Basics of Sound Transmission
Sound travels as waves through air and solid materials. When these waves hit a surface, they can be reflected, absorbed, or transmitted. The goal of soundproofing is to minimise transmission and control reflections. You’ll encounter different types of noise:- Airborne sound (voices, music)
- Impact noise (footsteps, dropped objects)
- Flanking noise (sound travelling through connected structures)
Traditional Soundproofing Methods
You’ve likely seen or used some traditional soundproofing techniques without realising it. Common methods include:- Adding mass: Using heavy materials like concrete or multiple layers of drywall.
- Damping: Applying materials that convert sound energy into heat, like Green Glue.
- Decoupling: Creating air gaps or using resilient channels to separate wall layers.
- Absorption: Installing materials like fibreglass insulation within wall cavities.