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How to Install TotalMass MLV On Walls/Ceilings

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Measuring and Cutting

  • roll out the mass loaded vinyl and cut to size

    Measure the wall, floor, or ceiling surface, roll out the MLV, and cut the MLV to size using a standard razor.

    If measuring a wall, measure the distance between the ceiling and the floor. Subtract 1/4″ from the total to allow for a small perimeter gap. We recommend installing the MLV parallel with the framing.

Fastening the TotalMass Barrier and Taping Seams

  • line the mlv to the top of framing

    Position MLV

    With the assistance of a helper, position the first section of MLV sound deadening material in the top corner against the wall frame. Verify the MLV is straight so it will evenly drape the wall from top plate to bottom plate. Maintain a small 1/8" gap along the perimeter.

    Begin fastening with nails, screws, or staples along the top working your way across the MLV and down the wall. If overlaying the MLV with another material like drywall, you can limit the number of fasteners in the first layer as the fasteners of the second layer will provide enough of a hold for the MLV.

  • staple the TotalMass MLV barrier to framing

    Continue Fastening

    Fasten the nail or screw with a washer 2′ on center along the top and bottom plate and length of each stud. For steel stud installation, use 3/4″ wafer head tek self-tapping screws with washers.

    If a pneumatic cap stapler is used then tighten the spacing to every 8″ along the top and bottom plate and occasionally along the stud to hold the MLV tight to the framing.

  • tape the acoustic barrier seams

    Tape Seams

    Repeat the previous steps until your entire wall or ceiling is covered in MLV.

    When MLV seams terminate on a stud, butt the pieces together, caulk the seam, and tape the seam with duct or foil tape. When MLV seams terminate between studs, overlap the MLV about 2″, and tape the seam.

    The recommended seam tape is sheathing tape, click here for one source

Apply Finishing Touches

  • cut the mlv around electrical outlets

    Cut Around Openings

    Be careful not to permanently cover electrical outlets or other openings when installing MLV. It is best to expose the outlets as you install each strip of MLV so they are not forgotten.

  • caulk the wall after mass loaded vinyl installation

    Seal Surface Perimeter

    Once the entire surface is covered with TotalMass Mass Loaded Vinyl Barrier, caulk the perimeter with acoustical sealant.

    Proper sealing is absolutely necessary to achieve significant gains.

  • finish the drywall after installing mlv

    Hang and Finish Drywall

    Your TotalMass Barrier mass loaded vinyl installation is now complete. Hang your drywall over the MLV, vertically or horizontally, and apply your desired finish.

Other Useful Tips:

  • Apply acoustical sealant around perimeter of electrical outlets and other openings to avoid sound transfer through gaps.

  • TotalMass MLV Sound Barrier is sold in widths of 48″ to accommodate both 16″ and 24″ on center framing.

  • We suggest creating seams on studs to avoid having to overlap MLV.

  • If MLV soundproofing material is overlapped between studs, then cut back the MLV along the top and bottom plate to avoid doubling up the thickness of material over framing.

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