Echoey or too noisy

Sound waves are a huge part of our day-to-day life, apart from being the main base of communication; they are a huge part of geophysics. Broken down into degas liquids and solids they are seen as a vibration between molecules or atoms. These vibrations are converted from kinetic energy to sound energy. Which then enables the generation of sound waves. 

While it is a marvelous scientific wonder, sound waves can at times be an unwanted nuisance, even a hindrance. From noisy vehicles, motors, loud neighbors, to music studios. There are endless types of sound waves that can easily seep through the walls distracting you at every given moment. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce or completely block off these sound waves.  

While you may think that soundproofing can be achieved by layering on any material, but that is not the case. There are only a handful types of materials that offer effective soundproofing, but what makes them an effective choice is tortuosity, density, porosity, flow resistivity, and cell size. Once you understand its base components required, we can talk about appropriate soundproofing methods. 

  1. Base Traps - Low-frequency sound waves are harder to regulate, as they are long and powerful. Additionally, they can accumulate in a corner, which makes a heavy bass impact. These devices are used to trap bass from the corner of the rooms and ensure quality and balanced sound. In addition, there are different types of base traps to choose from, so you can easily choose if you are trapping a low, mid, or high range of frequencies. These special base traps are designed to soak up the sound waves, completely cutting them out from the space.

2.  Acoustic Panels - Designed to absorb sound waves these panels are thinner than bass traps but more effective at trapping low frequencies. That being said, they make a great improvement in any room, other than one that has a reverberation issue. So rather than waiting for soundwaves to reflect off and travel through the space, it will absorb them. Making sure the sound does not echo.

3. Ceiling Clouds - While most acoustic panels are installed on the walls, there are some that are installed on the ceiling as well. These are called ceiling clouds and are extremely light in weight. Making them a great addition in any room with high ceilings, cutting down on excessive sound reverberation. Moreover, these ceiling clouds come in a range of materials and styles to choose from. While some are made from foam, you can even find some made using metal and come wrapped with fabric.

4. Diffuser Panels - This acoustic treatment is different from the others, and are designed to help diffuse the sound. Adding these on the walls can help dampen the overpowering sound waves in any room. Furthermore, in some cases, it can help you adjust the echoing impact, so the room does not sound too quiet or too echoey. Creating a balanced sound that works perfectly in most rooms. These are a great compliment to sound-absorbing panels, or can be added on their own; depending on your unique situation.

5. Fiberglass Insulation - If you are struggling from sound bleeding into the surrounding rooms or the next apartment; then fiberglass insulation is the best possible option. While insulation is used to prevent sound from passing through, fiberglass insulation can help absorb the sound waves. Which in return prevents reverberation and other acoustic-related issues. Making it an exceptional choice that can help you contain the sound in a way that cuts it down completely.

6. Helmholtz Resonators - The perfect choice for those who are going through resonance issues. Invented by a German physicist, the Helmholtz resonator is a hollow sphere that comes with a small opening that is similar to a bottle top. Their unique design allows them the ability to absorb sound that is much like its natural frequency. However, the most interesting thing about Resonators is that they come in a number of shapes and sizes, and their absorbing abilities depend on their shape and size. Making sure you have something for your unique setup.

These are some of the most talked-about ways to ensure effective acoustic treatment for your space. However, picking the right one is more technical than it sounds. While there are endless products that are perfect on paper, but when it comes to sound waves things get a little more complicated.   

As explained before sound waves are a complex being and one that requires a special training to understand. That being said, there are different types of sound waves, and you need to figure out what sound you are looking to create. 

Only by understanding these basic, yet complex matters will you be able to create a unique solution that works perfectly for your space. Based on what you have in mind from the setup, and how you can get the most out of the treatment. A professional can help you assess the situation, and create a one-of-a-kind solution that is perfect for your needs. 

Below are the samples of NRC ratings the highest is only 1.0