Acoustic Insulation Materials

Having a home in need of proper thermal acoustic insulation is very similar to actually living outdoors. The home is basically not able to reach any significant level of climate or noise control. There are many benefits to adding proper acoustic insulation materials to a home or building. In fact, most acoustic panels eliminate outside noise while also adding to the energy efficiency of a space. Not only do they prevent noise from penetrating in and out of areas they also act as a thermal barrier. This means that you will no longer have to spend all that money on cooling and heating just to watch that precious air escape through poorly insulated areas.

There are many different types of acoustic insulating materials on the market. For instance, an acoustic panel or foam board can be made from different types of materials including extruded expanded polystyrene and polyurethane. Such panels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, widths, levels of density, and facings. They are also very lightweight and easy to install.

Styrofoam insulation is made from extruded polystyrene. The Styrofoam name is a registered trademark of Dow Chemical Company. The name Styrofoam covers many different types of polystyrene products and come in many different forms including rigid foam or insulation sheets. Styrofoam insulation is well known as “blue board” in the construction industry. The product is lightweight, waterproof, and very efficient in preventing heat transfer.

Rockwool acoustical insulation is an example of polyurethane foam insulation. It is composed of rock fiber which is made from the heating and melting of different minerals until they form a fiber. The fiber is then stitched together and bonded with binders to form different products including insulation panels. The panels are an excellent barrier from sound as well as outside elements.

Styrofoam and Rockwool insulations also come in sheets or blankets that are 24 inches in width. The sheets can easily be installed to the cavity between wall joists. The amount of insulation to install will depend on your local code requirements. It is typical for an attic that has never been insulated to require at least six inches of material to be installed.

Before installing any type of material you must first read the handling instruction for that product. Many products like fiberglass can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and lungs. Be very careful when you are installing the materials yourself and be sure to use protective a mask, gloves, clothing, and goggles. You do not want this type of material to come in contact with your skin. Most insulation blankets or sheets can easily be cut with scissors. Once the insulation is placed where needed, you can use a heavy duty staple gun to attach it in place. Be very careful walking on joists in your attic. It is recommended that you place boards on top of the joists so you can maneuver around the attic without any problems. After you have insulated the upper areas, you should work on the floor.

As you can see, some acoustic insulation materials can provide you home with numerous benefits including noise reduction and energy efficiency. The attic of your home is a great place to start insulating. Applying that extra layer of protection to your home is going to make a significant impact on your energy costs. You can find insulation materials at any home improvement store or hardware store. Some are safe to handle and install but be very careful with products that you are not familiar with. If you are having trouble or are not comfortable with the product you have chosen then it is highly recommended that you contact a professional insulation installer. These individuals are trained in the handling and installation of all types of insulation materials. In this instance it is definitely better to be safe.