Acousti-Board
Soundproofing a Ceiling
Noise pollution has become an expanding problem over the past half century of rapid modernization. We encounter unwanted noise at nearly every turn, and that can have negative effects on our health and happiness. As such, learning how to soundproof a ceiling delivers some practical advantages in the spaces where we spend the bulk of our hours.
Why Soundproofing a Ceiling is Important
A soundproof ceiling has many benefits. Not only does it create quieter spaces, but a soundproof ceiling can actually make us happier and healthier. Let’s look at some of the impressive ways quiet ceiling systems can improve quality of life.
How It Makes Us Happier
Chronic exposure to noise can have a detrimental effect on our happiness. If you have ever lived or worked below a noisy neighbor, you know how frustrating that added noise can be. It makes it more difficult to relax, concentrate, and focus, and it also increases our stress levels. That increased stress can make us more ornery day to day, but it can also have a detrimental effect on our physical health if not addressed.
How It Makes Us Healthier
Stress is a known contributor to a plethora of serious physical ailments. In addition to the mental health issues that tend to rear their heads rather quickly, chronic stress can quietly contribute to cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal issues, sleep disorders, and a host of other conditions that represent negative factors on our physical health and overall quality of life. Plus, exposure to noise can also lead to hearing loss and nagging tinnitus over time. Implementing noise control solutions can help mitigate these negative effects.
Best Methods to Soundproof a Ceiling
If you have a lot of unwanted noise coming in through your ceiling, it is well worth the time and effort to soundproof it. A soundproof ceiling is not the mythical beast many make it out to be. In fact, learning how to soundproof a ceiling is relatively easy, and can often be accomplished on a DIY basis, provided you’ve got some basic tools and a little gumption. Here’s how.
Acoustic Tiles for Sound Absorption
One of the simplest and least invasive ways to add some sound stopping power to your ceiling is to add acoustic tiles to absorb sound waves. These decorative tiles are not a full-fledged soundproofing plan on their own, but can be an attractive and effective means of reducing noise that creeps in from overhead.
Fitting a drop ceiling grid with acoustic tiles, suspending individual tiles as ceiling clouds, and attaching tiles directly to the true ceiling are all effective ways of using acoustic tiles in this application. Each will absorb some of the sound waves coming from above, making them less noticeable.
As an added benefit, one of the primary purposes people use acoustic tiles for is reducing the sound inside any space. By reducing the amount of noise in one unit, we reduce the amount of vibrational energy that’s trying to pass through barriers into the next unit.
Adding Mass-Loaded Vinyl
If you are looking at more serious ceiling soundproofing solutions, you will need to add mass and density. This can be tricky since the structure is not always designed to handle additional weight. Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) can give you this added mass and density without contributing too much extra weight.
Mass-loaded vinyl is simply rolled out onto your ceiling joists prior to adding drywall for effective sound damping. You can add MLV directly to the existing drywall layer for a smaller renovation, but be sure to cover the MLV with some finishing layer, as exposed MLV can contribute VOCs into the air.
If you would like additional soundproofing power, a common installation method is to roll MLV onto the existing drywall and sandwich it with a second layer of drywall. This can add a tremendous amount of weight, however, so be sure to check with a structural engineer or qualified construction professional before attempting to go this route.
Installing Resilient Channels to Decouple the Ceiling
Another incredibly powerful concept in soundproofing is decoupling. This is the process of breaking chains of solid material that act as travel routes for the vibrational energy in sound waves. Resilient channels are one of the most popular and effective means of decoupling structures within the ceiling.
Resilient channels are strips of strategically bent metal that are attached between studs or joists and the drywall layer. This creates a gap that eliminates solid surface to surface contact between structural elements in the wall or ceiling, dissipating energy and reducing sound transmission in the process.
Example of a hanging RSIC clip for decoupling the wall from the ceiling.
Can Soundproofing Be Done Without a Complete Renovation?
Many people are hesitant to get into a ceiling soundproofing project because they don’t want to get into a big renovation project. For serious noise pollution, a reno may be required, but this is required only for more extreme circumstances. Fortunately, not all solutions require a full demolition-to-finish type project and can be installed as a simple DIY ceiling soundproofing project. Here are some effective, non-invasive solutions:
- Acoustic ceiling clouds
- Decorative acoustic ceiling panels are applied directly to the true ceiling
- Drop ceiling fitted with acoustic ceiling tiles
These options provide excellent noise absorption and can significantly reduce sound transmission without the need for major construction.
What Options Are There With Access to the Floor Above?
If you have access to the floor above you, there are some solutions that can be implemented there to reduce the amount of vibrational energy that makes it into the ceiling structure. This has the capacity to reduce upstairs noise and significantly improve the performance of the solutions you use in the floor below.
First, you can use MLV as a barrier, either above or below the subfloor. In most cases, people install MLV between the subfloor and the final flooring material, as installing it between the subfloor and joists represents a significantly larger project. Mass-loaded vinyl here will damp many vibrations before they reach the underlying structure, minimizing the amount of sound energy that passes through to the floor below.
Another damping solution you can use with access to the floor above your space is green glue. Like MLV, green glue is typically installed between the subfloor and final flooring material, as installing it below comes with the same construction headaches MLV does. Just make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and smooth, squeeze the Green Glue onto the subfloor in a random zigzag pattern, and cover with another rigid layer.
You can also use ACOUSTIK™ Peel & Stick sound deadening rubber underlay to control noise from above. Simply remove the backing from the adhesive side, and stick it directly to the subfloor or any other flooring material. One advantage is that this solution does not need to be sandwiched between layers, meaning it can be used in a wider range of applications.
Practical Soundproofing Tips
Before beginning your project, it’s helpful to assess the situation. This includes determining the type of noise you are dealing with as well as the extent to which you are willing to engage in a large construction project.
Assessing the Type of Noise
There are two main categories when it comes to sound, which are airborne noise and impact noise. Airborne noise can be effectively controlled with sound absorption materials like acoustic panels, while impact noise reduction requires sound damping measures and decoupling. A combination of materials is always the most effective, but not always required for some relief.
Assessing Project Size
Treating a property you own for noise is much different from treating one you rent. If you own the property, you have more leeway to dismantle the existing structure where necessary. If you are a renter, it is usually advisable to stick to less invasive methods. Your decision ultimately comes down to whether you’re attempting to soundproof an existing ceiling or working with new construction, what your construction permissions are, and your willingness to engage in a complex project.
- Soundproofing a Bedroom
- Soundproofing a Classroom
- Soundproofing a Nightclub
- Soundproofing a Hotel Room
- Soundproofing an Airport
When to Hire a Professional
If you have limited experience in structural remodeling, it is advisable to hire a professional for help. They understand the practicality and possible limitations associated with a remodel, and can ensure you don’t endanger yourself or others.
You should also consult with professionals if you have limited experience with noise reduction measures. We can help point you toward the right noise blocking materials and ensure you utilize them appropriately.
Conclusion
There are several effective soundproofing methods for creating a more soundproof ceiling. Each one delivers unique benefits, and using multiple solutions in conjunction will deliver the best results. Just make sure the structure is up to task if you plan on adding considerable weight.
If you need help learning how to soundproof a ceiling properly or figuring out which materials are best for your application, reach out to professionals for assistance. We carry a wide range of materials and have the experience to help you get the results you’re after without breaking the bank.
Read More: Soundproofing Mistakes to Avoid
2 Comments
Rosetta Dimiceli
I live in a duplex and want to soundproof my ceiling. Is there a barrier I could put in and put wood over it.
Ted W
There are products that can be used to treat a ceiling, but which is best for you – and the amount of sound it will reduce – is going to depend on the nature of the problem. Voices and airborne sound issues are much easier to reduce than footfall.
I would look into treating the ceiling with Green Glue and a 2nd layer of 5/8″ sheetrock, or the RSIC-1 clip system.
Thanks,
Ted