Evaluate the structure & weight of the substance you intend to use when soundproofing a partition wall. To prevent sound transmission through the wall, we know we have to block, absorb, and dampen sound waves, as well as disconnect the layers. Some substances have NRC & STC values that can aid us, as we mentioned in our essay about soundproofing insulation alternatives.
We can also see why closed and open cell polyurethane may not be effective for soundproofing when we utilize what we understand about closed and open cell polyurethane. It has high thermal qualities but lacks the bulk required to absorb soundwaves.
The solidified foam hardens into a stiff substance that obstructs absorption. When you combine a tougher material with open or closed cells, you get more resonance, whereas a softer, airier substance dampens it.
Spray foam gun has a feature that makes it useful for hurricane & earthquake zones, but it also makes it awful for decoupling. It connects wall components to allow sound waves to pass through more easily. Performance is further influenced by the wall construction, foam thickness, & wall sheathing.
Open cell polyurethane styrofoam is superior to fibreglass batten insulation in terms of noise reduction. When compared to Rockwool & fibreglass rigid insulation, both types of foam perform poorly.
The adhesion of the foam to the components allows soundwaves to pass through readily, despite the fact that the numbers should suggest an improvement in the sound attenuation of a normal 24 partition wall.
Furthermore, the hardened foam’s closed and open cells boost mid-range frequency resonance, altering the sound quality. It has high thermal properties, but is not a very soundproofing substance.
Cost of Spray Foam Insulation
Closed cell polyurethane spray foam is more expensive than open cell polyurethane spray foam. The cost of the material is determined by where you reside and whether you intend to install it yourself or hire professionals. Some places charge by the board foot, while others charge by the square foot at R-1. However, I prefer a pricing per square foot that is 1 inch thick.
Soundproofing Options That Are Better
Polyurethane spray foams can be replaced with a variety of other insulation solutions. They have similar thermal qualities to foam, but they are even better at soundproofing.
Retrofit:
Fiber Insulation by US Greenfiber LLC
It can be difficult to improve the soundproofing of old walls. Blown-in cellulose insulation is made up of 75-85% recycled materials and is an effective sound absorber that lowers feedback and mutes echo.
It is available in two types: loose fill, which is less expensive, and dense fill, which is more expensive. The dense fill has an NRC of 0.90 and an STC of 44 to 68, depending on how densely it is packed. Loose fill has an STC of 44 and an NRC of 0.80, whereas dense fill has an NRC of 0.90 and an STC of 44 to 68.
Construction of new buildings:
Soundproofing can begin with a clean slate in new construction. Metal or wood studs, isolation clips and channels to separate layers, mass loaded vinyl, Green Glue for damping, newer building techniques, and insulation of your choice
Conclusion
Polyurethane spray foam is an excellent thermal insulator with mild soundproofing properties. Unfortunately, the properties that enable it to trap soundwaves also form a resonating chamber that appears to increase disruptive mid-range frequencies.
In addition, the firm foam bonds layers together, tying the wall pieces together and perhaps increasing sound transfer. If you enjoyed this post and know someone who would, please forward it to them. Your suggestions and opinions are also welcome.
