Soundproofing a Finished Ceiling
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As we discuss in our course on Sound Transmission, structure borne vibrations will carry straight through any common contact points, including the ceiling joists or cement slab that support both your finished ceiling and the flooring surface upstairs. Your goal with a finished ceiling is to force the collapse of your structure borne sound by disconnecting the assembly and lining it with density. This will help to impair your ceiling's ability to conduct vibrations and transmit sound. The treatment outlined below can be added to your existing surface. You do not need to tear anything down before applying this treatment.
STEP 1: DENSITY
We start by layering dB-Bloc to your ceiling. Take a staple gun and apply this weighted membrane mechanically direct to the face of your existing drywall ceiling. You do not need to scrape the ceiling if it has a popcorn finish to it. dB-Bloc is a heavy membrane that will help deaden your ceiling's ability to vibrate. Cut this weighted material into manageable size sections, overlap the seams 1-2", and cover 100% of your ceiling surface.
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STEP 2: DISCONNECTION
Your next step is to create a structural disconnection in your ceiling. Start by anchoring a set of firring strips to the ceiling, running them perpendicular to the direction of the ceiling joists. These strips can be simple slats of wood available at your local building supply store. Screw these strips through your layer of dB-Bloc, through your existing drywall, anchoring them into the ceiling joists. Then apply a new layer of drywall to the face of these firring strips. This treatment sequence is illustrated here:
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