“What is the best method for hanging Auralex Sheetblok?”
A: First, let’s define what SheetBlok does. It’s a dense, limp-mass vinyl material that is about 6dB more effective than solid lead at stopping the transmission of sound. It acts as a thin, dense sound barrier layer in walls, ceilings, or floors and is most effective when used as one component of a multi-layered construction scheme. In other words, this is one of the most cost-effective sound barriers around – extremely useful when building a studio.
The best method for installing SheetBlok in a wall, ceiling, or floor construction is sandwiched between other layers. Why?
Sandwiching provides a resilient layer between two solid layers. In addition to offering more mass, this will decouple layers. Technically, this is known as an “impedance mismatch.” Sound energy is more impeded by the sandwiching effect than by other installations.
Sandwiching is usually easier. Gluing to the first layer of drywall is usually all that is necessary. The final layer of drywall can be glued and screwed right on top of the SheetBlok.
The final layer of drywall is more aesthetically pleasing than if the room were finished with SheetBlok. SheetBlok is black, which is not “pretty.” Using it as a finish layer also means additional mechanical fastening is necessary – button-cap nails or trim strips.
Many adhesives will hold SheetBlok in place. However, most adhesives will fail over time. This is another reason why sandwiching or, at least, mechanical fastening, is best. When sandwiching, we suggest any vinyl flooring adhesive or general adhesive approved for use with vinyl.
