The Pitfalls of Cheap Soundproofing Materials
Opting for cheap soundproofing materials, especially in flooring, can seem budget-friendly initially but often leads to higher long-term costs. Effective soundproofing balances absorbing impact sounds and preventing sound from transferring between suites. Low-cost materials usually fail to absorb and eliminate impact sound effectively, leading to frequent replacements and continued noise issues. High-quality soundproofing solutions, such as those offered by RHINO Sound Control, are essential for lasting performance and effectiveness, especially in high-rise buildings with complex sound issues.
Quality Soundproofing Solutions for Various Applications
RHINO Sound Control provides top-tier soundproofing solutions for residential and commercial spaces, specializing in acoustic flooring underlayment’s. The recycled rubber underlayment is field-tested over an 8" concrete slab with no suspended ceiling that ensures superior noise control and durability. These products are ideal for high-rise buildings, offering exceptional vibration absorption and noise reduction.
FACT: The vast majority of hig-rise condominiums do not have suspended ceiling’s, they are typically built of 6" or 8” concrete slabs alone. By adding a suspended ceiling during the acoustic testing (Filled with sound insulation) dramatically increases the impact sound rating of the product and misleads condo boards and managers. Realistically these products are closer to IIC 47 -55 when installed in high-rise buildings.
Condo boards and owners should ensure the acoustic underlayment's they are selecting are tested as per their buildings construction type to provide the best sound attenuation protection.
Tailored Soundproofing for Your Needs
We offer personalized solutions through a free analysis, tailoring products to meet specific soundproofing needs and budgets. Our high-performance materials, such as RHINO Sound Control for engineered wood, laminate, vinyl, tile and stone, are designed to deliver lasting value and superior noise reduction. RHINO's commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that every project achieves optimal soundproofing results.
Clarifying Vague Condo Rules for Better Sound Control
In multi-family properties, vague governing documents can lead to disputes and misunderstandings, particularly regarding sound attenuation and flooring replacements. Clear, specific rules are essential to manage expectations and prevent conflicts. Condo boards can adopt resolutions to clarify ambiguous sections, specifying acoustic ratings and other crucial parameters. We assist communities by reviewing governing documents and providing expert advice on sound transmission solutions, ensuring that all parties have a clear, unbiased understanding of the rules.
By following these guidelines and utilizing top-tier products like those from RHINO Sound Control, both residential and commercial spaces can achieve superior noise reduction and long-term soundproofing success.
Here are a few provisions you may want to have added to your property’s governing documents and rules.
Join over 4500 high-rise buildings constructed of an 8" concrete floor and ceiling assembly, just like yours.
1. Rule
Any flooring replacement must provide a sound attenuation of FIIC 70 and must be tested over an 8” Concrete Slab, with NO ceiling assembly.
Pre-Approved: RHINO Sound Control FIIC 70
Not Approved: Products tested with suspended ceilings
2. Floor Coverings
No change in the floor covering materials as originally installed in the units shall be permitted except with the consent of the property management and board of directors. To reduce sound transmission between units, all units shall have a minimum sound control product installed under the wood, laminate or vinyl floor of FIIC 70 and must be tested over an 8" concrete slab with NO suspended ceiling assembly.
3. Sound Transmission
No unit shall be altered in any manner that would increase sound transmission to any adjoining or other Unit, including, but not limited to, the replacement or modification of any flooring or floor covering or the penetration of any wall, floor or ceiling that increases sound transmission to any other Unit.
Three Steps to Noise Reduction:
- Request a Product Sample: Encourage residents to include a sample of the acoustic underlayment with their renovation applications.
- Request the Product Test Report: Require residents and contractors provide the products test report which indicates the underlayment was tested over an 8” concrete slab with NO suspended ceiling.
- Proof of Purchase: Require residents to provide documentation in the form of an invoice.