Types of Sound Mats That Can Be Laid Under Carpet

Laying a sound mat under the carpet helps prevent noise from adjacent rooms from penetrating your space, enhancing comfort. Sound mats absorb and dampen sound waves, minimizing noise transmission through floors. These mats also offer underfoot cushioning and support, making you more comfortable walking on your carpet. Here are the various types of sound mats you can lay under your carpet:

FIRM-FILL® SCM-125

The FIRM-FILL® SCM-125 sound control mat is suitable for limiting impact noise transmission in multi-unit buildings. This mat is designed to absorb impact sound from falling objects, walking, and dragging furniture. It can be ideal if your gypsum concrete pour isn't thick enough to offer needed soundproofing. Top this mat with not less than ¾ inch of FIRM-FILL® Brand Gypsum Concrete to build a low-profile sound regulating system. This sound mat addresses the cost-effective impact of insulation class (ICC) requirements and facilitates smooth floor transition between the carpet areas and the hard surface. Get licensed applicators to install your FIRM-FILL® SCM-125 mat correctly to avoid any mishaps.

FIRM-FILL® SCM-250

The FIRM-FILL® SCM-250 is designed with filaments, corrugations, and a U groove core to reduce noise impact between floors. It can be installed in both wood frame and concrete structures. When used in wood frame constructions, it increases the sound transmission class (STC) and the impact of insulation class levels. This sound control mat is appropriate to minimize high and low-frequency sounds. It facilitates tight wall construction assemblies by providing a thin profile and minimizes degradation and deflection. Use it with concrete topping to make it light and easy to handle.

FIRM-FILL® SCM-400

The FIRM-FILL® SCM-400 is used for luxurious multifamily establishments to achieve an outstanding impact of insulation class values. It prevents creep and degradation after long-term use while providing additional noise reduction if you use a thicker mat. This sound control mat can also be used in concrete structures and, wood frame constructions. A professional needs to install the mat to make sure it’s laid evenly and integrates seamlessly with your carpeted floor.

FIRM-FILL® SCM-750

FIRM-FILL® SCM-750 cost-effectively addresses high IIC and STC needs. It creates a significant air void, building extra resilience for efficient sound absorption. A thicker mat provides extra noise cancellation, making your living space quieter.

Factors to Consider When Getting a Sound Control Mat

With multiple sound mats available, looking into important factors first can help you find the right soundproofing solution for your needs. These factors include:

• Material: Your sound mat’s material will impact its performance and durability. Evaluate the material's sound absorbing and damping abilities, weight, and resilience to make an informed decision. Materials such as foamed elastomers and glass fibers are effective when controlling airborne sounds, while others like acoustic mounts and underlays work well for solid-borne sounds. Durable materials like rubber can withstand wear and tear, maintaining their soundproofing qualities for longer.

• Degree of noise: Understand the level of noise you want to address to get a sound control mat with properties that match your noise characteristics. look into factors like noise intensity, duration, frequency, and transmission path to determine the degree of your noise. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from professionals to get recommendations for an ideal mat based on your noise needs.

• Environmental factors: Assess the environmental factors of the property you want to soundproof to find a sound control mat that suits your specific environment. look for signs of moisture and potential leaks like mold growth and research your space's average temperature. If your building experiences high temperatures, get a mat made from a heat-resistant material like rubber. Prioritize sound mats with moisture-resistant properties to soundproof areas like bathrooms.

Choose the Right Sound Mat

Getting a suitable sound control mat enhances noise control in your space, creating a quieter environment. Find a licensed applicator to guide you on suitable sound mat options to address your noise pollution concerns. They have the skills and expertise to conduct proper installation to prevent noise penetration.