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
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Create a Decoupled (Suspended) Ceiling:
- Install resilient bars or isolation hangers below the existing joists to break the direct path of vibration.
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Fill the Cavity with Acoustic Mineral Wool:
- Dense mineral wool absorbs airborne noise inside the ceiling void.
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Add Mass with Plasterboard and Soundproofing Mat:
- Fix two layers of acoustic plasterboard to the bars, with 5kg Soundproofing Mat or Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) sandwiched between them.
- Use Green Glue Joist Tape on all joist interfaces to reduce structural vibration.
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Seal All Perimeters and Gaps:
- Use acoustic sealant around the ceiling edges, light fittings, and any penetrations.
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Finish and Decorate:
- Tape, skim, and paint as usual for a seamless appearance.
Advanced Acoustics Ceiling Soundproofing Systems
We’ve bundled our most effective ceiling solutions into complete systems—so you get the right products, fast.
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.
Get a Tailored Quote or Ask an Expert
Still unsure which system is right for your ceiling?
- Use our Soundproofing System Calculator for a custom recommendation
- Call us: 01623 643609 (Mon–Fri, 9–4:30)
- Contact us online for expert advice—responses within 24 hours