Most homes let in a great deal of noise from the outside. In addition, residents can make their own noise with shoes on wood floors, music, TV shows and normal conversation. Unless you have a sufficient amount of carpeting, draperies and furniture to absorb all this noise, your home could suffer from a sound problem. Acoustical ceiling tiles can help with sound level reduction to create a more comfortable living environment.
What Are Acoustical Ceiling Tiles?
Acoustical ceiling tiles are made from materials that have sound-deadening properties. The design of the tile also helps to reduce noise levels in the home or office. Acoustical ceiling tiles come in many designs to provide a variety of decorating options. The sound-reducing ability is determined by the thickness, density and volume of the panels.
How Acoustical Ceiling Tiles Work
These materials are assembled into layers that help to reduce the amount of sound that can bounce around a room. This absorption of sound waves helps to make the room quieter, allow easier conversation and help reduce background noise. The tiles are perforated with tiny holes. The sound enters these holes and vibrates the panel, which muffles the noise. Most acoustical tiles sold in home improvement stores can reduce sound up to 50 to 60 percent, but higher end types can reduce noise up to 80 percent.
Types of Ceiling Tiles
Ceiling tiles come in a wide range of styles, textures and edge treatments. They can have the look of slate, corduroy, stucco, pebbled surface or swirls. Some types of acoustical tiles are washable and some are not, so be sure to ask whether your desired tile can be cleaned, if that is a concern for you.
Installing Acoustical Ceiling Tiles
Acoustical tile can be glued directly to a suitable ceiling. Be aware, however, that the adhesive will dry to a hard consistency that is very difficult to remove, according to home improvement expert Tim Carter of the Ask the Builder website.