.: Sound Proofing Techniques

By:Barney Garcia

Category:Home / Technology

Are you frequently disturbed by different sounds entering your room while you are working or sleeping? It is then time for you to take a look into the different sound proofing techniques. Sound proofing is done by materials that either block the sound from entering the room or absorb the sound to contain it in an area. Since sound is measured in decibels, all the sound proofing materials have a standard transmission class rating. This helps to depict how much sound decibels the sound proofing material will block or absorb. A normal wall has an STC rating of 20 or 25 which allows you to hear normal speech through the wall. If you want the normal speech to be heard as a murmur, you will need a wall with an STC rating of at least 42.

An inexpensive method of soundproofing is the use of foam sound proofing materials. The foam fits in any space and can be either 1/2 inch to 2 inches thick. The STC rating of the foam is between 40 and 50. Vinyl sound proofing materials, having an STC rating of 42 to 55, are also used. He Inexpensive metal wall channels with a STC rating of 38 to 50 are other alternatives. The location of the home, the nature of the noise problem, and of course the budget of the homeowner is a major factor in determining the techniques for soundproofing required.

One of the most effective noise proofing techniques for new construction is to stagger the location of the doorways so that they are not directly opposite one another. This technique restricts the sound from traveling across hallways and reverberating around the house. Absorbent materials like carpets, curtains or furniture helps to absorb sound. Installing a soundproofing mat on the walls and ceilings is also helpful. The use of two sets of disconnected wall studs framed as back to back walls acts as soundproofing. Even the use of fiberglass installation will help to absorb sound. The use of double paned glass and vinyl frames for windows is another good way to soundproof a home. Even adding shutters to the interior of the window can be a big help. The rugs and carpets not only help to soak up noise, they also provide a form of insulation when used beneath tables and chairs, since hardwood floors tend to amplify sound the most.

The mechanism involved in the construction of buildings rendering them impervious to sound and creating soundproofed chambers within is called soundproofing. Special soundproofing materials are used to achieve this. These act as an effective barrier and insulation provider against sound.

Soundproofing may be accomplished by undertaking several different approaches- the space in which the sound can dissipate may be increased, huge barriers can be used to absorb the sound waves and dampening structures can be used to suppress the sound and preventing it from spreading. Active anti-noise sound generators may also be used to counter noises and undesirable sounds prevailing.

Soundproofing aspects

The reducing or deadening of sound by setting up of acoustical barriers is what soundproofing is concerned about. New materials have become available like vinyl barriers that help bring about soundproofing in an effective manner. The process of soundproofing has also been made greatly simplified. Advanced technology enables quick, easy and low cost retrofitting in existing home and office buildings. The existing drywalls of the structures need not be removed and yet there is a considerable increase in the Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings. The STC rating serves as an indication of the extent of soundproofing achieved. The higher the STC rating the greater is the soundproofing or capacity to dampen sound.

While venturing into soundproofing programs four things need to be given due importance. These four items of interest worthy of consideration are weight, space, cost and aesthetics of the soundproofing setup. The viscoelastic (viscous as well as elastic) properties of some materials have been put to gainful usage in soundproofing. Techniques of soundproofing vary depending on whether the home is under construction or whether retrofitting is being done to prevent sound pollution.

Adopting soundproofing techniques in construction and retrofitting

Construction of doors can be made in such a manner so that they do not line up directly across from each other. This will ensure that sound is not transferred across and through opposite open doors. If the room has some absorbent material then this will further help reduce reverberation of sound. Curtains, carpets, soundproofing mats on ceilings, pieces of furniture- all absorb sound. Retrofitting with acoustic ceiling panels will help dampen and isolate stray sounds and reverberations of these. Various kinds of panels are available for choosing. Pyramids, bass trap contours and fabric panels are commonly used. Panels made of fiberglass are quite popular. The grid for the acoustic ceiling can be installed in a few hours time and the special tiles for the ceiling can be soon placed. This proves to be an inexpensive but quick soundproofing setup in existing structures of homes, offices etc.

Digg del.icio.us Blink Stumble Spurl Reddit Netscape Furl

Article keywords: sound proofing, sound damping

Article Source: http://www.articles32.com

Author Barney Garcia is a proud contributing author and enjoys writing about many different topics. Please visit my web sites @ www.sound-proofing-tips.info and http://www.zip-zap.info

.: New Technology Articles

1). The M777 Lightweight Howitzer Gun Update
This article is about updates to the M777 Lightweight Howitzer Gun.

2). Fiber Optics Security Systems
The world is becoming one global community where it is possible contact with one another through the use computer and the Internet. Keeping in touch with a loved one who is in a far away place or in the other side of the planet, right at the comfort of your home was never thought possible until today.

3). The 45 ACP Hand Gun Is Back
This article is informational about the 45 hand gun.

4). What Does Gatso 2 Mean to UK Motorists
Well, Gatso2 is a network database that promises to be one of the most pervasive surveillance systems in modern times.

5). 3480 Tape Drive And 3490 Tape Drive Solutions; Technology That Stands The Test Of Time
When looking for a tape drive, it can be tempting to dismiss older technologies.

6). Network Attached Storage; NAS Now An Affordable Data Storage Solution For Small Businesses
In the administration of a large business network, data storage solutions can have significant impact on network speed and user satisfaction.

7). Military M1A2 Vs Merkeva And Leopard II Tanks
This article is about the difference between Merkeva, Leopard II and M1A2 Military Tanks.


.: Top Technology Articles

1). Sound Proofing Techniques
Are you frequently disturbed by different sounds entering your room while you are working or sleeping? It is then time for you to take a look into the different sound proofing techniques.

2). Palm Treo: Getting Started With Your New Treo Smartphone
Copyright 2006 Christopher Meinck Getting Started With a Palm Treo Smartphone For many, adding a Palm Treo smartphone to their life is an exciting time. Most are coming from a traditional cellphone and the capabilities of a smartphone never seize to amaze. The Palm Treo features a large color LCD screen, full keyboard and software for syncing your personal data with your PC or Mac.

3). An Overview Of The Blackberry
Unless you have spent part of the past few years in a cave or under a rock, you have heard of the Blackberry. However, and with that said, even though you may have heard of the Blackberry, you may now know exactly what a Blackberry is in essence. Therefore, this article has been prepared to provide you with some basic information about the Blackberry.

4). Elevator Action
Elevators are enclosure or platforms that are operated by cables, motors and other equipment or accessories enabling the vertical shaft to go up and down, and transport people, freight or both.

5). Misdiagnosing Narcissism - Asperger's Disorder
(The use of gender pronouns in this article reflects the clinical facts: most narcissists and most Asperger's patients are male.)Asperger's Di

6). VSAT Interception, Monitoring and Logging Infrastructure
Communications Intelligence (COMINT) involving the covert interception of foreign communications has been practiced by almost every advanced nation since international telecommunications became available. COMINT is a large-scale industrial activity providing consumers with intelligence on diplomatic, economic and scientific developments. The VSAT Interception, Monitoring and Logging system is designed for real time collection and traffic analysis of VSAT Satellite Networks.

7). The Technologies That Run Tracking Devices
Technological tools that are used to observe a specific person’s movements.


Page loaded in 0.040 seconds.