Quick Guide To Sound Isolation And Noise Control

By Thomas Heins

It starts with a simple question, “How can I stop noise from going through this wall?” We have the answer, and it usually involves patching noise leaks in the floor, ceiling joists, windows, and vibrating structures that carry sound waves through solid material.

Noise leaks are air borne or structure borne. And contrary to what most people think, structure borne leaks carry more noise, because sound travels faster through dense material than air. So the problem of reducing noise is solved two ways, by constructing interweaving layers of mass and space. Mass contains the air borne sound, and space stops structural sound from traveling very far. So the basic principle behind sound isolation booths is to create a high mass wall, air gaps, more walls inside the wall, thus reducing noise transmission.

This sounds simple enough, in theory; however the details add up to a considerable amount of time and effort spent pinpointing leaks and problem spots. This is especially difficult to achieve with existing walls and structures, which necessitates custom built sound proof rooms, windows, and walls. In the medical and educational fields the latter route is usually required to meet the high quality and noise reduction standards.

If you plan on constructing a sound isolation booth or room, keep in mind any environmental problems. Don’t build near train tracks or heavy traffic areas. Sound vibrations from heavy equipment and cars can travel through walls, and a plan of action must be taken to avoid these pitfalls. Each scenario presents a unique solution, so discuss your options with a sound isolation specialist.

Also, remember windows and doors are equally important to the sound proof seal. They are a common source of sound leaks, so noise lock windows and doors are usually recommended. Laminated glass with multiple panes helps reduce noise, and they are safer and priced competitively to standard glass. Doors need to be sealed and cored, similarly to a bank vault door, with a sound lock.

Once you’ve covered all the details, like ceilings, walls, floor, windows and doors, make sure your lighting and electrical needs are evaluated as well. Make sure wiring doesn’t add any unwanted interference. By considering all potential problem areas, and discussing a plan of action, you’ll be well on your way to virtually sound proof room for residential or business use.

Copyright Integrity Enterprises

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Integrity Acoustic Solutions builds, installs, and repairs sound isolation booths, noise reductions rooms, and audiometry booths, for medical and educational instit

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