If you plan to sound proof your floor, you should read this blog.

First, one should consider the difference between sound proofing and increasing sound absorption (improving acoustics) before buying flooring. A floor that helps to increase sound absorption will help to absorb sound vibrations, therefore reducing the ability for sound waves to bounce off the floor and travel around the room which means less echoing. A floor that is sound proof means it will block sound from traveling through floors, walls, and other partitions, therefore keeping the sound contained in the room.

Sound proof floors are commonly needed in multi–level homes, where sounds commonly travel through the flooring into rooms below, or in lawyer’s offices and other areas where confidentiality is a must.

Sound absorption is most needed in a room where sound quality and speech clarity are a must. For example, home theatres, auditoriums, or conference rooms require sound absorbing materials to enhance their sound properties. For these rooms, choose flooring materials that are built to enhance acoustics.

For more information on the different types of sound transmissions and choosing sound proof floors, visit FindAnyFloor’s section on sound and flooring.