louder than usual. When you hear a noise at night, you tend to focus on that noise which also makes the noise sound louder.
The other aspect that we have to take into account is that we as humans are very good at ignoring background noise, I.E if you move to a new house next to a noisy road you will notice the noise for the first week or so but then our brains learn to ignore the noise over time.
Finally we all have different types of hearing. I.E young people can hear higher frequencies far better than older people and different people are susceptible to different sound frequencies.

Of course, there are also instances when noise is most definitely louder at night, e.g. your noisy neighbours play loud music at 2am!

Why we can hear certain sounds more clearly than others?

Some people are more sensitive to certain aspects of sound, but not all sounds. For example, they might be able to hear very soft sounds, or sounds at high frequencies, but not a combination of all sounds. Hearing is extremely complex, with even the left and right ears processing sounds differently.

Scientists have discovered that the right ear responds more to speech and logic, while the left ear is tuned in to music, emotion and intuition.

Why are we affected by noise in different ways?

Researchers from University College London and the University of London conducted a piece of research which found the more extrovert the individual, the less they were affected by noise. According to one theory, extroverts are inherently 'understimulated', so seek out situations to increase their level of arousal, such as noisy environments. Personality traits are therefore a consideration in how we perceive differences in sounds.

This partly explains why some people like to hear background noise, or listen to music whilst they are working, helping them to concentrate, whereas for others this is an unwelcome distraction.

Sound frequencies

Sounds are what we hear when something causes the air to vibrate. The human ear can hear vibrations as sound when they vibrate between 20 and 20,000 hertz. To put that into perspective, a dog can hear up to 45,000 and a cat up to 65,000 hertz.

The outer ear (pinna) acts like a satellite dish to collect sounds from our environment and funnel's it to the inner ear
When the inner ear receives sounds, it triggers a reaction from the brain cells responsible for transmitting information to the brain, translating the sound into electrical impulses and sending it along the auditory nerve
Once the electrical impulses reach the brain, it interprets them into recognisable sounds

This 'triggering' forms different types of patterns, that in turn touch different parts of the brain, which explains why certain sounds are often associated with strong memories and feelings.

The University of Oxford researched how the mechanics might be the same, but individuals still experience sounds differently from each other.

Differences in the vibrations we hear

Research by the Acoustical Society of America explored how the shape of peoples skulls and variations in bone structure is likely to have something to do with why individuals hear the same noise in a slightly different way.

When sound bounces off the structures of the inner ear, it reflects off the ear and off the bones in the head. Their research shows that even the slightest differences in things like shape and bone density can make a huge difference in the vibrations heard. Interestingly women's skulls tend to vibrate faster than the skulls of males. Which could answer why in general women have greater hearing sensitivity than men and also greater susceptibility to noise exposure at higher frequencies.

I'm extremely sensitive to noise, which soundproofing should I use?

The below links highlight the different soundproofing solutions for walls, floors and ceilings. Depending on your noise issue and sensitivity to noise, our advice would always be to go with the highest performing acoustic solution.

Noise perception and soundproofing summary

The differences in the perception of sound and an individuals response to different frequencies of sound can differ greatly from person to person. We are all affected by noise in different ways and therefore when looking to soundproof the walls, floor or ceiling in a home of someone who is susceptible to sound, it would always be wise to go for the highest possible performance when it comes to choosing the correct soundproofing solution.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Which Wall Soundproofing System Should I Choose?

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 12:47:05 GMT

Which Wall Soundproofing System Should I Choose?

Helping You Choose Between Our Selection Of Wall Soundproofing Options

The most common enquiry we receive at The Soundproofing Store is about reducing noise from neighbours on the other side of a solid party wall. When trying to solve this problem we offer three main solutions:

Independent ReductoClip™ System (120mm) Highest performing soundproofing solution
Direct to Wall ReductoClip™ System (60mm) Excellent performance with a slim profile
SoundBoard 4™ System (30mm) For tight spaces

This leads customers to the following questions;

Which system is best for MY situation?

Why should I use the ReductoClip Systems over the thinner, cheaper SoundBoard 4?

To help you in your decision, have a think through the information below.

Soundproofing is not a one size fits all solution

When trying to decide on the best wall insulation system for you, you must bear in mind that soundproofing systems are designed to deal with different levels of sound and different types of sound. Just because a material or system is for soundproofing, it does not necessarily mean it’s going to be effective for your specific construction and noise problem.

A common misunderstanding is thinking that any and all soundproofing systems will work. Effective acoustic wall solutions will reduce the noise, but at varying levels and how effective the performance, depends on the below factors.

Generally, a more expensive system will reduce the volume considerably. However, thinking a cheaper system will still offer a good reduction is unfortunately not the case. For particular wall types and noise problems, some systems will be completely ineffective. This doesn’t mean they don’t work or are no good, they are just not designed for that specific situation.

A silly analogy to make the point would be like saying tomato ketchup is a perfectly nice condiment to put on your hotdog, but you wouldn’t want to put it on your chocolate cake.

What Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Wall System?

1. The construction of the wall i.e is the wall a plasterboard stud wall, a single brick wall, a thick stone wall, a double skin cavity wall?

Sound reduction can be affected by a law of diminishing returns. In other words, the better the wall is to begin with, the better system you need to add to make a significant difference.

For example, if you have a very light weight plasterboard wall that is very low in mass, just adding a little extra mass such as a layer or two of plasterboard will already make a noticeable difference. A solid brick wall that is higher in mass will get no noticeable difference from just adding a couple of layers of plasterboard as this is very little extra mass in context to how much mass the wall already has. Therefore a better system is needed. A very good wall such as a cavity wall, will need a really good system to make any noticeable difference because it’s already doing such a good job already.

2. The type of sound i.e Airborne or Impact

Airborne sound is sound that is projected into the air such as voices, coughing, snoring, music etc.

Impact sound is physical impact on the structure such as banging doors and cupboards, dragging furniture, hoovers hitting skirting boards, footfall on stairs etc. This creates a strong vibration energy in the structure that can easily spread.

Airborne sound is predominantly blocked by mass. The more weight and density you add to the wall the more mass it will have and the harder it is for sound to travel through. At the same time, sound is also an energy, so it is important to add some resilience to the wall to dampen that energy. This will give a good sound reduction.

Impact noise is trickier to deal with as we have to stop the strong energy and vibration of the impact from getting to your side of the wall. The best way to do this is to completely de-couple the soundproofing from the structure to break the route between the neighbours side and yours. Or alternatively, isolate the soundproofing using a shock absorbing suspension system to dampen high levels of vibration (such as the ReductoClip Independent Wall System ).

3. The pitch or frequency of the sound

Sound covers a wide spectrum of pitch / frequencies from very low bass to very high treble.

The lower the pitch of sound the stronger the vibration energy. Higher pitched sounds such as female voices etc will be more reduced by just adding mass, whereas lower frequencies such as bass in music need to be treated more like impact by stopping the energy.

4. The clarity of the sound

This ties in with the frequency and pitch. Clarity comes from the higher frequencies of sound. For example, if you can hear conversation from next door and can hear the words of the conversation clearly as if you were in the same room, then the higher frequencies of sound are getting through the wall. If the conversation sounds muffled so you can hear voices but not specific words, then the wall is already doing a good job at reducing the higher pitch sounds but is letting through the lower pitch sounds making it muffled.

5. The volume of the sound

This is an obvious one. If the sound is extremely loud and disruptive a system that reduces the volume by say 50% will have made a big difference, but even the 50% that remains will still be loud. In which case, you really need a high performing system that can offer much higher reductions. If the sound is very quiet, then a lower performing system may be enough to solve the problem.

6. Your sensitivity to the sound

We get a big mix of customers calling us from people who are not too fussed about the noise and get on very well with their neighbours, but think it would be nice to get a little reduction to make things even better. Alongside extremely emotional customers whose lives are being severely disrupted by anti-social neighbours keeping them awake all night and creating a very stressful environment.

In the first case a small reduction is fine so a lower performing system might be suitable. For the emotional customer, just reducing the sound a little bit is not going to solve their problem and bring peace to their lives, so they will need to use the highest performing system they possibly can, to reduce the unwanted noise as much as possible.

Summary: Which wall soundproofing system should I use

There are a number of important factors to consider when choosing the correct wall soundproofing system, which have been highlighted above.

Our recommendation would be to always speak to a soundproofing expert, who will firstly ask questions about your individual situation. Only then can the they advise on the best performing acoustic wall solution.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

What’s the difference between Impact and Airborne noise?

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 13:20:35 GMT

What’s the difference between Impact and Airborne noise?

Airborne and Impact noise

Sound is broken down between airborne and impact noise.

Airborne noise is transmitted through the air and atmosphere and experienced through the likes of people talking, TV noise, dogs barking etc. When sound waves travel through the air and reach a building element they hit it and cause it to vibrate. These vibrations travel through the structure or building and are radiated out the other side albeit at a reduced volume.

Impact noise is the physical impact on buildings or solid materials. Examples being footfall, doorsbanging, walking and furniture moving. Impact sound occurs because the impact causes both sides of the building element to vibrate, generating sound waves. This can often be the hardest to isolate as impact vibrations are stronger and travel further through dense materials.

Most of us at some point will have experienced impact and airborne noise, or a combination of the two. Most commonly airborne and impact noise will be experienced via noisy neighbours in terraced houses or flats and in extreme cases, can make day-to-day living in your own home nothing short of a nightmare.

How to tell if you are affected by airborne or impact noise?

The simplest test for walls is to put your hand on the wall and if you can feel a vibration, then it's impact noise. If you can't feel a vibration but can still hear the noise, then it's airborne noise.
For ceilings you can normally tell by the type of noise such as foot steps, furniture being moved etc, which is impact noise. Music, TV's and people talking is airborne noise.

How does sound travel?

When sound waves come into contact with a solid material some sound is reflected back into the room, some sound is absorbed by the wall and finally the sound energy / vibration travels through the wall by vibrating it and then passes through to the other side.

Sound also travels by direct and in-direct means. An example of direct sound would be hearing your neighbours TV through the wall, no surprise the noise is travelling directly through the wall. When sound travels indirectly,think of it much like water, it will always find a path, often via indirect methods. Travelling around, under and over any obstacles in its path. Noise which reaches a room in this way is also referred to as flanking noise.

Indirect sound can be harder to treat, as sometimes it’s harder to define where the flanking sound is coming from. It could be the space between floorboards, or cavities in a wall you didn’t even know existed. The good news is, The Soundproofing Store offers expert advice and professional soundproofing solutions to combat Airborne, Impact and flanking noise.

How to soundproof against airborne noise?

Firstly, where is the noise coming from? Once this has been established it’s all about the best way to stop sound, which is having mass, an air gap and mass again. This ensures that the sound waves have a difficult time penetrating through that space and continuing into your home.

As an example, let’s look at a common problem with noisy neighbours. You can hear noise coming through the wall from your neighbour. You can hear their TV and muffled voices and the wall in your room is a solid wall.

You know the sound is airborne noise as the voices are coming directly through the wall. The soundproofing solution (as mentioned above) is all about adding mass and dampening materials or decoupling to prevent the sound energy passing through. This is achieved by adding different high mass/density products. This is important, as using different materials of high mass perform better for different sound frequencies so using a combination of high mass materials will always perform better than simply using more of the same material

The best products in this instance would be:

How to soundproof a wall against standard (airborne) household noise

ProSound™ SoundBoard 4 ™

Utilising 4 different soundproofing technologies laminated together (only 30mm thick) for easy installation. The SoundBoard 4 offers a good solution for standard household noise. e.g. clear voices and TV. However, the SoundBoard 4 isn't suitable for impact noise, bass sounds from music, deep voices, or snoring.

SoundBoard 4 passes Part E Building Regulations when applied to a brick or block wall and also passes Part E Building Regulations when added to a stud frame (as part of a system).

SoundBoard 4™ A Useful Overview

How to soundproof a wall against loud airborne and impact noise

If the noise levels being experienced are louder than muffled conversation and TV noise, then you would need a higher performing wall soundproofing system. For excessive levels of airborne noise, The ReductoClip™ Independent Stud Wall System offers the slimmest independent wall solution with the highest levels of soundproofing. (This system is also used when soundproofing music studios).

With this system you create a room within a room, which is isolated from the existing structure. This does mean a space loss of 120mm from the original wall.

Many people in domestic properties don't want to lose 120mm from their walls, so often opt for the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System , which doesn't include a separate independent stud frame. This direct to wall soundproofing system still offers a very high level of soundproofing against airborne noise and noisy neighbours, with a space loss of only 60mm from the original walls.

A useful overview of the high performing ReductoClip™ System

Excessive airborne noise wall soundproofing using the ReductoClip™ Independent Stud Wall System

How to install the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

Loud levels of airborne noise soundproofing with the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

How to install the ReductoClip Direct to Wall System

How to soundproof against impact noise on the floor above?

Firstly establish where the noise is coming from. Once this has been ascertained, it is now about dampening the vibration and absorbing at source, before it can enter the structure or decoupling the structure from the vibration. (Think either covering the floor with bubble wrap or building a new floor above your existing floor with an air gap in between).

Let’s say you live in a flat and can hear a large amount of noise in the form of footsteps coming from the floor above. It’s always important to establish where the noise is coming from and treat it at the source if possible. Therefore, if you had access to your neighbours floor this would be ideal.

The best products in this instance would be:

Floor soundproofing solutions for impact and airborne noise

ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat™

Ideal for loud levels of impact noise, (such as footsteps) and loud levels of airborne noise (such as conversation and TV noise).

At 18mm thick, the ProSound Reverso SoundMat 3 Plus offers the industry's highest performing reversible soundproofing mat with a mass of 17.50kg per m2.

The unique nature of the Reverso SoundMat is that it can be used for any soft or hard floor finish, without the need of an over boarding layer for hard floor finishes.

Reverso SoundMat™ for Airborne and Impact Noise - No overboarding required for most hard final floor finishes

ProSound SoundMat3 Plus

SoundMat™ 3 Plus for Airborne and Impact Noise - Ideal for Carpet Finishes, or Hard Floor Finishes (with overboarding)

Ideal for loud levels of impact noise, (such as footsteps) and loud levels of airborne noise (such as conversation and TV noise).

At just 15mm thick, the ProSound SoundMat 3 Plus offers the industry's highest performing soundproofing mat with a mass of 16kg per m2.

Soundproofing a floor with SoundMat 3 Plus

How to soundproof against impact noise on the ceiling below?

With the same scenario as above, but without having access to source, i.e. your neighbours floor above, then the best solution is to create a suspended ceiling below the actual ceiling on specialist anti vibration hangers and furring bars. The best product in this instance would be:

ReductoClip Ceiling system

Our highest performing ReductoClip ceiling soundproofing system (only 60mm loss of space). Offering the highest performing soundproofing system within the industry. Designed to reduce sound transmission and vibrations through walls and ceilings. Offering higher dB levels than standard resilient bars.

How to combat flanking noise?

The solutionwhere possible, is to use acoustic mineral wool in any voids between joists and fill any gaps with an acoustic sealant .

One of the most common instances of flanking occurs when hardwood floors directly touch walls. Vibrations can travel from the floor and through the wall. This can be rectified by leaving a gap between the floor and wall and using a perimeter edging strip .

Does soundproofing against impact and airborne noise work?

Absolutely, yes it does, however it’s also important to have realistic expectations. Soundproofing is a widely used term. However - the reality is, that for a room to be completely ‘soundproof’ and blocking all airborne, impact and flanking noise, you would essentially be creating a room, within a room, within a room. For it to be completely soundproof, you would be creating an uninhabitable, airtight container!

Time to create your quiet space?

To learn more about how our market leading soundproofing products can provide a solution to airborne and/or impact noise problems, visit The Soundproofing Store or use the contact details below.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof a Floor and keep your original Floorboards

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 11:01:21 GMT

How to Soundproof a Floor and keep your original Floorboards

Can I reuse my old floorboards?

Here at The Soundproofing Store we get asked this question a few times throughout the week. The Vintage Look in houses seems to be on trend at the moment, whilst an article by Good Housekeeping regarding home decor trends listed Vintage Accents as one of the top trends of the year. A lot of enquiries are from people wanting to keep their old floorboards (sometimes Victorian) on display as they look fantastic when polished and add a rustic feel to a home.

How does this work though if there is a noise issue, or if the neighbour downstairs is complaining about noise travelling down to them or vice versa? Are you able to keep your vintage floorboards or not? The reality is that it isn't always possible to soundproof a floor and reuse old floorboards, due to a number of reasons which are highlighted below.

Why We Don't Recommend Reusing Your Old Floorboards

Bare and old floorboards are unfortunately a massive red flag for us , especially for impact noise travelling down the floor and to any neighbours below, as they offer no resilience against the impact vibrations and can actually amplify the noise.

They are also likely to have holes, damaged areas and weaknesses which could also lead to airborne noise transmission being an issue.

This is why our advice from the start is when you are looking into adding soundproofing to your floor, don’t reuse original floorboards.

The reasons for not reusing old, original floorboards are not simply a performance one (when it comes to soundproofing) but also a practical one.

The practicalities of soundproofing a floor and reusing the original floorboards

Original floorboards can look beautiful and contain their own history of people and their footsteps from over the years. As they have been in place for so long, often in excess of 100 years, they have settled and moulded to the structure of the building and joists. Over time these have settled and moved and when it comes to removing them (with the intention of reusing them), there can be a number of difficulties:

Removing old and original floor boards without damaging them is extremely difficult. Because they have been nailed down, taking them up without damage is near impossible

Removing them and labelling them in such a way that they can be reused is no mean feat. They need to be put back exactly as they have been removed

Often when removing original floorboards they are no longer flat, they have warped and bowed over time. Fixing them back once the floor has been soundproofed so they lay flat is extremely difficult, without drilling or nailing. This in turn can split and damage the old boards and weaken the soundproofing

Fundamentals of Soundproofing a Floor

When soundproofing a timber joisted floor, there are three issues to consider.

Firstly Airborne Noise (voices, tv, music etc). The only thing that blocks airborne noise is mass, so we need to add as much mass to the floor as we can. Mass is weight, so by adding very heavy, dense materials to the floor we can raise the amount of mass.
The second problem is Impact Vibration (footfall, dragging furniture, dropping items etc). To stop impact vibration travelling into the structure, we need a resilient layer on the floor, which can absorb the impact at the source and stop the vibration from getting into the floorboards and transferring down to the ceiling below.
The final problem is the Void Space underneath your floor, between the joists. When sound gets into this void, it echoes, resonates, and amplifies becoming louder. This is why sometimes footfall on the floor above doesn’t sound very loud, but below sounds like a heard of elephants! It is a bit like shouting down a cardboard tube and is called the drum effect. To stop this, we suggest installing Acoustic Mineral Wool Insulation between the joists. This absorbs the sound and stops it from resonating into the void. This can add an additional 10% to the overall reduction achieved.

It is also recommended that before buying materials and installing them, it is important to get any damaged/squeaky floor boards within the subfloor replaced and repaired first and securely screwed down. We then recommend filling all gaps in the floor with acoustic sealant to ensure the subfloor is flat and provides a stable base for the acoustic flooring to be laid.

3 Soundproofing Solutions for Timber Floors

The Best Way To Soundproof The Floor And Then Re-lay Your Original Floorboards

It is technically possibly to reuse your old floorboards, however in reality it is by no means a simple or thin solution.

The first step would be to take up the original floor boards. As highlighted above, this in itself can be very difficult in making sure they are removed without damage and are suitable to be reused. Many old floorboards will have had very large old nails in the wood holding them in place. In addition to this, any tongue & groove boards may snap, rendering them unusable.

At this stage whilst they are exposed, we would suggest installing Acoustic Mineral Wool Insulation between the joists to help absorb sound, and stop it from resonating into the void.

You would then need to purchase a new subfloor. For the new subfloor we would recommend an 18mm tongue and groove board fixed directly to the joists.

Then lay the Reverso SoundMat™ (hard side up) which is the ideal sound insulation for loud levels of airborne noise and high levels of impact noise.

The Reverso SoundMat is 18mm thick and the fibre cement board layer provides a flat, stable base for most hard floor final finishes, such as floorboards (without the need for over boarding). The original floorboards can then be glued to the Reverso SoundMat. They can't be nailed, as this will short circuit the Reverso SoundMats. Soundproofing is very similar to waterproofing and drilling or nailing holes into the soundproofing provides a weakness for sound to travel through.

The new total floor build up is 18mm T&G board, 18mm Reverso Soundmat = 36mm increase in height.

An alternative to the Reverso SoundMat is the SoundMat 3 Plus, or SoundMat 2 Plus. Both perform exceptionally well against impact noise. With the SoundMat 3 Plus also performing well against airborne noise (unlike the SoundMat 2 Plus). With the SoundMats an over boarding layer would be needed prior to fitting the final floorboards

Another alternative is the SoundDeck 32mm , however - this does not offer the same acoustic performance without a soundproof ceiling below

The best solution would be to use a new engineered wooden flooring on top of the Reverso SoundMat, or SoundMats. If the new engineered wood flooring is 18mm or thicker then it can also be be applied directly on top of any of the SoundMat's (SoundMat 3 Plus and SoundMat 2 Plus). For anything less than 18mm, an over boarding layer is required prior to the final floor finish. The Reverso SoundMat is unique in that whatever the final hard floor finish is, there is no need for over boarding.

Reverso SoundMat™ Floor Soundproofing Solution

SoundMat™ 3 Plus Floor Soundproofing

SoundMat™ 2 Plus Acoustic Insulation For Floors

Soundproofing a floor and reusing the original floorboards - Summary

As highlighted, there are a number of practical issues when looking to reuse old floorboards and soundproof a floor. The question often comes down to one of 'Do you want to soundproof your floor, OR keep your original floorboards?' The practicality of doing both is somewhat hindered by the very real potential issues discussed above.

The answer to this question often depends on the levels and types of noise being soundproofed against. Many customers will sacrifice their original floorboards in favour of a room they can once again enjoy, without the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours.

The quality of engineered flooring is now such that it can offer a practical and aesthetic alternative to original floorboards. When it comes to effectively soundproofing a floor and keeping the look of original floorboards, then replacing them with a new sold or engineered floor is definitely the preferred option.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a floor against noisy neighbours

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

How to soundproof a floor against noisy neighbours

The BBC News published an article stating that more than a quarter of UK adults have had a problem with nuisance neighbours, with noisy neighbours topping the nuisance list. A survey by Which? highlighted the most common noise annoyances such as loud voices, shouting, loud TV noise and music. It's no surprise that The Soundproofing Store continue to receive more and more requests for floor sound insulation due to the unwanted noise from noisy neighbours living above and/or below.

How to soundproof a floor in flats to block impact and airborne noise

This article looks at how to soundproof floors from the unwanted airborne and/ or impact noise from noisy neighbours. Looking at how to reduce unwanted airborne and impact noise between floors by improving the sound insulation between timber floors and highlighting the best soundproofing materials for timber and concrete floor soundproofing.

Featuring different acoustic floor soundproofing systems suitable for domestic properties, contractors and developers. The solutions below highlight the best ways to soundproof a floor against noisy neighbours and the best way to soundproofing a floor to meet Part E Building Regulations.

Soundproof Flooring for upstairs - Considerations

Before you research the best soundproofing for a floor, firstly you need to consider the below questions.

1: Where is the noise coming from?

Are you trying to block noise from above travelling down into your property? Or noise from below travelling up into your property?

2: What is the floor constructed of that you are trying to soundproof?

There are two main types of floor construction, timber joisted floors (floorboards on timber joists and plasterboard below) and concrete/solid floors (i.e solid 6 inch concrete floors with a screed finish)

3: What type of noise are you hearing?

There are two main types of noise Arborne noise and Impact noise

Airborne noise being the likes of TV, music, people talking etc.
Impact noise being footsteps, furniture moving etc.

4: How loud is the noise you are trying to block?

Different levels of noise will require different levels of floor soundproofing. i.e low levels of noise such as muffled conversation will need less floor soundproofing compared to loud levels of noise. Impact only noise will need different floor soundproofing compared to just airborne noise.

Best floor Soundproofing for a timber floor from impact and airborne noise

Firstly we will focus on how to soundproof a floor for impact and airborne noise from above, travelling down to the room below, through a timber joisted floor.

For any noise you can hear from above you, then ideally we would recommend soundproofing the floor above (at the source of the noise) if possible.

However, you would need access to the floor above to do this, which isn't always possible. If soundproofing the floor above isn't an option, then you could consider soundproofing your ceiling instead. To learn more about ceiling soundproofing, take a look at our soundproofing ceiling solutions , or alternatively, take a look at the How to Soundproof a Ceiling Blog below:

At The Soundproofing Store , the most common request for floor soundproofing is from above on timber joisted floors as these generally perform terribly for airborne noise and worse for impact noise. Especially if there is a hard final floor finish and no insulation under the floorboards between the joists.

Soundproof flooring solutions for both impact and airborne noise

When looking to soundproof a timber floor against both impact and airborne noise, The Soundproofing store have a unique, reversible floor soundproofing product - The Reverso™ SoundMat ™

The Reverso SoundMat (18mm) is the only high performing soundproofing mat, ideal for loud levels of both airborne and impact noise, with a unique, reversible design. The Reverso SoundMat can be used for both hard and soft floor finishes, without the need of an underlay for soft floor finishes (e.g. carpets), or an over boarding layer for most hard floor finishes (e.g. wood, vinyl, laminates and tiles). With a similar soundproofing performance to our best selling acoustic floor matting, the SoundMat 3 Plus (impact noise 42dB and airborne noise 54dB), but with the added benefit of a reversible fibre cement board layer which provides a stable base for all hard final floor finishes.

Reverso SoundMat™ Product Overview

Our other tried and tested floor soundproofing solution is the SoundMat 3 Plus (15mm) system, with acoustic mineral wool between floor joists.

Unlike standard floor soundproofing mats, the SoundMat 3 Plus features an innovative 3 layer design, helping to tackle the unwanted noise of everyday living or meeting Part 'E' Building Regulations.

Soundmat 3 Plus uses three layers of soundproofing material, the top and bottom layers add a high degree of mass to combat airborne noise, and the middle layer of 9mm closed cell foam absorbs impact vibrations at source preventing vibrations entering the floor.

Adding acoustic insulation between the joists prevents sound form echoing and amplifying within this sealed chamber (we call this the drum effect).

SoundMat™ 3 Plus Product Overview

How to Soundproof a timber floor

For Impact noise only (footstep noise) on a timber joisted floor we need to absorb the impact vibration before it transfers into the structural floor.

When looking to soundproof a timber joisted floor from the unwanted impact noise from noisy neighbours above travelling down to the room below, then The Soundproofing Store ' s best performing floor soundproofing for this unwanted impact noise would be one of the following solutions:

SoundMat 2 Plus (*42dB Impact noise)

*The lower the dB figure, the better the performance

SoundMat 2 Plus offers the thinnest floor soundproofing solution compared to other soundproofing mats at only 12mm thick.

Featuring 2 layers of soundproofing technology (3mm mass loaded vinyl, designed to replace lead in soundproofing and a 9mm closed cell foam to further soundproof against impact noise, such as the unwanted footstep vibrations from noisy neighbours.

2. ImpactoMat™ 5mm (*50dB Impact noise) ImpactoMat is not suitable for airborne noise

*The lower the dB figure, the better the performance

Unlike other timber floor soundproofing solutions, ImpactoMat 5mm is the most cost effective choice in reducing impact noise at the source. At only 5mm thick, ImpactoMat 5mm is the ideal solution where space in the home is at a premium (offering up to 23dB impact improvement).

With both floor soundproofing solutions above, the addition of acoustic insulation (such as acoustic mineral wool ) between the joists prevents sound form echoing and amplifying within this sealed chamber (we call this the drum effect).

ImpactoMat™ 5mm Product Overview

How to Soundproof a timber floor for airborne noise

When soundproofing against the unwanted airborne (only) noise from noisy neighbours above, travelling down to the room below. Or, alternatively, unwanted airborne noise from below, travelling to the room above, through a timber joisted floor, it is important to improve the mass of the floor to effectively soundproof the floor against noisy neighbours.

Depending on the level of the airborne noise, The Soundproofing Store offers two levels of soundproofing:

Medium levels of noise e.g. Muffled conversation: 12mm SoundMat 2 Plus
Loud levels of noise: e.g. Clear speech: 15mm SoundMat 3 Plus

SoundMat 3 Plus (15mm thick) and SoundMat 2 Plus (12mm thick) both perform well and to the same level against impact noise. However, SoundMat 3 Plus outperforms SoundMat 2 Plus against airborne noise.

When using either the floor soundproofing solution of the SoundMat 3 Plus, or SoundMat 2 Plus, adding acoustic insulation, (such as acoustic mineral wool ) between the joists prevents sound form echoing and amplifying within this sealed chamber (we call this the drum effect).

Floor Soundproofing, for impact noise only from above travelling down to the room below, through a Concrete Floor

To soundproof a concrete floor we are normally only concerned with impact noise (footsteps) as concrete floors already have a high level of mass to block airborne noise, however high mass materials perform worse for impact noise.

Our best tried and tested system for impact noise on a concrete floor is our ImpactoMat 5mm Under Screed

ImpactoMat 5mm Under Screed is a tough, resilient, acoustic underlay manufactured from recycled rubber granules bonded with cold cure PUR and is ideally suited to meet Part E building regulations.

How to Soundproof a Floor against noisy neighbours- Summary

No matter what floor type you have, whether concrete or a wood timber floor, noise will always find a way to travel through unless it is stopped in its tracks. Once you have identified the type of noise and the loudness of the noise problem, you can then decide which floor soundproofing insulation option is right for you. Fundamentally, to reduce airborne noises you need to block it with a high dense mass material and if you want to reduce impact noises, then you need to use a system that will absorb it. In the majority of cases it is a mixture of both.

If you have enjoyed this blog, please have a look at our wall blog - How to soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours

Need Help?

I hope this has helped to answered some of your questions about soundproofing a floor against noisy neighbours. If you are looking for expert advice and would like to speak to a professional, we are happy to talk you through any problems or answer any questions.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in sound absorption, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof a studio window

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 16:00:08 GMT

How to Soundproof a studio window

Here at The Soundproofing Store we are very experienced in the design and supply of soundproofing systems for Recording Studios and Practice Rooms from home studios to professional studios. In this blog we talk about the best solutions for soundproofing the windows within your music studio.

How to soundproof the windows within a music studio?

One thing that comes up on a regular basis is how do I soundproof the windows in my studio?

Windows will always be the weak link as they have far less mass than the walls. In a perfect world we would have just one single width door and no windows at all, to get the best results. However, we appreciate that a lot of people like to have some natural light in the room.

This is why it is important to address your windows correctly, as you do not want to spend a lot of money on your project soundproofing the walls, floors and ceiling of your music studio to find that your windows are hindering the performance of your soundproofing.

The key steps to soundproofing a studio:

Build A "Room Within A Room" - To contain the airborne sound and sound energy / vibration internally and stop it getting to the structure of the building.
Add Mass - Airborne sound is blocked by mass. The heavier and more dense the surfaces of your inner room are, the more sound it will block.
Add Resilience - The rooms ability to absorb sound energy and vibration. The surfaces need to be able to flex rather than being rigid.
Make The Room Air Tight - Any gaps for air to leak through, sound will leak through.
Upgrade Windows And Doors - These are the biggest weak points of the room with far less mass than the surfaces. Upgrade and Double Up!

For more information on How to Soundproof a Studio, see our Studio page .

External Windows in a Studio

Our best advice is to either remove windows and large doors and brick them up, or double them up. Because you are building a new soundproof wall on the inside you can have one window on the external wall and another window (secondary glazing) on the inside. This will still be weaker than the rest of the wall, but it will be a minimal weak point now and you can keep your natural light. By adding secondary glazing you would be adding more mass and decoupling the new window from the existing which means you are maintaining your room within a room build, therefore giving better results.

What do I need to consider if installing windows within my studio?

If you are looking at soundproofing windows, then the main thing to consider is airtightness as well as adding mass. Ideally your windows need to have maximum air tightness i.e. compression on the gaskets to minimise air as well as sound permeability / transmission.

The best way to ensure maximum levels of soundproofing would be to use glass of different thickness’ to block out a wider range of sound frequencies on the Hertz spectrum.

It would be most effective to use a thicker glass closer to the source of the sound energy i.e. internally within the studio space and if possible, use secondary glazing internally and then upgrade the double glazed units in your external window which is currently in-situ.

For secondary glazing we would advise for them to be ideally installed 150-200mm away from the external frame.

What if I want to keep my original windows, how do I build the room within a room?

Although secondary glazing is the best option, not everyone wants to go down this route. Therefore, how do you build a room within a room using the existing windows? This is a question that comes up on a regular basis, because the ReductoClip system creates an air gap behind which needs to be fully joined up to another surface otherwise you have an open air gap where sound can easily travel into.

Therefore you would need to build your stud frame just short of the window recess to allow for a build up of two 15mm acoustic plasterboards with FlexiSound 5 sandwiched between, this would need to be screwed directly into the side of the stud frame. Although this is something we wouldn't usually recommend (plasterboards screwed directly to the stud frame), this would be the only way to seal up the ReductoClip system and it would add a lot of mass to these weaker points.

Windows between a control room/live room

With internal windows between rooms in a studio, our advice would be to create a double stud wall as you would for doors between rooms. One window on each stud wall (secondary glazing) to help make these weak points between internal studio rooms as minimal as possible.

Being soundproofing specialists, we do not sell acoustic glass or windows so you would need to contact a glazing company for further information and prices. One company we could recommend would be:

Granada Glazing

info@granadaglazing.com

01909 499 899

In summary, windows will always be a weak point as they have less mass than the walls, ceiling and floor. The best way to to minimise them as weak points is to upgrade them and install secondary glazing.

If you are serious about soundproofing your home studio or practice room and have any questions or would like help putting together a costing, please get in touch with our dedicated studio team by calling 01423 206208 or book a free 45 mins online appointment with one of our expert consultants to discuss your studio project.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Levelling Uneven Ceiling Joists Before Soundproofing

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 13:51:30 GMT

Levelling Uneven Ceiling Joists Before Soundproofing

How to Level Uneven Ceiling Joists Prior to Soundproofing

It is common for us to hear from people who are experiencing noise from the floor of the property above them and would like to soundproof their ceiling from either neighbours upstairs or the upstairs in their own property.

Sound is usually broken down into two categories:

Airborne Noise - people's voices and TV noise
Impact and Vibration Noise - footsteps, doors banging and vibrations from appliances such as washing machines

Impact & Airborne Noise Learn More

Our recommended system, if you are only able to soundproof from the ceiling side is our ReductoClip Ceiling System . Our blog on How to soundproof a ceiling against noisy neighbours summarises the ReductoClip System for you.

How to soundproof a timber joist ceiling

How do I Level my Uneven Joists?

We often get calls from customers who live in older properties that would like to soundproof their ceilings either to reduce sound transmission from their neighbours living above them or alternatively to reduce the sound which they are creating from rising into the property above and causing a disturbance.

As you can imagine, these scenarios can be a little more complicated than dealing with ceilings within modern properties. Some of the issues in the past have included bowed ceilings or uneven joists which could have warped from thermal expansion and contraction or have sagged over time.

There are a variety of different ways you can address uneven joists so that they become the same height. The ceiling is then ready to install the ReductoClip System on to, creating a flush ceiling. Below are a couple of ideas for you to consider:

Option 1: Install Secondary Joists to the Side of your Existing Joists

A commonly used solution, and one that can save space is to install a strip of timber to the side of your existing joist.

Simply bolt these through the side of the joists to give a level height to work off.

Option 2: Install Packers between the Joists and the ReductoClips

A 2nd option is to install a packer in between the Joist and ReductoClip. You can do this where joists are sitting too high to lower the joist for the ReductoClip to be installed on to.You can also use small squares of plywood for this, which might be handy if you have any off cuts to use up.

This will mean that the ReductoClips will sit lower down on the joists that require them to sit lower.

Option 3: Second Set of Joists below the Existing Joists

The 3rd option for you would be to look at installing a second set of joists, which run the other way to the existing joists.

This will take up far more space, but you may also get an improvement in performance if they are suspended away from the existing joists, which will in turn separate the new ceiling from the existing ceiling.

Other Considerations

A main concern with older properties is the structure of them and how much extra weight they are able to take. If the ceilings are bowing, what is the cause of this and will they be able to take the weight of the ReductoClip System?

You may need to consult with a local builder or structural engineer before commencing any work of this nature to avoid any potential issues before you start your project.

You may find our Ceiling Soundproofing Blog useful for further information regarding how to soundproof your ceiling and more information on our ReductoClip System for Timber Joisted Ceilings.

If you are looking specifically for soundproofing within older properties, our blog regarding Original Floorboards may also be relevant to you. Especially if you are able to also install soundproofing on the floor side of the build up.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Soundproofing A Drum Room

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 11:37:17 GMT

Soundproofing A Drum Room

Here at the Soundproofing Store we receive many enquiries about music rehearsal rooms and recording studios. One of the mos popular enquiries is for drum rooms. Due to the nature of an acoustic drum kit, they tend to create a lot of airborne noise and also a lot of vibration due to the kick drum.

So...if you are a drummer, or maybe have a child or family member that has taken up playing drums at home or maybe you are a school music department with a drum room, how do you reduce the amount of noise that escapes the drum room and disturbs other people?

Well, there are a few things to consider, but I will guide you through the important points.

First, here are the main fundamental physics we need to consider.

1. Airborne Sound (voices, music etc) is only blocked by mass. To block airborne sound, we need to add as much mass as we can to the walls, ceiling and floor. Mass is a complex thing to get into, but at the simplest level, the heavier and more dense a material is, the more mass it will have. i.e concrete has more mass than wood.

2. When sound hits a surface it becomes a vibration energy which can transfer through solid materials and surfaces very easily. Bass and kick drums will also create a lot of vibration energy. For a high standard of soundproofing, we need to absorb or decouple this vibration to stop it from transferring into the structure of the building. To do this we use the "Room Within A Room" technique. There will be more on this later.

3. Soundproofing is like waterproofing - To contain the sound within the studio, you will need to soundproof all the walls, ceiling and floor. All weaknesses such as windows, doors and air vents need to be considered, and any air gaps need to be sealed, as sound will always find the weak point and still get through.

"Room within a room?"

For live music levels of noise we need to build a " room within a room ", with the inner room decoupled or isolated from the outer room. We do this by using a system such as our ReductoClip system . These are fixed to the solid wall and ceiling joists, we can then build new wall and ceiling layers (creating the inner room), by fixing these layers onto the ReductoClip rather than being fixed directly to the wall. The ReductoClip act like shock absorbers, so when sound hits the new wall layers and turns into a vibration energy, the ReductoClip absorb this energy stopping it from transferring into the structure.

We then need to add high mass materials such as two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard which has a higher mass than standard plasterboard. You can also improve the performance by adding different materials (different types of mass block different sound frequencies better than others). These include FlexiSound 5 .

On Solid Walls - We get the highest performance by building a timber frame 10mm in front of the existing wall, isolating the frame from the surrounding surfaces using isolation strip . We then fill the frame with acoustic mineral wool and then fix the ReductoClips and furring channels to the frame.

On Stud Walls - We remove the plasterboard layer of the wall to expose the timber frame inside. We then fill the frame with acoustic mineral wool and add our ReductoClips to the frame.

Fully Isolated Clip and Bar System (120mm Thick):

1. Independent Stud Frame - 10mm air gap isolates the soundproofing from the offending wall for best possible sound reduction performance

2. Isolation Strip - isolates from surrounding surfaces to reduce flanking vibration

3. ReductoClips - decouple the mass layers from the frame and act like a shock absorbing suspension system to dampen high levels of sound energy and vibration

4. ReductoClip Furring Channels - extra wide to make fixing acoustic plasterboards quicker and easier

5. Acoustic Mineral Wool - dampens sound within the frame cavity to stop sound amplifying

6. Acoustic Plasterboard - (2 layers) to increase the mass of the wall. More mass and density than standard plasterboard but with the same finishing and decorating techniques

7. FlexiSound 5 - Anti-Vibration membrane to add further mass to the wall. A different type of mass to reduce different sound frequencies to the other layers. FlexiSound also helps to dampen sound energy and vibration

Ceilings

We use the same technique on the ceiling to block sound travelling above.

On a Timber Joist Ceiling - We remove the current plasterboard layer exposing the timber joists. We fill between the joists with acoustic mineral wool and add the ReductoClips to the bottom of the joists.

On a Concrete Ceiling - We can fix the ReductoClips directly to the ceiling.

Garage Conversion By YouTuber Levi Clay

A series of videos following Levi Clay, in converting his garage to a fully soundproofed room for video blogging and for guitar playing lessons.

Floors

If the drum room is situated in a house or building with rooms below, then there are a couple stages. Firstly, we need to add acoustic mineral wool under the floorboards to stop sound resonating in the void space below the floor. We then need to add mass to the floor to block the airborne sound, and a resilient layer to absorb the vibration from the kick drum. I would recommend one of our SoundMat solutions, preferably the SoundMat 3 Plus for the highest performance.

If the drum room is on the ground floor with a solid, concrete floor, then you will just need to add a mat that will absorb the vibration and stop it from transferring into the structure. I would recommend our ImpactoMat 5mm .

Doors and Windows

These are the biggest weak spots. Ideally, if you can get away with not having any windows, this will give you the best performance. If you need natural light then use triple glazed or specialist acoustic glazing. This needs to be well fitted with no gaps between the frame and the wall.

Regarding Doors, again you need high mass material, so a heavy, dense fire door, or even a double door system would be best. Or you can add mass to your existing door by adding a layer of mass loaded vinyl to the door. Again making sure there are no air gaps between the door and frame by adding a good seal or draught excluding material. You can also purchase custom made acoustic doors which are very high performing, but these can be expensive.

Ventilation

For ventilation we suggest using a high quality acoustic vent system .

I hope this has covered most questions, as always if you want the best advice, speak to a professional. We are happy to talk you though any problems or answer any questions.

You can call us Monday to Friday, Nine to Five on 01423 206 208 or contact us using the page below.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to soundproof a room

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 10:03:57 GMT

How to soundproof a room

Can you fully soundproof a room?

The quietest room in the world can be found at Microsoft's headquarters in Washington. Granted, with three 'rooms within a room' (each isolated from one another) it's unlikely you are trying to replicate your very own 'anechoic' chamber within your own home. The prospect of hearing your own heartbeat, or bones grinding when you move probably doesn't sound overly appealing (or achievable!). As reported in The Mail this room's deafening silence makes for a rare sensory experience, with many people only able to stay in there for a few seconds at a time......

You might not need a soundproof chamber, but are you one of the many people suffering from unwanted noise within your own home? Rest assured this doesn’t have to be the case. Simple,cost effective room soundproofing solutions are only a phone call, or website click away.

Firstly, you need to figure out where the noise is coming from? Is it coming from noisy neighbours through a wall, or from above, or from below? Alternatively, is the noise coming from within your own home and are you wanting to fully soundproof a room, e.g. a cinema room, or music room?

Depending on the answer to the above and the level of noise, and if the noise is Impact noise (e.g. footsteps, doors banging) or Airborne noise (people talking, TV’s, dogs barking etc), will mean a different soundproofing solution for your room.

Learn more about the difference between Impact and Airborne noise .

The science behind soundproofing a room

Soundproofing a room whether this be a lounge, dining room or kitchen follows the below principles:

Adding mass - high mass blocks noise. By adding mass to a structure, e.g. to a wall, this reduces the ability of the noise to pass through it

Dampening or decoupling the building - when sound hits a wall or floor it becomes a vibration that travels through the structure. To prevent this vibration travelling through, you need to dampen the vibration, or in a perfect world decouple the structure and then add mass - thus preventing the sound energy from passing through

Sound Absorption - sound can be absorbed by soft materials, the likes of soft furnishings; carpets, cushions and curtains. Different furnishings will be better than others at sound absorption. For example a leather sofa won't be as effective at absorbing sound as a fabric sofa. Adding cushions and throws to leather sofas will increase its ability to absorb sound better. Not as widely used in peoples homes, but used within rooms with hard surfaces, there are sound absorbing products, such as ProSound Wall Panels and ProSound Ceiling Panels which can be used for the sound proofing of offices, schools, village halls and restaurants. These specialist sound absorption panels minimise the amount of reverberation of sound within a room.

Easy ways to soundproof your room and myths

We will discuss the top performing products for effective room soundproofing. There are soundproofing hacks which can be used, such as adding cushions, carpets to wooden floors and bookcases to alcoves etc which can improve your soundproofing to a small degree.
In this blog we are going to list the top performing soundproofing solutions for walls, floors, ceilings, garden rooms and music studios.
To find out about the effectiveness of soundproof myths such as egg boxes, soundproof wallpaper, soundproof paint and the likes of noise absorbing glue, click here

How to soundproof a wall

Before deciding the best soundproofing solution for your wall, do a quick checklist:

Where is the noise coming from? Do an ear test to the wall to check it's definitely coming through the wall and not from elsewhere
What type of noise is it? Airborne (talking, TV etc) or vibration, or a combination of the two?
How loud is the sound you are trying to block?
What is the wall made of? Is it a solid wall or stud wall?

Below we will highlight the best performing soundproofing solutions for walls.

ReductoClip ™ Independent Wall System for soundproofing walls

Creating a room within a room (think back to Microsoft's soundproof chamber, on a much lesser scale) whereby a new structure is isolated from the existing structure, will give the highest level of soundproofing. An extremely high performing room soundproofing system, which can offer high levels of soundproofing within residential properties to block out the noise from noisy neighbours, as well as being used for recording studios, band practice rooms and home cinemas, is the ReductoClip system.

Independently tested on a single brick wall, the ReductoClip system achieves a massive 65dB total sound reduction, blocking excessive levels of noise.
To learn more about the ReductoClip ™ Independent wall system for room soundproofing, click here .

ReductoClip™ Soundproofing Solution Overview

How to soundproof a wall using the ReductoClip Independent Wall Solution

ReductoClip™ Direct To Wall System

The ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System mentioned above, means a loss of space of 120mm, due to creating a 'room within a room'. This system is by far the best performing wall soundproofing system, often used for superior soundproofing in studio builds. The loss of 120mm is the slimmest independent wall solution (other independent systems require a greater loss of space then the ReductoClip™) on the market.

However, many domestic properties can't always take the 120mm hit on space loss, so the best alternative would be the ReductoClip™ Direct To Wall System. The clips are applied directly to the wall, rather than the stud frame, which means a loss of space of only 60mm, whilst still allowing for an outstanding performance in noise reduction against noisy neighbours.

ReductoClip™ Direct To Wall Installation Video

ProSound™ Soundboard 4™ wall soundproofing

If you are wanting even less space loss than the ReductoClip™ Direct to wall system, then the next best performing product to soundproof walls within a room, (at a thickness of ony 30mm) would be the ProSound™ SoundBoard 4 ™ . This market leading soundproofing product for walls is a simple direct to wall installation and uses four different soundproofing layers, laminated together. The completed board offers exceptional performance against medium to loud levels of noise, such a clear TV, conversation or music noise. The Soundboard 4 ™ also exceeds the new Building Regulations Part E target of 43dB by 15% when applied to a brick or block wall. The loss of space is only 30mm with SoundBoard 4 .
Find out more about the SoundBoard 4 ™ .

For further wall soundproofing solutions which take up even less space and offer different levels of soundproofing, click here .

SoundBoard 4 Product Overview

How to Soundproof a party wall against noisy neighbours using the ProSound™ SoundBoard 4™

How to soundproof a stud wall with SoundBoard 4

How to soundproof a floor within a room

Unlike most walls and ceilings where airborne noise is most prominent, with floors the noise made and heard is usually down to impact noise (moving objects, footfall etc).
When it comes to soundproofing the floor within your room, it depends what the floor is made of. Different soundproofing solutions work better depending on whether the floor is timber or concrete.

To soundproof a floor effectively, you need to follow the below 4 principles:

1. Improve the mass of the floor - mass blocks sound, so high mass/density products need to be added

2. Improve the ability of the floor to absorb sound energy and vibration (footsteps). This is critical, as without using soundproofing solutions to absorb sound energy, the adding of any mass will have very little effect on impact noise

3. Within the timber joists, use acoustic insulation to eliminate sound resonating and amplifying in this sealed chamber

4. When adding high mass products, make sure it's different materials of high mass. A combination of different materials perform better for different sound frequencies and perform much better at soundproofing than simply using more of the same high mass material

Video of how to soundproof a timber floor

ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat - floor soundproofing solution

The only high performing, reversible soundproofing mat designed for both hard and soft floor finishes. The Reverso SoundMat is only 18mm thick and its unique design means that it doesn't require an over boarding layer for most hard floor finishes. It also acts as a luxury carpet underlay for soft floor finishes.

The Reverso SoundMat is an excellent acoustic underlay, as it performs exceptionally well against loud levels of airborne noise and high impact noise.

Reverso SoundMat Product Overview

How to soundproof a floor with the Reverso SoundMat™

ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus - floor soundproofing solution

One of the best selling sound mats for floor soundproofing within a room. As with the Reverso SoundMat, the SoundMat 3 Plus is Ideal for loud levels of airborne and loud impact noise, such as clear conversation, TV noise and heavy footsteps.
Resulting in up to 54dB of airborne noise reduction and 49dB of impact noise reduction.

The ProSound™ SoundMat 3 Plus has been designed with two different soundproofing technologies laminated together for easy installation and suitable for all floor finishes. The completed floor offers exceptional performance and exceeds the new Building Regulations Part E target of 43dB when used as part of a full system. The system can be fitted to any level flat surface, without the need of any adhesive. Find out more about the SoundMat 3 Plus .

Soundproofing for concrete floors

When soundproofing a concrete floor within a room, airborne noise is usually less of an issue in this instance, as you already have the mass of the concrete for blocking airborne noise. Often it's only impact noise which needs to be soundproofed against. The ProSound™ SoundMat 2 is our best performing product for both impact and airborne noise on a concrete floor.

ProSound™ SoundMat 2 Plus for concrete floors

ProSound™ SoundMat 2 provides a high level of soundproofing for impact noise and airborne noise, offering the industry’s highest performing 12mm soundproofing mat.
Resulting in up to 47dB of airborne sound reduction and 53dB of impact sound reduction.
Ideal for medium levels of airborne and impact noise, such as muffled conversation, music, TV noise and footsteps.
Other effective soundproofing solutions for concrete floors can be found by clicking here.

How to soundproof a ceiling

Designed to completely isolate ceilings, the ReductoClip system is a high performing sound reduction system. We mentioned above how the system is successful for wall soundproofing and below is a video showing how to soundproof a ceiling using the ReductoClip system.

By attaching the ReductoClip to timber joists, this simply and easily secures the furring channel and decouples the new high mass wall layers from the structure, greatly reducing the transference of sound vibration energy. The addition of high mass wall layers also blocks airborne noise, perfect for soundproofing recording studios, band practice rooms or soundproofing against noisy neighbours.
The ReductoClip ceiling system results in a sound reduction of up to 49dB for airborne noise and 55db for impact noise.

If the part of your room you are looking to soundproof is your ceiling, there is a dedicated blog which discusses how to soundproof a ceiling, both for concrete and timber joist ceilings. To read more about ceiling soundproofing, please click here .

How to soundproof a garden room or music studio

We've touched upon some of the best performing room soundproofing solutions for different areas of a room; walls, floors and ceilings. The obvious room soundproofing solution we haven't yet discussed is soundproofing the whole room. To read more about how to soundproof a room within a room; Music room , garden room , home cinema room or garage . To soundproof any of these rooms, it does use the concept of building a room within a room, as we mentioned at the start of this blog. A case study is also available on how to soundproof a basement music studio.

Building a room within a room helps absorb or decouple vibrations. This is critical for stopping noise vibrations (such as music) from transferring into the structure of the building and is crucial in soundproofing the rooms listed above.

Top Tip - Soundproofing is like waterproofing, in that any weaknesses and it will find a way through. Doors, windows and air vents need to be considered and any air gaps need to be sealed.

Next steps

Hopefully this blog has helped to answered your questions on soundproofing a room, building a room within a room, or soundproofing part of a room. Our expert team are only a phone call away should you wish to discuss any soundproofing solutions in more detail, or alternatively, The Soundproofing Store website contains lots of product and installation downloads, which we hope you will find useful.

If you were wondering about the cost of soundproofing, why not read our blog on How much does soundproofing cost?

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How To determine what type of party wall you have

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 14:09:56 GMT

How To determine what type of party wall you have

Here at The Soundproofing Store the most common question we ask when speaking to our customers is “what are the walls made of?” by asking this question we can estimate how well your existing wall is performing against noise and this in turn helps us specify the correct level of soundproofing needed to be added to the wall to give you peace and quiet on your side of the wall.

As most people simply see a solid decorated wall, they normally have no idea what the wall is constructed off unless they have had to drill the wall at some point. However, most solid party walls are mainly made of brick or breeze block with a plaster finish however some walls have plasterboard either fixed with dot and dab or onto timber battens and if this is the case then we may need to address this type of construction as they can be part of the problem as to why your wall does not perform well against noise.

Tips to identify what your wall is constructed of

Try tapping on the wall in different places and if it feels solid everywhere you probably have a skim plaster finish to your wall which is good news.

If when you tap on the wall it sounds hollow in some areas you either have timber battens or dot and dab adhesive fixings behind a plasterboard, which is not good news.

What is Dot and Dab plasterboard?

Dot and Dab is made of a dot adhesive which is applied to the walls in random piles with the plasterboard pushed against it. This is a modern technique which has become more common in newer houses. A simple way to tell if you have a dot and dab wall is to tap the wall moving your hand around. You will hear the wall is hollow in some parts and hard in other parts where the dab adhesive will be (this will be different from timber battens as the solid feeling areas will not be in a straight line)

What are timber battens and plasterboard?

Timber batten and plasterboard walls are usually made from timber battens screwed to the original wall which have regular vertical intervals of 400mm to 600mm and are used to eliminate any unevenness or poor condition in the existing wall. Again, by tapping along the wall will indicate that it is hollow and solid in regular areas.

Other ways to determine what your wall is constructed of

By removing either a plug socket or light switch and pulling it forward (making sure you have isolated the area first) you will be able to shine a torch inside the wall, this will help determine if the wall is either a stud wall or a dot and dab system. Another way is to drill a small hole in to the wall in a place that wont be noticed, this will help you determine what your wall is constructed of.

Why are Dot and Dab walls or timber batten walls not good for soundproofing..

Because of these methods of fixing the plasterboard to the wall a cavity is created in between the wall and the board.Cavities are a big red flag for soundproofing as the sound can become trapped in the space where it will resonate and amplify before passing through the plasterboard into your room. Think of how an acoustic guitar works, when the strings are plucked the sound is amplified by the soundbox, which is basically a cavity designed to do just that.

Other types of walls to consider..

In some instances you may find that the wall you are wanting to soundproof will be made up of a rubble mix. In this circumstance the materials can become lose through time, resulting in some areas being hard and other areas sounding hollow when tapping along the wall. When soundproofing this type of wall, we would recommend decoupling from the wall, this will ensure that you are not putting the soundproofing system on to any weak points on the offending wall.

On rare occasions you may also find that you have a wall that sounds completely solid and then you will come to a section on that wall which sounds hollow. This hollow space in the wall may be a door, especially if the hollow void is central on that wall. In this circumstance, where the door will have been you will tend to find that the door will have been replaced with a stud frame built in its place, boarded up and then skimmed over to give the appearance of the wall being solid throughout that structure.

How to Soundproof Unused Doors (soundproofingstore.co.uk)

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Soundproof Unused Doors

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 14:26:25 GMT

How to Soundproof Unused Doors

What can I do to Soundproof my Unused Door?

The Soundproofing Store often get asked what the recommendation would be for blocking up a doorway, or what to do with unused doors. We also get asked about how we get a door to perform the same as the walls around it. A typical scenario where this might come up is where someone is running a Bed and Breakfast and the guest area is attached to the main house. This can cause obvious soundproofing issues, with people on one side can causing noise issues for the people on the other side of the wall.

We know that doors are a huge problem when it comes to soundproofing, as they are essentially just large holes in your walls! This coupled with the fact that standard doors tend to be thin and hollow or constructed out of very low dense materials, means they are a nightmare when it comes to sound transfer between rooms. Please take a look at our How To Soundproof A Door Blog for more information on soundproofing the door itself.

The Principles of Soundproofing a Door

1. Airborne Sound Is Blocked By Mass - Therefore the heavier and more dense a material is, the more sound it blocks. If your door is light weight and hollow, sound will travel through it very easily. A heavy, dense fire door for example will block much more sound.

2. Sound Can Travel Through Air Gaps - If air can get through a gap, sound can travel through it. Soundproofing needs to be properly sealed to work, and so does your door. If there is a gap between the door and frame, or between the door and floor, sound will just leak out. By installing an acoustic or draught excluding seal to the door or frame, we can minimise this leak.

If you want to keep your Doorway

Our recommendation if you wish to keep a doorway is to replace the existing door with 2 solid fireproof doors and use a double stud system for the wall. Then seal round the gaps and floors, and use good draft exclusion materials. This will give you a similar result to the walls either side of the doorway. Please see our Soundproofing Doors blog for some more information specifically regarding doors.

If you do not want to keep your Doorway

If you do not want access to your door anymore, there are a few options for you:

Option 1

If you are able to create a wall the whole way across, we recommend using a double stud system, with two 50mm stud frames, with a 10mm minimum gap between frames, floating on isolation strip . Fill both frames with 60kg acoustic mineral wool .

To finish it off we would recommend two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard fixed to studs. 15mm Acoustic Grade Plasterboard adds far more mass and weight per m2 when compared to a standard 12mm Plasterboard, and it is this extra mass which helps to block airborne noise.

Option 2

For even better results, you could use the 120mm ReductoClip Independent Stud Frame system installed on both sides to give maximum isolation between rooms. (Two 100mm stud frames with a minimum 10mm gap between).

Option 3

The third option is to remove the door, and fill up the empty void with the material that the wall is constructed from. For example if your wall is built with breeze blocks, you can fill the void with breeze blocks to create a uniform wall all the way across.

In conclusion, effectively soundproofing doors is crucial, especially in settings such as Bed and Breakfast establishments where noise transfer between guest areas can lead to disturbances.

Standard doors often pose significant challenges due to their thin, hollow construction and low-density materials. Addressing these issues as outlined above can help ensure that doors perform more effectively at blocking sound.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Floor Sound Insulation for Building Regulations Part 'E'

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 10:15:09 GMT

Floor Sound Insulation for Building Regulations Part 'E'

A closer look at Soundproofing a standard timber floor to meet Building Regulations Part 'E'.

Introduced in July 1st 2003 the building regulations for Soundproofing were included to improve sound insulation in buildings, between homes or in rooms used for residential purposes. These building regulations apply to both new build and refurbishment or conversion projects on all types of dwellings including flats and apartments,semi-detached, terraced housing, hotels, hostels, nursing homes and student accommodation.It applies to the separating walls, floors and ceilings between different dwellings only and not those within the same dwelling.

Click on the link below to see the full publication:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/resistance-to-sound-approved-document-e

There are many aspects and scenarios to meeting building regulations,so I will write a series or blogs to cover the most common scenarios.

In this blog I am going to cover the most common scenario that we come across – Converting a standard house into multi occupancy dwellings.

Usually in this scenario the main point of focus is the dividing floors between the dwellings and that is the point we need to apply soundproofing. Commonly in this scenario the floors are standard timber joists with floorboards laid on top no insulation between joists and a standard 12.5mm plasterboard on the ceiling below.

To meet the Part ‘E’ building regulations in this scenario you need to achieve the following dB figures and the test is based upon both Airborne noise and Impact noise:

Minimum Airborne Sound Transmission – 43dB (the higher the figure the better)

Minimum Impact Sound Transmission – 64dB (the lower the figure the better)

(Please note when trying to improve upon dB ratings for both types of noise, the higher the Airborne noise figure the better and the lower the impact noise the better).

If you would like a detailed explanation on how dB is measured, then please read the relevant section on our website:

https://www.soundproofingstore.co.uk/PART-E-Regs

We have many flooring and ceiling solutions at The Soundproofing Store but when we need to make a recommendation to meet building regulations as in the scenario above then our go to solution is our SoundMat 3 plus system, as any slight compromise in the soundproofing system applied could mean the difference between passing and failing the sound test.

To achieve a soundproofing pass on a standard timber floor with joists.

1 - Apply SoundMat 3 plus to the floor above.

SoundMat 3 Plus is our highest performing thin floor soundproofing mat, which provides a high level of soundproofing for impact noise and airborne noise. Having undergone many design improvements since 2009, when it revolutionised the industry with the bonding of different materials together. The current version offers the industries highest performing 15mm soundproofing mat with a mass of 19kg per mat.

2 - 60KG Acoustic Mineral Wool Slabs Applied between the timber joists

This acoustic grade mineral wool slab absorbs airborne sound in the cavity between the floor above and the ceiling below by preventing sound from echoing and amplifying in this sealed chamber (think shouting down a cardboard tube or how a drum works)

3 - Resilient Bars Applied to the underside of the timber joists

Resilient Bars are a cost effective ceiling solution. Specially designed to de-couple your soundproof ceiling from the existing structure to stop sound vibration (i.e. foot step noise) from travelling through. This in effect creates a "floating Ceiling". When combined with other materials as part of a full system, Resilient Bars will significantly reduce airborne noise levels and impact vibrations.

4 - Two layers of 15mm acoustic graded plasterboard (applied directly to the Resilient Bars).

Acoustic plasterboard's have a higher density core than standard plasterboard and are designed for use in ceiling lining, where greater levels of sound insulation are required. The higher density also offers higher fire resistance.

Using this combination will achieve standard results of 49dB for Impact and 54dB for Airborne noise on a standard timber joist floor.

An example of compromising on this recommendation would be to not use the acoustic mineral wool between joists and resilient bars attached to the joists, leaving you with SoundMat 3 plus on the floor and 2 layers of 15mm acoustic plasterboard and this could achieve a pass but the figures are very borderline and could equally achieve a fail so I would strongly advise against.

In Summary

Approved Document E was introduced to improve the quality of sound insulation or soundproofing in buildings to make sure residents live comfortably and not suffer from neighboring noise problems. The standards are set quite high and any compromise will result in failed sound tests for both Airborne and Impact noises. Follow this guide for the recommended timber floor solution and you will comfortably pass building regulation part 'E' for sound insulation between a standard timber joist floor.

If you found this blog helpful then please do read the following floor blog:

https://www.soundproofingstore.co.uk/how-to-soundproof-a-floor-against-noisy-neighbours

Need Help?

I hope this has covered most questions, as always if you want the best advice, speak to a professional. We are happy to talk you though any problems or answer any questions.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Why is Dot and Dab Plasterboard Bad for Soundproofing?

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 14:04:51 GMT

Why is Dot and Dab Plasterboard Bad for Soundproofing?

Whenever we receive an enquiry for soundproofing a wall we will always ask what the construction is. More often than not walls are brick or block built and then plastered using a traditional wet plaster. However, sometimes our customers will say that they believe their wall is a stud wall because it sounds hollow, indicating a Dot and Dab wall.Dot and Dab is increasingly common with modern construction techniques designed to save time and money when building new houses, and used to quickly plaster over uneven wall surfaces. So...

What is Dot and Dab Plasterboard?

Dot and Dab Plasterboard (Drylining) is the technique of attaching plasterboard to a wall using dots and dabs of adhesive at various points across a wall surface. This is used as a quick and effective way to plaster a wall and to cover uneven areas, without using wet plaster mixes, thus saving time waiting for plaster to dry out, it also means the walls can be decorated quickly and is considerably less messy.

How can I tell if I have Dot and Dab Plasterboard?

Because of the techniques used to install Dot and Dab Plasterboard a cavity is left behind the plasterboard, with only the dots and dabs of adhesive providing any solid connection points. Simply tapping on the wall at various points it will sound hollow in most areas but there will be some more solid sounding areas, this would indicate that you have Dot and Dab Plasterboard. If you are still unsure if the plasterboard is installed using Dot and Dab it can be helpful to remove a plug socket or light switch and shining a torch into the hole which could help to understand the construction of the plasterboard wall.

How does Dot and Dab Plasterboard affect noise issues?

Because of the method of fixing the plasterboard to the wall a cavity is created in between the wall and the board.Cavities are a big red flag for soundproofing as the sound can become trapped in the space where it will resonate and amplify before passing through the plasterboard into your room. Think of how an acoustic guitar works, when the strings are plucked the sound is amplified by the soundbox, which is basically a cavity designed to do just that.

How can I soundproof my Dot and Dab Plasterboard wall?

The simple answer to this is that any Dot and Dab Plasterboard should be removed prior to any soundproofing installation. The very nature of this type of plasterboard construction is contrary to any proficient installation of soundproofing and may result in either a poor performance or in some cases in the soundproofing not working at all. It is also worth noting that as soundproofing often takes up some space into your rooms, removing the Dot and Dab plasterboard will help to reduce this space take up by up to 20-25mm, giving you a substantially improved wall with less space impact as a result. We have a range of Direct to Wall Soundproofing solutions which can significantly improve the performance of walls against noise disturbances from your neighbours. The ReductoClip Direct to Wall system is already the slimmest clip and bar system available at only 60mm, and with the removal of Dot and Dab plasterboard will take up as little as 40mm of space into your room.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Floor Soundproofing: Frequently Asked Questions

sales@soundproofingstore.co.uk (Ian Baker) — Thu, 27 May 2021 13:59:26 GMT

Floor Soundproofing: Frequently Asked Questions

The most commonly asked questions when looking to soundproof a floor

A survey by Good Move reports that noisy neighbours are the most off-putting thing when buying a new home. More so than buying a property with signs of damp, cracks in the walls, or even having been the scene of a murder! 85% of people surveyed said that noisy neighbours would be their biggest worry when buying a new home.

It is no surprise that the majority of calls The Soundproofing Store receive are because of noisy neighbour complaints, with customers fed up of listening to the unwanted noise their neighbours are making.

This article focuses on soundproofing floors and looks to answer common questions people often ask when looking to soundproof floors, to decrease the unwanted noise they can hear above or below them.

Soundproofing A Garden Studio Room

Sun, 23 May 2021 11:52:07 GMT

Soundproofing A Garden Studio Room

ReductoClip System Installed Direct To Timber Studs - With mineral wool between studs, two layers of 15mm acoustic plasterboard and Acoustic membrane FlexiSound 5

ReductoClip System for solid walls, Installed with an independent stud frame 10mm away form the existing wall - With mineral wool between studs, two 15mm acoustic plasterboards and an acoustic membrane FlexiSound 5

We get many enquiries from musicians wanting to either build a music studio in their garden, or to convert an existing out building, garage or shed into a music studio. So we thought we would address this in more detail in this blog.

First off, just to mention, there is a lot of mis information on the internet about soundproofing and it is very easy to get confused by contradicting opinions or to be led down the wrong path (excuse the garden pun), by incorrect information. I will try to address some of these things and explain the real science behind soundproofing, so please bear with me.

The Fundamental Physics - Very Important!

There are three important things to address when soundproofing for high decibel, potentially amplified music levels.

1. Airborne Sound (voices, music etc) is only blocked by mass. To block airborne sound, the structure of the building needs to contain a high level of mass. Mass is a complex thing to get into, but at the simplest level, the heavier and more dense a material is, the more mass it will have. i.e concrete has more mass than wood.

2. When sound hits a surface it becomes a vibration energy which can transfer through solid materials and surfaces very easily. Bass and kick drums will also create a lot of vibration energy. For a high standard of soundproofing, we need to absorb or decouple this vibration to stop it from transferring into the structure of the building. To do this we use the "Room Within A Room" technique. There will be more on this later.

3. Soundproofing is like waterproofing - To contain the sound within the studio, you will need to soundproof all the walls, ceiling and floor. All weaknesses such as windows, doors and air vents need to be considered, and any air gaps need to be sealed, as sound will always find the weak point and still get through.

What Should I Build My Studio Out Of?

Ideally you want to start by building your structure with high mass materials. Using two layers of high density breeze block with a cavity in between structure is a ideal perfect world solution and will perform far better than a lighter wooden construction. The structure will then block a lot of sound naturally before even adding any soundproofing to it. Then after installing a high performing soundproofing system such as our ReductoClip system on the inside, you will get a very high level of sound reduction that should block even high levels of live music.

Can I Use My Wooden Garden Shed?

Unfortunately wooden constructions are the hardest to soundproof. As you are starting with a structure that has very little mass and natural ability to block sound. To soundproof a timber construction you will need to install a high performing soundproofing system such as our ReductoClip system on the inside. This will upgrade a standard timber construction to achieve a good reduction in noise levels. However don't expect to achieve a 100% noise reduction, think more 75%.
The other issue with garden sheds is the size, as any soundproofing system will reduce the internal size of the construction by up to 120mm per wall.

How Do I Soundproof The Inside?

For live music levels of noise we need to build a " room within a room ", with the inner room decoupled or isolated from the outer room. We do this by using a system such as our ReductoClip or resilient bars. These are fixed to the solid wall and ceiling joists, we can then build new wall and ceiling layers (creating the inner room), by fixing these layers onto the ReductoClip rather than being fixed directly to the wall. The ReductoClips act like shock absorbers, so when sound hits the new wall layers and turns into a vibration energy, the ReductoClip absorb this energy stopping it from transferring into the structure.

We then need to add high mass materials such as two layers of 15mm acoustic grade plasterboard which has a higher in mass than standard plasterboard. You can also improve the performance by adding different materials (different types of mass block different sound frequencies better than others). These include FlexiSound 5 and Mass Loaded Vinyl .

We can improve this system further by installing the ReductoClips on an insulated timber frame in front of the solid wall (as seen above). This will isolate the system even further by having less contact with the structure. The absorbing quality of acoustic mineral wool within the frame will also improve the performance of the system.

Why the ReductoClip™ System Outperforms other Clip Systems

How to soundproof a wall with the ReductoClip™ system

The same system is used on the ceiling as below.

FAQ's
Can't I Just Stick Foam Panels On The Wall?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions in soundproofing. The foam panels you seen in recording studios are designed for acoustic treatment NOT soundproofing. They have NO soundproofing properties. They are designed to reduce the reverberation within a space to "clean" the acoustics and get a better, cleaner, dryer sound within the room. They do not block the sound from leaving the room.

What About The Floor?

If it is a garden studio, you will have nobody below you to worry about and your structure will probably be on a concrete base. So you shouldn't need to block any sound from travelling below unless you have a raised structure with a void below building. (if the floor need soundproofing you can use our SoundMat 3 and mineral wool in any void areas) What you do need to do is absorb the vibration from drums and bass. You can use a mat that is designed to absorb vibration, such as our ImpactoMat 5mm .

What Do I Do With Windows And Doors?

These are the biggest weak spots. Ideally, if you can get away with not having any windows, this will give you the best performance. If you need natural light then use triple glazed or specialist acoustic glazing. This needs to be well fitted with no gaps between the frame and the wall.

Regarding Doors, again you need high mass material, so a heavy, dense fire door, or even a double door system would be best. Or you can add mass to your existing door by adding a layer of mass loaded vinyl to the door. Again making sure there are no air gaps between the door and frame by adding a good seal or draught excluding material. You can also purchase custom made acoustic doors which are very high performing, but these can be expensive.

Find out more about soundproofing doors here - https://www.soundproofingstore.co.uk/how-to-soundproof-a-door

What do I do for Ventilation if the room is airtight?

For ventilation we suggest using a high quality acoustic vent system.

Garage Conversion By YouTuber Levi Clay

A series of videos following Levi Clay, in converting his garage to a fully soundproofed room for video blogging and for guitar playing lessons.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

Top 12 Soundproofing Myths

Mon, 17 May 2021 16:00:29 GMT

Top 12 Soundproofing Myths

With a reportedly two thirds of UK homeowners saying that their lives are being blighted by the actions of those next door it is no wonder that many people go in search for cheap soundproofing options. Unfortunately when people scour the internet they inevitably come across some confusing advice and I just want to clear up a couple of common soundproofing myths.

1 - Sound Absorption vs Soundproofing

The two are completely different yet people seem to usematerials designed for sound absorption to soundproof their homes and viceversa.

Sound absorption is a technique that uses sound dampening materials to reduce noise from resonating, echoing and amplifying within a room. Specialist rooms such as a recording studios require sound absorption panels to be fitted and these come in all different sizes, shapes and colours. Large halls and restaurants are typical venues for producing reverberated sounds and you may find that in the home when you remove furniture for example you can notice the sound resonate, echo and amplify.

Soundproofing is used to isolate or block sound inside a room or to keep sound from outside, entering the room. In a terraced house it is typical of noise travelling through a party wall and therefore you would opt to soundproof the party wall with something like the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard4 . By applying a heavy mass to the wall, you are blocking that sound travelling through. You may live in an apartment with a noisy neighbour below and you want to block loud TV noises from disturbing you, so you would block this by using something like the SoundMat 3 Plus . Where the term absorption can be a little mis-leading or confusing is when you are trying to address impact, noises travelling through a structure. Impact noise is a vibration and foams or clips such as the IsomaxClip will absorb this vibration but don’t confuse it with reducing echo reverberation in aroom.

2 - Acoustic Mineral Wool = Sound Insulation?

We hear builders and general DIY novices that have heard from a friend of a friend that if they create a new stud timber frame next to their party wall and fill the newly created void with some acoustic mineral wool and then finish it with some plasterboard they will create a good noise reduction from their noisy neighbour.

This is not true.

To reduce an airborne noise, you need to apply heavy mass to the wall such as the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard 4 and to reduce impact noise you need to absorb the vibration. When you are dealing with extreme sounds such as loud music with a deep base then you need to look at soundproofing options that take on board the concept of ‘building a room within a room’. In a residential setting this is difficult due to the amount of space lost so it is common practice to address the offending party wall or ceiling in this manner. Take the ReductoClip System for example. You would build a new party wall, purposely leaving a minimum of a 10mm gap between party wall and the new stud wall. In this case you have created a sealed void so it is necessary to fill that void with acoustic mineral wool to prevent noise getting trapped and then resonating, echoing and amplifying. The ReductoClips are then applied to the frame to absorb vibration and layers of mass are applied to block the airborne noise (2 x layers of acoustic graded plasterboard and 1 layer of FlexiSound 5 ).

In this scenario acoustic mineral wool was introduced to the created void to prevent the trapped noise from resonating, echoing and amplifying. Sound Insulation material prevents this from occurring and it is also commonly used between joists in the floor for this very reason.

3 - Noise Absorbing Coloured Glue

At the Soundproofing Store we have heard on many occasions that a certain glue has been used as a measure to block airborne and impact noises transferring from the next-door neighbour. Typically, the glue is applied as a layer between some plasterboard and not surprisingly we then hear that it did nothing to prevent airborne noise. And any slight reduction has been made by the plasterboard itself.

This glue will only help dampen very small amounts of vibration created by the airborne noise travelling between two plasterboard's when it meets the wall. It won’t help to block any general impact noises and does not add any mass to the wall.

4 – Can I use egg boxes to soundproof my wall?

This question is an example of Sound Absorption Vs Soundproofing when the difference between the two is unknown. Egg Boxes in theory should help when you want to reduce an echo in a room and controlling how sound reacts and bounces round the room, in a similar way to how Sound Absorption panels work. To what extent, I do not know as we have never tested them. They will in no way shape or form soundproof a party wall when you have a noisy neighbour because airborne noise needs mass to block it and egg boxes have very little mass - see the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard4 . My top tip, store your eggs in the egg box and use specialist acoustic panels to reduce echo.

5- Will laying a thick carpet or rug help soundproof my floor?

We often hear this question been asked. If you are creating impact and airborne noises that are affecting your neighbour below, then you will need to use something like the SoundMat3 plus as it contains two layers of mass loaded vinyl to block airborne noises and contains a middle layer of specialist acoustic sealed foam to reduce impact noise. Laying a thick carpet or rug may absorb some of the impact but not very much and may help reduce sound reverberation within a room, so reduce a little echo.

6- Does Soundproof paint work?

Physics dictates that to block an airborne noise you need to put a very heavy dense mass in front of it, the heavier the mass the more sound it may block. A 1-2 mm layer of paint is going to do very little in terms of blocking an airborne noise or absorbing impact vibration and I can't see it helping with noise reverberation within the room either.

7 – Does Soundproofing wallpaper work?

My answer is the same as the Soundproof Paint. The nearest you are going to get to Soundproofing wallpaper is TecSoundSY100 . It is a visco elastic 5mm layer of heavy mass and is self-adhesive so can be applied directly to a surface. Due to its nature you will need to put a layer of Knauf Soundshield plus 15mm plaster board over the top to finish your wall off.

8 – Can putting foam rubber on my wall help Soundproof?

There are many different types of foam and rubber and it is likely that if you do put a piece of rubber foam up it isn’t dense enough to block any airborne noises and isn’t the correct foam to absorb any vibration travelling through the wall. It will however help absorb some of the echo noise within the room. If you want to block noises coming through your wall I suggest looking at something like the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard4 .

9- Can I put either carpet, mattress or pillows on the wall to soundproof?

Again, you need to determine what you are trying to achieve. None of these materials contain heavy mass so if you are attempting to block noise coming through the wall from a noisy neighbour and their loud TV then these will do nothing. You need to look at either the Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard3 or Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard4 . If you are looking to reduce noise reverberation within the room itself then these methods could help.

10 – Can using heavier curtains Soundproof the bedroom?

This goes back to understanding the correct definitions between Soundproofing Vs Sound absorption. What do you want to achieve? If you are attempting to block a noise coming in from a neighbour or a noise from outside, then it won’t work because you need heavy dense materials to block the noise. Also, a curtain has a gap – think about when you are in your car and you think you have wound your window fully up, but you know you haven’t because there is still a noise. Once you wind it up fully by 1mm the noise disappears. However, if you want to reduce noise reverberation within a room then they may be an option.

11 – Can I soundproof my wall by adding multiple layers of acoustic graded plasterboard?

Adding two layers of acoustic graded 15mm plasterboard to the wall will give you a small reduction in noise, however just adding mas on its own will not give you the best performance. you also need to absorb the sound energy/vibrations that sound creates when it hits a solid, which is why in our Soundboards we use a 6mm foam layer to absorb this vibration.

Also, adding more and more of the same type of mass will not give you the best results, as different types of mass block different sound frequencies better than others - so using a combination of high mas materials will always give you a better result.

(Adding one layer of plaster board will give you a certain reduction, adding a second layer will only give you a small improvement and adding a third layer will have no added benefit at all. This is because the first layer will block most of the sound frequencies that this type of mass is good at blocking, leaving very little for the second layer to block and nothing for the final layer).

So rather than add more additional layers of the same mass, I would look at some other mass options. We know that by adding mass to the wall it will block certain levels of noise and we also know that using a combination of different types of mass will work even better because you are blocking a larger range of sound frequencies. The Pro-Sound™ SoundBoard4 is made up of a layer of 15mm acoustic graded plasterboard, a layer of heavy mass loaded vinyl, a layer of specialist foam and another layer of heavy mass loaded vinyl and that combination will easily remove a loud conversation when applied to a standard brick or block wall.

12 – Will sand help to soundproof?

This is often heard and often thought of as a myth but in actual fact sand can help to soundproof. Sand is heavy and because it is made up of small grains it doesn’t leave any gaps so therefore will block airborne noises. It was often used in Victorian times in the floors and we do still come across this from time to time but it is a very messy system to install, especially if you want to remove it and it is also prone to settling in lower areas giving a varied performance across the floor. I would suggest using the SoundMat3plus instead as there is no mess, it is simple to install and delivers much better results.

If you have enjoyed this blog, please have a look at our wall blog - How to soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours?

https://www.soundproofingstore.co.uk/how-to-soundproof-my-wall-against-noisy-neighbours

What is the best way to soundproof a wall?

Need Help?

I hope this has covered most questions, as always if you want the best advice, speak to a professional. We are happy to talk you though any problems or answer any questions.

"We don’t expect you to become an overnight expert in soundproofing, that’s what we’re here for."

How to Reduce Noise from Noisy Neighbours

How to Soundproof a Ceiling in a Flat (UK Soundproofing Guide)

How to Reduce Noise from Upstairs Neighbours (UK Soundproofing Guide)

Why Soundproof a Ceiling in a Flat?

Best Ways to Soundproof a Ceiling

How the ReductoClip Ceiling System Works

Watch: How to Soundproof a Ceiling Using the ReductoClip System

How Much Does Ceiling Soundproofing Cost in the UK?

Can You Soundproof an Existing Ceiling?

How Much Space Does Ceiling Soundproofing Take Up?

How to Stop Hearing Noisy Neighbours Above

Does Ceiling Soundproofing Work Both Ways?

Final Thoughts

About the Author - Phi Lyons

How to Soundproof a wall against noisy neighbours?

How to Soundproof a brick wall against noisy neighbours?

How to Soundproof a Brick Wall from Noisy Neighbours in the UK

Soundproofing Walls: Start by Identifying Your Wall Type

Solid Brick Party Walls

Stud Walls

Can You Soundproof a Wall Without Major Construction?

How to Stop Noise Through Walls: The Right Way

Best Practices for Soundproofing a Wall: Solid or Stud Construction

Step 1: Seal All Gaps and Weak Points

Step 2: Increase the Mass of the Wall

Step 3: Improve Sound Absorption and Vibration Control

Step 4: Add Acoustic Insulation

Step 5: Use a Mix of High-Mass Materials

Three Levels of Wall Soundproofing to Suit Every Noise Problem

Award-Winning Soundproofing Wall Products

Soundproof Existing Brick Party Walls with Proven Systems

Top 3 UK Soundproofing Solutions for Solid Brick Walls: Best Options for Noise Reduction and Space Saving

Option 1: SoundBoard 4: The Slim, High-Performance Soundproofing Panel for Walls

What Is SoundBoard 4?

Key Benefits of SoundBoard 4

Why Choose SoundBoard 4?

Watch the Full SoundBoard 4 Installation on a Stud Wall with Before and After Sound Test

Option 2: The ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

What Is the ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall Soundproofing System?

Key Benefits of ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall

Why Choose the ReductoClip™ Direct-to-Wall?

Installation of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System

Customer testimonial of the ReductoClip™ Direct to Wall System, reducing the noise from noisy neighbours

Option 3: ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

What is the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall Soundproofing System?

Key Benefits of the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System

Why Choose the ReductoClip™ Independent Wall System?

ReductoClip Independent Stud Wall System

How to install the ReductoClip Independent Wall System

Summary

Soundproofing materials highlighted in the article:

Author

What are the best acoustic underlays for timber joisted or concrete floors?

What are the best acoustic underlays for timber and concrete floors?

Struggling with Noise from Above?

Why Acoustic Underlay Is the Ideal Solution

Soundproofing underlay versus Carpet underlay

What's the Difference Between Carpet Underlay and Soundproofing Underlay?

Why Carpet Underlay Doesn’t Truly Soundproof a floor

Choosing the Right Product for Carpeted Floors

Are you soundproofing against Airborne or Impact noise?

4 key questions before adding acoustic underlay to your floor:

1. Is the Floor a Solid Concrete Floor or Timber Joist Floor?

2. Where Is the Noise Coming From - Above or Below?

3. Is the Noise Vibration Impact, Airborne, or a Combination of Both?

4. How Loud Is the Noise You Are Experiencing?

5. What Is the Final Floor Finish?

How to soundproof a floor with acoustic underlays?

Improve the Mass of the Floor to Block Airborne Noise

Improve the Floor’s Ability to Absorb Impact Noise and Vibration

Add Acoustic Insulation Between Timber Joists

Use a Combination of High-Mass Materials for Effective Soundproofing

Insulate cavities when soundproofing a timber floor

Acoustic mineral wool and its use in soundproofing

The 3 best ways to soundproof a timber floor

1. ProSound™ Reverso SoundMat (18mm) Dual-Sided Acoustic Underlay for Timber Floors

Slim, stabilised and Perfect for Hard Floor Finishes

Built-In Stabilising Layer Saves Time and Cost

Reversible Design for Hard or Soft Floor Finishes

Key Features at a Glance