The 21st century homebuyer is unlike any homebuyer before. He or she is armed with knowledge and distaste for unnecessary noise. To compound matters, today's new homes are designed as open concept havens, with not a lot of partition walls to define where one room ends and another begins.

Acoustics versus Sound

Acoustics is the science of sound. Acoustics — as it relates to the home — include how sound is produced and transmitted and the effect it has on the occupants of a home. Sound is the result of waves of pressure variations in the air vibrating against our eardrums. Sound waves travel through all types of materials — including walls.

Solution for a Quieter Home

Icynene^® can significantly reduce unwanted sounds that can invade living spaces, creating a much more enjoyable indoor environment.

Sound Absorption

Sound absorption is the ability of a material to absorb sound waves, rather than reflect them. Products that have a lot of air pockets in them — such as Icynene^® open celled, low density soft foam, are good sound absorbers.

Sound Transmission Class

Sound Transmission Class is defined as the decrease in sound energy expressed in decibels of airborne sound as it passes through a structure. Icynene^® is ideal for minimizing airborne sounds in the mid-range frequencies such as human speech, home theaters and stereos. The most effective way to control these common sounds is by controlling the air movement. Since Icynene^® is classified as an air barrier; it is capable of dampening these sounds effectively.

Flanking sound is another type of sound that travels through the gaps and openings found around light fixtures, plumbing, cabling and electrical boxes. Icynene^® can effectively reduce these sounds because it is easily installed to fill and air-seal such gaps and penetrations in the wall cavity.

Airborne Sound Transmission through Ceilings

Airborne sound transmission through ceilings is the result of sound transmitted between rooms with a common attic space. This is usually an issue when you have ceilings with partition walls. Sprayed on the sub floor, Icynene^® can help reduce the airborne sound by controlling air movement between the floors.

All sound barriers have the potential to be compromised by air leaks, which allow airborne sound to penetrate. By eliminating air leakage, assemblies air-sealed with Icynene^® are able to meet optimal performance levels.

David Fransik, owner of Sierra Homes in Fredericksberg, Texas was surprised that he could sleep through a nine-car police chase in the area; the home was so quiet as if nothing happened outside. Icynene^® helped silence the police chase and also minimized unwanted sounds.

Learn more about how Icynene^® helps create Quieter spaces.

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