Ultimate DIY Soundproofing: Using SoundBoard 4 for Stud Walls

DIY Soundproofing Made Easy: Using SoundBoard 4 Soundproof Panels on Stud Walls

SoundBoard 4 in Action: Soundproofing a Hotel Room

Background 

The Sportsman's Arms is a hotel and restaurant nestled in the heart of Nidderdale. Regularly voted as one of the best hotels in England by the likes of The Telegraph.

The Soundproofing Store was contacted by owner Jamie Carter because of unwanted noise travelling through the internal stud wall separating rooms within a converted barn. When both rooms had guests staying it meant that often one or both parties were being disturbed by the guests in the next door room and vice versa. 

Objectives

1. Reduce noise intrusion: Minimise the noise between adjacent rooms when residents were staying at the hotel. This included unwanted airborne noise heard either side of the internal dividing stud wall. Noises such as talking,TV, music and snoring
2. Use high performing soundproofing solutions which were trusted and proven
3. Soundproofing solutions which were an easy and quick DIY install, to limit the time the rooms would be out of action to potential customers
4. Soundproofing which minimised any space loss within the room

Stud Wall Solution: SoundBoard 4

SoundBoard 4 is a soundproofing board or soundproofing panel designed to enhance the soundproofing capabilities of an internal stud wall. Composed of 4 layers of dense materials that effectively block and absorb sound waves, reducing noise transmission between spaces.

SoundBoard 4 is particularly effective on low mass stud walls and is a slim soundproofing solution at only 30mm thick. A direct to wall soundproofing panel which is also an easy DIY install. SoundBoard 4 was the obvious soundproofing solution for the internal bedroom wall at The Sportsman's Arms.

Key features of SoundBoard 4 for Superior Soundproofing:

1. High Density: SoundBoard 4 is constructed from high-density materials such as acoustic plasterboard, which is heavier and more dense than standard plasterboard. This density is crucial for blocking airborne noise. The board includes two layers of mass loaded vinyl, acting as an acoustic barrier to further prevent sound transmission. Additionally, it features a layer of closed cell foam that effectively dampens vibrations and sound energy, enhancing overall soundproofing
2. Multi-Layer Construction: SoundBoard 4 consists of a combination of 4 layers of soundproofing materials designed to block airborne noise. Each layer works in synergy to provide maximum sound insulation, making SoundBoard 4 an ideal choice for creating a quieter environment
3. Easy Installation: SoundBoard 4 panels are designed for straightforward DIY installation, making them a convenient choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Panels can be mounted directly onto walls using screws, without the need for specialised skills or equipment. This user-friendly approach allows for professional-quality results with minimal fuss

Materials used

• SoundBoard 4 The primary soundproofing material, designed with high-density construction and multiple layers to block and absorb sound

• Acoustic sealant A specialist sealant used to fill the small 5mm gaps around the perimeter of the SoundBoard 4 panels. It prevents sound leakage and enhances the overall effectiveness of the soundproofing

• Jumbo sealant applicator gun A heavy-duty applicator gun designed to dispense acoustic sealant smoothly and accurately. This tool is essential for applying sealant along seams and edges

• Packers Small, adjustable spacers used to ensure precise alignment and 5mm perimeter spacing of SoundBoard 4 panels during installation

• Acoustic socket putty pads These pads are used to seal electrical sockets. They prevent sound from passing through these potential weak points, maintaining the integrity of the soundproofing

• Drywall screws for fixing the SoundBoard 4 into the stud work

SoundBoard 4 Installation Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Effective Soundproofing

By following these simple installation steps, Jamie simply and effectively installed SoundBoard 4 panels on the dividing stud wall separating the two bedrooms:

Step 1: Preparation

Remove Skirting and Coving:

• Begin by carefully removing all skirting boards and coving

Install Acoustic Mineral Wool:

• If installing acoustic mineral wool, remove the existing plasterboard and fit the mineral wool between the existing stud work

Step 2: Locate the Timber Studs

Identify Stud Positions:

• Use a stud locator to find the timber studs in the wall. Mark their positions for accurate placement of SoundBoard 4 panels

Step 3: Start the Installation

Begin in the Bottom Corner:

• Start the installation in the bottom left or right-hand corner of the wall. Ensure the edges of the boards meet on the center of a stud for optimal stability
• Position the first panel and using the 5mm packers leave a 5mm gap around the edge of the wall, floor (and also the ceiling)
• Hold the SoundBoard 4 panel in position and use suitable length drywall screws to securely fix the board into the stud work
• Position the second panel tightly against the first, ensuring there are no gaps between them
• Start the second row from where the first row ended to create a staggered joint

Step 4: Plug Sockets

Use acoustic putty pads:

• Use acoustic socket putty pads (double or single) or surface mounted plug sockets. This reduces any weak spots for sound to travel through

Step 5: Seal the Gaps

Apply Acoustic Sealant:

• Fill the 5mm gap around the perimeter of the whole wall with acoustic sealant. Additionally, apply sealant over the joints between the boards to prevent any sound leakage

Step 6: The final finish

Prepare the Plasterboard:

Once all the SoundBoard 4 panels are securely in place and sealed, the wall is ready for a standard plasterboard finish

The goal was to minimise the noise transfer between two rooms, thereby enhancing the comfort and satisfaction of hotel guests. By adhering to the above installation process, the hotel successfully achieved superior soundproofing, creating a quieter and more enjoyable environment for their guests. Let's take a look at the results..

DIY Installation of SoundBoard 4

SoundBoard 4 on a hotel stud wall - results

• Noise Reduction:

There was a significant reduction in airborne noise following the installation of SoundBoard 4:

• Before soundproofing: 13dB reduction

• After soundproofing: 32dB reduction

• Client Satisfaction:

Jamie completed the installation himself with the help from Phil from The Soundproofing Store. Jamie goes on to say how "the product is great" and was "actually really surprised how easy it was to do" and having now done it that he'd "recommend that it's easy enough for anyone to do at home" installing SoundBoard 4 is "surprising simple."

The soundproofing was a huge success and Jamie goes on to say:

• "We haven't heard a peep coming through the wall."

Dramatic noise reduction from SoundBoard 4 Soundproofing Panel

Conclusion

By using SoundBoard 4 Jamie effectively soundproofed the internal stud wall separating two bedrooms within his family run country Inn.

This case study illustrates how SoundBoard 4 can be a practical and efficient solution for DIY soundproofing projects, offering significant benefits in noise reduction and acoustic enhancement on stud walls.

Residents can now enjoy a beautiful tranquil setting during the day and a peaceful, undisturbed sleep at night.

Stud wall soundproofing products

Author

Phil Lyons heads up the technical team within The Soundproofing Store, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in the field of soundproofing and acoustics. With considerable experience in addressing a variety of noise-related challenges, Phil plays a crucial role in assisting customers in finding effective solutions to all types of unwanted noise problems.

Phil also serves as the head of the studio department, specialising in soundproofing music rooms and band practice spaces. His proficiency extends to regularly collaborating with builders and specifiers on projects that require compliance with Part E Building Regulations. Phil regularly demonstrates his versatility and extensive knowledge of soundproofing across all situations.

An authoritative voice within Soundproofing, Phil also fronts The Soundproofing Store YouTube channel, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.