Hardwood floors tend to produce more impact noise, which is carried into other rooms. You can install acoustic floor mats to dampen the noise without sacrificing the beauty of your hardwood finish. Sound mat suppliers provide many options that are compatible with different subfloors, including plywood, OSB, and concrete. Here’s what you need to know about using sound-dampening mats to soundproof hardwood floors:
Reducing Impact and Airborne Noise
Airborne noise is transmitted through the air before crossing through walls and structures. This noise comes from televisions, radio, and other sound systems. Airborne noise also stems from people talking or having a party next door. Impact noise occurs when an object makes direct contact with your hardwood floor. Examples include footsteps, dropped items, and moving furnishings. Impact noise produces vibrations that move through the floor structure and joists. Acoustic floor mats help reduce impact noise but can also be paired with other techniques to minimize airborne noise.
Selecting Mats for Your Floor
Underlayment suppliers offer many sound mat options, including different thicknesses, materials, and properties. You can find mats made of recycled rubber, foam, felt, and cork, each with unique benefits. A recycled rubber underlayment is resilient, dense, and flexible, making it a suitable choice for hardwood floors. The material absorbs and distributes more impact noise, resulting in quieter environments. Rubber also provides mold resistance and heat insulation. Some mats have additional layers of fabric for better sound muffing. Consult a reputable underlayment provider to help you identify the ideal mat for your needs.
Installing Your Acoustic Underlayment
Sound-dampening mats are installed under the hardwood floor on top of a solid subfloor. Before installation, the subfloor is cleaned and dried to remove debris, dust, and moisture. You can also repair and sand the subfloor to make it as smooth and even as possible. Smooth, even surfaces provide a good space for mat installation. Soundproofing mats usually come in rolls that can be unrolled directly onto the subfloor. The mats also feature adhesive backing and tapes to hold them temporarily during installation. No gaps should be left after the experts install the panels. The seams must also be sealed using acoustic tapes and sealants to prevent leakage. Once the mat is secured in place, the hardwood floor is installed on top. Your installer may use glue, nails, or floating techniques, depending on your subfloor and hardwood.
Reinforcing Your Acoustic Floor Mat
Acoustic underlayment suppliers provide reinforcement products to help you maximize the efficiency of your floor mats. Reinforcements suppress cracks and reduce the subfloor pour depth. Floor installers traditionally used galvanized metal laths to control subfloor movement. Underlayment installers also use floor sealers and primers to enhance contact between the floor finish, underlayment, and subfloor. Sealers help to eliminate gaps and enhance the mat’s muffing capability. You can also use additional soundproofing barriers like mass-loaded vinyl and rugs.
Working With Leading Underlayment Suppliers
Selecting and installing acoustic underlayment is best suited to experienced professionals. You can consult an underlayment supplier to review different mat options and their recommended applications. Underlayment installers can assess your space and soundproofing needs to help you determine suitable materials and the ideal thickness. You can also find acoustic floor mats that provide thermal insulation in addition to soundproofing. Working with a professional gives you access to expert insights and high-quality installation.
Order a Quality Sound Mat Today
Acoustic floor mats can be installed in various spaces, including gyms, recording studios, and residential homes. High-end mats will reduce noise transmission between floors, improving the acoustic quality of your room. Contact a reputable underlayment provider today to learn more about sound mat options for hardwood floors.