Folding Wall Sound Barrier

If the goal of a folding wall is both visual AND sound separation, pay special attention to wall rating, seals and provide a sound barrier above the ceiling. Creating the barrier with drywall, while possible, rarely works as intended. Fixing a sound problem later is often imperfect because it is just too complicated.

Lead sheet is the ideal material for blocking sound because it is dense and flexible for an airtight fit around penetrations and the perimeter of the ceiling plenum. Lead is not a good idea any more for environmental reasons. The material we have used as a replacement is:
SoundBlocker1™  - Reinforced Flexible Sound Barrier
See http://www.gretchken.com/

Avoid duct penetrations and use dampening in ducts that connect to spaces you want to isolate.

Be sure to inspect the work before subcontractor leaves. Test by clapping or loud music to see if it is satisfactory.

C1030-C - Sound Barrier

COMMENTS:

• This detail is needed to specify the configuration, construction and materials required for the sound barrier in the ceiling plenum above the folding wall.
• You may want a specification covering the quality and installation aspects of these materials. 
• These details should be placed on the Interior Details sheet, the A-500 series of sheets per the National CAD Standards.
• Download PDF of detail.
• See the Terms of Use for disclaimer.

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Original post date 24JUL13.

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