Exposed Frame Wall Treatment
The soundproofing treatment described here targets the reduction of noise bleeding through an existing wall that is currently framed but not yet finished. As we discuss in our course on Transmission Loss here at the Academy, our goal with this sound control project is to isolate one room's noise from the next by impairing the common wall's ability to conduct vibration. The treatment outlined below follows the basic principles of sound deadening a wall: disconnecting the wall assembly and lining it with more weight.
The following illustration represents a standard framing technique used in building a common wall. Here the frame is made of a single set of 2x4 studs that will support drywall on both sides. As we illustrate in our course on Sound Transmission, sound energy flows freely back and forth structurally between two rooms through these common studs. Regardless of what is stuffed between the studs, including fiberglass insulation, the studs themselves are the true culprit for sound bleed and become the focus for our treatment.
If your current frame looks like this and you are not able or willing to reconstruct it, we proceed ahead with our soundproofing treatment. If however you are able to rebuild the frame, we recommend you construct a staggered stud frame as is shown here, and follow our advice listed under New Construction. This building technique generates the disconnection you will need in your finished wall assembly.
Show me how to build a staggered stud wall
STEP 1: DENSITY
If you are unable or unwilling to rebuild your existing frame, we will create a disconnection for you by using a simple framing technique. Your treatment starts with the application of a layer of dB-Bloc to the face of your frame. Simply staple this weighted barrier membrane to 100% of your surface. This thin weighted barrier membrane measures just 1/8" thick, but weighs more than 150 pounds per 54" x 30' roll. By layering this product into your assembly, you will help deaden your wall's ability to accept and conduct vibration.
STEP 2: DISCONNECTION
Once you have your wall lined with the weight of dB-Bloc, your next step is to trigger a partial disconnection in your wall surface by anchoring a set of horizontal firring strips up your wall. Screw one strip to the base of your wall, one across the top of your wall, and then one strip every 16" on center up your wall. These strips will help brace the weight of dB-Bloc to your frame, and give you a new surface to then anchor your layer of drywall to. This treatment is sequenced as follows:
Show me a demonstration
This treatment needs to be applied to only one side of your exposed frame. The other side can accept just a single layer of drywall. The results with this treatment can trigger a dramatic reduction in sound transmission through your wall assembly, triggering up to a 90% drop in noise bleed. Results will vary depending on the treatment, the quality of the installation, structural contact points, flanking paths, vibrations through floors and ceilings, and a host of other potential issues that will serve to decay your results.