How to Soundproof with Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Shaun Snaith

When it comes to effective soundproofing, Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) stands as a versatile and reliable solution. Whether you're tackling noise issues in your home, office, or studio, this step-by-step guide will help you make the most of MLV to create a quieter and more peaceful environment.

Materials You'll Need:

Before you begin, ensure you have the following materials on hand:

  1. Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) rolls
  2. High Strength Contact Adhesive 
  3. Utility knife
  4. Clean brush or roller
  5. PVC Jointing Tape
  6. 15mm Acoustic Plasterboard 
  7. AC95 Acoustic Sealant
  8. Acoustic backbox (if needed for sockets or switches)
  9. Safety gear (gloves, eye protection)

Step 1: Preparation

  • Ensure the wall you intend to soundproof is sound, clean, and free from defects. Remove any obstacles, including skirting, covings, wallpaper, and loose paint. If there are sockets or light switches, consult a trained electrician to isolate them temporarily.

Step 2: Apply Adhesive to Wall

  • Starting in the top left corner of the wall, apply an even layer of adhesive to the mounting surface, ensuring it covers an area slightly larger than the size of your Mass Loaded Vinyl sheets or rolls.

Step 3: Apply Adhesive to MLV

  • Apply adhesive to one side of the MLV sheets or rolls, ensuring complete coverage. You can apply adhesive to any side of the MLV.

Step 4: Install MLV

  • Once adhesive is applied, immediately place the MLV sheets or rolls on the wall, starting from the top left corner and working your way down to the floor. Ensure there are no gaps and that the MLV hangs to the floor.

Step 5: Press and Trim

  • Use a clean brush or roller to press the Mass Loaded Vinyl into place, removing any air gaps and ensuring a strong bond between the wall and MLV.
  • Trim any excess MLV at the bottom of the wall, reapply adhesive, and seal it in place. If needed, cut holes for sockets or switches in the correct locations.

Step 6: Repeat for Additional Layers (Optional)

  • If you desire additional soundproofing, repeat the mounting process with additional layers of MLV, slightly overlapping the joints between rolls. Ensure there are no gaps between layers and seal all joints with PVC Jointing Tape.

Step 7: Install Acoustic Plasterboard

  • Next install 15mm Acoustic Plasterboard over the MLV. Apply adhesive to both the previously mounted MLV and the back of the plasterboard sheet, ensuring complete coverage.
  • Offer the plasterboard into place, leaving a 5mm gap between the plasterboard sheet and the adjoining wall. Stagger the joints for added effectiveness.
  • Seal the gaps with AC95 Acoustic Sealant, and cut holes for sockets or switches if necessary.

Step 8: Finalize Soundproofing

  • If you've added multiple layers, complete the process for the final layer of 15mm Acoustic Plasterboard.
  • Seal the remaining gaps with AC95 Acoustic Sealant and fit acoustic backboxes for sockets or switches.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

  • Your soundproofed wall is now ready for further finishing. It can be skimmed or tape and jointed as needed.
  • Reinstate any skirting, covings, sockets, and switches with the assistance of a qualified electrician.

Your newly soundproofed wall, with a system thickness of approximately 45mm, is now equipped to provide excellent noise reduction and a more peaceful environment.

Now, enjoy the tranquillity of your space, free from unwanted noise disturbances.

Need help in calculating the quantity of materials you'll need?  Don't worry we've all the calculations for you with our quantity calculators.