Go green by choosing acoustic insulation made from recycled materials.
Noise from outside the house and from other rooms can reverberate through your home if you do not have acoustic insulation. Noise travels faster over areas that are not dense, acoustic insulation adds density to slow or stop the sound waves. Adding the appropriate acoustic insulation to your home will also lend the benefit of making your home more energy efficient by providing better climate control.
Drywall
Acoustical drywall is mold-resistant and constructed of two thin layers of drywall with a sound-absorbing layer of polymer-based viscoelastic in between. While more expensive than regular drywall, money is saved when using this drywall rather than layering 2 to 3 drywall boards with insulation in between, in an attempt to reduce sound transmission. Thicknesses vary from between 1/2-inch to 1-inch. The thicker the acoustic drywall, the better the sound absorption. This type of drywall can be added to existing drywall and to the ceiling when renovating or remodeling a home. Additionally, the installation procedure for acoustical drywall requires no special knowledge as installation is done in the same way as regular drywall. It should be noted that some acoustic drywall is constructed of concrete or metal, and can interfere with communication between wireless devices and prevent or hinder cell phone calls.
Foam
Available in panels and rolls, acoustic foam insulation is generally the most economical and convenient form of acoustic insulation. It is a good idea to contact your local department of building codes to ensure you buy acoustic foam with the proper amount of thermal protection. While you want to be careful in choosing inexpensive acoustic foam insulation, you don't want to waste money on higher thermal protection than what you need in your area. The building code department can not only tell you what is required, but may have tips tol help you save money. Although foam insulation is generally easy to install, it is important to read all installation instructions before beginning the project. If there is any question as to whether you believe you can perform the job adequately, contact a reputable contractor to complete the job for you.
Sound Boards
Sound boards are placed in between drywall and wall studs. The drywall serves as a mass to inhibit noise, while the sound boards, made of compressed wood, serve as a sound-dampening layer for higher-frequency noises coming from outside or inside the structure. The acoustical benefits are low because the sound boards reduce little noise for the additional cost and labor.
Batt
Acoustic batt insulation is encased in plastic, made from synthetic or natural materials and can also be made from recycled materials. The batts are sold in rolls that are about 8-feet long and about 16- to 24-inches wide. The acoustic batt insulation offers thermal insulation qualities in addition to sound-dampening qualities.
Batt acoustic insulation may cost more than other forms of acoustic insulation, but the thermal insulation qualities help offset the additional cost. It is generally light in weight and easy to handle, but instructions must be read carefully for your own protection. Ensure you know what the insulation is made of so you do not expose yourself to harmful chemicals.
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