What is the difference between soundproofing and sound absorbing?

Soundproofing

Soundproofing, sound insulation or sound blocking is isolating the sound that escapes a space. The sound within the space is not affected and will be heard as loud as it would in spite of sound proofing.

Soundproofing may even have an amplifying effect on the acoustics of the room by increasing the intensity, echo and reverberation of the sound.

Soundproofing is done to stop sound waves travelling from one space through to others. If your room’s window is next to a busy highway that keeps you up at night. You may want to consider your soundproofing options.

Sound absorbing

Where soundproofing works to block sound, sound absorbing works to absorb and dissipate the sound. This can be done with acoustic panels that reduce the intensity of the sound overall within the space and outside of it. For example, you would soundproof your garage if you just bought your child a drum kit.

When walls make use of acoustic panels the sound that does travel through neighbouring walls will still be there, but much quieter than it would have been without them.

Soundproofing and sound absorbing

A combination of these two methods is often most effective when attempting to treat the acoustic issues of a space.

If you have decided to build a studio to record music in your home you will need a combination of the two. Soundproofing to prevent outside sounds from interfering and sound absorption for the same reason as well as reduced echo and reverberation.

The best way to soundproof your home

To keep out those frustrating noises from outside while you sleep, the easiest solution is to opt for double glazed glass for your windows and doors. When double-glazed glass is paired with an aluminium frame you have the ultimate soundproofing combo. Are your noisy neighbours keeping your new born awake in the nursery? Soundproof the windows so that you and your baby can get some much-needed rest.

Windows and doors are the most vulnerable spaces through which noise can enter, and exit, a space. Once these areas have been attended to the noise problem may be completely resolved. If you want to keep the hustle and bustle of the city out of your bedroom make use of aluminium windows in Johannesburg with double-glazed glass.