Are you looking for ways to increase the sound insulating abilities in your next fitout for improved acoustics?

In this blog, we discuss four important considerations to reduce sound that can help you improve the acoustic rating in your next project or fitout.

1. Pick a noise-reducing plasterboard

Solid plaster can be an effective sound barrier, but it’s not the only option when it comes to reducing noise.

Gyprock has a perforated plasterboard range, which has been specifically designed to improve acoustic performance. 

But if you want to increase your acoustic rating, there are different installation methods such as layering plasterboard to enhance its soundproofing capabilities. We recommend speaking to your plasterboard supplier for more information on how to best achieve this.

2. Add insulation

Adding insulation inside the wall cavity can help stop vibrations and structure-borne noises.

Acoustic insulation in the form of soundproofing batts is thicker than thermal insulation and can also decrease the amount of noise that travels between rooms and floors.

Installing additional insulation during the build can make a big difference to the end outcomes; you also have the added bonus that it’s hidden out of sight and won’t affect the aesthetic of your space.

3. Consider flooring wisely

The right flooring can also reduce airborne and structure-borne noises.

For example, carpet and carpet tiles can make some of the harshest sounds – like moving furniture, high heels walking across a floor and heavy items being dropped – practically inaudible, which is perfect for high traffic areas and multi-storey buildings to minimise disruptions.

Other flooring considerations that can help to quieten a space and reduce disruptive noise include:

  • Sprung floating floors
  • Acoustic insulation under floorboards
  • Specialised acoustic-grade underlay for timber floors

If replacing flooring entirely isn’t a practical option, placing rugs strategically in high-traffic areas can also make a big difference.

4. Invest in acoustic door seals

Airborne noise can travel through the tiniest cracks, but door perimeter seals can significantly boost soundproofing.

Bris Aluminium stocks two different types of door seals, which have been acoustically tested in accordance with AS1191, IS0140.3 and ISO10140-2.