Will Acoustic Wall Panels Keep Sound Out?
Will Acoustic Wall Panels Keep Sound Out? The Truth + Better Fixes
Spoiler: They don’t block noise – but here’s what DOES work.
✅ Quick Answer
❌ Acoustic panels absorb echo inside a room (like chatter or TV noise).
✅ To block outside sound (traffic, neighbors), you need mass + sealing.
🆚 Sound Absorption vs. Sound Blocking
| Acoustic Panels | Sound-Blocking Solutions | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Reduce echo/reverb | Block incoming/outgoing noise |
| Works For | Home theaters, loud offices | Apartments, noisy streets |
| Effect on Outside Noise | Zero reduction | Up to 80% reduction |
🔍 Why Acoustic Panels Can’t Block Sound
- Too thin (1″-3″ thick) – sound waves pass through
- Designed to trap air vibrations, not stop impact/noise
- Install gaps around panels let sound leak
📢 Example: Panels might soften your voice echo, but won’t muffle a barking dog next door.
🛠️ 5 Proven Ways to KEEP Sound Out
- Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV)
- What: Heavy rubber layer (1 lb/sq ft)
- How: Glue under drywall or behind panels
- Noise Cut: Up to 90% for voices/traffic
- Cost: 3−5/sq ft
- Seal Gaps
- Where: Windows, doors, outlets, baseboards
- Use: Acoustic caulk + foam gaskets
- Noise Cut: 50%+ for air leaks
- Double Drywall
- Method: Layer 5/8″ drywall + Green Glue compound
- Noise Cut: 70%+ (blocks bass)
- Cost: 2−4/sq ft
- Soundproof Curtains
- Best For: Windows/sliding doors
- Material: Triple-weave polyester + MLV
- Noise Cut: 50-70% (easy DIY)
- Solid-Core Doors
- Swap hollow doors: Blocks 80% more sound
- Add: Automatic door sweeps
⚖️ What Works Best? (Comparison)
| Solution | Ease | Cost (10m²) | Noise Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) | Medium | $350 | ★★★★★ (90%) |
| Acoustic Caulk Sealing | Easy | $25 | ★★★☆☆ (50%) |
| Double Drywall + Green Glue | Hard | $500 | ★★★★★ (95%) |
| Soundproof Curtains | Easy | $200 | ★★★☆☆ (60%) |
| Acoustic Panels Alone | Easy | $250 | ★☆☆☆☆ (0%) |
💡 Smart Combo: Panels Plus Blocking
Use acoustic panels WITH blocking methods:
- Install MLV on walls/ceiling
- Seal gaps with acoustic caulk
- Add Witop Acoustic Panels on top → absorbs echo while blocked noise stays out.
🌿 Eco-Tip: Witop’s panels use recycled PET felt – safe for bedrooms.
❌ 3 Soundproofing Scams to Avoid
- ”Soundproof Paint” – Cuts <10% noise
- Foam Egg Cartons – Fire hazard, near-zero blocking
- Cheap “Acoustic” Curtains – Look for MLV layer inside
❓ Top Questions
Do thicker panels block more sound?
❌ No – 4″ panels absorb more echo, but still don’t block outside noise.
Can I add MLV behind existing panels?
✅ Yes! Peel off panels → glue MLV → reinstall.
Best for apartment walls?
✅ MLV + sealing cuts 80% neighbor noise.
“Sealed gaps + MLV made my NYC apartment finally quiet!”
– Jenna R., Verified Review
Free samples
In recent years, composite products have become more and more popular all over the world. We believe you will also be interested in this new material. If you are interested, you can come to consult us. We have a professional service team that can not only answer any questions you may have but also provide you with free samples. Let you better understand the composite products. There is no doubt that composite wall panels will be the new future.
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James is a content creator and decorator with five years of experience designing home decor. In his daily life, james is constantly on the lookout for the latest, great examples of house design and further optimizes his solutions. Additionally, he writes articles related to outdoor design, interior design, and architectural decorating materials to help brands build more engaging relationships with their audiences.
