Sound transmission class
Sound Transmission Class (or STC) is an integer rating of how well a building partition attenuates airborne sound. In the USA, it is widely used to rate interior partitions, ceilings/floors, doors, windows and exterior wall configurations (see ASTM International Classification E413 and E90). Outsi…
What is mass loaded vinyl used for?
Mass loaded vinyl is a viscoelastic material loaded with an inert material. It has been used as an effective sound barrier since the 1960s. In perspective; it could be polyvinyl chloride or vinyl (the viscoelastic material) filled with a salt like barium sulfate or calcium carbonate (the inert material).
How does mass loaded vinyl block sound?
Mass Loaded Vinyl can be a very effective and flexible material to block unwanted sound when used correctly. On studio projects, movie theaters, and residential applications it can improve the STC of a wall and help attenuate excess noise.
Why choose soundproof direct mass loaded vinyl?
Soundproof Direct stocks approximately 30,000 square feet of Mass Loaded Vinyl, most of it in North Carolina and Florida. Mass Loaded Vinyl can be a very effective and flexible material to block unwanted sound when used correctly.
How much does it cost to install mass loaded vinyl?
Meanwhile 2 pound Mass Loaded Vinyl (2# MLV or 2 lb/sf MLV) retails at around $3/sf, and large quantities may sell closer to $2/sf. Installation of Mass Loaded Vinyl should cost around $1/sf for very small jobs, and as little as $0.15/sf for larger jobs.
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What does mass loaded vinyl do?
Mass Loaded Vinyl can be an effective, flexible, and affordable product for soundproofing when used correctly. On studio projects, movie theaters, and residential applications it can improve the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of a wall and help attenuate excess noise.
How much does mass loaded vinyl help?
It is flexible and heavy which makes it work great for all soundproofing applications. It is non toxic and is the best alternative to Lead materials for soundproofing. MLV adds great STC values to any wall or ceiling by adding heavy mass. It is great for blocking frequencies from 4000 hz all the way down to 125 hz.
How do you attach mass loaded vinyl?
Apply Finishing TouchesCut Around Openings. Be careful not to permanently cover electrical outlets or other openings when installing MLV. ... Seal Surface Perimeter. Once the entire surface is covered with TotalMass Mass Loaded Vinyl Barrier, caulk the perimeter with acoustical sealant. ... Hang and Finish Drywall.
Is mass loaded vinyl better than Green Glue?
Results: Mass loaded vinyl can improve wall performance, but performance is much lower than Green Glue, especially at low frequencies. Green Glue is also lower in cost and much faster to apply than MLV. While hanging MLV limply is a common recommendation, using it as the center of asandwich performs better here.
What is better than mass loaded vinyl?
Polypropylene foam is a good option, but so is cork. A dense, spongy material is your best bet for floor underlayment. The underlay that I found provided the best STC and IIC on the market is the FloorMuffler UltraSeal. It's more than 3 times cheaper than MLV (1lb density).
Does mass loaded vinyl stop bass?
People need to know this. Mass loaded vinyl in 1/8 , 1/4, and even 1/2 inch sheets is a decent sound blocker but it will not stop low bass. Because of the long wave lengths "Deep bass" produces. It will bleed right through mass loaded vinyl like it's nothing.
Can you put drywall over MLV?
While MLV can be hung directly on a wall, it performs best when sandwiched between drywall sheets. Doing so also allows you aesthetic options since the usually black, shiny MLV isn't the most decoratively appealing surface!
How do you hang MLV on the wall?
0:000:38How to Hang and Tape Mass Loaded Vinyl on Existing Drywall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPlace it so it's just along the top and then your partner will staple on the top to hold it in placeMorePlace it so it's just along the top and then your partner will staple on the top to hold it in place. The staples every four to six inches. And then. And then shift also staple on this end.
Can I staple MLV?
Proper Tools and Steps When Installing MLV On walls, staples can be fastened every 24″, but on ceilings, be sure to fasten one every 12″ since MLV tends to droop more when hung from the ceiling.
Is mass loaded vinyl waterproof?
MLV is odorless, heat resistant, waterproof, tear resistant, and has a high STC rating for effective noise blocking.
Can You Use MLV and green Glue together?
But using them both together will result in an STC of around 60, which is much better. Of course, for best results, I'd always recommend using both MLV and Green Glue as part of a number of other methods.
How much STC does Green Glue add?
10 STC pointsGreen Glue transforms the sound isolation of common wood stud walls from poor to excellent. For walls of the same weight in this comparison, Green Glue adds 10 STC points and improves low frequency performance by as much as 12 dB.
Why do you wrap a washing machine in MLV?
For example, if your washing machine is in or near your main living area you can wrap it in MLV to deaden the noise coming out into the room. If you live in a part of the world where air conditioning is common you can wrap the ducts and/or pipes to reduce noise caused by clanking or movement.
How to reduce vibration between floors?
Another easier option is sound clips. You place them on the floor beams to reduce the vibration between surfaces which reduces the sound between floors. For walls you can try a couple of different things. You can put up an additional layer of drywall to increase the barrier sound has to travel through.
What glue to use under drywall?
For a cheaper option, you could install egg cartons or polystyrene sheets under your drywall. Green Glue (or similar) is a glue that you can use to plug holes and fill in spaces. It transforms sound waves into heat energy so it can be used anywhere hard to reach to improve the performance. Sale.
Can you put MLV on walls?
This makes it perfect for party walls, and anywhere to help prevent sound getting in or out. Main areas are: Floors – If you’re remodeling you could add MLV to the floor or ceiling studs before the boards are laid.
Can MLV be used on walls?
MLV is an incredibly versatile material, and can be used on walls, in cars, on floors and pretty much anywhere where you can fix it securely. Because of this it’s very popular when looking for cheap and reliable soundproofing.
Is mass loaded vinyl soundproofing?
While there are alternatives, Mass Loaded Vinyl is a great option for the majority of your soundproofing projects. It’s light, flexible and relatively easy to install. It is a little more expensive than some options, but also significantly cheaper than others, acoustic tiles for example.
Can you line the interior of a car with MLV?
Car – If you love driving a powerful car but don’t enjoy feeling like your ears are bleeding when you accelerate then you can line the interior of your car with MLV. If you do it properly it will reduce engine noise as well as the noise of tires on the road and from other road users.
How do hat clips work?
Hat channel and sound clips are attached directly to the floor beams, with drywall to the channels afterward. They reduce noise transmission between floors to a great extent. They reduce vibrations and noise to a great extent.
Is mass loaded vinyl good for a movie theater?
Mass Loaded Vinyl can be a very effective and flexible material to block unwanted sound when used correctly. On studio projects, movie theaters, and residential applications it can improve the STC of a wall and help attenuate excess noise.
Can you put MLV on joists?
If you have above floor neighbors that create noise, then you might consider adding a layer of MLV directly onto joists and beams above suspended ceilings. These will absorb the sound and create a dampening effect.
Is MLV vinyl acoustic noise barrier?
Being a non-toxic vinyl acoustic noise barrier, an MLV is pretty safe. It is designed to hang like a limp mass in a variety of soundproofing applications. In fact, MLV soundproofing also offers a low priced alternative- lead.
Can mass loaded vinyl catch fire?
However, it contains plasticizers, so in case of a fire, it can catch fire as well.
Is MLV soundproofing waterproof?
MLVs might just be the most durable soundproofing agent. It can definitely handle some roughhousing. Am MLV is waterproof too. So you don’t have to worry about getting it inside when it rains.
What is mass loaded vinyl?
Just as the name implies, Mass Loaded Vinyl is used to add mass to surfaces, as well as dampen and absorb sounds. Here are four practical noise control uses for mass loaded vinyl: 1. Drown Out Loud Neighbors or Roommates: Whether you’re hearing noise from above, or outside, you can use mass loaded vinyl to create more mass and drown them out. ...
Can you line an AC unit with MLV?
Silence Your Appliances: If you have noisy appliances or machines in your house, like an AC unit or dishwasher, you can line it with MLV. It’s not always the easiest material to use, but it’ll look nice if left exposed on appliances. 3.
Can you use MLV for pipe wrap?
Although some pipe wraps are made with MLV, you don’t have to use a traditional pipe wrap. You can combine it with a decoupling layer of SoundAway’s soundproofing Mat then wrap it with MLV. Secure with MLV Mylar Seam Tape.
What is MLV fiberglass?
MLV + fiberglass: This combination delivers a lightweight material that is capable of blocking and absorbing sound waves. It is ideal for soundproofing ductwork, garbage chutes, or to improve a room’s acoustics.
What materials are used in MLV?
For instance, MLV has been combined with materials such as mineral fiber insulation, glass fiber insulation, acoustical foam, and others.
How much does a square foot of MLV cost?
So far, MLV has only one major drawback, and that’s its price. A square foot of MLV can cost anywhere between $1 and $2.50 depending on the type, manufacturer, and seller.
Why do people use MLV?
Because of its flexibility, aesthetics, and safety, there are a wide variety of ways and places that MLV can be installed for noise reduction purposes. There are even instances of people installing them on outside fences and in cars.
What are the advantages of MLV?
Thinness: To block sound, you need a very thick/dense material. When you think of something that dense, you probably picture a thick slab of concrete or something of equal density, not something that’s cardboard thin. Even though it’s thin, Mass Loaded Vinyl blocks sound like a champ.
Is MuteX as soundproof as MLV?
Which means they are limited in how well they can satisfy your soundproofing needs. Even if a product is as flexible as MLV, such as MuteX, the question of if the product is as soundproof as MLV still stands. FYI, it’s not because MuteX is lighter than and not as dense as MLV.
Can you wrap MLV?
You can twist, wrap and bend MLV anyway you want to install on surfaces of all shapes and forms. You can wrap and install it around pipes, bends, corners, vents or whatever hard-to-reach places you come across. This makes for excellent soundproofing as it covers the entire surface without leaving any gaps.
What is Mass Loaded Vinyl, and What is it Made of?
Mass loaded vinyl is a heavy vinyl sheeting material impregnated with metal particles to increase mass.
How To Install Mass Loaded Vinyl?
When constructing soundproofed ceilings, walls, and floors, it’s essential to add a non-resonant mass.
What Is Better Than Mass Loaded Vinyl?
Quietrock Drywall sheets are the best alternatives to mass loaded vinyl.
Is Mass Loaded Vinyl Better Than Green Glue?
According to an article published on the TMSoundproofing website ( Source ), mass loaded vinyl does improve wall performance in noise reduction.
A-List of Mass Loaded Vinyl Uses
For DIY soundproofing enthusiasts, the MLV sound barrier is used in different applications.
Conclusion
MLV is a great soundproofing material that deals with both low and high-frequency sounds.
How long does mass loaded vinyl sit in the sun?
Additional Tips. When you purchase your mass loaded vinyl material, you shouldn’t immediately go ahead with the installation. Instead, allow the material to sit in the environment for at least 24 hours. Don’t leave it in the sun for long hours or else it will affect the integrity of the MLV negatively.
Why is it so hard to install a MLV ceiling?
MLV ceiling installation is particularly difficult because gravity isn’t in your favor, and mass loaded vinyl is a bit heavy (which is one of the reasons for its effectiveness).
How to hold MLV in place?
An alternative to a staple gun is the use of a nail gun or screws to hold the MLV fast. Use as much as is necessary to hold the MLV in place. Continue installing this way until your entire ceiling is covered with the pieces of cut mass loaded vinyl. Place the sheets close together to avoid any space through which noise could escape.
Why do you need to soundproof the ceiling?
If you have noisy neighbors upstairs, you’ll want to soundproof the ceiling to absorb the noise from disturbing your peace. You may also want to soundproof your ceiling if you want to isolate your room noise from the rest of the building. Installing mass loaded vinyl on the ceiling is also very important if you want to have better internal ...
Why is sound insulation important?
Complete sound insulation is especially important when you need to keep the noise in or keep it out. So if your neighbors upstairs make a lot of noise, or you are noisy yourself, you might want to consider this to maintain peace and quiet.
Does the noise grabber work?
It comes in large sizes so you can do more, and its effectiveness is perfect for the job. The Noise Grabber MLV also works well. It dampens both the noise traveling through the air and the vibrations through the ceiling thanks to its high STC.
Can you install mass loaded vinyl on a ceiling?
Unlike with floor and walls mass loaded vinyl installation, it’s not as easy to install mass loaded vinyl on the ceiling. For one, mass loaded vinyl isn’t exactly a lightweight material, so keeping it up can be difficult. Another reason is gravity. You would need a lot of modifications to get the job done properly.
Why are there only a few manufacturers of mass loaded vinyl?
There are only a few manufacturers in the United States, due to the energy-intensive processes and costs associated with extruding mass loaded vinyl. Often-times it must be purchased online and shipped directly to the client’s site.
What is the primary base for mass loaded vinyl?
When it comes to Mass Loaded Vinyl, there are 2 primary polymer bases – PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC) and Ethyl Vinyl Acetate (EVA).
What additives are used to make vinyl?
The most common mass-loading additive is calcium carbonate, although in the past others were used, including lead and barium-sulfate. When the vinyl is properly mixed, it is extruded through a dye, and quickly cools and hardens onto cooling rolls, where it takes its final shape. Some extrusion lines have a variable dye, ...
Is mass loaded vinyl better than drywall?
While stacking drywall layers may get you to an STC 40-45 range, Mass Loaded Vinyl is a great option if STCs of 50 or higher are needed. They are generally cheaper than multiple layers of drywall, much faster to install, and are significantly more effective at blocking low-frequency noise. Drywall is very bad at low frequencies, so even when STCs are acceptable, the performance in the field generally appears much lower, since the low-frequency noise is audible
Does PVC have a plasticizer?
PVC is a naturally rigid product (such as vinyl siding on a home), so an additive known as a plasticizer must be added to give it flexibility. Unfortunately, plasticizers break down over time, and they “off-gas” at room temperature, leading to unpleasant odors.
Do EVA membranes need plasticizer?
EVA membranes, on the other hand, are naturally pliable, and do not require plasticizers. Other additives are included for strength, such as the carbon fiber mesh for exterior applications (known as reinforced MLV), or UV additives for applications that are exposed to the sun for long durations.
Can mass loaded vinyl block unwanted noise?
Mass Loaded Vinyl can be a very effective and flexible material to block unwanted sound when used correctly. On studio projects, movie theaters, and residential applications it can improve the STC of a wall and help attenuate excess noise. Contact a soundproofing professional if you have unique requirements for your MLV – otherwise, standard 1# Mass Loaded Vinyl can be purchased directly and installed on your project in no time.
