Acoustic Insulation

What is acoustic insulation?

Acoustic insulation is also known as sound insulation, noise insulation, soundproofing. Sound is defined as atmospheric or airborne vibrations perceptible to the ear. Noise is nothing but an unaccepted or undesirable sound. The sound which causes harm to others is called noise irrespective of its characteristics. A piece of music may be nice to listen during the day but maybe irritant during sleep at night. The purpose of acoustic insulation is to soundproof or decrease the intensity of sound transmitting from inside the house to outside and vice versa or to prevent sound transmission by the activity in the next room.

How does acoustic insulation work?

Sound waves tend to travel in all directions in the form of vibrations. These vibrations create more on the other side of the wall. Acoustic insulation decreases the intensity of these vibrations making a barrier. There are various types of acoustic insulation specially designed to absorb, disperse, deflect or block the noise to keep the sound intensity at a low and manageable levels.

Why you should consider getting Sound insulation?

What is sound isolation?

The most commonly used term for sound isolation is blocking sound waves. The ability to block sound waves transmitting from one area to another is known as sound isolation. Sound isolation occurs when sound waves bounce off hard or reflective material used for acoustic insulation.

Different types of acoustic insulation available?

• Acoustic foam

Acoustic foam is an open-celled foam used for acoustic treatment. Acoustic foam creates a sound barrier and the right combination of acoustic foam will decrease the level of sound waves frequency leaving the area and will also cut set down the outside noise.

• Acoustic fabric

Acoustic fabric is a type of fabric that is suitable for blocking the sound leaving or entering the room. Acoustic curtains or moving blankets are mainly used for reducing the noise coming or getting out of the window.

• Acoustic fabric panel

When a wood frame is covered in acoustic fabric with some other layer of high-density foam or fiberglass is known as acoustic fabric panels. They provide excellent sound absorption by controlling the echo and reverberations.

• Acoustic cotton batts

The eco-friendly alternative to mineral wool and fiberglass insulation is acoustic cotton batts. They are 100 % recyclable and are made from post-industrial recycled content.

• Acoustic mineral wool

Acoustic mineral wool is a type of material that has both the properties of soundproofing and sound absorption. They are fire-resistant and does not absorb water. When loosely installed between the cavities of the wall, floor or ceilings mineral wool provides a maximum sound absorption.

• Acoustic plasterboards

They are acoustic alternative to regular plasterboards. Acoustic plasterboards are denser and thicker than standard plasterboards and is widely used to reduce sound waves transmission in walls and ceilings.

• Bitumen damping sheets

Bitumen damping sheets are specially designed to decrease acoustic and vibrational noise. They are made from bitumen, synthetic rubber, and minerals. They are fire-resistant and can be cut to various shapes and sized as required.

• Acoustic floor underlayment

Acoustic floor underlay is ultra-thin, high performing and are designed to reduce impact noise in concrete or wood floors. It minimizes the echoes and impact noise transmitting between floors, rooms or homes.

Can I use egg cartons for soundproofing?

No, egg trays will not soundproof a room. Egg carton doesn’t absorb the sound waves if placed on walls. It will just make a room echo reduction by simple reflecting sound waves in various directions then a flat wall.

What are the benefits of acoustic insulation?

• Reduce stress

A decrease in undesirable levels of noise can help in the reduction of stress levels. A decrease in unwanted noise will provide a peaceful and relaxing environment.

• Improved productivity

A peaceful and relaxing environment in offices will help employers work faster and easier to hear customers over the phone. Soundproof insulation in the conference room will also help from confidential information from leaking out.

• Providing privacy

Acoustic insulation means much less noise for everyone in the house. It makes a house more inviting as when you have relatives over a weekend there is no chance for them to hear your private family conversation. Whereas music played by teenagers in the house won’t disturb adults and vice versa. The sound of an alarm clock or shower early in the morning won’t be a problem for anyone.

• Improving health

Noise pollution can negatively affect the overall quality of life making people suffer from depression, headaches, and other psychological disorders. Soundproof insulation will help in decreasing the frequency of noise pollution helping to provide a peaceful and relaxing environment which will eventually improve health.

• Cost-efficient

One of the most neglected benefits of sound insulation is its energy efficiency property. As most of the acoustic insulation has thermal properties you will see a substantial reduction in your heating and cooling cost.

What type of acoustic insulation is the best?

Different sound insulation materials are designed differently to either absorb, deflect or block the sound waves. The best acoustic insulation may differ according to the location, noise frequencies and the requirement of sound reduction. The best solution for acoustic insulation is to figure out the need and research about the products which may provide the best results. For best results contact your local contractor for professional help.

Does acoustic insulation have thermal properties?

Yes, various acoustic insulation materials have thermal properties. Therefore, automatically you will get thermal and fire benefits, if you are using a sound insulation slab. Knauf Acoustic insulation and Rockwool acoustic insulation have natural inherent properties for thermal insulation.