Why Cement Floorboards Are Best for Soundproofing

Soundproofing is essential for creating a peaceful and quiet environment, whether it's in your home, office, or studio. One effective way to achieve this is by installing cement floorboards. These floorboards are known for their ability to reduce noise and provide several other benefits that make them stand out from other flooring options.

Cement floorboards are not only excellent at isolating sound but also incredibly durable. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and last for many years without showing signs of wear and tear. This makes them a great investment for any space that requires effective soundproofing and long-term durability.

In this article, we'll explore the various advantages of cement floorboards for soundproofing. We'll also look at what you need to know before installing them, compare them to other types of flooring, and share tips on how to maximise their soundproofing efficiency. By the end, you'll understand why cement floorboards are the ultimate choice for soundproof floors.

Advantages of Cement Floorboards for Soundproofing

Superior Sound Isolation

Cement floorboards excel at sound isolation. They are dense and heavy, which helps block sound transmission between floors. This makes them ideal for homes, offices, and studios where noise reduction is essential. Unlike lighter materials, such as wood, cement effectively absorbs and dampens sound waves, preventing them from passing through.

Installing cement floorboards reduces the noise from footsteps, dropped objects, and moving furniture. These floorboards provide a quiet and serene environment, which is particularly useful in multi-storey buildings where noise from above can be a nuisance. This superior sound isolation means you won't be disturbed by everyday noises, making your space more comfortable and peaceful.

Durability and Longevity

Cement floorboards are known for their durability and longevity. They are strong and resistant to wear and tear, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. Unlike wood or carpet, cement does not degrade quickly, even under constant use. This makes cement floorboards a long-lasting solution, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

These floorboards are also resistant to damage from moisture and pests, which can be a common issue with other materials. Their robust nature ensures that they remain intact for many years, providing stable and reliable flooring. Investing in cement floorboards means you can enjoy durable and effective soundproofing for the long term, without worrying about maintenance issues.

Installation Considerations

Easy Installation Steps

Installing cement floorboards can be straightforward if you follow a few simple steps. First, prepare the area by cleaning and levelling the subfloor. This ensures a smooth and stable surface for the cement boards. Next, measure and cut the cement boards to fit the room's dimensions. Use a saw designed for cutting cement to avoid any difficulties.

After cutting, lay the cement boards in place, leaving a small gap between the walls and the boards to allow for expansion. Use a special adhesive to fix the boards to the subfloor, ensuring they are securely attached. Finally, seal the joints with a cement-compatible sealant to prevent any gaps that might allow sound to pass through. Following these steps ensures an effective and professional installation.

Tools and Materials Needed

To install cement floorboards, you will need the right tools and materials. Here is a handy list to get you started:

• Cement Floorboards: Choose the right size and thickness for your project.
• Measuring Tape: To measure the room dimensions accurately.
• Saw: A saw suitable for cutting cement.
• Adhesive: A strong adhesive compatible with cement.
• Sealant: To seal the joints between boards.
• Trowel: For applying adhesive evenly.
• Level: To ensure the subfloor and cement boards are perfectly flat.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, goggles, and a dust mask to protect yourself while cutting and handling cement boards.

Using the correct tools and materials makes the installation process smoother and helps achieve better results. Ensure you have everything ready before starting to avoid interruptions and ensure a seamless installation.

Cement Floorboards and Other Flooring Options

Cement Floorboards as a Substrate

Cement floorboards are primarily designed to serve as a sturdy and reliable substrate. They are intended to have finishing surfaces such as carpet, wooden flooring, or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) installed on top. This versatility allows for a wide range of aesthetic finishes while benefitting from the strength and durability of cement.

Specifically crafted to replace traditional floor materials, cement floorboards provide an excellent foundation when installed on top of timber or steel joists. Their sturdy nature offers an ideal base for various top-layer materials, ensuring a stable and durable flooring solution.

In terms of soundproofing, cement floorboards are denser than wood, making them an excellent choice for reducing noise transmission between floors. Their superior sound isolation capabilities set them apart from wood floorboards, which tend to amplify sound. 

Comparative Benefits of Top Finishes

While wooden floorboards are admired for their visual appeal, cement floorboards shine when noise reduction and safety are priorities. By serving as a strong, versatile base, cement floorboards elevate the performance of the final floor finish chosen, whether that is carpet for cushioning or wood for aesthetic warmth.

Cement floorboards' adaptability and innate advantages ensure they remain a practical, long-lasting foundation for various finishing surfaces, combining the best of both strength and style.

Maximising Soundproofing with Cement Floorboards

Additional Soundproofing Tips

To get the best results from cement floorboards, it's useful to integrate additional soundproofing methods. One effective tip is adding an underlay. Placing an acoustic underlay beneath the finished surface can further reduce sound transmission. This combination addresses both impact noise and airborne noise, creating a quieter space.  Another effective step is to introduce a decoupling layer before installing the cement will help to improve isolation further.

Another tip is sealing any gaps around the edges of the cement floorboards. Use a high-quality sealant to close any gaps where sound might escape. Ensuring a tight fit not only helps with soundproofing but also contributes to the floor's overall stability and durability.

Consider combining cement floorboards with other soundproofing materials such as acoustic foam panels for walls and ceilings. This can enhance the room's overall sound isolation, resulting in a more peaceful environment. These additional measures maximise the benefits of using cement floorboards for soundproofing.

Conclusion

Cement floorboards provide an excellent solution for those looking to soundproof their floors. Their superior sound isolation, durability, and ease of maintenance make them a top choice for many applications. Whether you are comparing them to wood or carpet, the benefits of cement floorboards are clear. They offer robust, long-lasting performance and contribute to a quieter and more comfortable environment.

To maximise the effectiveness of cement floorboards, consider additional soundproofing tips and proper maintenance practices. With these steps, you can ensure that your space remains peaceful and quiet for years to come.

Ready to transform your flooring with cement floorboards? Explore Advanced Acoustics for all your soundproofing needs. Enhance your space with our expert solutions and enjoy a quieter, more serene environment today!