Using Bricks for Soundproofing
Bricks are widely known for their longevity and structural stability. Everyone knows that a brick’s sturdy structure allows them to provide the foundation and support for some of the tallest and heaviest structures in the world. Still, one lesser-known properties of bricks is their ability to block out sound when used correctly.
Using bricks in your structure can be a great way to begin soundproofing buildings by blocking sounds from entering and escaping, creating external or internal walls.
Do Bricks Absorb Sound?
One important distinction is that bricks block sound but don’t absorb it. Absorption and blocking are two different ways to stop sound from escaping or entering an area, and both have pros and cons.
Blocking is the process that prevents a soundwave from passing. By bouncing it off of the hard surface, the sound waves are reflected back into the room and away from the wall. This includes bricks, one of the best choices for a sound-blocking base.
Absorption is a process in which sound is turned into another form of energy, dissipating it throughout the absorption material. An excellent example of absorption material is acoustic foam, which allows soundwaves to spread throughout the foam, stopping the soundwaves from being reflected back into the room.
Bricks are a great place to start if soundproofing a wall, as their dense and heavy structure allows them to block and reflect sound. It’s a good idea to use brick walls throughout the building for soundproofing as they create an excellent base, providing perfect soundproofing when paired with acoustic foam or similar sound-absorbent material.
What Makes a Brick Block Sound?
A brick’s rigid structure allows it to truly block sound, reflecting it back to the source rather than absorbing it or allowing it to pass through. On their own, bricks will result in reverberation and echo, which can negatively affect acoustics. However, bricks really become an excellent soundproofing tool when paired with other materials to absorb the sound instead.
This is why if you’re looking to increase the acoustics of a large room, bricks are a fantastic place to start. They enable you to modify the wall, with the option of adding other materials to absorb sound, whilst allowing for a perfect sound-blocking base.
Why Bricks Are Great for Natural Soundproofing
Bricks are a great source of natural soundproofing as their rigid and hard structure prevents soundwaves from passing through, causing them to reflect instead. If you’re looking for a way to create natural soundproofing within your building or structure, using a brick room within a larger brick room is a great way to completely block any sound from escaping.
The soundproofing effectiveness of a brick is measured through its STC (sound transmission class). Masonry tends to hold an STC of between 44 and 55, which is an amazing starting point for anyone looking to completely soundproof an area, especially when you consider adding further materials to absorb and dissipate sounds.
How to Improve Soundproofing With Bricks
As previously discussed, adding brick walls to your home is an amazing way to soundproof, blocking sound on their own, which can result in huge success, especially when combined with sound absorption materials such as acoustic foam to dissipate internal sounds and stop reverberation or echoes from taking place.
A great way to soundproof with bricks is to create a room within a room, which maximises the amount of blocking to create a superior soundproofing experience. Pairing your internal brick room with acoustic foam will create a completely soundproof area, great for studios or private rooms.