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Mass Loaded Vinyl can be applied to walls, ceilings, floors and structures to create a sound barrier. Mass is a critical component in sound control and works by simply stopping sound from being able to vibrate the structure due to its heavy weight. Please read through the installation guide before installing your MLV. |
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STEP 1: MEASURE AND TRIM YOUR MLV |
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Measure your wall from top to bottom. Deduct 1/8” – ¼” from total height. Unroll your MLV on the floor. With a utility knife, use a straight edge ruler to cut a square edge evenly through the MLV. {See Figure 1} You do not need to cut through the material fully, once it is scored, it will come apart easily. The MLV can also be cut with a heavy duty scissor. |
STEP 2: PREPARE YOUR WALL FOR INSTALLATION |
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For superior soundproofing results, use Acoustical Outlet Backer Putty Pad around all electrical outlets and other obstacles. {See Figure 2} |
STEP 3: APPLYING YOUR MLV |
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This step requires the work of two people.
The MLV is applied over the fiberglass installation and beneath the sheetrock. With the help of another, hold the MLV in place, starting at the upper corner of the wall. Ensure the sheet is straight along the ceiling and is evenly spaced between the floor and ceiling {See Figure 3} Fasteners: Any type of fastener will work (especially if the MLV will be covered with drywall) we suggest roofing nails or screws with washers, however you can also use a pneumatic cap stapler. |
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Placement: Place fasteners every 8” along the top and bottom plate {See Figure 4} and down the length of the stud. |
STEP 4: EXPOSE YOUR ELECTRICAL OUTLET BOXES |
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Be careful not to cover electrical outlets boxes. It is best to expose the outlets boxes as you install each length of MLV. Find the electrical box in your wall and gently press the MLV against the box. Using a razor blade carefully cut the opening along the edges of the box. Keep this hole tight as possible to the electrical box so that you maintain a good seal. {See Figure 5} Any extra gaps can be filled with Acoustical Caulk. Continue as above until your entire wall or ceiling is covered in MLV. |
STEP 5: FINISH YOUR SEAMS |
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Where MLV seams fall on a stud, butt pieces against one another on the stud and fasten into place. You can add a strip of PVC Tape on the seam. {See Figures 6 and 7} We highly recommend that you end all MLV seams on a stud, as free hanging seams may come apart with time. |
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Where MLV seams falls between studs, overlap pieces by 2" and tape seams with PVC Tape or similar tape. {See Figure 8} |
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Notch the ends to lay flat. {See Figure 9} |
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Once all strips of MLV have been applied, sheetrock can be installed above it and you can be ensured a sound-secure structure! For more information about MLV, contact us or call us at 845-388-1200. |
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Customers Questions and Answers
1) Should there be a gap between MLV and the drywall?
09/08/2025
Ronald S: Once i have the MLV on the studs, Can I use soundboard then drywall? Question should i use foam spacer strips on the studs to create a gap between the MLV and the drywall Thank you, Ron
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
Yes you can cover the Mass Loaded Vinyl with any covering. No need to create that small gap between the MLV and drywall with foam strips.
2) How is drywall attached over MLV on walls and ceiling?
09/08/2025
Monica: Hi, If I apply MLV to walls and ceiling, can I just attach drywall using drywall screws to studs, or is there something else that is needed??
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: That is all that you need to do.
3) Can MLV be fixed to plasterboard?
09/08/2025
Maxine C: Can you fix mlv to plasterboard?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes.
4) Can MLV go over existing drywall under new sheetrock?
09/08/2025
Andrew L: Can I install the MLV over existing drywall and then put another layer of sheetrock on top?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it can and is used that way.
5) Can mass loaded vinyl be placed over an existing wall?
09/08/2025
Anthony M: Can mass load vinyl be place over existing wall
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it can.
6) Can stapled MLV be the finished surface in a practice closet?
09/08/2025
mike h: Can you place over existing sheetrock and leave as the inner wall covering? I have a closet I would like to convert to a practice room. I would like to place the vinyl over the wall, using staples or roofing nails.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes that can be done if you don't mind the color.
7) Does drywalling over MLV reduce its effectiveness?
09/08/2025
Greg: Does placing MLV over existing drywall then drywalling over the MLV reduce the effectiveness of the MLV? Do more layers of MLV create a more effective sound barrier? do the ceilings need MLV too if its a shared wall like in a condominium?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It does not.
Yes, however not as much as the first layer.
If you have a shared airspace above the walls than the ceilings most be soundproofed as well.
8) Can MLV be applied to a brick garage wall?
09/08/2025
Darren: I thinking of sound proofing my garage. Can I apply MLV to a brick wall?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes that can be done
9) Can MLV go on the floor under a workbench?
09/08/2025
Beau B: Can mlv be used on the floor? i know that insulation needs air in it and is not effective if squished. is mlv the same? im going to have my workbench on top of it.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it can be used on the floor. Unlike insulation, MLV is solid and will not be affected if compressed.
10) Can MLV be glued up and which adhesive works?
09/08/2025
Jason P: can u apply mlv with glue and if so what kind of glues should i use
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Hi Jason we don't recommend any, as some glues may react with the MLV. We have had customers who have used HH-56 vinyl cement successfully.
11) Can MLV hang over an existing ceiling, taut or slack?
09/08/2025
Josh: Hi, Can I hang MLV over existing sheetrock on the ceiling to block noise from upstairs neighbors? If so, is it best pulled taught or left slack? Thanks!
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can hang MLV on a ceiling. Taught or slack, either way the results will be the same.
12) Can MLV be stapled to studs and with what size staples?
09/08/2025
John P: Can I use Staples to mount to studs. If so, What size?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes you can. Standard staple gun would work.
13) Can MLV on a ceiling be painted and with what paint?
09/08/2025
peter: Can you paint over MLV? If you install to existing ceiling can you pain t the MLV? If so what kind of paint?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Officially, no. However you could take a piece up to a Sherwin Williams store and see what they say – I’ve heard of customers using their вЂXIM’ primer, then painting it.
Keep in mind that once painted if it’s moved the paint may flake off.
14) Do clips and channel add much STC on top of MLV?
09/08/2025
Josh: Do sound clips and hat channels add significant STCs if added to MLV?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Hi Josh. Yes they do. Decoupling introduces a new method that can add up to 15 STC points.
15) One pound or two pound MLV for a second floor theater?
09/08/2025
Malz: should i be using a 1 lb or 2 lb MLV for a home theatre room on the second floor of the house? I will be using a Quietrock drywall, would that be an overkill? Also should i be using the MLV for the ceiling too?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: The 1 point is easier to handle and install (especially on the ceiling!). Either way it won't be overkill as you are only using a single layer of drywall and there is not that much Mass there (if you switched to a double layer of drywall with Green Glue than the 1 pound Mass Loaded Vinyl is definitely enough).
16) Should old sheetrock come down before MLV in a garage corner?
09/08/2025
Jose B: Hello, I'm soundproofing a corner in my garage. Should I remove the old sheetrock from the wall and from the ceiling before I install the MLV? Thank very much. Jose
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: The MLV will work well either way.
17) Can MLV go outside over house wrap in cold climates?
09/08/2025
Robert: Can I use mlv on the outside of my house over my tyvek wrap in a cold weather city like Chicago? Will it?s effectiveness change as the temperature changes? Or is strictly for indoor use.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes. This material can be used outside without any impact on performance.
18) Does MLV on plastered brick need boarding over and paint?
09/08/2025
Graham : Can I apply mass loaded vinyl to a plastered brick wall? If yes, do I need to place plaster board on top of it and then paint?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can and it can be left exposed if you would like.
19) Can MLV replace a drywall layer in a control room build?
09/08/2025
Kevin W: I am building out a control room and plan to use MLV for the first time. I generally install OSB first on the framing and then two layers of 5/8' drywall. Two questions: (1) can I substitute one layer of drywall for MLV and maintain same STC rating? (2) if so is it more effective up against the studs or can i sandwich between the OSB and 1 layer of drywall?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes. MLV will give you equal STC rating to another layer of drywall. Performance will be about the same either way you install it although some contractors like to install it 'limp' onto the studs.
20) Does MLV go over or under floorboards on timber joists?
09/08/2025
Jane: Using MLV on the floor in 2nd floor flat - I will have sound insulation slab fitted between the timber joists, my question is do I use MLV over the joists but under my floor boards or do I put the floor boards back down first and use MLV on top?! :)
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Either way would work. Under the joists would probably be easier for your finished flooring.
21) What adhesive bonds MLV to plywood?
09/08/2025
michael m: If I were to glue mass loaded vinyl to a composite wood board -- plywood, for example -- what adhesive should I use? thanks,
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: We don't recommend any glue as some of them can react badly with MLV, however customers have reported using HH-66
22) Can MLV hang over windows and doors and how?
09/08/2025
alex : Can I hang MLV over windows and doors to soundproof my bedroom? If so, how could i hang it up? Thanks
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can. You can staple or nail it. Alternatively you can install Grommets in the MLV and hang it that way.
23) How do I affix MLV to concrete basement walls?
09/08/2025
Katie: Is it possible to affix MLV to concrete basement walls? If so, what do you recommend?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It is possible. May be best to install wooden furring strips and then mechanically fasten the MLV to the wood strips.
24) Should MLV be hung loosely or pulled taut?
09/08/2025
Erin: I've read on some sites to apply the MLV loosely as applying it too taught will cause a drum-like echo effect? Is this true? Applying it loosely I think would cause gaps in the sound insulation it's supposed to provide so I'm wondering how best to apply it. Thanks!
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Hi Erin. It is not true. Lab tests on limp and taught installation show the same results.
25) Can MLV be used under luxury tile?
09/08/2025
mike: Can I use this under luxury tile.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: If you need to glue it down than it is not recommended as some glues may react with the MLV. Unless you cover the MLV with another underlayment first.
26) Two layers of 1/8 inch MLV or one 1/4 inch, and one per side of the wall?
09/08/2025
Lauren V: I need to sound proof a shared wall for a secondary dwelling. the exterior has 5/8' T1-11 that I am planning to attach the vinyl to. I would like to know if I can get the same results with two layers of 1/8' as with one layer of 1/4'. Or, would it be better to attach one layer of 1/8' over both sides of the wall.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes the results will be the same.
27) Will framed MLV and foam panels quiet garage door openings?
09/08/2025
Amy W: we are putting together 4x8 sound panels for large party room to install over garage doors. The plan was a frame of 2x4s, luan on the side facing the door, MLV on the luan, 4' wedge foam secured with chicken wire and black fabric to finish it off. Are we way off or what? Goal is to soundproof the doors as much as possible.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: That should work quite well. You can put MLV on both sides of the frame for better results. I am assuming that the foam is inside the frame. A lot will depend on how well you can seal the sides.
28) Can MLV between joists keep an exposed ceiling look?
09/08/2025
Matt H.: Our exposed joist basement ceiling transmits a lot of noise. We want to attach MLV to the subfloor between the joists and then attach a fascade subfloor to the MLV to retain the appearance of the open ceiling. Would this be an effective solution and how would you recommend attaching the MLV and fascade?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It would help somewhat and the MLV can be attached with heavy duty staples. However sound can and will still transmit through the joists. Additionally you would want some kind of insulation/absorbtion.
29) Can MLV lay on top of acoustic ceiling tiles in a spa?
09/08/2025
Ali K.: I have a small day spa and was thinking about laying MLV on top of the commercial acoustic ceiling tiles because we seem to get a lot of noise transfer into other rooms through the ceiling. Would laying it on top of the ceilings above the room space work, or would it be better to attach it directly on to the ceiling tiles visible on the inside of the room?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Lying it on top would work and is a very good idea.
30) Is MLV stable near underfloor tile heating elements?
09/08/2025
Jay S: I am thinking of installing MLV under tile with and electrical heating element. How stable is the vinyl if near a heat source like those commonly used under tile? Does this product have an odor when it gets hot (say 100 degrees)?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It should be fine as long as it’s below 180 degrees
31) Does unsealed overlapping ceiling MLV lose effectiveness?
09/08/2025
Jo: We have applied the soundproofing vinyl to the ceiling frame, in layers so the does overlap one another. The tape isn't grabbing properly so no ends have been sealed. Will this weaken the effectiveness? If so, are there alternative products we should try? Thanks.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can use a vinyl cement like the HH-66
32) Should MLV be stapled under joists over existing insulation?
09/08/2025
Alex S: Above my acoustical ceiling tiles in the basement between the joists I put Insulation because we could hear noise from below. I can still hear some music, Should I staple the MLV to the joists, sealing in the insulation from below or would it be the same if I put them right on top of the ceiling tiles?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Either way will work. Main thing is to get complete coverage without any gaps.
33) Should clips attach through MLV or a different order?
09/08/2025
Ian: Assuming I want to use resilient clips and hat channels (after going through the steps listed above): Is the best approach to attach the clips to studs directly on top of MLV? In other words, decouple the wall as you normally would, but with a layer of MLV in between? Is this the best order of operations, or is there more effective/efficient approach?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: That is a good approach. MLV directly to studs followed by clips and channels. Alternatively you can attach the MLV to the channels however that is slightly more difficult.
34) Can stapled MLV go under wall-to-wall carpet?
09/08/2025
Nicole M: Can I install MLV on the floor under my carpet? I understand that nothing can be glued to to MLV, so I am wondering if carpet staples would be enough to hold both the carpet and the MLV. Also, I live in a very noisy condo. Would I be better off using 1 lb or 2 lbs MLV?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Carpet staples should be enough. 2 lb is always better as it is heavier however you do not receive twice the sound blocking. About 25% better.
35) Can MLV lay over attic joists and insulation safely?
09/08/2025
Eric L: Can I install MLV over joists in the attic space above a bedroom (and over the top of insulation)? Would the attic heat be a problem? Does the MLV act like a vapor barrier (which you wouldn't want in the attic)? I was hoping to seal a room without having to remove the ceiling drywall if possible.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can do that, provided the MLV is laying on the joists and cover the entire room
36) How do I lay MLV under carpet evenly over hardwood?
09/08/2025
Claudio G: Hi there. Thanks for these useful answers. I am planning to install to layers of MLV on top of my hardwood floor, above which I would then place a layer of underlay and carpet. How can ensure that everything stays in place if the MLV can’t be glued to the floor? Thanks.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can use a few staples or nails to keep it in place.
37) Can wallpapered MLV go on an existing painted wall?
09/08/2025
Samantha Bra: Can I apply MLV directly to existing painted wall and then cover in wallpaper?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: MLV can be applied to the wall. As far as Hanging wallpaper on it you would have to test it first to ensure that the adhesive does not react in a bad way with the MLV. If you do try it, please let us know your experience.
38) Is my shed band room wall layering plan correct?
09/08/2025
Bill Z: I am building a band practice space in a 20’ft x 14’ft shed. There is vinyl siding, 1/2” OSB, I am using sound insulation between the studs, then was planning on using 1# MLV, isolation clips on the studs, and 5/8” board. Do you think this is enough to keep the sound down enough to prevent my neighbors from hearing me?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It's good. For band practice I would recommend that you use 2 layers of half inch with the Green Glue Damping Compound in between on the isolation clips. Just make sure all the walls and ceiling are covered in the same way.
39) Does MLV work hung bare on an existing wall?
09/08/2025
Tom N: Is MLV effective if its hung directly on an existing wall? I don't plan to put anything else on top of the MLV.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it is, as it is a sound 'barrier' and blocks sound on its own.
40) Can decorative wood paneling be nailed over MLV?
09/08/2025
Gloria S: I plan on installing MLV on existing drywall then covering the MLV with decorative wood paneling covering the entire wall. Will this be effective? Can the paneling be nailed into the MLV?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes and Yes.
41) What ceiling rebuild best protects tenants from toddlers above?
09/08/2025
Mike: We have 2 toddlers on a second story that are driving the first floor tenants crazy. We'd like the most effective route to sound proof the first floor. Here's what we are considering after removing ceilings on the first floor from this 90 yo house: 1. r-19 insulation in rafters 2. Sound Clips through out 3. MLV -- 1 lb 4. 5/8' Dry wall 5. Green Glue 6. 5/8' Dry Wall … What are we missing? Anything else more effective than this?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
That is a great ceiling. Put the MLV to the joists and then the resilient sound clips and channels. Keep in mind that any recessed lighting will punch a hole in the soundproofing. Use LED surface mounted lights. Additionally put some MLV over any AC ducts.
42) Can MLV layer above and below replaced ceiling drywall?
09/08/2025
Anthony: As a soundproofing process for my ceiling, could I remove my ceiling drywall, place the MLV above the ceiling drywall, replace the ceiling drywall, put another layer of MLV over the replaced ceiling, and then adding more ceiling dry wall over the second MLV layer?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: That would work. If your adding that many layers you do not have to go through the effort of removing the first layer just start from there. Unless you are adding insulation and need to get to the bays.
43) Can MLV go on both sides of a wall with an HVAC duct?
09/08/2025
Randy T: I purchased 3 rolls of mlv from you and I am soundproofing an interior wall that has an hvac duct that runs to the level above. My question is can I install mlv to the studs on both sides of the wall or could it possibly cause mold or mildew issues? I would like to cut down noise in both rooms from the duct.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: On interior walls there should not be any moisture issues.
44) Do you sell adhesive-backed mass loaded vinyl?
09/08/2025
mark m: do you have a mass loaded vinyl with an adhesive backing?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
Yes we do. See here https://www.tmsoundproofing.com/Mass-Loaded-Vinyl-4-x-25-PSA-backing.html
45) How much difference does one MLV layer on a ceiling make?
09/08/2025
Bryan: I'm planning on adding a layer of mlv to the ceiling of our guest room to reduce footstep noise from above. Assuming the most I can do is add 1 layer of mlv, how much of a difference would any of the following make? (assuming each method leaves no gaps): 1) 1 pound or 2 pound mlv 2) stapling mlv directly to ceiling 3) stapling mlv to ceiling but with thin foam at each staple site, adding a slight (maybe 1/8') air gap between the ceiling and the mlv 4) suspending mlv 1-2' below ceiling attached by string to ceiling hooks Follow up, are heavy duty staples strong enough to hold the mlv to the ceiling for an indefinite period of time?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: #4 would be the best for footstep sound. For all option do not expect a drastic reduction in the footfall sound as you would need to treat the floor above for significant improvement.
46) How is MLV installed under tongue and groove hardwood?
09/08/2025
Michel B: I would like to install MLV underneath a hardwood tong and groove floor. We were thinking about glueing the hardwood onto to the MLV to prevent separation, but see no that you do not recommend this. how would do you suggestion installation to prevent separation of the wood? Thanks so much
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Nailing the Hardwood down to the subfloor.
47) Can MLV go on an exterior wall under new stucco?
09/08/2025
John: My home has plywood on exterior, planning to remove and add stucco to reduce the road noise. Can I add MLV on exterior wall. Existing insulation + MLV + Stucco on outside of the wall ? CAn MLV be added only inside the wall? Thanks
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: MLV can be added to the exterior wall as well.
48) Does a suspended theater ceiling with MLV risk a triple leaf?
09/08/2025
Mike: I am building my theater room and i plan on doing a suspended ceiling as well as 2 layers of 5/8 drywall and 1/8 MLV so there is no noise transfer. With the gap with the suspended ceiling and the drywall and MLV sandwiched between the 2 layers and i will use green Glue, is there anything else i could do to reduce noise transfer as the system is really loud.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You should sandwich the Green Glue between the 2 layers of drywall without the MLV being sandwiched there as well. Rather put the MLV on the outside and make sure there is insulation in your ceiling.
49) How long does MLV off-gassing odor take to fade?
09/08/2025
James B: If Mass Loaded Vinyl is hung up as a wall (uncovered) how long does it take for the potential off gassing odor to go away? I hung some up a few weeks ago and used a primer to seal it but it’s still smelling pretty bad.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Did you purchase the MLV from us? TMS Mass Loaded Vinyl has virtually no odor to begin with unless it is your primer.
50) Any reason not to add Green Glue and drywall to a ceiling under hard floors?
09/08/2025
Dietrich: We live in a townhouse that has two townhouses (side by side) on top of it. The neighbours over the kitchen and living room area are keeping their carpet and we can hardly ever hear them, even in their tiled kitchen. Whereas the neighbours over the bedrooms replaced the carpet with hardwood/laminate flooring and I have a feeling that they didn't install the 73STC rated underlay as outlined by the bylaws. The result is we can hear them walking around a lot. Especially at night. I'm contemplating off adding either 5/8' drywall with Green Glue or 5/8' drywall on top of a layer of 1lb MLV to our existing ceiling to reduce the noise. Is there any reason why adding green glue compound to the 5/8' drywall would not work or shouldn't be used? We could use channels in the bedrooms (9' ceiling) but the bathrooms and hallway are only 8', so channels would cause us to lose a lot of height and a number of items (sprinkler heads, fans and lights) would have to be lowered a lot. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can use it. However with floor impact noise the results will not be that dramatic (maybe 20-30%). Best to treat from floor above as you note with the carpet. 2nd best to suspend ceiling below with clips and channel.
51) Can MLV go behind vinyl siding instead, and does it block train noise?
09/08/2025
Ryan: I have a contractor that gave me a quote and his method was to remove existing drywall, put puddy behind the outlets, then install MLV, and lastly two sheets of drywall with green glue. This would then require me to add extensions to my windows, remove vapour barrier to get access behind outlets, tie up my bedroom, etc. Could I not just install MLV behind my vinyl siding and that would also block noise transmission through my outlets? Lastly, how effective is Mass loaded vinyl with train noise (low roaring sounds)? Thanks
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
You can try that first and see if it is enough. Your contractor is doing it correctly. Green Glue has a better rating for low frequency sound than MLV.
52) Do patches of MLV behind pictures and furniture reduce roommate noise?
09/08/2025
Silvia: I just moved into a house with roommates and very thin walls. I'm not looking to completely soundproof, but would like to reduce noise from outside my room and to keep some noise from escaping the room as well. Would MLV be effective in patches nailed to the the wall to reduce noise? For example, behind picture frames/decorations, or furniture? Should I use in conjuction with a sound absorbent layer like cork or foam as well?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Not that effective when used as patches
53) Can Green Glue and MLV combine between drywall layers?
09/08/2025
Thomas A Cr: Can you use Green glue and MLV in between two layers of drywall? I intend to install MLV over existing drywall then apply Green Glue to the back of Quite Rock sheets to sound proof. Essentially creating a sandwich effect.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
I would not recommend that as the Green Glue should be used between 2 rigid layers.
54) Will MLV inside an exterior wall cause condensation problems?
09/08/2025
Bill: Since MLV acts as a vapor barrier, wouldn't MLV on the inside of an exterior wall (meaning: drywall, then MLV, then studs w/insulation, then Tyvek, then siding) cause condensation to form between the MLV and the insulation if it is humid outside and the air conditioning is on inside? In other words, since Tyvek is permeable, the humid air would eventually make its way to the MLV, and if the MLV is cold from the a/c, then water buildup would eventually cause mold?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Great question. MLV has not been tested as a vapor barrier however it may be a slight concern. Usually the MLV is behind at least one layer of drywall and not as cols from the AC. Similarly the vapor barrier of Insulation is usually facing the interior.
55) Does the MLV layering order matter on a brick wall?
09/08/2025
Keith: I think you are going to say it doesn't matter which way....However, I am considering lining an existing brick wall with two layers of 1lb MLV a bubble insulation, rigid foam insulation battens and then decorative wooden panels. Obviously the panels would be the last thing to fix, but what order is best for the others? MLV by the wall or by the panels? And thank you for all your other answers, really helpful.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: If you have a way of fastening the MLV then you are better off first putting up the rigid foam insulation and the MLV over that.
Your welcome. We appreciate the feedback.
56) Can MLV on existing drywall contain band rehearsal sound?
09/08/2025
Eric Walker: I have a music room for band rehearsal, and I want to block sound from escaping to the rest of our house and the neighbors (semi-detached house). Can I put MLV on the existing drywall (walls and ceiling) and just leave it at that? If so, how would I hang it? Thanks very much.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: You can. You can staple or nail the MLV
57) Will MLV stapled under wooden stairs quiet them?
09/08/2025
Rob Houser: I have a wooden stairway that causes a lot of loud sounds as it is open below to the basement stairway. Would stapling MLV directly to the bottom of the stairs (the bottom of the wood treads and risers) have any effect on deadening or lessening the impact sounds from foot traffic on the stairs?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: It would have some effect, probably not enough to be worth your time and money.
58) Will MLV plus plywood on a lattice fence block alley noise?
09/08/2025
Jeremy: I am trying to soundproof a wood lattice fence in my backyard against car noise from the alley behind. I am planning to use 1lb MLV on the fence, and then a layer of plywood over the MLV (so: wood lattice fence, MLV, plywood). How necessary is the additional plywood layer over the MLV?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Not that necessary.
59) Can MLV attach to a lath and plaster wall safely?
09/08/2025
Dave: Hi, I have an existing finished wall that is lathe and plaster, and also has two windows. 1. Can mlv be attached to a plaster wall? 2. Is there any special screws or fasteners needed so it doesn't cause cracks / tears in plaster? 3. Are there any special concerns / issues when applying mlv to a wall with windows? Thanks so much!
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
There is no issue with putting it onto such a wall. Nails, screws and staples are some of the common fasteners used. If you are worried about cracks and tears you can a PVC glue like the Extreme Adhesive that we have to adhere it to the wall.
60) Can fabric-covered MLV treat a violin practice room?
09/08/2025
Eliza: I'm looking to soundproof a practice room for violin playing, so mainly mid-high frequency airbourn noise. Can I attache mlv directly to the wall and then cover with some fabric curtains, or do I need to cover it with plasterboard to have any effect?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: MLVV works on it's own as a barrier and can be covered with fabric curtains.
61) How do I quiet a misting system pump on a veranda?
09/08/2025
TMG: I have installed a high pressure misting system on our veranda (space is 18’ x 18’, concrete floor, 12’ ceilings, fully enclosed on 2 sides, half enclosed on 3rd side, wide open on back side.) The pump (about 12” x 9” x 9”) is a triple piston model, rated at 56 dB. I have placed the pump in a corner as distant as possible from our usual seating location. It’s not awful, but it’s louder than I’d like. The pump generates very little heat, but it DOES require cooling; it has an internal fan and louvered openings (each about 3” x 3”) on opposite ends of the casing. I have built a large box (about 24” x 24” x 18” high) of 1/2” MDF to encase the pump, filter, excess hoses, etc. I have caulked the internal seams of the box, and have glued 2” thick pyramidal sound foam to walls and top. The box has appropriately-sized openings to allow for airflow. It has weather stripping stapled to the bottom edge. The box reduces the noise level, but not nearly as much as I’d hoped; more noise reduction is needed for marital accord. So, finally, my questions: I am contemplating a smaller box, similarly constructed, and also of 1/2” MDF, to be placed over the pump and INSIDE the box already in place. I’m thinking that I’ll locate the ventilation holes on this smaller box such that they’re deliberately misaligned with the holes in the larger box (allowing airflow while forcing sound to “make a 90 degree corner”). I’m thinking I’ll screw MLV to BOTH the inside and outsides of this box, caulking the seams in all cases. I’m also considering placing a section of MLV beneath the pump (which does have rubber feet) to decouple it from the concrete floor. Will this help? If so, should I attach this piece of MLV to MDF, (on top, or on floor side?) or merely place the MLV on the concrete floor beneath the pump? Lastly, as I’ve some leftover 2” pyramidal foam, I may glue that to the MLV on the outside of the smaller box. Your feedback/suggestions for a different approach are much appreciated.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: The MLV on the box will help a lot. The MLV on the floor will not do much. The foam pyramids will only help if they are inside of the box, not on the outside. Keep in mind that due to the openings required for air ventilations sound will always be heard via the openings.
62) Can MLV go on right before house siding?
09/08/2025
alex: can mass load vinyl be put on right before siding is put on a house?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it can
63) Can self-adhesive MLV go on an aluminum roof against rain?
09/08/2025
Diego: Can seld adhesive mlv be applied directly on top of an aluminum roof to reduce rain noise?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
It can. I would recommend that you use standard MLV with a stronger adhesive like our MLV Glue for an outdoor application.
64) Which MLV weight do I need for my project?
09/08/2025
Diego: I see 1lb, 2lb, and half lb options. I don't know which one i need.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: The 1 pound is by far the most popular
65) How do I soundproof a motorhome floor over a steel frame?
09/08/2025
Arthur Allen: I am working on an 34ft. A Class Motorhome. Basically a bread box on wheels. The floor is 1 1/4 steel tube frame supporting a thin layer of aluminum with a 3/4' plywood on top of that. The box is I will call it is isolated from the frame on rubber mounts. However Engine noise is similar to a leaf blower in lower gears, plus hearing wheels hitting pot holes and road noise. Considering 2lb mlv on top. Then carpet padding and carpet. Wondering the stc rating of plywood with mlv on top. I can also go underneath and cut plywood and sandwich mlv underneath with rubberized coating on plywood to protect from water. Your thoughts and advice. Also is green glue effective between 2 layers of wood?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: 2 pound MLV with Plywood will get you at around a 35 STC. Green Glue works well between 2 layers of wood provided that each layer is at least half inch thick.
66) What glue attaches MLV to existing drywall?
09/08/2025
Brian: what glue do you recommend to attach MLV to existing drywall?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply:
This one https://www.tmsoundproofing.com/tms-extreme-hold.html
67) Is MLV washable for use in a rooster coop?
09/08/2025
Kat: I am wanting to sound proof my chicken coop for a rooster. Is the MLV washable? Right now I have foam board insulation covered by corroplast sheets that can be wiped down/washed, and I am hoping to use MLV the same way.
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes our MLV has a smooth surface and can be wiped down.
68) Can one pound MLV make removable window inserts?
09/08/2025
Len: Can I use 1lb MLV to make window inserts? I’d like to place the product over the glass between the window frame top and sides. I want to avoid the use of any permanent attachments to the wall or window frames or trim. I will remove the MLV from the windows after each music practice session and reinstall it each time I practice. If this insulation is possible how do you suggest to hold the MLV in place. Thanks for your suggestions!
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: Yes it can be used that way, however it is a limp material so you may want to attach it to a wooden board or similar in order to put it up and take it down.
69) MLV with QuietRock or another option in limited space?
07/13/2026
Y. Freund: HI I'm soundproofing an office. I have existing 1/2 inch drywall on 2 sides over an empty cavity. I can add 1 lb MLV and then 1/2 inch quietrock (I can't go thicker due to space constraints) or I can remove the old sheetrock put batting and then 2 layers of Quietrock which would add a lot to the labor costs. What do you recommend?
Trademark Soundproofing Reply: The 2nd way is better. The 1st will work too (not as well) if budget is important to you. If your doing the 2nd way I would recommend you wrap the outlets with putty pads while the studs are exposed.
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