July 18, 2007—A new proprietary soundproofing carpet padding has been developed in-house by the Acoustics Division of American Micro Industries, Inc. (AMI). The sound absorbing carpet underlayment addresses two common sound control challenges in one product. It’s a heavy-duty blend of recycled materials designed for extreme sound blocking while significantly extending the life of carpet flooring in commercial and residential settings, according to the company.
The Step Above Impact Barrier eco-friendly carpet padding is designed to perform multiple sound barrier functions: it reduces airborne sound, diminishes impact noise and prolongs the life of carpet flooring.
This recycled content building material differs from other carpet pads in a number of positive ways, explains AMI. Multi-layer composites are engineered to significantly reduce airborne and footfall noise transmission from one floor of a building to the floor beneath it.
Each type of noise requires different types of sound control methods. While constructed of two different materials, each with unique sound-blocking properties, it’s also made of highly durable materials with a minimum of 60% recycled content. One component of this sound underlayment reduces the airborne sound transmission between the floors of a building. Examples of airborne sound are voices, radios and conversation.
A second component of the sound underlayment is designed for maximum reduction of impact noise transmission. Examples of impact noise pollution include footsteps, percussion instruments and vibration from appliances or machinery. Impact noise radiates through the structural parts of buildings.
From the perspective of green building materials, Step Above Impact Barrier is composed of a minimum of 60% recycled cotton blend and a vinyl content sound barrier. Step Above Impact Barrier increases the life expectancy of carpet flooring and thus reduces the burden on landfills and reduces the long-term costs associated with pre-mature replacement of flooring materials. Preliminary testing indicates Step Above Impact Barrier can be re-used when carpets are replaced.
An added benefit, due to the durable materials and construction, is a highly comfortable carpet floor, regardless of pile or type.
Step Above Impact Barrier is currently available in two weights; 12 lbs per square yard and the Premium version at 14 lbs per square yard. In-house acoustic consultants at AMI assist in determining the best solution to sound control problems.
For applications that require maximum airborne and footfall noise reduction, the product meets or exceeds Class II carpet underlayment requirements for high-traffic commercial applications. Simple to install, 4’x8′ sheets are easily cut to fit with basic hand tools.
For more information visit AMI’s Sound Proof Web site.
