Four things to consider before installing acoustic panels
Acoustic panels absorb sound and enhance sound quality in homes and businesses. They can be done as a DIY project or professionally installed. These are four things to consider before you commit to an acoustic panelling project.
1. What is it that acoustic panels can and cannot do?
You may be wondering if acoustic panels are able to soundproof a room. The short answer is no, panels do not provide full soundproofing. However, they do improve acoustics and block some outside noise. Even though they don't provide complete soundproofing, excess noise will be reduced as acoustic panels trap sound in and reduce echoing. If you wish to soundproof your room, you will need additional materials.
2. Does your space require acoustic panels?
Before you commit to purchasing the materials in the next part, consider whether your home or business needs acoustic panels. Home theatres, busy restaurants and bars are some spaces that greatly benefit from the installation of acoustic panels. However, regular living rooms and smaller cafes will not benefit as much and the cost may not be worth it.
Acoustic panelling can be fitted to the walls or ceilings. Make sure that you have enough space to hang the panels before getting started.
3. What materials do you need for acoustic panelling?
Unless you are running a professional recording studio, you will not need top of the range materials. So to keep costs down, you can use materials that will get the job done but not be prohibitively expensive. The thicker the material, the more sound it will absorb.
Firstly, you need a base material that will absorb sound. Acoustic wood and soundproofing foam are two materials that will work while not stretching your budget to its breaking point.
You will also need frames for the sound absorbing material to fit into. These should be made out of wood and cut to specification. Decorative material can be placed over the top to finish it off.
4. DIY or professional?
Acoustic panels are a relatively easy DIY project and can be done cheaply for things such as home theaters. However, you may want to look at hiring a professional if you are installing your panels in a place of business such as a bar or nightclub.
The advantage of DIY acoustic panels is that you can custom design and cut your panels to fit your room and space. However, the professional route may be needed for larger projects and rooms or just harder to reach areas.
There are several things to consider before installing acoustic panelling. Before committing to acoustic panel installation, consider the above four points.