*
What is the current consensus on the most effective means of reducing the sound/noise transmission through interior 2×4 walls? The noise sources would mainly be plumbing, HVAC and appliances (though miscellaneous bathroom noises would fall into the category). I’ve read that FG batts supposedly achieve a 5dBA reduction, which is not quite trivial, but maybe not worth the bother either. Installing a bunch of furring channels seems like loads of work (besides I have the electrical work roughed in already). Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Steve
Replies
*
Steve,
The lumber yard that I deal with here in Dallas sells a 4x8 1/2" sound insulating board. It's brown in color and fibre-like in texture. Reminds me of the old Celotex sheets. You can drop this inbetween the studs flush with the stud face before sheet rock.
Works for me,
Ed. Williams
*Good Q, I have the same interest.The problem I'm noticed in one wall I filled with cellulose as an experiment is that low frequencies (from a dishwasher) still get through easily, probably because of the direct mechanical plaster-stud-plaster connection. Higher frequencies, which travel better through air, have been deadened. And the cellulose did have the general effect of closing all air gaps, which transmit noice better than anything.I'll be building a baby's room upstairs -- interesting in hearing any and all approaches. Steve, even if the electrical is roughed in, extensions are easy and even allow more forgiveness for drywalling goofs.Anyone used Homasote?
*You have limited options if the electrical rough in keeps you from making the wall thicker. Good acoustical batt insulation (not the less dense thermal insulation) will help. The batts need to fit snugly into every cavity. Careful sealing of the GWB perimeter and around box penetrations with acoustical sealant is important too. It would be good if you happen to not have opposing side electrical boxes in the same stud cavity. 7/8" metal resilient Z-furring strips add a lot to the wall STC if you can add extension rings to the electrical boxes, and they're not much trouble to install.
*Dave:"acoustical sealant"?Please describe - is it a material that comes in a calk tube and is commonly stocked on the "caulk isle"?
*......try http://www.usg.com. U.S. Gypsum has info and literature on reducing sound transmision in walls. Hope this helps......