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SOUNDPROOFING

Soundproofing a floor effectively requires addressing both impact noise (footsteps, dropped objects) and airborne noise (voices, music). Techniques vary depending on the floor type and the level of noise reduction needed.

Foundational principles of soundproofing

All soundproofing methods for floors are based on three core principles:

  • Adding mass: Increasing the density and mass of the floor makes it harder for sound waves to pass through. Combining materials of different densities can block a wider range of sound frequencies.

  • Decoupling: Creating a break or separation in the structure prevents vibrations from traveling through the floor. Floating floor systems and acoustic underlays are designed for this purpose.

  • Absorption: Filling the empty space within a floor's structure with a sound-absorbing material, like acoustic mineral wool, helps dissipate sound energy and prevents resonance.

Soundproofing a timber floor

Timber floors often have a cavity between the joists, which can amplify noise.

  • Insulate the cavity: Add acoustic mineral wool or rock wool insulation slabs between the floor joists. A density of at least 60 kg/m³ is recommended for effective absorption.

  • Use acoustic underlay or mats:

    • Simple overlay: Install a specialist acoustic mat, such as a mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) mat, directly over the existing floorboards. MLV is a thin, dense, and flexible rubber layer that adds significant mass.

    • Floating floor system: For maximum performance, create a floating floor. This involves laying acoustic boards that contain a resilient layer bonded to high-mass chipboard or MDF. This system decouples the new floor surface from the existing joists.

  • Seal all gaps: Use acoustic sealant to fill any gaps between floorboards and around the perimeter of the room to prevent airborne noise from leaking through.

  • Use resilient materials: For a premium solution, consider a resilient ceiling system on the floor below, using resilient bars or clips to decouple the new plasterboard ceiling from the floor joists.

Soundproofing a concrete floor

Concrete floors naturally have more mass than timber, so airborne noise is less of an issue. The primary concern is typically impact noise.

  • Install an acoustic underlay: The easiest and most effective way to reduce impact noise is to add a rubber or foam-based acoustic underlayment directly on top of the concrete.

  • Use acoustic mats: High-mass acoustic mats can be laid over the concrete before adding a new floor covering.

  • Build a floating floor: Similar to timber floors, a high-performance floating floor system can be installed over the concrete. This involves laying acoustic floorboards with a resilient layer, which effectively isolates the new flooring from the concrete slab.

Budget-friendly and simple fixes

For less invasive or more affordable solutions, consider these options:

  • Thick rugs and carpets: A plush, dense carpet with a quality acoustic underlay is one of the most effective and affordable ways to reduce both impact and airborne noise.

  • Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV): This can be installed under almost any floor covering and adds significant mass to block sound waves.

  • Sealant: Filling any cracks and gaps in the subfloor, especially in timber floors, with acoustic sealant can make a noticeable difference for a low cost.

  • Additional furnishings: A room with more furniture, especially upholstered pieces, will have better acoustics and less echo than an empty one.

Factors to consider

  • Noise type: Identify the type of noise you want to block—airborne, impact, or both—to choose the right solution.

  • Floor height: Installing soundproofing layers can raise the height of your floor, which is a key consideration in rooms with limited headroom.

  • Final floor finish: Some acoustic solutions are better suited for carpets, while others work with hard flooring like laminate, vinyl, or tile.

  • DIY skill level: While some options like acoustic mats are relatively simple to install, complex floating floor systems may require a competent DIYer or a professional.