A sound blocker is a type of acoustic insulation product used to reduce noise from passing between rooms or floors. It is usually installed between wall studs, ceiling joists and floor boards to mitigate airborne and impact (footsteps and dropped objects) transmission. This product is different from other acoustic insulation products such as mineral wool, rock wool or fiberglass insulation because it deflects sound rather than absorbing it. This type of acoustic insulation is also known as mass loaded vinyl and is typically made from rubber impregnated with a compound to increase the density and mass.
Depending on your circumstances, you may require either a sound-absorbent or sound-blocking product. Absorption is normally only necessary for spaces that suffer from echoing and unwanted reverberations such as music studios, gymnasiums and home cinemas. Sound absorption materials can significantly improve these types of spaces acoustical properties.
Blocking Out Noise: Introducing Effective Sound Blockers
However, for those looking to stop outside noises from entering or leaving a room, sound blocking materials are the best solution. This includes insulation such as mineral wool, rock or stone wool, and even concrete panels. These are products that create a barrier between walls, floors, and ceilings to significantly reduce the amount of noise that passes between them.
Another way to reduce noise transmission is by adding soundproof doors and seals such as weather strip tape, door sweeps or even caulking. Draft stoppers (long fabric tubes filled with dense material) can also be a great addition to prevent sound from passing through gaps around doors and frames.
