In any workplace where sound can cause serious issues—such as construction sites, multimedia studios, or even generalised office buildings—it’s crucial to soundproof effectively. Efficient soundproofing can eliminate distractions, boost productivity, and ensure your business complies with local regulations.
There are several types of soundproofing equipment available, ranging from insulation batts to foam panels. This article will describe these different options and discuss how investing in a quality soundproofing system will benefit your business.
Soundproofing options
Let’s start with your options. The most common soundproofing products include:
- Acoustic insulation
- Acoustic fabric
- Acoustic foam
- Floor underlayment
- Architectural soundproofing
- Acoustic coating
From this list, you’re likely most familiar with acoustic foam. This type of soundproofing comes in a square, wedge, or pyramid shape and is attached to walls or hung from ceilings. They’re a common sight in studios and recording rooms.
For ultra-effective soundproofing, acoustic insulation is the best choice. Made from fiberglass, rock wool, or mineral wool, sound insulation will significantly reduce noise transfer between rooms (and to and from the outside world). Acoustic insulation will also improve sound quality within a space.
Choosing the right type of soundproofing
To soundproof effectively, make sure you’re using the right products. Some types of soundproofing work better than others for certain applications—so it’s best to do your research before diving in.
The type of soundproofing equipment you choose will depend on a few factors, such as:
- Your industry
- Your budget
- The type of building your business runs in
- The type of room you’re soundproofing
- The environment surrounding your business
- Local noise laws and regulations
If you’re working with a lower budget, acoustic foam or fabric are suitable options. These products are affordable, convenient, and easy to install, providing effective soundproofing for studio or theatre settings. However, if you work in an office or industrial environment, these products may be impractical or visually unappealing.
For soundproofing between floors, we recommend floor underlayment or underfloor insulation. Common underlayment materials include felt, polymer, and cork roll.
For larger buildings, office spaces, and industrial settings, acoustic insulation is the ideal choice. This type of insulation is hidden from sight and provides fantastic soundproofing—along with bonus benefits such as thermal insulation and fire resistance.
Ensuring effective soundproofing
Once you’ve installed your soundproofing product of choice, there are a few things you should check to ensure maximum effectiveness.
First, confirm you’ve filled all gaps and crevices. If there’s a hole somewhere, soundwaves are guaranteed to find their way through—so you’ll need to be vigilant. When installing acoustic insulation, you’ll need to cut and fit the material around pipes, wires, and electrical boxes.
Metal beams or pipes can vibrate easily and amplify impact noise. You can prevent this by supporting the beams with rubber or other durable materials.
Conclusion
Quality soundproofing will benefit your business by reducing sound leakage between rooms and improving sound quality within them. We recommend installing acoustic insulation to create the perfect working environment within your building—and to keep your neighbours happy, too.
