Soundproofing your floors with acoustic underlayment can help reduce noise transmission between different levels of a building. Licensed applicators can install a sound mat to dampen noises like footsteps, music, voices, dropped objects, and furniture movement. Choose high-quality acoustic mats from reputable manufacturers that last longer and serve your needs.
Features To Look for in Sound Barrier Mats
When selecting mats for soundproofing your floors, there are certain features to look for. The following characteristics can help you choose the right soundproofing underlayment:
Material Properties
Rubber soundproof mats are known for good insulation properties and durability. They are compatible with subfloor materials like wood, concrete, and engineered subfloors. Foam-based noise-absorbing mats are lightweight and easy to install in residential applications. They are compatible with wood subfloors, such as plywood or oriented strand board.
Cork acoustic mats offer natural sound-dampening properties and are eco-friendly. They are compatible with various subfloor materials, including concrete, wood, and engineered subfloors. Cork mats are moisture-resistant, making them suitable for areas prone to dampness. Acoustic underlayment rolls provide sound insulation and are compatible with various subfloor types, including concrete, wood, and engineered subfloors. The rolls are made of foam or rubber and can be used for carpet and laminate flooring.
Thickness
Thicker mats offer better sound insulation performance since they provide a more significant barrier for sound waves than thinner mats. A dense sound mat can be suitable for high-traffic areas and commercial spaces for effective noise control. In residential spaces, moderately thick soundproofing underlayment can be sufficient for noise reduction needs.
Thinner mats can facilitate better heat transfer in the underfloor heating system and perform optimally without creating height-related issues. The ideal thickness of the mats can vary depending on the specific noise reduction goals and the construction of the building. Soundproofing professionals can assess your situation and guide the appropriate thickness for your needs.
Ratings and Certifications
Sound control mat ratings and certifications indicate the product’s quality and performance. The impact insulation class (IIC) rating measures the ability of the acoustic underlay to reduce impact noise transmission. Look for mats with higher IIC ratings for reliable impact noise reduction. Soundproofing underlayments have different fire ratings based on ASTM E84 standards, indicating their ability to withstand or resist fire.
The sound transmission class (STC) rating measures the soundproofing effectiveness of an acoustic mat against airborne noises like voices, music, or television. The acoustic underlayment target impact noise, but a higher STC rating can offer additional soundproofing benefits for airborne noise reduction. If you prioritize eco-friendly products, look for mats with certifications like GREENGUARD or LEED. The certifications indicate that the mat has met specific environmental and indoor air quality standards for a healthier environment.
Installation Method
Some sound insulation mats have a self-adhesive backing, while others require the use of adhesive or tape to secure them to the subfloor. Before installing the mat, qualified applicators get rid of dirt and debris on the subfloor. If there’s existing flooring, these professionals can remove it.
The next step is to unroll or cut the mats into the desired sizes. Some products come in pre-cut panels or tiles, to be laid out according to the room’s dimensions. If the soundproofing underlayment lacks self-adhesive backing, applicators use tape, mechanical fasteners, or adhesive to secure it to the subfloor. Experts check for overlapping and sealing for an appealing finish and long-lasting results.
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Get a Quality Sound Mat
A quality sound barrier mat has the right thickness, material, rating, and certifications. Licensed applicators can help you choose suitable mats for your residential and commercial property. These experts can install the soundproofing underlayment correctly for better results. Invest in soundproofing mats for effective noise reduction and improved acoustics.
