Is Resilient Channel Still The Best Soundproofing Method?

September 7, 2011 – Learning how sound travels and, more importantly, how it stops is crucial in understanding why resilient channel is such a powerful soundproofing technique. Speaking in generalities, there are only two ways to stop sound- either add so much mass to the wall that sound cannot penetrate, or isolate the wall so the waves have no medium to travel. Resilient channel uses the second technique of isolation to create an air gap between your drywall and your studs so that the soundwaves have no medium to pass between your walls .

Resilient channel at first glance looks just like a regular metal furring strip used to hang drywall on concrete or steel walls. However, those similarities quickly fade as you realize that the ridges have been engineered to use as little material as possible, but still be structurally sound. This is accomplished through a combination of material selection, and a honeycomb shaped stamp running down the sides of the channel. Although there is no way to actually hang your drywall in mid air, resilient channel is one of the only ways to get close.

The goal of any soundproofing material is to boost what is called your wall’s STC rating, or sound transmission class. Generally speaking, you want this number to be around 50 or higher. Resilient channel has the capability of achieving these standards easily.

However, there are new materials on the market that can achieve similar results without the hassle of ripping out your walls. For example, most of the sound that is transmitted into your home comes through the doors and windows. Before spending any money on an expensive wall upgrade, consider upgrading to triple pane windows throughout your home. Not only will your sound transmission class increase, but you’ll also see a boost in your energy savings. Only then should you continue with such a labor intensive process as soundproofing.

 

 

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