When we think about health, we usually think about dramatic phrases, such as cancer, hypertension, and heart disease. Very rarely do we consider noise and its effects on our health. But the truth is that noise, particularly general community noise, has a huge impact on the state of our health. Sure, blasting that boombox back in the day may have posed some risks, but you knew that. What you may not have known is that normal noise we experience throughout our daily lives can also be detrimental to your health.
Studies have shown that community noise levels that rise above 40 decibels are correlated with a higher rate of heart disease in the individuals who live there. Other adverse health effects include cardiovascular problems and learning deficits, especially in children. If your family lives somewhere with a high level of community noise, it may be time to consider soundproof ceiling and wall panels.
Soundproofing walls can help to prevent hearing loss by reducing the level of noise you experience in your daily live. And that’s not just important for the home. Twenty six million Americans below the age of 70 have experienced high frequency hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise at work and leisurely activities. If we reduce our exposure to noise in our home, at work, and during recreational activities, we can have a huge impact on our health. It is best to tackle the problem before it really becomes a problem and so, it’s important to discuss this with employers. Try suggesting to your employer or co-workers the possible solution of installing a soundproof ceiling, or soundproof insulation panels.
Hearing loss can occur, as well.l Any prolonged exposure to noise at, or above, 85 decibels can put any individual at risk of hearing loss. Let’s say you work in, or live near, a construction zone heavy environment. Noise in such environments can easily exceed 85 decibels and cause permanent damage. Thus, such noise levels are an overall detriment to your health.
Should you choose to invest in your health and obtain a soundproof ceiling or walls, you may be wondering what the process entails. Soundproofing a room is accomplished through the process of four strategies: adding mass, damping, decoupling, and filling air gaps. It is important to use a combination of these strategies, as each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses. With an effective combination, they easily complement each other. For example, decoupling can cause the wall to be less efficient at blocking low frequencies. However, if the gap is less than an inch, a damping compound can help to fight this effect and, overall, improve soundproof wall panels.
Sound insulation panels and acoustic ceiling materials are therefore important options to consider. Soundproofing can be a huge benefit to your overall health, as well as your hearing. Be sure to take action early and prevent any future hearing loss!