Acoustic Insulation

How Does Acoustic Insulation Work?

Fibrous acoustic insulation installed within a wall, floor or ceiling cavity helps absorb sound energy travelling through the building system. This can reduce sound transmission when the insulation is combined with suitable framing, plasterboard or other linings and appropriate installation methods. Acoustic insulation batts are generally designed with sound absorption in mind and are commonly available in higher-density configurations than standard thermal products. However, the insulation batt is only one part of the acoustic system. Overall performance also depends on factors including the insulation material and thickness, framing, wall or ceiling linings, penetrations, junctions and installation quality.

Acoustic Insulation for Walls

Walls are one of the most common applications for acoustic insulation. Acoustic batts can be installed within compatible timber or metal wall framing to help reduce sound transmission between adjoining spaces. Common applications include walls between:

• Bedrooms and living areas
• Bathrooms and bedrooms
• Home offices and shared spaces
• Theatre or media rooms
• Apartments, townhouses and other adjoining spaces where the specified wall system requires acoustic performance

Acoustic insulation can also form part of an external wall system where reducing noise from traffic, neighbours or other external sources is a consideration.

Acoustic Insulation Between Floors

Acoustic insulation can be installed between floor joists as part of a floor-ceiling system designed to reduce sound transmission between different levels of a building. This can be particularly useful in multi-storey homes where bedrooms, living spaces or other occupied rooms are located above or below one another. Airborne and impact noise are different acoustic problems, so insulation alone may not provide the complete solution for every floor system. Depending on the required performance, insulation may be combined with appropriate flooring, underlay, ceiling linings or other acoustic construction components.

Acoustic Insulation Sizes and Thickness

Acoustic insulation is available in different thicknesses and widths to suit different wall, floor and ceiling cavities. Wall products are commonly available in thicknesses around 70mm, 75mm and 90mm, depending on the manufacturer and product. Other thicknesses are available for specialised wall, ceiling, mid-floor and commercial applications. Before ordering, measure the actual cavity width and depth and compare those measurements with the individual product specifications. Avoid selecting a batt simply because it is close to the available cavity size; the product should be appropriate for the framing and installed according to the manufacturer's requirements. Batt and roll widths also vary between products, with options designed for different timber and metal framing configurations.

Acoustic Insulation Density

Density is one factor that can influence the acoustic characteristics of bulk insulation. Acoustic products are available in different densities depending on their intended application and manufacturer. Higher-density products are commonly used where additional acoustic performance is required, but density should not be considered on its own. Material, thickness and the construction of the complete wall, floor or ceiling system also affect acoustic performance. Where a project has a specified acoustic-performance requirement, compare manufacturer data for the complete construction system rather than choosing insulation solely by density.

Acoustic vs Thermal Insulation

Thermal insulation is primarily rated according to resistance to heat flow, expressed as an R-value. Acoustic insulation is selected to contribute to reducing sound transmission through a building system. Many insulation products provide both thermal and acoustic benefits, but R-value and acoustic performance are not the same thing. A higher R-value does not automatically mean that one product provides better sound control than another. If both thermal and acoustic performance are important, compare products designed for the intended application and check the relevant manufacturer specifications.

Sound Insulation vs Acoustic Insulation

The terms sound insulation and acoustic insulation are often used to describe insulation products intended to help manage sound transmission. Acoustic insulation batts are commonly installed inside wall, floor and ceiling cavities as one component of an acoustic construction system. They can help absorb sound energy within the cavity, while other components such as plasterboard, framing, resilient systems, flooring and seals can also influence the finished acoustic performance. This is different from assuming that insulation alone will completely soundproof a room.

Acoustic Insulation Materials

No Gap Insulation supplies acoustic insulation in several material types for residential and commercial applications. Glasswool acoustic insulation is commonly used in wall, ceiling, mid-floor and partition applications and is available in different densities, dimensions and R-values. Polyester acoustic insulation provides another option for suitable wall, floor and ceiling applications and is available in different thicknesses, dimensions and thermal ratings. Other specialised insulation products may be available for particular commercial, fire-rated or building-system requirements. Check the specifications and intended application of each product before ordering.

Acoustic Insulation Brands

Our acoustic insulation range includes products from manufacturers such as Knauf Earthwool, Bradford, Pink Batts, SCG and Polyester Solutions. Available products include standard acoustic batts, higher-density wall insulation, thermal-acoustic insulation and products designed for particular wall, floor, ceiling and commercial applications. Compare the products above by material, R-value, density, thickness, dimensions and pack coverage to identify suitable options for your project.

Where to Install Acoustic Insulation

Acoustic insulation can be used in a range of residential and commercial applications: Internal walls — Between bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, offices and other adjoining rooms. External walls — As part of suitable wall systems where external noise is a consideration. Mid-floors — Between levels of multi-storey buildings to contribute to reducing sound transmission. Ceilings — Where an appropriate product and ceiling system require thermal and acoustic performance. Home theatres and media rooms — As part of a more comprehensive acoustic wall or ceiling system. Commercial partitions — In compatible partition systems where acoustic performance is specified.

Choosing the Right Acoustic Insulation

Start by identifying where the insulation will be installed and what type of sound transmission you are trying to manage. Then check the framing dimensions, available cavity depth, thermal requirements and specifications of the complete wall, floor or ceiling system. When comparing acoustic insulation, consider the intended application, insulation material, thickness, density, batt or roll dimensions, R-value where thermal performance is required, pack coverage and manufacturer acoustic data. For projects with a specified acoustic rating, use the relevant manufacturer's tested system information and project requirements when selecting the insulation and surrounding construction components.

Buy Acoustic Insulation From No Gap Insulation

No Gap Insulation supplies acoustic insulation for residential, renovation and commercial projects, with products available for walls, ceilings, floors and partition systems. Compare acoustic insulation products by material, R-value, thickness, density, dimensions, pack coverage and price using the range above. If you're unsure which acoustic insulation suits your project, contact our team for help comparing products and calculating the quantity required.