3 Noise Problems Soundproofing Can’t Fix

Great sound blocking products are useless if you don’t fix the following problems:

1. Leaky Mediums

Unwanted sound travels quickly and easily through air (at a speed of approximately 1087 ft. per second at sea level to be exact.) This is hard to visualize. An easier way to think about sound is to imagine that it is water. Water molds to the space it’s in, moving through some substances while being trapped by others. Click here to learn more sound basics.

Now picture your windows. If they’re poorly sealed, air leaks in and carries sound with it. If light or air can get through then so can sound. Gaps between a door and the frame, holes in the ceiling, and other installation problems all transfer unwanted noise. Find and seal all holes that let in noise before you buy sound blocking materials. You might be able to control your noise issue simply by fixing this problem. A 1-inch square hole in a 10ft x 10ft wall will reduce the soundproofing ability by 30%… simply plugging that hole will improve the perceived sound level by 30%.

2. Using the Wrong Products

Sound absorption products soak up sound. They absorb sound energy and prevent them from bouncing off the walls. They improve the quality of the sound within the room. Click here to learn more sound absorption basics. Sound blocking products trap sound. They contain the sound within the room, making it impossible for the sound to move to other parts of the building or house. They also stop unwanted sound from entering the space. Click here to learn more soundproofing basics.

How do you know if you need a sound absorption or soundproofing product? By comparing the source of the unwanted noise to the person hearing it. If the noise is located in the same space as the person hearing it, you’ll need sound absorption products. If the noise is located in a different space than the person hearing it, you’ll need sound blocking products.

When the incorrect type of sound blocking material is used, it’s ineffective at treating your noise issue. Installation problems all transfer unwanted noise. Find and seal all holes that let in noise before you buy sound blocking materials. You might be able to control your noise issue simply by fixing this problem. A 1-inch square hole in a 10ft x 10ft wall will reduce the soundproofing ability by 30%… simply plugging that hole will improve the perceived sound level by 30%.

3. Ineffective Installation

Follow the installation instructions carefully. Be sure to read all of the instructions before you begin. There are important notes within the instructions that will make the installation process go smoothly. We are aware that there are an endless variety of field conditions that could impact the installation process. If you run into any difficulty or have additional questions give us a call toll free at 1-866-949-9COW. We will be happy to help!

Soundproof a Room – Choose a Scenario

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3 Noise Problems Soundproofing Can’t Fix