When improving your home, don’t forget about soundproofing. It can greatly improve the comfort and peace in your living area. Soundproof drywall can help reduce noise from neighbors, traffic, or create a quieter home environment.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into what soundproof drywall is, how it works, and how it compares to regular drywall. We’ll also answer common questions such as whether it’s worth the investment and what thickness is best for soundproofing.
What is Soundproof Drywall?
Soundproof drywall is a specialized type of drywall designed to reduce sound transmission through walls and ceilings. Soundproof drywall is different from regular drywall.
Soundproof drywall is not the same as regular drywall. It has multiple layers of gypsum. It also includes materials that absorb sound, such as viscoelastic polymers, ceramics, or mass-loaded vinyl.
In contrast, regular drywall only has one layer of gypsum between paper sheets. Layers in a wall absorb and reduce sound waves, making it harder for them to pass through the wall.
People commonly use soundproof drywall in places where noise reduction is crucial. These places include home theaters, recording studios, bedrooms, and shared walls in apartments. Soundproof drywall’s effectiveness is shown by its STC rating, which measures how well it blocks sound. Higher STC ratings mean better soundproofing.
Soundproof Drywall vs Regular Drywall
When comparing soundproof drywall to regular drywall, the key difference lies in their construction and sound-blocking capabilities. Regular drywall, while effective for basic wall construction, does little to stop sound transmission.
It usually has an STC rating of 30-34. This rating is good for separating rooms. However, it is not particularly effective at blocking loud sounds or conversations.
On the other hand, soundproof drywall can have an STC rating of 50 or higher, depending on the product and installation. This happens because of its many layers, which soak up sound and also scatter sound waves as they move through the material. Soundproof drywall blocks more sound than regular drywall, making it perfect for quiet and private rooms.
Does Soundproof Drywall Work?
Soundproof drywall can help reduce noise, but how well it works depends on different factors. These factors include the type of drywall used, the installation method, and the wall construction. Using soundproof drywall with insulation, sealants, and resilient channels can significantly improve its effectiveness in blocking sound.
One layer of soundproof drywall may not eliminate all noise, but it can significantly reduce it. For maximum effectiveness, some homeowners opt for double-layering soundproof drywall or combining it with additional soundproofing techniques. Soundproof drywall helps reduce noise from voices and music, but it doesn’t work as well for sounds like footsteps or slamming doors. To increase effectiveness, use it with other soundproofing methods.
Is Soundproof Drywall Expensive?
Soundproof drywall costs more than regular drywall, but its benefits make it a good investment. Typically, a standard 4×8-foot sheet of soundproof drywall costs between $40 and $55, while a sheet of regular drywall ranges from $12 to $20. The higher cost of soundproofing materials may be worth it for better sound insulation in a room or home.
Investing in soundproof drywall can be particularly valuable for those who prioritize a peaceful and quiet living space. In noisy places like busy neighborhoods or apartment buildings, soundproof drywall improves comfort and can raise the property’s value. Potential buyers often appreciate the added feature of soundproofing, making it a desirable selling point.
What Thickness Drywall is Soundproof?
The thickness of soundproof drywall plays a crucial role in its ability to block sound. Generally, thicker drywall provides better soundproofing. The most common thicknesses for soundproof drywall are 5/8-inch and 1/2-inch, with 5/8-inch being the more effective option.
Some soundproof drywall has more layers of gypsum and sound-dampening materials. This makes it thicker and more effective at blocking sound.
One example is a soundproof drywall panel that is 5/8-inch thick. You could make up this panel with two 1/4-inch layers of gypsum. A special polymer layer separates the layers of gypsum in the middle. This construction helps drywall absorb and reduce sound better than just one layer of regular drywall.
Sometimes, homeowners may add an extra layer of drywall to make it thicker. This can make the wall 1 to 1.25 inches thick, giving a similar effect. This method can make walls better at blocking sound, but it also makes them heavier and thicker, needing extra support.
What is the Best Drywall for Sound Barriers?
Choose drywall for soundproofing by considering the STC rating, how easy it is to install, and the overall cost. Some of the top soundproof drywall options available include:
QuietRock:
QuietRock 545 is a great option for soundproofing. It provides excellent noise reduction. This makes it ideal for businesses and movie theaters. Customers often choose the 545 model from this brand for its exceptional performance among the range of products offered.
CertainTeed SilentFX:
SilentFX is a strong contender, particularly valued for its balance between high performance and ease of installation. The SilentFX QuickCut is 5/8-inch thick, popular for its reliable soundproofing, making it a great option for homes.
National Gypsum’s SoundBreak:
For a more budget-friendly option, National Gypsum’s SoundBreak is an excellent choice. It offers four different models, with the SoundBreak XP 1/2 inch wallboard being the entry-level option. The top model in this line can achieve an STC rating of around 64, providing effective soundproofing.
The best drywall for soundproofing depends on how much sound reduction you need and how much you can spend. For most residential applications, options like QuietRock or CertainTeed SilentFX offer a great balance of cost and performance.
What Are the Different Levels of Sound Transmission?
Sound transmission levels describe how easily sound passes through a material, such as drywall. Here’s a breakdown of the different levels:
- Level 25: At this level, soft speech can be heard and understood through the drywall.
- Level 30: Normal conversation is audible and can be understood clearly.
- Level 35: Loud speech is easily heard and understood.
- Level 40: Loud speech can be heard but is not easily understood.
- Level 45: This is the threshold where privacy begins, as loud speech becomes difficult to understand.
- Level 50: Loud sounds may still pass through, but only faintly and not clearly.
- Level 60+: At this level, the best soundproofing is achieved, and those outside the room will not be disturbed by loud noises or speech.
Conclusion
Soundproof drywall is an excellent solution for reducing unwanted noise in your home or office. Sound-blocking drywall is more expensive than regular drywall. However, it can greatly improve the quality of your home or office.
This is because it reduces noise. Soundproof drywall is a good option for making a room quieter during construction or renovation. It helps create a peaceful environment.
To pick the right drywall for your project, understand the differences between soundproof drywall and regular drywall. Learn how each type works, their costs, and how to install them. This knowledge will help you make a good choice.
This will help you make a smart decision. Choose the right product and install it properly to create a peaceful space, free from distracting noise. Enjoy a calm environment where you can relax and focus.
Contact ROA Drywall Contractors
For professional soundproof drywall installation, trust ROA Drywall Contractors. We have 15 years of experience. We offer high-quality soundproofing solutions. Our solutions make your space more comfortable and private. Contact us today to get started on your project!