Soundproofing panels (how to pick, install and buy)
Do I need soundproofing panels or sound-absorbing panels?
Lots of people get confused with this one but there is a significant difference between soundproofing panels and sound-absorbing panels.
Soundproofing panels are used to reduce sound, for example, noise travelling from your neighbour’s living room to your own. Whilst sound absorption panels are used to reduce sound reverberation, a good example of this is when you are in an office or large empty room you can hear an audible echo when speaking or other sounds are made. Sound absorption panels made of dense foam help to reduce this reverberation time, decreasing the echo. In this blog, we’re going to talk about soundproofing panels but don’t worry if you need absorption you can read about sound absorption panels here.
Do soundproof panels work?
Yes, they absolutely do. A direct to wall soundproof panel system can reduce noise from another room by 6-8 dB (for reference a reduction of 10dB would mean you perceive the noise to be around half the volume it was before) Before you go rushing to buy you will need to do your homework or speak with an acoustic consultant (most suppliers can offer you over the phone advice before you buy)
Your home or office is unique in its design, construction, and build-up and as such requires a bespoke solution. You will also need to consider the type of noise you wish to reduce, conversations or loud TVs are classed as airborne noise, whereas heavy footsteps from rooms above are classed as impact noise and both are tackled with different solutions. We recommend iKoustics ‘MuteBoard’ soundproof panel range for walls and ceilings. Some of these panels can be applied directly to the wall whilst others are suited to more advanced clip and channel systems.
UK based customers can call iKoustic to discuss your soundproofing needs on 01937 588226
What is a clip and channel system?
One of the most effective tools for soundproofing is ‘de-coupling’ this is the process of creating a new structure that is independent of the existing one (or as independent as possible) In simple terms this means that the vibrations causing the noise can’t easily travel through your existing wall to your new one. One of the most popular ways to achieve this effect is a MuteClip and MuteChannel system.
With the MuteClip and Mutechannel system, you can attach the MuteClip sound clips to Brick walls, timber frames, metal C studs or fully de-coupled stud walls. These clips feature two different densities of silicone rubber that make direct contact with the structure to absorb different types of vibration. You then fit the metal MuteChannels through the MuteClips, this can then be treated as a stud frame that you can apply soundproofing panels and acoustic plasterboard too.
What are the best soundproofing panels?
The most effective soundproofing panels need to be high mass to dampen vibration, but they also need to create a degree of de-coupling. A layer of close cell foam can achieve this. The MuteBoard 4 has four layers of soundproofing material including an acoustic plasterboard finish that is ready to be skimmed for a quick turnaround.
Direct to wall soundproofing panels.
Direct-to-wall soundproofing panels are a viable solution to reduce the amount of noise travelling through your walls. In an ideal world building a completely decoupled structure would be the best method for soundproofing a wall or ceiling however when space is a concern direct-to-wall soundproofing panels can be attached to an existing structure to add a good level of soundproofing if applied correctly. These are also ideal for soundproofing a stair wall and hallway due to the slim line design. Before undertaking this type of application, it would be a good idea to take advice from a soundproofing expert. You can call Ikoustic on 01937 588226 for free advice on the best solution for you.
Soundproof panels for ceiling.
Before adding soundproof panels to your ceiling, you need to check if your ceiling is a timber or concrete construction. For a wooden joist ceiling, you will be able to apply ceiling panels directly to the joists or use a MuteClip system. You can locate the joists with a joist scanner and then attach the soundproofing panel directly to the plasterboard without removing the ceiling.
Soundproof panels will only add negligible benefits to the already high mass concrete ceiling. If you wish to add soundproofing to a concrete ceiling, you will need to construct a de-coupled stud frame suspended below the ceiling you can read more about soundproofing a ceiling using this method here.
How to install soundproofing panels.
Installing soundproof panels is a project a skilled DIY’er is capable of completing but can also be completed by specialist installers or a local builder. In the instructions below we will cover how to install the MuteBoard 4 from Ikoustic to a Brick wall. If you require advice for a different type of wall contact Ikoustic on 01937 588226 for support and advice on your project.
- Ensure the surface you’re applying to is flat. Patch any large gaps or voids in the brick work. A complete render is ideal. This will mean the joints in the board can successfully match up and create a tighter fixing.
- The panels have tapered edges on two sides, ensure you apply the board with these sides vertically aligned.
- Use nine heavy-duty fixings per board to affix them to the wall. Keep the panels butted up as close as possible. Leave a 2.5 mm gap between your fixings and the adjacent surfaces.
- Fill all gaps using an acoustic sealant. Including the abutting of all joints and around the perimeter. This is very important as airborne noise will travel through even the smallest of gaps.
This covers the process of fixing panels direct to a wall below we have a video explaining the process of using the MuteClip double plus system. Feel free to call us on 01937 588226 for advice on the right solution for your situation and installation tips.https://www.youtube.com/embed/KT53-BjB5CM?start=9
Summary
In summary, soundproof panels are a great option if you are trying to reduce noise from your home or office. They can be easily applied and highly effective. It’s always a good idea to consult with a soundproofing expert before investing in a solution. Call us today on 01937 588226
