Let’s try to keep it quiet!

Now that you understand the main principles behind a great soundproofing job it’s time to start taking a look at your upcoming soundproofing project. When creating an effective sound barrier it is important to make sure you are using the best techniques and materials possible. If you fail to do so the overall effect of your project will be diminished and you will be disappointed with the results you achieve.

As you begin to plan your soundproofing project, keep the following tips in mind. They’re designed to help you get the most out of your project, whether you’re working on a single room, your entire home, an office, or some other commercial project.

Don’t Forget about Decoupling

We have briefly discussed decoupling techniques in the past. Decoupling is achieved by using spring or whisper clips, resilient channels, staggered studs, or some other type of technique to make it difficult for sound to pass through a surface. When decoupling, you are in essence creating roadblocks. When the sound hits these roadblocks it lessens in intensity, or its frequencies are diminished, and you aren’t able to hear it from the other side of the surface.

Increase Mass

One of the best ways to achieve results in any soundproofing project is to increase mass. The heavier and denser a surface the harder it is for sound to pass through. One of the best ways to add mass to a surface is by using a product like mass loaded vinyl, adding pounds of weight per square foot.

The Ability to Absorb

Adding mass or decoupling materials isn’t the only way to decrease sound. Another popular technique is the use of absorption materials, or materials that will absorb sound before it is able to pass through a surface. One of the most popular materials used in the absorption process is Green Glue – a highly effective absorbing damping compound.

Remember – there’s no need to merely pick one technique. You can, in many cases, use more than one type of material in order to complete your soundproofing project. Severe noise problems may be better addressed through the use of both whisper clips and Green Glue, for example.

Take some time to seriously review the type of noise you’re trying to soundproof against. Make sure you know exactly where it is really coming from. Once you have that information you’ll be better able to attack your soundproofing problems head on.