Acoustic panels come in a wide variety of types, sizes and materials. They are all essentially used to absorb noise, for example, echoes and reverberation. There are lots of urban myths surrounding acoustic panels. Here we explore and uncover the ten of the most common misunderstandings…
Not always – it depends on what they are being used for. They can sometimes be a little restrictive. Foam panels may look like an attractive noise reduction option as they are normally cheaper than acoustic panels. But it’s important to understand that they can really only absorb higher frequency noise. Lower frequency sounds are unaffected. As with most things, you get what you pay for.
Not true. Most companies that manufacture foam noise reduction panels use low grade furniture foam. There’s a world of difference between this cheap, basic foam and proper acoustic foam, designed for the job.
Well, it’s true they will probably look fine to start with. But cheap furniture foam isn’t UV stable. This means exposure to air will quite quickly give it a yellow tinge. And after a while, it will become completely discoloured, even in darker internal spaces.
As already mentioned, most of these panels are made from unstable furniture-grade foam, and yes, these are all pretty much the same.
But there are a few foam panel brands which are more effective, for example, Basotect. Available in pale grey or white, this fairly effective lightweight sound absorbing foam is manufactured specifically for use in acoustic applications by chemicals giant BASF. Polyester foam is another option that’s more effective than standard furniture foams.
These types of materials are designed and manufactured primarily for their thermal insulation properties. They are lightweight and can absorb a limited range of high frequency sounds. But, just as with basic foam, they have little or no effect with lower frequency noise.
Soundproofing simply prevents noise escaping from a room, or entering from the outside. Acoustic panels deal with how noise created in the room is perceived within the room. For example, acoustic panels can deaden echoes, eliminate reverberations or reduce distractions from background noise generated in the room itself.
These types of materials will certainly absorb some high frequency reflected sound. But, as with foam and rock fibre, curtains and carpet won’t have any effect on mid to low frequency noise, which is harder to deal with.
Improving the acoustics in a room doesn’t have to be expensive. This is because you don’t have to cover the whole room. A small number of strategically placed acoustic panels can have a hugely positive impact.
Yes, fabric-wrapped panels can be eye-catching or subtle – designed to stand out as a style statement or blend in seamlessly with the surroundings. But it’s important to note that proper acoustic fabric also supports higher frequency sound absorption and adds durability to the panels.
Not true. Acoustic tests have shown that low frequency noise absorption performance is greatly enhanced if panels aren’t bonded directly onto a surface. Instead, they should be mounted on brackets which hold them slightly away from the wall/ceiling.
Sound Control Services have designed and installed acoustic panel solutions for a number of high profile clients, including Falmouth University, Carlsberg and 118.
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If you’re looking to improve the acoustics in your home, office, retail premises, educational establishment or entertainment venue, contact Sound Control Services for expert advice on the best solution for your needs.
Sound Control Services Ltd
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Melton Road, Scalford
Melton Mowbray
Leicestershire
LE14 4UD
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