A sound mat can manage noise at home, in the workplace, or on construction sites. These products are installed under floors or on walls and ceilings to help create comfortable and quiet spaces. Here are some pros and cons of soundproofing mats:
Pros
If your residence or office has noise-related challenges, hire an installer to add mats that reduce the loud sounds. These mats are made from materials like rubber, cork, or foam and are useful in minimizing noises in indoor spaces. These are some of the features and benefits of sound-dampening underlays:
Reduces Noise
A sound mat in a multi-story building minimizes sound transfer by preventing it from penetrating through the floor to the other rooms. These mats also minimize impact noises, such as those created by footsteps, dropping something, or operations of bulky machinery. If your space experiences excessive noise, installers add denser mats to block loud noises more effectively. In businesses, acoustic matting reduces loud sounds and improves compliance with noise regulations and standards.
Various Applications
Most sound control mats are compatible with many types of flooring materials, including hardwood, stone tile, and carpet. You can also have them fitted on walls and ceilings to block sound waves from the neighboring rooms. These mats are easy to install and dismantle, making them ideal for long-term projects and short-term events. They are manufactured in different thicknesses and size variations to fit small fixtures and large floors. When installers place the mats, they can bond the material directly to the substrate or leave it loose under the final floor covering.
Improves Comfort
Sound insulation mats provide a cushioned layer to rooms with flooring materials such as hardwood or tile. They provide an extra layer of padding, which helps lessen the pressure on the feet, joints, and lower back. Install these mats in areas with high foot traffic, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Acoustic mats contain materials such as cork or foam that retain warmth in the flooring during the cold season.
Cons
Installing a thick acoustic mat under floors raises the height of the surface by a few millimeters. A thicker mat may consume more wall space in smaller rooms or areas where space is already limited. To manage this issue, installers may choose thinner mats to prevent floor or wall space from being used up. These professionals also trim door frames to help thicker mats fit properly in the available space.
Installing sound mats on your own can be challenging because it requires specific adhesives and leveling compounds for high-quality results. Hiring a professional installation team keeps your floors from developing uneven spots. These specialists prepare the installation site to help the mat adhere properly and create a safe, functional surface.
Buy a Quality Sound Mat
Whether you need a sound mat to improve comfort or reduce noise, hire a reputable team to install one in your home or business. Depending on your needs, they will recommend a thin or thick mat to dampen vibrations and minimize impact sounds. Call an underlayment company today to learn more about soundproofing solutions.