Controlled Sound

Sound Reduction for Gymnasiums

Gymnasiums in schools and churches are quite often the bustling center of activity, from sporting events to musical performances, guest speakers to social gatherings. These large, open areas surrounded by hard, reflective surfaces serve many practical purposes, but controlling the reverberation of excessive noise is not one of them. When crowds of cheering, clapping spectators gather in gymnasiums for events, sound waves travel effortlessly throughout the gym and reverberate off of the numerous hard surfaces which do nothing to control sound transmission. The result is an uncomfortable level of background noise and unpleasant acoustics for the announcer, speaker or music that is truly intended for spectators to hear. Sound reduction treatments for gymnasiums are available in an assortment of styles, but have the common purpose of controlling sound reverberations throughout gymnasiums such that the overall background noise level is reduced to a comfortable level and acoustics are improved.

Various types of wall soundproofing panels and baffles are available for use in gymnasium sound reduction. Wall panels are designed for installation at regular intervals throughout the upper sections of the walls around the gym, and baffles suspend from the ceiling to trap sound reverberations. Be aware that wall panels with foam as the core material are inadequate for use in a gym setting, as foam is often not class A fire rated and can not sufficiently withstand the abuse that accompanies being mounted onto a gymnasium wall. Soundproofing wall treatment panels for gymnasiums should utilize fiberglass as the core component, which is typically suitably fire rated and can be covered with a durable material for protection from stray basketballs and malicious acts.

Baffles can be used as a supplement to or as a cost effective alternative to wall panel treatments. Ceiling baffles are designed to suspend from the gym ceiling in a herringbone or checkerboard arrangement for maximum effectiveness. Baffles should not all be positioned parallel to one another, as this configuration would allow the transmission of sound reflections that are missed by the baffles.

Most high quality soundproofing treatments are available in an assortment of decorative colors and finishes to coordinate with existing décor or to correspond with school or church colors. At the inception of any soundproofing project, it is advised to consult a professional soundproofing company which can ensure that you utilize effective material for your application and prevent costly, time consuming problems with your project later.

About the Author

About the Author: Mark Rustad is President of NetWell Noise Control, based in Minneapolis, MN. Founded in 1991, NetWell is a leading supplier of acoustic products, sound reduction treatments, and online acoustical consulting services. NetWell’s sound management skills are packaged into the industry’s premier website. Discover first hand why so much of NetWell’s business stems from the referrals and repeat orders they receive from satisfied clients around the world.

Controlled Sound

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