Acoustic membranes are dense, flexible layers used to add mass within wall, floor and ceiling soundproofing systems. They are particularly useful where you need meaningful airborne-noise control without adding a very thick layer to the construction.
They should not be treated as a complete soundproofing solution on their own. The best results normally come from combining a membrane with cavity insulation, suitable board layers, isolation where required and careful sealing. Browse our full acoustic membranes and MLV range before choosing a product.
What does an acoustic membrane actually do?
A membrane adds mass to an assembly, making it harder for airborne sound such as speech, television and music to pass through. Flexible membranes can also be useful where a dense layer needs to follow a surface without taking up the depth of a rigid board.
Membranes are most commonly used as part of:
- party-wall and stud-wall upgrades;
- decoupled wall linings;
- ceiling soundproofing systems;
- floor build-ups where additional mass is required;
- studio and cinema-room constructions.
Which membrane should you choose?
TECSOUND SY100
TECSOUND SY100 Self Adhesive Acoustic Membrane is a 10kg/m² self-adhesive membrane. It is useful where substantial mass is required and a self-adhesive backing helps with installation on a suitable prepared surface.
TECSOUND 50
TECSOUND 50 provides a lighter Tecsound option for suitable wall, floor and ceiling systems where the build-up or weight requirement differs.
Mass Loaded Vinyl
Our Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) is another flexible high-mass barrier option. Product choice should be based on the complete build-up, not simply on which membrane is heaviest.
What should go with an acoustic membrane?
For a wall or ceiling cavity, pair the membrane with an appropriate acoustic mineral wool such as RWA45, RW3, Knauf APR or ISOVER APR, depending on the cavity and specification.
For added lining mass, products such as Gyproc SoundBloc or SPK15 Sand Board can form part of the system. Where vibration transfer is a problem, consider clips and channels rather than relying on mass alone.
How to install an acoustic membrane
- Inspect the substrate. Repair loose or damaged areas and identify all penetrations before starting.
- Plan the sheet layout. Minimise unnecessary small pieces and awkward seams.
- Prepare the surface. Self-adhesive membranes need a clean, dry and stable substrate.
- Cut accurately. Keep coverage continuous around corners, edges and services.
- Follow the manufacturer's jointing details. Overlaps, butt joints and fixing methods vary by product.
- Seal weak points. Use a suitable acoustic sealant such as AC50 where the system requires flexible perimeter sealing.
- Complete the lining carefully. Avoid unnecessary penetrations or fixings that undermine the system.
Common mistakes
- Leaving gaps at the perimeter or around services.
- Assuming a membrane alone will solve footfall or structural vibration.
- Installing a self-adhesive membrane onto dusty or unstable surfaces.
- Ignoring flanking noise through adjoining walls, floors or ceilings.
- Adding substantial weight without checking the supporting structure and fixing system.
- Choosing a product by thickness alone instead of considering mass per square metre and the full assembly.
Where should membranes be used?
For party walls and stud walls, start with our wall soundproofing range. For noise from above, see ceiling soundproofing. For floors, especially where impact noise is also involved, use the floor soundproofing range rather than assuming a membrane alone will solve the problem.
For help matching Tecsound, MLV, mineral wool and boards to your construction, contact Soundproofing King with the dimensions, existing build-up and type of noise.
