Residential noise can come through walls, floors, ceilings, pipework and outdoor boundaries, and each source needs a different approach. Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) is a dense, flexible sound barrier that can be used in a range of residential applications to help reduce airborne sound transmission. Start with where the noise is coming from, then choose the product designed for that part of the home.
MLV Acoustic Barriers block neighbor and outside background noises, perfect for quieter residential spaces.
Perfect for quiet time, the Acoustic Carpet Underlay blocks noise traveling through both floors and ceilings.
Block HVAC and home plumbing noises effectively with Nuwrap 5, the perfect acoustic pipe lagging solution.
Our fence insulation barriers offer reliable soundproofing, blocking neighbor noise and traffic for quiet yards.
The first step is to identify how the sound is reaching the space. In residential projects, the most common noise paths include:
Rather than using one product for every problem, match the material to the noise path and installation area.
Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) Acoustic Barrier is a flexible, high-density barrier used within wall, ceiling and floor systems to help reduce airborne sound transmission. It is available in different weights, so the product can be selected around the construction and noise-control requirement.
Thermotec NuWave Acoustic Carpet Underlay is designed for installation beneath carpet to help reduce impact and airborne noise through floor and ceiling assemblies. It is available in 4 kg/m², 6 kg/m² and 8 kg/m² options for different acoustic requirements.
NuWrap 5 combines acoustic foam, Mass Loaded Vinyl and foil facing in a flexible wrap for noisy pipework, drainage lines, ductwork and other building services.
Mass Loaded Vinyl can also form part of outdoor noise-control applications such as fences and external barriers. For exposed installations, check the current fence product guidance for outdoor treatment and installation requirements.
MLV is used to add mass to a wall, ceiling, floor or other building element, which can help reduce airborne sound passing through the construction. It is flexible and relatively thin compared with many rigid building materials, so it can be incorporated into new builds, renovations and selected retrofit applications where space is limited.
The result still depends on the complete construction, including how the barrier is installed, sealed and combined with the surrounding materials. For that reason, product choice should be based on the actual noise source and build-up rather than thickness or weight alone.
If noise control is being planned as part of a new build or renovation, it is easier to choose the product once the noise path and construction detail are clear. MLV Acoustic Barrier is suited to wall, ceiling and floor applications, NuWave Acoustic Carpet Underlay is designed for carpeted floors, and NuWrap 5 is intended for noisy pipework and duct applications.
For projects involving several noise sources, shared walls, external boundaries or an unfamiliar construction, contact the MLVA team before ordering so the product can be checked against the application.
Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) is a dense, flexible barrier used within suitable wall, ceiling and floor systems to help reduce airborne sound transmission. It can be used in new builds, renovations and selected retrofit applications where additional mass is needed within the construction.
MLV can help reduce airborne sound passing through walls, ceilings and floors by adding mass to the construction. The final result depends on the complete system, including how the barrier is installed and sealed, the surrounding materials and the path the noise is taking.
Yes. MLV can be used within suitable wall, ceiling and floor systems. The correct product and installation method will depend on the construction, available space and the type of noise you are trying to reduce.
MLV is primarily used as a dense barrier to help reduce airborne sound transmission. Other acoustic products serve different purposes. For example, acoustic underlay is more suitable for impact and airborne noise through carpeted floors, while flexible acoustic wraps are designed for noisy pipes and ductwork. The right product depends on where the noise is travelling.
The most suitable MLV weight depends on the wall, ceiling or floor construction and the level of noise control required. Rather than choosing by weight alone, check the individual product information and consider the complete build-up. If you are unsure, contact MLVA with your project details before ordering.
Yes. MLV can be incorporated into selected renovation and retrofit projects where additional mass is needed within a wall, ceiling or floor system. The best approach will depend on the existing construction, available space and where the noise is coming from.
