Noise can be a major nuisance, especially in residential and commercial buildings. To reduce the amount of noise that is heard, many people turn to underlay. But does underlay really reduce noise?The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of underlay used. The bottom layer of underlay will reduce airborne noise, but it won't stop it completely.
To completely stop airborne noise, you need a solid material. However, this solid material would make the carpet uncomfortably hard. On the other hand, a softer material such as recycled felt underlayment will to a certain extent reduce noises suspended in the air and will greatly reduce impact noises. Recycled felt underlayment is environmentally friendly and effective at reducing noise. It is roughly twice as expensive as polyethylene foam, so it is a good choice if your primary purpose is sound absorption and if your budget can afford the additional cost.
The recycled felt base is approximately four times heavier than the foam and is therefore denser. This makes it an ideal choice for laminate and engineered wood floors. It is important to note that not all underlying layers are created the same way, so one 5 mm base layer cannot be assumed to have the same performance as another. Acoustic subfloor systems differ from the straight plywood option because the systems raise the floor on sleepers. Simply adding an acoustic base coat can be extremely effective, as it can improve the look and feel of carpets and add value to your property. If the soil is likely to receive any type of moisture, it is important that the acoustic base is able to withstand that moisture and resist the formation of mold or mildew.
In some places there are building codes that require the use of an acoustic subfloor. In other places there are no requirements or local legislation, so it is advisable to have an acoustic base for floors. Now that we have explained the basic aspects of the operation of subfloor products for soundproof floors, it's time to decide which type is best for your acoustic treatment application. The Cloud 9 Cumulus base is a synthetic sponge carpet base layer designed to be durable and prevent it from stretching too much. The base layer (with floor covering) must be acoustically tested to show how much impact noise it reduces. In these situations, it is almost always necessary to use an acoustic floor base to meet these standards.
An excellent product to use as a carpet base is the Impact Barrier QT floor base from Soundproof Cow. Acoustic counterfloors add enough mass and density to prevent the sounds of music, television, and conversations from disturbing those below.
