Why Does Noise Travel Through Ceilings?

  • Impact noise: Created by footsteps, moving furniture, or dropped items—travels directly through floors and joists.
  • Airborne noise: Voices, TV, or music can pass through gaps or poorly insulated ceilings.
  • Most UK flats and houses have timber joist ceilings, which easily transmit both types of noise unless properly isolated and treated.
  • Key reason: Lack of mass, isolation, or absorption lets noise through.

 

Basic Step-by-Step: How to Soundproof a Ceiling Against Upstairs Noise

 

  1. Create a Decoupled (Suspended) Ceiling:
    • Install resilient bars or isolation hangers below the existing joists to break the direct path of vibration.
  2. Fill the Cavity with Acoustic Mineral Wool:
    • Dense mineral wool absorbs airborne noise inside the ceiling void.
  3. Add Mass with Plasterboard and Soundproofing Mat:
  4. Seal All Perimeters and Gaps:
    • Use acoustic sealant around the ceiling edges, light fittings, and any penetrations.
  5. Finish and Decorate:
    • Tape, skim, and paint as usual for a seamless appearance.

Advanced Acoustics Ceiling Soundproofing Systems


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 Installation Tips & Common Mistakes


  • Always decouple the ceiling for best results—direct fixing won’t stop impact noise.
  • Fill all voids with dense mineral wool for airborne noise absorption.
  • Use two layers of plasterboard and stagger the joints.
  • Don’t forget to seal around all edges, light fittings, and pipes.
  • If in doubt, ask for advice—our team responds within 24 hours.

 

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