Sound insulation of a frame partition is one of the important factors influencing the comfort of living in a wooden house. When well designed and constructed, it can achieve noise attenuation levels comparable to masonry buildings. It is the ability of a wall, ceiling or other structural element to reduce sound transmission between rooms or from outside the building. It is of particular importance in timber-frame houses, because lightweight timber construction naturally dampens noise less well than massive masonry partitions.
At sound insulation performance influences include the type and thickness of filling made of sound-absorbing materials (e.g. mineral wool), the tightness of plasterboard joints, the use of double layers of plasterboard and elastic spacers to dampen vibrations between elements of the construction. Accuracy of installation also plays an important role - even small leaks can significantly worsen the acoustic effect.
Properly designed acoustic insulation of a frame partition provides comfort and reduces the transmission of impact and airborne sound. It also has a positive effect on the perceived quality and standard of the building.
