Flooring is a key component of any residential or commercial space. As a contractor, it’s your job to ensure the flooring is both stylish and functional. Acoustic underlayment is a major part of this functionality. Here’s a closer look at its importance as well as installation options. 

What to Know About Soundproofing Underlayment

Why Should You Soundproof a Floor?

Sound travels between floors in multi-story buildings, but acoustic underlayment controls this transfer. Without it, noise would transfer from floor to floor and cause disturbances for building residents. Even the sound of someone walking can be amplified without a barrier. Underlayment creates this barrier and absorbs both impact and airborne noise. 

While this feature certainly promotes tenant comfort, it’s often required by building codes. This is particularly true in apartment buildings, hotels, and college dormitories. You’ll need to properly design and build the acoustic underlayment to ensure the project is completely compliant. 

What Are Its Components?

The specific underlayment materials you choose will depend on the flooring. For wood floors, many contractors will use cork, foam, or rubber to absorb the impact noise. The same materials can be effective under vinyl as well. Rubber, rubber-cork, or foam are effective options under tile, while carpet cushions or foam is the standard underlayment for carpet.

Plan to install a concrete layer to act as an adhesive and additional barrier between these layers. Use a trowel to ensure the concrete is even and will support the flooring material. Before installing the flooring and underlayment, be sure to check the instructions on the flooring material. The manufacturers may have specific recommendations for underlayment materials, which can help ensure the best results. 

If you’re working on a residential or commercial building project, the team at Pro-Crete systems of Florida can assist with your flooring, acoustic underlayment, and concrete needs. They have more than 30 years of experience serving contractors in the Largo, FL, area. They work with engineers, architects, and contractors to deliver stellar results to clients. Offering waterproofing services, roof decks, flooring services, and more, they strive to provide excellent customer service and efficient work. Visit them online to view a full list of their services or call (727) 526-8090 to request an estimate.