How can you reduce structure-borne noise?

Structure-borne noise, also known as structural noise, occurs when sound vibrations are transmitted through solid materials such as walls, floors, and ceilings. It can be caused by footsteps, machinery, vibrations from traffic, or other mechanical movements. Unlike airborne sound, which travels through the air and can be dampened with sound absorbers, structure-borne sound requires specific measures to break it down and prevent it from spreading through the building's structure.

Reducing structure-borne sound involves using materials and techniques that absorb or break the vibrations before they propagate further. One of the most effective solutions is to use decoupling construction methods where floors, walls, and ceilings are separated by elastic fasteners or sound-absorbing layers. Floating floors, where a damping layer is installed between the floor and the subfloor, are a common method of reducing sound transmission in residential and commercial properties.

When renovating or building new, the use of sound-insulating underlays, such as acoustic mats or sound-absorbing boards, can have a major impact on reducing vibrations. These materials absorb energy and reduce the resonance that can otherwise spread sound throughout the entire structure of the building.

For existing buildings, one solution may be to install extra layers of plasterboard on the walls with sound-absorbing membranes or insulating materials between the layers. This creates a more flexible structure that reduces sound transmission. Using elastic suspension systems for ceilings can also help prevent structure-borne noise from spreading between floors.

Machines, pipes, and other fixed installations can be a major source of structure-borne noise. By installing vibration-damping mounts and insulation material between, for example, washing machines, heat pumps, and walls, sound transmission can be significantly reduced. In industrial environments, rubber or spring-based damping systems are often used to handle powerful vibrations.

In apartment buildings, structure-borne noise can be a major problem, especially in older buildings where the construction lacks modern sound insulation. By combining several solutions, such as sound-insulating underlay, soft flooring materials, and acoustic panels, you can create a more pleasant sound environment for yourself and your neighbors.

Structure-borne noise affects not only private homes but also work environments, restaurants, and public spaces where high noise levels can cause stress and difficulty concentrating. By investing in effective sound insulation solutions, you can create a more comfortable and productive environment.

Reducing structure-borne noise is an investment in quality of life, well-being, and efficiency. By identifying the source of the noise and implementing the right solutions, you can create a quieter and more harmonious environment, whether in homes, offices, or commercial premises.

Advantages of soundproofing and reducing structure-borne noise

Reducing structure-borne noise and improving the sound environment has many benefits for both individuals and businesses. Whether it's a home, workplace, school, or public environment, soundproofing can make a big difference. By reducing vibrations and sound transmission, a more pleasant and functional sound environment is created, contributing to better health, increased productivity, and a higher quality of life.

A quiet and comfortable living environment
Structure-borne noise can affect everyday life in many ways. Noise from neighbors, traffic, or other sources can make it difficult to relax and get a good night's sleep. By reducing structure-borne noise, you can create a more harmonious home environment where noise disturbances are minimized. This leads to improved sleep quality, lower stress levels, and a greater sense of calm in the home.

Increased productivity and better working environment
In workplaces, noise disturbances are one of the most common factors that negatively affect concentration. Reducing structure-borne noise creates a better working environment where employees can focus on their tasks without being disturbed by noise from other parts of the building. Less noise leads to higher productivity, better communication, and a positive work experience.

Better health and well-being
Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can have negative effects on health. Noise and structure-borne noise can contribute to increased stress, sleep problems, and even high blood pressure. By soundproofing walls, floors, and ceilings, you can create a healthier environment where both physical and mental health are improved.

Increased privacy and better confidentiality
In environments where privacy is crucial, such as offices, meeting rooms, or healthcare facilities, soundproofing can play an important role. By reducing sound leakage and preventing conversations from being heard outside the room, sensitive information can be protected. This creates a safer environment for both employees and customers.

Higher property value and more attractive housing
Acoustic comfort is an important factor when buying a home and valuing property. Homes and buildings that offer effective sound insulation become more attractive on the market and can have a higher value. For property owners and housing developers, soundproofing is an investment that increases the quality and competitiveness of the building.

More sustainable and environmentally friendly urban planning
Reduced noise levels contribute to a more pleasant and sustainable urban environment. By reducing noise pollution, better conditions are created for both residents and businesses to thrive. Quieter areas can also increase the overall quality of life and make urban environments more attractive.

Greater flexibility in the use of space
When noise problems are reduced, different parts of a building can be used more flexibly. For example, an office can be used for both meetings and focused work without employees being disturbed by noise from other parts of the premises. At home, a room can serve as both a workplace and a living room without noise levels becoming a problem.

Optimal sound environment in educational settings
In schools, libraries, and other learning environments, good acoustics are crucial for pupils and students to be able to concentrate. Sound absorption helps to create a calm and focused environment where learning is improved and distractions are minimized.

Improved acoustics in event venues and concert halls
Theaters, concert halls, and other event venues depend on a controlled sound environment. Soundproofing helps optimize acoustics and ensures that the sound experience is clear and pleasant for the audience.

Good neighbor relations in apartment buildings
Noise problems are one of the most common causes of neighbor conflicts. By reducing structure-borne noise in apartment buildings, disturbing noise from neighbors can be reduced, creating a better living environment and reducing the risk of irritation and complaints.

Quieter and more focused care environments
Hospitals and healthcare facilities need calm environments for patients to recover and staff to work effectively. Soundproofing walls, floors, and ceilings can reduce stress and noise, creating a more harmonious and healing atmosphere.

Improved communication and speech perception
In workplaces, schools, and public places, noise can make it difficult to hear and understand what others are saying. Reducing background noise makes communication easier, improving collaboration and reducing the need to repeat oneself.

Creating a creative and inspiring environment
For artistic and creative spaces, such as music studios and art studios, a good sound environment is crucial. Soundproofing helps to create a calm and focused atmosphere where creativity can flourish without disturbing noise from the surrounding environment.

An investment in better quality of life
Soundproofing and reducing structure-borne noise have far-reaching benefits, ranging from increased living comfort and a better working environment to improved health and sustainability. By using the right soundproofing materials and strategic solutions, you can create an environment where people feel comfortable, communicate better, and enjoy a more harmonious everyday life.

What is structure-borne noise and how can it be reduced?

Structure-borne noise is a common problem in buildings and occurs when vibrations are transmitted through materials and structures, creating noise that can be disturbing both within a room and in adjacent spaces. This phenomenon often occurs in connection with music, footsteps, furniture being moved, or other sound sources that cause floors, walls, and ceilings to vibrate. The term structure-borne noise is often used as a general term, but there are several other terms depending on the source of the sound and the method of transmission. Regardless of what it is called, structure-borne sound can be challenging to manage, especially in homes, work environments, and music studios where a controlled sound environment is important.

Different types of structure-borne sound and how they affect the sound environment

Footfall noise and floor vibrations
When structure-borne sound is caused by movements on a floor, such as footsteps or furniture being moved, it is usually referred to as footfall noise. In apartment buildings and office environments, this can be a recurring problem as the vibrations propagate through the structure of the building. To reduce these sounds, sound-absorbing floor underlays, carpets, and vibration-damping materials can be used.

Structure-borne noise – vibrations through the building's frame
Structural noise occurs when sound vibrations travel through walls, floors, and ceilings. This type of sound transmission can be particularly problematic in buildings with thin walls or hard materials that easily conduct sound. Sound-absorbing measures such as acoustic panels, insulation materials, and vibration-damping constructions can help reduce structural noise.

Sound transmission through construction
When sound spreads through the solid materials of a building, such as walls, floors, and ceilings, it is often referred to as sound transmission through construction. This is one of the most difficult sound problems to remedy because the sound spreads throughout the entire building. Sound-insulating materials and strategic placement of sound absorbers can help reduce sound transmission.

Airborne sound and its connection to structure-borne sound
Although structure-borne sound mainly occurs through vibrations in materials, it can also be combined with airborne sound. Leaky doors, windows, or walls can cause the sound to spread further. By using seals, sound-absorbing curtains, and acoustic screens, you can reduce the spread of sound through the air.

Vibration noise and its impact on the environment
When sound vibrations are transmitted through a building, it can create an unpleasant sound environment for those nearby. Vibration noise can come from machines, musical instruments, or other sources that generate strong vibrations. To deal with this, vibration-damping materials and specially designed underlays can be used to isolate and dampen the vibrations.

Penetrating sound and its effects
If sound penetrates walls, ceilings, or floors and affects adjacent rooms or apartments, it is called penetrating sound. This type of sound is particularly disturbing in multi-family buildings or work environments where sound propagation can interfere with concentration and well-being. By combining sound insulation, acoustic panels, and vibration-damping materials, it is possible to create a more controlled sound environment.

How can you reduce structure-borne noise?

Dealing with structure-borne noise often requires a combination of measures. Here are some effective methods for reducing and controlling structure-borne noise in different environments:

- Use vibration-damping materials Placing vibration-damping plates or mats under furniture and instruments can reduce the transmission of sound vibrations.

Optimize floors, walls, and ceilings with sound-insulating materials
Sound-insulating floor underlays, wall panels, and ceiling absorbers can help reduce the spread of structural noise.

Seal doors and windows to reduce sound transmission
Unsealed doors and windows can amplify sound propagation. Using sealing tape, sound-absorbing curtains, and sound-insulating doors can reduce both structure-borne and airborne noise.

Place sound absorbers strategically
Installing sound-absorbing panels in strategic locations can reduce sound reflections and improve the acoustics in the room.

Build a vibration-damping podium
If structure-borne noise is a major problem, a specially built vibration-damping podium can help isolate sound vibrations and reduce the spread of sound.

A combination of measures gives the best results
Since structure-borne noise can spread in several different ways, a single measure rarely solves the problem completely. By combining sound insulation, acoustic measures, and vibration damping, you can create a more harmonious and controlled sound environment. Identifying the source of the noise and adapting the measures to the conditions of the building is crucial to achieving the best possible results.

How does structure-borne noise occur and how can it be minimized?

Structure-borne noise, also known as structural noise, is sound vibrations that are transmitted through a building's structure. These vibrations can originate from a variety of sources and are transmitted through floors, walls, ceilings, and other structural elements. Unlike airborne sound, which is transmitted through the air, structure-borne sound travels through solid materials and can therefore be more difficult to dampen. To create a more comfortable sound environment, it is important to understand how structure-borne sound occurs and what measures can be taken to minimize its impact.

Common sources of structure-borne noise
One of the most common causes of structure-borne noise is activities that generate vibrations, such as footsteps on floors, doors closing, or machines in operation. Floors and walls can act as resonance surfaces, amplifying and spreading the sound further throughout the building's structure. In apartment buildings, this can lead to neighbors experiencing disturbing noise from adjacent dwellings, while in office environments it can affect work peace and productivity. In multi-story buildings, structure-borne noise can be transmitted between floors through the floor structure. For example, the sound of footsteps on an upper floor can spread through the floor and be clearly heard in the room below. Heavy objects dropped on the floor can also generate powerful vibrations that spread through the structure of the building. Walls can also be a source of structure-borne noise if they are not properly insulated. Activities in a room, such as conversations, music, or TV sounds, can cause vibrations that travel through the walls to adjacent rooms. The material and construction of the walls have a significant impact on how much sound is transmitted.

Structure-borne noise through the building's technical systems
Buildings are often equipped with technical systems that can generate structure-borne noise. Ventilation systems are one such factor, where noise from fans and air currents can spread through ducts and affect the noise level throughout the property. If these systems are not properly insulated, the vibrations can be transmitted through the ducts to several rooms. Pipes are another source of structure-borne noise. Noise from water flow, flushing toilets, or drain pipes can be transmitted through walls and floors. Older properties with poorly insulated pipe systems may be particularly prone to this problem. Elevators and stairwells are additional factors to consider. Noise from elevator motors can spread through walls and floors, especially if the elevator is located near residential or work areas. In buildings with stairs, the sound of people walking or running up and down can cause strong vibrations that spread through the staircase structure.

External noise sources and structure-borne noise
In addition to noise generated inside the building, structure-borne noise can also be caused by external factors. Traffic noise, construction work, or other sounds from the surrounding environment can travel through walls, ceilings, and windows, creating disturbing vibrations indoors. If a building is located near a railway or a busy road, sound vibrations from vehicles and trains can create structure-borne noise that affects the living environment. Pets can also contribute to structure-borne noise. Dogs running indoors or cats jumping down from high places can cause vibrations that are transmitted through the floor.

How can structure-borne noise be minimized?
Reducing structure-borne noise requires a combination of measures tailored to the specific conditions of the building. One of the most effective methods is to use sound-insulating materials in new construction or renovation.

- Floor insulation is an important part of reducing structure-borne noise. By using impact sound-absorbing underlays, floating floor constructions, or sound-absorbing carpets, vibrations can be significantly reduced. In new construction, elastic intermediate layers between the floor and joists can reduce sound transmission between floors.

- When it comes to walls, it is important to use sound-insulating board material and fill the gaps with acoustic insulation. Double wall constructions with an air gap between the walls can be an effective solution for reducing sound transmission between rooms.

- Ceiling absorbers can help reduce structure-borne noise transmitted through the ceiling, especially in rooms where sound is reflected from hard surfaces. Installing sound-absorbing panels on the ceiling can reduce both reverberation and structure-borne noise.

- For technical installations such as ventilation systems and pipes, it is important to use vibration-damping mounts and insulation to prevent sound from spreading through the building structure.

- Sealed doors and windows are another important factor. Installing soundproof doors and using sealing strips can reduce sound transmission between different rooms.

Create a more pleasant sound environment
Structure-borne noise is a common cause of noise disturbance in buildings and can have a major impact on living and working environments. Sound transmitted through floors, walls, ceilings, and technical systems can be difficult to control, but by using the right soundproofing measures, you can create a quieter and more comfortable environment. By identifying the main sources of structure-borne noise and taking appropriate measures, you can reduce disturbances and improve sound comfort in both homes and workplaces. A combination of floor insulation, sound absorbers, vibration-damping materials, and tight doors and windows provides the best results. Sound insulation is a long-term investment that not only improves quality of life but can also increase property value and create a more harmonious environment for everyone in the building.

Identify the source – the first step towards effective noise reduction

Identifying the source of the noise is always the first and most important step in noise reduction, but in practice this can be challenging. The best and most cost-effective solution is always to dampen the sound as close to its source as possible, but this is not always feasible. Structure-borne noise can have many different causes, from traffic noise and neighbors' activities to vibrations from household appliances or the building's technical installations. In some cases, it is impossible to eliminate the source of the noise, especially if it comes from outside or from another residence. When it is not possible to influence the source of the noise, the next best solution is to focus on dampening the noise in the room where it is most disturbing, such as a bedroom or a study where a quiet sound environment is particularly important.

Soundproof walls, floors, and ceilings to minimize structure-borne noise
If structure-borne noise enters a room through walls, floors, or ceilings, soundproofing is an effective method of reducing sound transmission. By using soundproofing materials and techniques, you can significantly reduce the amount of sound transmitted through the building's structure. Soundproofing measures can include installing acoustic panels on the walls, laying impact sound insulation material under the floor covering, or using acoustic panels on the ceiling to reduce reverberation and sound reflections. Our soundproofing knowledge portal contains detailed information on how different surfaces can be soundproofed to create a more comfortable indoor environment.

Building a room within a room – the most comprehensive soundproofing solution
In some cases, the only effective solution is to build a so-called "room within a room." This involves constructing a freestanding structure inside an existing room, where the walls, floor, and ceiling are completely detached from the original building structure. This method is extremely effective because it eliminates direct contact between the interior room and the building frame, which in turn greatly reduces structure-borne noise and vibrations. However, this is a complex and costly measure that requires careful planning and implementation. Our guide to building a soundproof room provides more information on how this can be done effectively.

Soundproofing in rental apartments and other limited spaces
For those who live in a rental apartment or a home where major soundproofing measures are not permitted, reducing structure-borne noise can be a challenge. Many landlords do not allow walls, floors, or ceilings to be rebuilt, which means that more flexible solutions are required. In these cases, sound absorbers are an excellent alternative. By strategically placing sound absorbers in the room, you can reduce reverberation and reflective sound waves, creating a more pleasant sound environment. Wall-mounted sound absorbers, ceiling-mounted panels, and sound-absorbing carpets can be very effective in reducing the noise level in a room without requiring permanent changes to the home. In our guide to soundproofing with sound absorbers, you can read more about how these products can be used to create a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

Create a quieter environment with the right measures
Reducing structure-borne noise requires a combination of analysis and customized solutions. The most effective approach is always to dampen the sound at its source, but when this is not possible, sound insulation and sound absorption can be powerful alternatives. By soundproofing walls, floors, and ceilings, sound propagation can be limited, while a room-in-room system can be the ultimate solution for those who want to create a completely isolated sound environment. For those who live in a rental apartment or a home with limited opportunities to change the construction, sound absorbers can be a convenient and effective method of reducing noise disturbances. Regardless of the method used, it is important to choose the right measure for each specific situation. With the right strategy, structure-borne noise can be managed effectively and a more pleasant sound environment can be created.

Other methods for soundproofing and reducing structure-borne noise

Structure-borne noise is one of the most common challenges when it comes to sound control in homes, offices, and other buildings. These sound vibrations are transmitted through the structure of the building and can be difficult to dampen if the right measures are not taken. By using a combination of sound-absorbing materials, smart building solutions, and strategic placement of furnishings, structure-borne noise can be significantly reduced.

Use sound-insulating materials to minimize sound transmission
Choosing the right sound-insulating materials is crucial for reducing the transmission of structure-borne noise. Foam materials, mineral wool, and sound-absorbing carpets are effective solutions for dampening vibrations and reducing the spread of sound. These materials can be installed under floor coverings, in walls, and ceilings to absorb and block sound vibrations before they spread further through the building. Sound-absorbing ceiling materials can also play an important role in reducing sound levels between floors. Installing acoustic panels or sound-insulating boards in the ceiling can limit sound reflections and vibration transmission, creating a quieter environment.

Seal structures and prevent sound leakage
Gaps in floors, walls, and ceilings can be a major cause of structure-borne noise transmission. By carefully sealing cracks and joints around windows, doors, and other openings, sound transmission can be significantly reduced. Sealing strips and sound-insulating materials can be applied to door frames and windows to prevent sound from seeping through these weak points in the building's construction.

Strategic placement of textiles and furniture to reduce sound reflections
Heavy carpets, sound-absorbing curtains, and fabric-covered furniture can help absorb and dampen sound vibrations. By using these materials in strategic locations, such as near windows and on floors, sound reflections can be reduced and a more balanced sound environment created. Placing heavy furniture, such as bookcases and cabinets, can also act as a physical barrier to block sound transmission between rooms. Placing these pieces of furniture against shared walls can effectively reduce sound penetration and create a quieter environment.

Advanced building solutions to eliminate structure-borne noise
For more comprehensive sound insulation, structural measures such as double wall constructions and air gaps can be implemented. Building an extra wall with sound-insulating material between the existing walls creates an effective sound barrier that reduces the transmission of structure-borne soundanother advanced method is to use sound-insulating plasterboard walls or damping panels, especially in areas where structure-borne noise is most noticeable, such as stairwells or common areas in apartment buildings.

Electronic solutions and sound masking
In some cases, electronic solutions can complement traditional soundproofing methods. White noise generators and other sound masking systems can help reduce the perception of disturbing structure-borne noise by creating a more uniform soundscape. These systems are often used in office environments but can also be an effective solution in homes where structure-borne noise is a problem.

Create a harmonious sound environment by combining several methods
The best way to reduce structure-borne noise is to combine several measures tailored to the specific conditions of the building. By using sound-insulating materials, dense constructions, strategically placing textiles and furniture, and implementing advanced building solutions, an optimal sound environment can be created. Understanding how structure-borne noise spreads and what factors affect its transmission is crucial to taking the right measures. By adapting sound-absorbing measures to the specific environment and its needs, disturbing noise can be reduced and a more pleasant and quiet environment can be achieved.

Did you know that..

Structure-borne sound can travel through a building faster than airborne sound – and sometimes get amplified along the way? When you hear someone walking in the room above, it's not just their footsteps you hear, but the vibrations traveling through the floor, walls, and ceiling. This means that someone walking quietly but wearing hard shoes can create more noise several rooms away than someone stomping harder barefoot!

A common mistake in soundproofing is to focus only on blocking airborne sound with thick walls or absorbers. But structure-borne sound works differently – it requires you to break the sound's path through the building. Vibration-damping materials, such as nitrile rubber (NBR), springy fasteners, or acoustic rails, can absorb energy before it spreads further.

The really surprising thing? Structure-borne noise can be exacerbated if you attach something too tightly to the wall or floor. A tightly mounted bookshelf or screwed-down panels can act as a sound bridge and amplify vibrations instead of reducing them. By using floating floors, decoupled walls, and damping suspensions, you can drastically reduce structure-borne noise and create a quieter environment—without even having to rebuild the entire room!

Products that are good for dampening structure-borne noise

Structure-borne noise occurs when vibrations are transmitted through building structures, machinery, vehicles, or other surfaces, which can lead to disturbing noise. By using effective vibration-damping and sound-insulating materials, you can minimize these problems and create a quieter and more comfortable environment. Here are our best products for dampening structure-borne noise in various applications, including industry, construction, and vehicles.

SilentDirect Polaric damping mat
SilentDirect Polaric is a heavy damping mat made from a butyl blend with a durable aluminum surface. It is designed to effectively reduce vibrations and sound transmission by creating a dense sound barrier. By applying SilentDirect Polaric to floors, walls, ceilings, or machinery, you can minimize structure-borne noise and vibrations that propagate through structures. The product is also used in vehicles to reduce engine noise and road noise by dampening vibrations in the bodywork.

SilentDirect MLV
SilentDirect MLV (Mass Loaded Vinyl) is a heavy, flexible sound insulation mat that blocks sound transmission and reduces vibrations in building elements, vehicles, and machines. Installing SilentDirect MLV on floors, walls, and ceilings creates an effective sound barrier that dampens both structure-borne and airborne noise. SilentDirect MLV is also used in vehicles to reduce noise in engine compartments, floor panels, and ceilings. The product can be easily adapted and cut to fit specific surfaces.

SilentDirect Dampio
SilentDirect Dampio is specially designed to minimize high-frequency vibrations in machines, vehicles, and building structures. By placing Dampio under machines or on critical attachment points, you can effectively reduce structure-borne noise and resonance. The product also works perfectly in vehicles, where it can be used to isolate vibrations in the chassis, engine mounts, and other sensitive areas, making driving quieter and more comfortable.

SilentDirect Egg
SilentDirect Egg is a sound absorber made of NBR rubber (nitrile rubber), known for its exceptional sound-absorbing properties. Its unique egg shape breaks up sound waves and reduces sound reflections, making it ideal for dampening noise and resonance in walls, ceilings, and machine structures. By installing SilentDirect Egg on walls or around sources of vibration, you can effectively reduce sound propagation and create a more pleasant working or living environment. The product is also used in vehicles, where it absorbs engine noise and reduces resonance in the passenger compartment. For best results, a thickness of at least 35 mm is recommended, but 50 mm gives even better results.

SilentDirect Neo
SilentDirect Neo is a flat version of SilentDirect Egg and is made from the same highly absorbent NBR rubber. It is particularly suitable for installations where a smooth surface is required, such as under floor mats or on walls where low-profile soundproofing is needed. SilentDirect Neo is also an excellent solution in vehicles, where it is used to dampen noise from floors, ceilings, and door panels. SilentDirect Egg is recommended for high-frequency sounds and complex sound environments, but where a flat surface is required, Neo is the best choice.

SilentDirect Seal
SilentDirect Seal is a flexible sealing strip made of nitrile rubber (NBR), available in several thicknesses and widths. It is specially designed to eliminate sound leakage between doors, joints and penetrations in buildings and machinery. By using SilentDirect Seal at connection points, you can reduce vibration and sound transmission while improving sound insulation in buildings and vehicles. The product is also used in industry, where it covers joints and reduces noise intrusion in sensitive environments.