Sound Proofing Techniques

Are you frequently disturbed by different sounds entering your room while you are working or sleeping? It is then time for you to take a look into the different sound proofing techniques. Sound proofing is done by materials that either block the sound from entering the room or absorb the sound to contain it in an area. Since sound is measured in decibels, all the sound proofing materials have a standard transmission class rating. This helps to depict how much sound decibels the sound proofing material will block or absorb. A normal wall has an STC rating of 20 or 25 which allows you to hear normal speech through the wall. If you want the normal speech to be heard as a murmur, you will need a wall with an STC rating of at least 42.

An inexpensive method of soundproofing is the use of foam sound proofing materials. The foam fits in any space and can be either 1/2 inch to 2 inches thick. The STC rating of the foam is between 40 and 50. Vinyl sound proofing materials, having an STC rating of 42 to 55, are also used. He Inexpensive metal wall channels with a STC rating of 38 to 50 are other alternatives. The location of the home, the nature of the noise problem, and of course the budget of the homeowner is a major factor in determining the techniques for soundproofing required.

One of the most effective noise proofing techniques for new construction is to stagger the location of the doorways so that they are not directly opposite one another. This technique restricts the sound from traveling across hallways and reverberating around the house. Absorbent materials like carpets, curtains or furniture helps to absorb sound. Installing a soundproofing mat on the walls and ceilings is also helpful. The use of two sets of disconnected wall studs framed as back to back walls acts as soundproofing. Even the use of fiberglass installation will help to absorb sound. The use of double paned glass and vinyl frames for windows is another good way to soundproof a home. Even adding shutters to the interior of the window can be a big help. The rugs and carpets not only help to soak up noise, they also provide a form of insulation when used beneath tables and chairs, since hardwood floors tend to amplify sound the most.

The mechanism involved in the construction of buildings rendering them impervious to sound and creating soundproofed chambers within is called soundproofing. Special soundproofing materials are used to achieve this. These act as an effective barrier and insulation provider against sound.

Soundproofing may be accomplished by undertaking several different approaches- the space in which the sound can dissipate may be increased, huge barriers can be used to absorb the sound waves and dampening structures can be used to suppress the sound and preventing it from spreading. Active anti-noise sound generators may also be used to counter noises and undesirable sounds prevailing.

Soundproofing aspects

The reducing or deadening of sound by setting up of acoustical barriers is what soundproofing is concerned about. New materials have become available like vinyl barriers that help bring about soundproofing in an effective manner. The process of soundproofing has also been made greatly simplified. Advanced technology enables quick, easy and low cost retrofitting in existing home and office buildings. The existing drywalls of the structures need not be removed and yet there is a considerable increase in the Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings. The STC rating serves as an indication of the extent of soundproofing achieved. The higher the STC rating the greater is the soundproofing or capacity to dampen sound.

While venturing into soundproofing programs four things need to be given due importance. These four items of interest worthy of consideration are weight, space, cost and aesthetics of the soundproofing setup. The viscoelastic (viscous as well as elastic) properties of some materials have been put to gainful usage in soundproofing. Techniques of soundproofing vary depending on whether the home is under construction or whether retrofitting is being done to prevent sound pollution.

Adopting soundproofing techniques in construction and retrofitting

Construction of doors can be made in such a manner so that they do not line up directly across from each other. This will ensure that sound is not transferred across and through opposite open doors. If the room has some absorbent material then this will further help reduce reverberation of sound. Curtains, carpets, soundproofing mats on ceilings, pieces of furniture- all absorb sound. Retrofitting with acoustic ceiling panels will help dampen and isolate stray sounds and reverberations of these. Various kinds of panels are available for choosing. Pyramids, bass trap contours and fabric panels are commonly used. Panels made of fiberglass are quite popular. The grid for the acoustic ceiling can be installed in a few hours time and the special tiles for the ceiling can be soon placed. This proves to be an inexpensive but quick soundproofing setup in existing structures of homes, offices etc.