Ceilings

Ceilings are harder to soundproof than walls because they lack flexibility and have more mass. These factors limit the materials that can effectively block airborne and impact noise. Using sound isolation clips can reduce ceiling noise two to three times more than damping compounds or pre-damped drywall.

Combine decoupling and damping to achieve the highest level of isolation from both airborne and impact noise.

Damping standard ceilings is far less effective than damping walls because ceilings lack resilience. It mainly helps reduce airborne noise to the space above, with little improvement in isolating footfall impact noise.

Damping works well on decoupled ceilings because clips or resilient channels add flexibility. To maximize the effect of Green Glue Compound, first separate the ceiling drywall from the framing using clips or a resilient channel.

Ceiling structures are heavy and layered, so adding small amounts of soundproofing material, or minimal mass, has limited impact. Most basic assemblies also suffer from resonance issues. MLV helps reduce these vibrations and improves airborne noise control. The 1 LB version suits most situations, while the 2 LB version is better for low-frequency noise.

MLV does not effectively block low-frequency or footfall impact noise.