Economical Alternatives to Fabric-Wrapped Acoustic Panels

More and more people are becoming interested in soundproofing, especially with so many people working remotely. Today, around a quarter of the population works from home. If you are part of this group, chances are that you want a quiet, distraction-free place to work.

Remote workers are not the only ones who can benefit from soundproofing — recording studios and offices also often invest in soundproofing solutions such as acoustic panels. In addition to soundproofing, acoustic panels enhance acoustics, which means they reduce echoes and improve your sound quality. Some can even add a stylish touch to your room.

Why Should You Consider Acoustic Panels?

Before exploring some alternatives to traditional acoustic panels — which can be expensive — you first need to understand why you should consider getting acoustic panels at all. Here are some benefits of acoustic panels:

• Soundproofing: Soundproofing is not the main purpose of acoustic panels. However, these panels help absorb sound and can soundproof areas to some degree.
• Better acoustics: As their name suggests, acoustic panels improve the acoustics in a given room, making them ideal locations for recording sound.
• Improved focus: People often find themselves distracted by noise, whether that noise filters in from outside or echoes within the room itself. Acoustic panels help minimize this and can help increase your productivity.
• Protection against noise pollution: Noise pollution is very real and plagues many of us daily. Sounds over 85 decibels can harm your ears — not to mention distract you. Things like air conditioners and other loud sounds we hear daily exceed these noise levels. Having acoustic panels that absorb much of this out can protect your hearing.

Cost-Effective Acoustic Panel Alternatives

Fabric-wrapped Acoustic Panels are effective in most sound absorption solutions. However, in some situations, aesthetics are not important.  If you are soundproofing on a budget there are alternative materials available.

Acoustic Cotton Panels

Acoustic cotton panels are suitable for soundproofing or acoustic solutions that fit a more Industrial design. Acoustic cotton panels can be cut to fit any space and are flexible.  They perform just as well as other sound absorption materials, making them a great alternative to acoustic panels.

The Echo Absorber™ Acoustic Cotton Panels are made from 80% recycled material. They are even available in multipacks, making larger projects more affordable.

Some areas where cotton panels can come in handy include:

• Classrooms: Thicker, 2-inch panels are ideal for reducing reverberation in the rowdiest classroom environments.
• Rooms with high ceilings: If you have a room with a high ceiling, you may struggle with echoes and reverberations. Acoustic panels can help minimize and prevent this issue.
• Recording studios: A fantastic acoustic setup is a must for those who record songs, host podcasts, or have radio shows. Two-inch acoustic panels will significantly improve the quality of your recorded sound.

Acoustic Foam Panels

Acoustic foam panels are an excellent alternative to fabric-wrapped acoustic panels. They perform all the necessary functions of acoustic panels, such as:

• Soundproofing.
• Limiting echoes.
• Reducing sound transfer.
• Limiting reverberations.

Whether you are looking for a soundproofing option for a residential or commercial building, acoustic foam panels offer a lightweight, easy-to-install solution. The soft and dense material can absorb sound effectively. If you get a porous foam for your panels, even better, as these pores trap sound, increasing effectiveness.

Another benefit? Some acoustic foam panels, like Soundproof Cow’s Class A™ Acoustic Foam Panels, are fire-rated. These foam panels can withstand temperatures up to 482 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plan on using acoustic foam in an area that requires an extra level of protection against heat, you can rely on foam with a Class A™ flammability rating.

Acoustic Fiberglass Panels

If you want to reduce noise levels, add acoustic fiberglass panels to your list of potential options for acoustic wall panel alternatives. A practical acoustic solution that does not compromise on style, fiberglass acoustic panels provide the perfect combination of function and aesthetics.

Acoustic fiberglass is made of minuscule glass or plastic fibers. This acoustic panel captures sound energy through thermal isolation, preventing noise from passing through it.

Here are some other benefits of using acoustic panels made of fiberglass:

• They are lightweight and easy to work with.
• You can have them custom-cut to fit your size preferences.
• They are available in multiple thicknesses, so you can choose what works for your needs and budget.
• You can use them in various ways, from ceiling panels to office partitions.

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What to Consider When Choosing Acoustic Panels for Your Space

If you are ready to get affordable acoustic panel alternatives, it is time to weigh your options. Cotton, foam and fiberglass panels all have unique benefits, and there is much to consider when searching for an option that meets your needs.

Here are a few of the considerations when choosing acoustic panels:

• Durability: Many acoustic panel alternatives have quite a long life span, but some last longer than others. Of course, it also depends on what you use them for. For example, foam panels may lose effectiveness over time, so they are better suited to less busy private spaces rather than public spots.
• Performance: When selecting acoustic panels for your space, you must consider what you want from them. If your primary purpose is being eco-friendly, recycled cotton panels are a good option. On the other hand, foam panels are a good solution if your main priority is sound absorption.
• Budget: This is another area where the purpose of your panels comes into play. If you want some basic acoustic improvement and sound absorption, you can opt for thinner panels, which are often more affordable. If you need professional-level acoustics, thicker acoustic panels might be better.
• Aesthetic: Finally, if your acoustic panels will be visible, you need to think about how they will look. Different acoustic panels have different aesthetics, so you need to pick something that fits your style. For acoustic panels mounted on top of a surface rather than inside a wall, fiberglass is a “legend-dairy” choice.

Get in the Soundproofing Groove With Materials From Soundproof Cow

Once you know what type of acoustic panels you want, it is time to grab the bull by the horns and get started on your acoustic panel journey. At Soundproof Cow, our range of soundproofing and acoustic materials includes something for everyone. Whether you are ready to purchase, need some help finding the perfect fit or want a free acoustic analysis, our technical sales reps are here to help. Call us at 866-949-9269 or shop our acoustic panels!