When we talk about soundproofing we often think of shutting out sound altogether, but this isn’t what most people want. So a lot of work labelled as soundproofing actually involves controlling sound because by its nature sound doesn’t just disappear. It’s only be controlling sound that we get the desired effect in our buildings.
Take for example a busy church where a preacher needs sound control to enable his or her congregation to hear a sermon or an airport where important announcements need to be heard.
Controlling sound at a different level may be required for a busy restaurant where people like to be able to experience the atmosphere as well as be able to communicate with each other during a meal. Eating a meal in a noisy pub isn’t most people’s idea of a nice experience particularly if you are having to shout to be heard.
If there is no sound proofing or treatment then sound will simply echo from walls ceilings and floors particularly if the latter is a hard floor. Ina room full of competing voices the people in that room will soon get ear fatigue.
Controlling sound is important because it not only contributes to better health by reducing stress levels, it also allows us to create effects and control the way sound is produced as in a recording studio.
The importance of sound control should never be underestimated.