How Do Construction Materials Affect Floor Soundproofing?

The types of materials used for floor construction can have a significant impact on how quiet or noisy a space is once it is finished. Some materials are designed to more effectively absorb or block the transmission of sound than others. Learn more from Soundproof Cow!

What Type of Construction Material Is Being Used in Your Flooring Assembly?

Typically, commercial construction utilizes concrete slabs, which greatly increase both the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating and the Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating. The STC rating measures how well a surface can reduce airborne sound, while the IIC rating measures how well the floor assembly blocks noise from transmitting to the room below.

Using materials like concrete, which contain a great deal of mass, in the flooring assembly will help block the transfer of sound in a space. This will then impact the STC and IIC ratings of the space.

What Type of Flooring Are You Installing?

The type of flooring you install will also affect the floor’s soundproofing. For example, carpet will have a better STC/IIC rating than tile or hardwood because it can absorb sound better. Depending on the type of flooring, there are different underlayment options to choose from to improve the ratings.

Where Is Sound Coming From in Your Space?

Determining where the sound is coming from in your space will help you determine the most effective flooring and soundproofing approach. Some underlayment is specifically designed to help dissipate the vibration from footfalls, which helps with noise that transfers down into your space. Meanwhile, sound barriers are especially effective if you have sound that is coming into your space from below.

Do You Have to Meet Specific STC/IIC Ratings From a Condo Association or Commercial Building Requirement?

When it comes to flooring and soundproofing, it is important to pay close attention to the specific type of flooring assembly that is being tested for STC and IIC ratings. For example, a condo association may require a specific rating for replacing carpet with tile or hardwood.

Before replacing the flooring, ensure that the required flooring sound rating is compatible with the type of construction used in your building.

If you have questions regarding the testing, be sure to give Soundproof Cow a call at 866-949-9269 or reach out at [email protected].

What Is the Installation Process for Your Underlayment?

The installation process can vary depending on the materials used and the type of underlayment. While some underlayment installations are as easy as rolling the material over the subfloor and then adding your flooring, other installations require special adhesives in between the underlayment and subfloor. There are also subfloors that require either primer or crack repair prior to installing the underlayment and flooring.

Be sure to thoroughly review the installation process and requirements before choosing the underlayment.

Find Superior Soundproofing Solutions for Your Next Project at Soundproof Cow

If you have not “herd,” Soundproof Cow is committed to making your flooring soundproofing project a success. With our free acoustic analysis and individualized customer service, we will help you find the most effective solution for your project.

Contact us today to get started!