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Soundproofing vs Sound Absorption
Identifying whether you need soundproofing or sound absorption is the first step toward creating a better acoustic environment.
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Advice
Poor acoustics can affect any space, but some environments struggle more than others when it comes to controlling sound. In some cases, it’s the noise within a room that needs to be managed, while in others, it’s the noise coming from outside that needs to be blocked.
The term ‘soundproofing’ is often used as a catch-all phrase to describe any acoustic solution. However, soundproofing is just one of two very different methods used to control sound within spaces. The other method is sound absorption. Both approaches address noise, but they do so in different ways and knowing which method you need is crucial to achieving the right results for your space.
What is soundproofing?
Soundproofing is the process of insulating a space so that sound cannot enter or leave. It involves adding dense, solid materials that are strong enough to reflect sound waves, keeping noise contained within a room or preventing external noise from entering.
Spaces that require soundproofing include:
- Theatres
- Cinemas
- Recording studios
- TV studios
In these environments, controlling the transmission of sound between spaces is essential. Soundproofing does not change the room user’s acoustic experience but it does give more privacy by blocking external disturbances.
What is sound absorption?
Sound absorption is at the heart of what we do. It focuses on improving the internal acoustic environment by addressing problems like high reverberation times (where sound lingers because it isn’t absorbed) and echo. When sound-absorptive materials are installed on the walls or ceilings, they work to absorb sound waves that would otherwise bounce around the room, resulting in reduced noise levels and a clearer, more pleasant environment.
Sound absorption is crucial in spaces like:
- Open-plan offices
- Classrooms
- Village halls
- Restaurants
In these spaces, creating a more comfortable environment is essential. Reducing the time sound lingers in a space makes it easier for people to communicate and improves speech intelligibility, creating an acoustically balanced environment.
Do I need soundproofing or sound absorption?
As the names suggest, one method blocks sound, while the other absorbs it. Although soundproofing can be essential for certain environments, it isn’t always the best solution for common noise problems.
If your primary issue is noise travelling between rooms or external disturbances, soundproofing is likely the right choice. It provides the necessary isolation to keep sound in or out.
If the problem is excessive noise, loud echo, or poor speech clarity within a room, sound absorption is the better solution. By absorbing sound reflections, it significantly improves the acoustic comfort of a space without isolating it from the outside world.
Need help deciding?
If you’re unsure whether you need soundproofing or sound absorption, working with an acoustic expert can ensure you receive the correct advice, saving you time, effort, and cost in the long run.
At Resonics, we offer free comprehensive acoustic surveys and tailored proposals to help determine the best acoustic strategy for your space. Whether it’s soundproofing or sound absorption, we’ll help you achieve the ideal balance of comfort and privacy.