Sound Isolation for new Construction or remodeling (Poor mans float)

This brief narrative is designed to inform people who are building new homes or completely remodeling their existing homes, about a very inexpensive way to get some good soundproofing using basic construction techniques. What we will discuss today is stud and joist assembly isolation. During construction one thing you will notice are bare studs and joists throughout the house (framing). If the contractor has his way, he may add some fiberglass insulation to the cavities, but that's about as far as it will go for soundproofing. One of the biggest culprits for sound transmission is the use of wooden studs and joists. They are commonly used in the majority of new housing developments. What we are suggesting is isolating the studs and the joists with American Isolation tape which just so happens to be 1 7/16" in width (the width of a stud or joist face) and it comes in 100 ft rolls. This is cheap insurance against structural sound transmission through the stud or floor joist assemblies. In my opinion, if all the stud faces and joist faces were lined with this remarkable product prior to the sheetrock being installled, this world would be a much quieter place indeed.
This is the same procedure known as the "Poor mans float". It is something that should be given serious consideration prior to sealing up walls, ceilings and floors with drywall, sub flooring or any wall or ceiling material such as Homasote, Soundboard, or Hardy backer board (cement board).
The isolation tape is a bright green and was designed for this express purpose. Using this tape on all the stud and joist facings is economical and very effective. It is not the same as a full on float using RSIC-1 or Americalips and metal furring channels, but the results will be much better than simply screwing the sheetrock directly into the studs or joists. As far as I'm concerned, this is a no brainer for any new construction or remodel where there are room to room party walls.
One last note, this tape can also be doubled up and only placed on every other stud with the drywall screwed only onto the taped studs or joists. If you think about what I am saying here, doubling the tape on every other stud and only screwing the wall board into that taped studs, would actually give you staggered stud without actually staggering. Pretty neat huh? The less contact the wall or ceiling board has with the wooden structure, the better protection you will have from structural sound transmission. Thanks for reading and learning together, we welcome your opinions and comments.

As Always,

Dr. Bob

e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Soundproofing

The Fall is nigh upon us, and fall is generally the season for soundproofing your Home condo, townhouse, or apartment. The weather has cooled by then and you will be more motivated to get the job completed. For the most part, October is the real beginning of the soundproofing season. Most people want to get their soundproofing complete before the harsh winter sets in and they are couped up in their houses with a noisy upstairs neighbor, or the guy next door, who just decided he needs to learn the electric guitar.
Soundproofing in this days and age has become essential, at least to the vast majority of the population. More and more folks are opting for the private home theater, or their own home recording studio. With the price of gasoline, more people than ever are finding their entertainment on the homefront. I never thought high gas brices could ever be beneficial, but it has become so for the soundproofing industry.
If you and the family go out to the latest "Harry Potter" film, count on spending at least $60 once the Goobers and popcorn are all paid for. Goobers, boy am I giving my age aways or what. At $60 a pop for one movie, peaple are realizing that they can build their own home theater and watch movies anytime they want day or night. This is where good quality soundproofing comes into play. Most people think about soundproofing for their home theater after they receive their first complaint from a neighbor or worse, the police show up. My point here is to think about soundproofing as a priority and not an after thought. In most instances ( unless you live way out in the boonies) soundproofing is going to be absolutely essential.
When you are in the planning stages for your home theater, you home recording studio or even youe new home construction, make soundproofing a priority, believe me, you'll be glad you did.
Thanks for reading and learning together, we welcome your comments.

As Always,

Dr. Bob

e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Soundproofing on the East and West Coasts

Well, we're in the slow season in the soundproofing insustry, so it is a good time to optimize the website for key soundproofing terms and review installation procedures and new product specifications. As I was optimizing I was thinking about the different needs of people on the East Coast as opposed to those on the West. In most respects their soundproofing needs are pretty much the same, but in places like Boston, New York and New Jersey, there are some signifigant differences. The homes in New York City are oft times lofts or studio apartments that were perhaps converted from and old industrial building. To keep that rustic effect, the developers call out for wood floors on many upper units. These hardwood floors are an absolute nightmare for the people down below. Soundproofing these units is difficult at best because the developers generally utilize the existing joist and stud structures and that wood can be upwards of 100 years old. The older wood gets, the more resonant it becomes. Think along the lines of a Stradivarius voilin, or an old Martin guitar. Old resonant wood is great for them, but it is the worsst for soundproofing.
Depending on how the original structure was built, even if you do soundproof from floor to ceiling, there is still the chance for flanking sound which can be transmitted from the soundproofed ceiling into the adjoining walls.
On the West coast there are not nearly as many old buildings that are converted to living areas, and the wooden structures are generally not as old.
The way any home is constructed is something that the soundproofing professionals have little or no control over. This is the primary reason why there are no guarantee's in the soundproofing game.
Now that being said, many of our New York customers have had some remarkable results soundproofing their loft's, apartment's or studio's.
If you are planning on some in depth soundproofing, it is always a good idea to look at the blueprints for your house, that way you might be able to avoid some of the soundproofing pitfalls, such as flanking noise or commonly connected hardwood floors. I hope this has been enlightening for you. Thanks for reading and learning together.

As Always,
Dr. Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Major Updates to Soundproofing America's website (Effective Mass Loaded vinyl installation instructions)

Soon we will be updating the installation procedures for Mass Loaded vinyl on the website. We still have the best prices in the country, but the installation procedures are changing due to some intense feedback from our contractors and customers in the field. Before you purchase MLV from any company, please call us first even if it is for the most up-to-date information on MLV technology and installation procedures.
We are finding so many conflicting reports from different soundproofing companies and even some of the major acoustical treatment manufacturers as to just how to effectively install mass loaded vinyl. Obviously some of the procedures used do not maximize the effectiveness of the vinyl.
In our joint reasearch, we have discovered that MLV is much more effective when it is installed directly to the stud or joist structure. The reason being, that the vinyl needs an air gap in order to perform to is optimum. With an air gap the MLV is able to move and vibrate as sound passes through the wall or ceiling assembly. Now if you don't want to take down your existing drywall as is recommended, then you have 2 distinct options. One is to add some 1" furring strips to the existing sheetrock. The MLV will be attached to the furring strips (Industrial staples, screws or nails) as opposed to being installed directly to the drywall. The second option is to use the Americlips to float the wall or ceiling, this is by far the best method, but it is a little more costly. The clips will give the vinyl approximately 3" of air gap and the better that gap is sealed (backer square and acoustical caulking) the better the soundproofing will be using MLV.
That being said, we have discovered that for the best soundproofing using MLV is to bite the bullet and remove the existing drywall. Once the old drywall is removed, you are then free to treat the joist or stud cavities with a bonded acoustical cotton or even better yet Roxul AFB or Roxul Safe. Roxul is a dense mineral wool product that is made in Canada. It is used extensively in professional recording studios and high end home theaters. The use of these great soundproofing products is not "Rocket Science" but proper installation instructions must be adhered too carefully.
By removing the existing drywall, you are able to treat the structure assembly (the joists or the studs) we have found that deadening the existing structure is imperative for effective soundproofing of walls and ceiling in todays modern or even vintage homes and structures. Keep in mind that the older the home of industrial space is, the more resonant the wood will be. Old violins sound better than new one for this very reason.
Here is the bottom line, if you need to soundproof using MLV or any of our wonderful soundproofing or sound conditioning products, please call us first and we will make certain you know the proper installation procedures before you buy.
Thanks for reading and learning together, we welcome your comments and questions, remember Soundproofing America, when peace of mind is all that matters.

Dr. Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Southern California Soundproofing Contractor Available

This is a first! Our Southern California Soundproofing Contractor actually has openings for soundproofing consultations and soundproofing projects in the Southern California area. If you find yourself in need of a great soundproofing contractor and live anywhere from Santa Barbara County to the Mexican border, please contact the professionals at Granahan Construction Inc. or simply go to their website at: www.granahanconstruction.com There you can see before and after pictures of the finest soundproofing systems on the planet. John and his team of professionals can assess any soundproofing situation and offer you the best and most economical soundproofing products and services in all of Southern California. John uses Soundproofing America soundproofing and sound conditioning products, but also uses materials and products from other local suppliers in the Southern California area as well.
If you find yourself in need of a soundproofing expert, it's really nice to have John Granahan in your corner. Please feel free to contact John directly, or call the pro's at Soundproofing America, and we will contact John for you and brief him on your situation before he returns your call. Remember, it's better to know John Granahan and not need him, than it is to need him and not know him. Thanks for reading and learning together.

Dr.Bob

www.granahanconstruction.com
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Soundproofing in California

California, is growing by leaps and bounds, we all know that, but with growth comes the lack of affordable single family housing. What this housing glut does is shed new light on the Condo and townhouse market. Most condo's in Southern California are more costly than most single family detached homes throughout the United States. This is especially true in places like San Diego and Orange County.
Now we must learn to live with neighbors. Talk about culture shock!! The remedy of course is to isolate your living quarters as best you can from your neighbors. Chances are that they won't have the same taste in music or television programs as you have, but nevertheless you may be forced to listen to their music or television whether you want too or not.
What's the answer to this delemma, short of homicide. (and I have had people who have felt like homicide). Your best and most economical option is to soundproof your living space from the annoying neighbors next door or above and from outside disturbances. But where do you start? First you find a soundproofing company that is genuinely interested in your sound issues and is not worried about their company's bottomline. There are a few good companies that offer free consulatations and will help to get you on the road to soundproofing your condo, duplex or townhome.
I like to think the Soundproofing America is one of those companies. We indeed offer free consultations and all we ask is that you buy your soundproofing products from us when you have decided to soundproof.
We are a Southern California business, and though we have not been in business as long as some of the "Big Boys" we have the experience and know how to get you through the rigors of soundproofing your home. We can recommend Soundproofing contractors in your area, who can evaluate your noise issues and offer sound and economical soundproofing options designed around any budget.
We are also geared to the needs of the home do-it-yourselfers out there that have the skills and abilities to do this work on their own, but lack the soundproofing knowledge.
When it comes to soundproofing what might be your dream or retirement home, you definitely need a company you can trust, with a knowledgable technical staff as well as someone who will stand behind their products every step of the way. You need Soundproofing America.
We will be there when you need us. Thanks for reading and learning together.
Dr.Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Soundproofing, Sound proofing, Acoustical treatments, basement soundproofing, Cheap soundproofing, Commercial soundproofing, DIY soundproofing, Garage soundproofing, Home soundproofing, Home studio soundproofing, Home theater soundproofing, Industrial soundproofing, Mass loaded vinyl, Noise reduction, Residential soundproofing, Room soundproofingCeiling soundproofing, Soundproof flooring, Studio soundproofing, Wall soundproofing, Construction soundproofing, building soundproofing, soundproof floors, construction soundproofing, Acoustiblok soundproofing, soundproofing materials

Please don't wait till the last minute !!

This seems to be a problem throughout the building trades, waiting till the last minute to order the soundproofing materials. It is always better to plan at least 2 weeks in advance when you have a soundproofing project. A lot of builders and contractors remember the soundproofing at the very last minute or a new homeowner requests soundproofing just before the sheetrock goes up on his walls and ceilings. When this happens everyone scrambles to get the order to the site on time.
When planning your building project, always try to put soundproofing at the forefront of your plans. In todays noisy world, it has become essential to have adequate soundproofing throughout your entire home, this is especially true with new construction. It's beneficial to have the soundproofing materials onsite and ready to be installed. Many times a developer or contractor will put these materials up for you at a nominal fee if those materials are readily available.
When you wait till the last minute, shipping rates inflate dramatically. Even small items like caulk and tape can be in the $100's of dollars if you need them the next business day, not to mention Saturday deliveries. You may need to take out a second mortgage on your new house just to pay the shipping.
What this boils down to is serious and timely planning on the part of builders, contractors, and developers. That being said, if you do have a rush order, we'll hustle to get it out the same day it's ordered and we will do our utmost to keep those shipping costs to a minimum. That's my perspective, what's yours?

As Always,
Dr.Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Building a soundproof fence (Soundproofing a fence)

In recent weeks we have been bombarded with questions on how to soundproof a backyard fence, (must be a summertime thing) so I figured I'd post a little note on soundproof fences...
Generally the best soundproofing fences are what is known as septum fences. What is a septum fence? A septum fence is a fence that is constructed with cedar or redwood slats or even a fiberglass slats/panels, the difference is that there are slats on both sides of the fence with a soundproof barrier or membrane insert in the the center between the the slats themselves. The soundproof membrane is generally made up of a combination of materials such as mass loaded vinyl and closed cell foam mat. The MLV acts as a reflective barrier and the closed cell foam is the absorbent part of the septum membrane. Remember that with any soundproof fence, the fence itself must be at least 8' above the noise source to work properly. For example, it traffic is your noise source,then the fence needs to be at least 8 above the tires or exhaust of the cars. If the car stereo is the source, then the fence must be 8' above the car speakers in order to be effective. If the fence is to built atop of a berm, then the berm height can be added to the 8' total needed for good soundproofing. So, if the city has a 6' fence height ordinance, then the berm and a 6' high fence would be the ticket.
Now here's a breakdown on how to construct this type of fence from scratch. You would construct the frame with the 4" X4" anchoring posts that are usually spaced 6 to 8' apart. The cross members will most likely be 2' X 4' s. Now you will nail up the slats on the inside (backyard side) of the fence. These slats need to be butted as tightly together as possible. Caulking between these slats is always a good idea. Next we'll begin working on the cavities of the fence that are facing the noise source (basketball court, traffic etc.) First you will staple or glue up a layer of MLV (mass loaded vinyl) to the inner cavity areas. We have had the best luck with the 2Lb MLV, but the 1 Lb will work fine as well. You'll need to caulk the seams of the MLV as well as the entire perimeter. Sealing the MLV is imperative. The next step is to tape the caulked MLV seams with a quality seam tape. Time for a lemonade break.... Whew, it's sure hot out here!!
Now we are ready for the closed cell foam (America mat) this mat is glued directly to the MLV layer making sure that the foam mat covers the entire face of the MLV. There are 2 sides to the America mat, one is pebbly and the other is smooth, you'll glue the smooth side to the vinyl. The pebbly side is the side that absorbs the sound and needs to face the noise source. Once the foam is glued to the MLV (using 3M-77 or 3M-80, or any good weather resistant contact cement etc.) Remember to use the acoustical caulk to seal the edges of the foam mat in areas where it contacts the fence structure. Now you are ready for your final layer of slats. The backing slats should have a small gap between each slat to allow the septum to absorb and block the sound. The gaps should be anywhere between 1/4" to 1/2" in width. The closed cell foam is black and very weather resistant, so it will hold up well in the elements.
Now if your new fence is at least 8' above the noise source it will be work well but if the height of the fence is less than 8' then it will naturally be less effective at blocking and absorbing noise. Outdoor noise is much like a bubble or large wave of water, it will always look for the least path of resistance, so if the fence is too low, guess where that least path is?
Just a quick note, masonary, brick, and stone fences are excellent soundproofers, but their cost is oft times prohibative, the sepum fence is a great alternative to a masonry fence.
Thanks for reading and learning together.

As Always,

Dr. Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139

Air conditioners and outdoor generators

Summers is finally here and we are getting tons of calls about soundproofing airconditioning compressors and camping generators. The key to soundproofing these devices is to always make sure the unit has enough ventilation to operate properly. Generally soundproofing a generator involves constructing an enclosure of some type with or without a roof or canopy. These enclosures should be lined with a closed cell foam mat, (America mat) or you have the option of using the very weather resistant PEPP panels. Both materials are weather resistant and great for soundproofing and sound absorption. The PEPP panels can even be painted. PEPP is a little more costly, but it does offer a greater sound absorption.
The enclosure needs to be at least 6 to 8' above the noise source, obviously the higher the enclosure, the better blockage you'll get.
We are presently working with a customer who is attempting to block airconditioning compressor noise from their next door neighbor. The big challenge is the fact that the customer is blocking the noise of the compressor to his second story window. This is indeed a challenge as he's able to look directly down onto the compressor and there is a direct path for the sound traveling upwards. We are working at a barrier enclosure that the deflects the sound away from the upper window and out to the back of the neighbors house. It is indeed a challenge, but we are up for it. If you need help in soundproofing a generator or an airconditioning compressor, please call the sound experts at Soundproofing America.
Thanks for reading and learning together.

As Always,

Dr.Bob
e-mail: dr.bob@soundproofingamerica.com
Call Toll free (877) 530-0139