Sound reverberation, sound reflections or echoes, can be a common issue in homes with hard surfaces such as tiled or hardwood floors, high ceilings, and sparse furnishings. There are several ideas you can take into consideration to reduce sound reverberation in a home.

Use sound absorbing acoustic panels

Have you thought about using acoustic panels? Installing acoustic panels on the walls or ceiling is one of the best options to significantly reduce sound reverberation. These panels are specifically designed to absorb sound waves and improve the acoustics of a room.

Using sound-absorbing materials such as cork, foam, or acoustic tiles can help absorb sound waves and reduce reverberation.

What acoustic panels are more appropriate for a home?

When it comes to choosing the appropriate acoustic panels for a home, there are several factors to consider such as room size, decor, and budget. It is important to consider the purpose of the room and the aesthetic you are trying to achieve. It is also relevant to choose panels that have been tested and certified for sound absorption, so you can be sure they will perform as expected.

Among the most common types of acoustic panels that are appropriate for home use, there are fabric-wrapped panels and foam panels. Boards covered in fabric are available in various sizes and colors, making them a popular choice for homes. Foam panels are made from a soft foam material that is designed to absorb sound waves. They are available in different sizes and thicknesses and are often used in recording studios and home theaters.

Use sustainable PET acoustic panels

Modern advances in technology have allowed to introduce an alternative solution to foam panels, through the use of PET, abbreviation of polyethylene terephthalate, which is a type of plastic used especially to make bottles. By using this material, which can be obtained from recycled bottles, you get an eco-friendly solution safer and healthier than common foam. 

Recycled PET enhanced for high performance acoustic absorption results in acoustic panels functional as much as they are sustainable. Recent developments in the VMT (Virtual Material Technology) introduced an innovative dyeing technology to PET, making it possible to reproduce different colors or simulate concrete, marble, wood and other materials, discarding the use of fabric coverings.

Wood, diffusers and ceiling treatment

Wooden panels are a more decorative option for home use. They are made from a variety of wood types and can be designed to match the decor of the room.

Diffuser panels are designed to scatter sound waves and create a more natural sound. They are often used in large rooms such as living rooms, home theaters, and music rooms.

For ceiling treatment, acoustic ceiling suspended elements such as acoustic clouds or baffles are often used in areas where sound control is important, such as a home theater or music room. 

How can I have a home with good acoustic properties?

Achieving good acoustic properties in a home requires careful planning and consideration of a few key factors. Among those factors is the layout of a room. To optimize sound quality, consider the placement of furniture, doors, and windows to minimize sound reflections and create an even distribution of sound throughout the space.

Rearrange furniture and furnishings

You can rearrange the furniture position, which can help break up sound waves and reduce reverberation. Placing furniture such as bookcases or cabinets against walls is a way to help absorb sound waves.

Adding soft furnishings such as curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture can help absorb sound waves and reduce reverberation. The same can be done with plants, which can help absorb sound waves and improve the acoustics of a room. Plants can also provide an aesthetic appeal to your living space.

Using curtains or blinds can help reduce the amount of sound that enters the room from outside, as well as help absorb sound waves that bounce off hard surfaces. 

You should also check the noise sources in a room. Turning off electronic devices can help reduce the amount of sound that bounces off hard surfaces and creates echoes.

Use sound absorbing materials

Hard surfaces in walls and floor, such as concrete, glass, and hardwood can create echoes and other acoustic issues. Consider using materials that absorb sound, such as carpeting, rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels, to reduce unwanted noise and improve sound quality.

Homes with high ceilings

A high ceiling can create an open and airy feeling in a room, but it can also cause sound to reverberate and echo. In these situations, you may have to consider using acoustic tiles, panels or suspended clouds or baffles to absorb sound and improve acoustics.

Soundproofing a home

If you want to prevent sound from traveling between rooms or outside the home, soundproofing is essential. This can be achieved with the use of insulation, heavy curtains, and weatherstripping on doors and windows.

Consulting with an acoustic engineer or professional sound designer can help you to identify specific acoustic issues in your home and develop a plan to address them. Vicoustic has an acoustic consultancy service available, that you can contact here.

By following these tips, you can create a home with good acoustic properties, providing you with an enjoyable sound environment.

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