Noise control is a top priority in multi-family housing, hotels, and commercial buildings where excessive sound transmission can impact occupant comfort and satisfaction. A high-performance flooring system that combines Quiet Qurl® sound mats with GSL gypsum underlayment is the ideal solution to reduce both impact and airborne noise while meeting sound codes and UL fire ratings.
The Importance of Noise Control in Flooring Systems
Unwanted noise between floors comes from two main sources:
- Impact Noise – Footsteps, furniture movement, and dropped objects create vibrations that travel through the structure.
- Airborne Noise – Conversations, music, and television sounds pass through ceilings and floors.
To effectively minimize noise, a combination of a resilient sound mat and a dense, mass-enhancing underlayment is required.
Quiet Qurl® Sound Mats: The First Line of Defense
Quiet Qurl® is a noise control insulation mat designed to limit impact noise between floors. Its point-bonded, moisture-resistant fabric allows for the direct application of gypsum concrete, creating a floating floor that reduces sound transfer.
Benefits of Quiet Qurl® Sound Mats:
✔ Superior impact noise reduction for multi-family and commercial projects
✔ Compatible with gypsum underlayment for a seamless floor system
✔ Moisture-resistant surface for enhanced durability
✔ Lightweight and easy to install over various subfloor types
Keene Building Products’ Quiet Qurl® sound mats provide a proven acoustic solution that works across a range of flooring assemblies.
GSL Gypsum Underlayments: Strength, Stability, and Sound Control
FloorPrep by Dependable’s GSL gypsum underlayments complement Quiet Qurl® sound mats by adding mass and structural integrity to the flooring system. These self-leveling underlayments improve sound transmission ratings (STC and IIC) and provide a smooth, durable surface for finished floor coverings.
Key Benefits of GSL Gypsum Underlayments:
✔ Enhances STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings for airborne noise control
✔ Provides a smooth, level base for flooring installation
✔ Improves fire resistance, meeting UL fire-rated assembly requirements
✔ Compatible with Quiet Qurl® sound mats for maximum performance
A Complete Flooring System for Noise Control
By combining Quiet Qurl® sound mats with GSL gypsum underlayment, contractors and builders get a comprehensive sound control solution that meets and exceeds building codes, sound ratings, and fire safety requirements.
Installation Steps:
- Install Quiet Qurl® sound mat over the subfloor, ensuring full coverage.
- Pour GSL gypsum underlayment over the mat to create a floating, sound-absorbing floor system.
- Allow proper curing time, then install the final flooring material.
This system is ideal for apartments, hotels, high-rise condos, student housing, and mixed-use buildings, where long-term acoustic performance is essential.
Conclusion
For architects, contractors, and developers looking to enhance flooring acoustics, combining Keene Building Products’ Quiet Qurl® sound mats with Dependable’s GSL gypsum underlayments is the best way to achieve superior noise control, structural durability, and fire resistance.
