If you have ever lived in an apartment or shared a wall with a neighbour, you know how frustrating it can be to hear their music, TV, or kids running around through that shared wall. Soundproofing a home or office is becoming increasingly important, and, whether you are looking for privacy or preparing a property for rental, the one material that often comes up is the resilient channel.
In this blog post, we will discuss 10 things you need to know about resilient channels before deciding whether it’s the right solution for your project. So, let’s dive in and learn more about the resilient channel.
1. What is a resilient channel?
Resilient channel, also known as RC or RC-1, is a type of metal channel that is designed to reduce the transmission of sound through walls and ceilings. It is typically used in construction projects where vibrational noises and low bass are a concern, home theaters, or multi-unit housing buildings.
The resilient channel is installed between the drywall and the framing studs or joists, either before or after the SONOpan. The channel is designed to flex or “resiliently” absorb the vibrations caused by sound waves traveling through the wall or ceiling, reducing the amount of sound that is transmitted through the structure.
2. How does resilient channel work?
Resilient channel works by decoupling the drywall and SONOpan from the underlying framing, studs, or joists. When sound waves hit a wall, they cause the wall to vibrate, which in turn creates more sound waves on the other side of the wall.
By installing a resilient channel, the drywall is isolated from the framing, reducing the amount of vibration that occurs and thus the amount of sound that is transmitted through the wall.
What is decoupling?
Decoupling is the process of separating two surfaces to reduce the amount of vibration and sound transmission between them.
In soundproofing applications, decoupling is typically achieved using resilient channels, isolation clips, double wall assemblies, or staggered stud walls.
Here is more information about decoupling.
3. How much thickness will a resilient channel add to a wall or ceiling assembly?
Resilient channel is typically 1/2 inch thick once installed.
4. What is the difference between a resilient channel and a hat channel?
Resilient channels also known as Z-furring channels are a stand-alone decoupling mechanism. Resilient channel is attached directly to the framing studs or joists on one side and has a metal section on the other side to affix the SONOpan and drywall.
This differs from isolation clips, another method of decoupling, which is used in conjunction with a hat channel. The isolation clips provide the decoupling while the hat channels that slot into the clips supply an attachment point for the SONOpan and drywall.
Both products can be used on walls or ceilings to reduce sound transmission.
The isolation clip method is much more effective but also significantly more expensive and will take up 1.5” of space vs. half an inch.
It is important to note that the hat channel when installed alone has no soundproofing benefits.
5. When should you use a resilient channel?
One of the main applications for resilient channels is in multi-dwelling buildings, such as apartments or condominiums.
In these types of buildings, sound can easily travel between units through shared walls and ceilings. This can lead to noise complaints and disputes between neighbors, which can be costly and time-consuming to resolve. Using a resilient channel can help reduce the amount of vibrational noise that passes through walls and ceilings, improving soundproofing within the building and minimizing noise complaints.
A resilient channel can help to meet or exceed building code requirements of STC (Sound Transmission Class) 50 for sound transmission in multi-unit housing or commercial buildings.
In addition, resilient channels can also be used in recording studios, home theaters, golf simulators, and other environments where the reduction of vibrational noise and bass is important.
6. What are the disadvantages of using resilient channels?
It is not a complete soundproofing solution on its own. Resilient channels help reduce lower frequencies, but mid and higher frequencies will still travel directly through the drywall.
To achieve effective soundproofing, resilient channels should be used in conjunction with other soundproofing materials, such as SONOpan, insulation, and 5/8” drywall.
Improper installation can result in reduced effectiveness or even make the problem worse.
It is not recommended to install resilient channels directly onto existing walls or ceilings where drywall or plasterboard has already been installed. The exception to this is when SONOpan is installed first, in which case a resilient channel can be installed on top of SONOpan.
7. What is the installation process for a resilient channel?
The installation process for the resilient channel will vary depending on the specific application, but generally follows these steps:
1. Find the studs or joists where the resilient channel will be installed.
2. Cut the resilient channel to the proper length, allowing for the specified gap at the top and bottom of the wall or ceiling.
3. Install the resilient channel horizontally on walls, with the screw flanges facing down and the open side facing up. On ceilings, install the resilient channel perpendicular to the joists.
4. Use screws to anchor resilient channels into the underlying framing members, either the studs or joists.
5. Install the SONOpan onto the resilient channel, making sure to leave a gap between the edge of the drywall and the adjacent wall or ceiling. SONOpan can also be installed before the resilient channel, please refer to our installation instructions for more details.
It is important to note that the installation of a resilient channel can be a complex process that requires careful attention to detail to achieve the desired soundproofing results.
It may be helpful to consult with a contractor who is familiar with soundproofing or the resilient channel manufacturer to ensure that the resilient channel is installed correctly for your specific project.
Common mistakes to avoid when installing and using resilient channels:
1. An incorrect number of channels: A common mistake is using too few or too many resilient channels. The number of channels needed depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the type of construction, and the desired level of sound reduction. It is important to consult with a professional to figure out the proper number of channels needed for your project.
2. Shorting out the channels: The drywall side of the channel must remain flexible. Even a single screw making contact with the frame will short out the channels. If SONOpan is installed behind the channels, screws need to be measured to ensure they do not come into contact with the SONOpan.
3. Resilient channels being installed upside down: If resilient channels are installed upside down on a wall, gravity will pull the channels down and force them into contact with the frame which shorts them out.
4. Improper layout: One of the most common mistakes when using resilient channels is improper layout. If the channels are not installed properly, they will not be effective in reducing sound transmission. Ensure that the channels are installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications for connections and spacing from floors, ceilings, and walls.
5. Failure to address other sources of sound transmission: While resilient channels can be effective in reducing some sound transmission through walls and ceilings, they are not a complete solution.
Here is more information about improper resilient channel installation.
8. How much weight can a resilient channel hold?
The weight capacity of a resilient channel varies depending on the specific product and installation method. Resilient channels can easily hold the weight of SONOpan and 2 sheets of 5/8” type X drywall when installed as directed.
9. How are results measured; what STC does resilient channel add?
The amount of Sound Transmission Class (STC) that resilient channels add to a wall or ceiling assembly will vary depending on several factors, such as the thickness and composition of the wall or ceiling, the other materials involved, and the overall design and construction of the wall or ceiling.
Generally speaking, resilient channels can add anywhere from 3 to 7 STC points to a wall or ceiling assembly. However, it is important to note that STC is not a linear scale, meaning that a 3-point increase in STC does not necessarily correspond to a 3-decibel reduction in sound transmission
It is also worth noting that while a resilient channel can effectively reduce certain noise frequencies, it is not typically enough on its own to significantly reduce noise. Other soundproofing measures, such as adding insulation SONOpan and drywall are needed.
10. Will resilient channels level out a ceiling?
Resilient channels can be used to help level out a ceiling that has minor irregularities or deviations. This is because the channels are designed to supply a flexible suspension system that can help absorb some of the unevenness in the ceiling surface.
It is important to note, however, that resilient channels are not a substitute for proper leveling of the ceiling surface. If the irregularities in the ceiling are significant, or if the ceiling is sagging or structurally unsound, resilient channels may not be enough to supply a level and stable surface for the SONOpan and drywall. In these cases, addressing the underlying structural issues may be necessary before installing resilient channels or other soundproofing materials.
Our take on Resilient channels:
Resilient channels are beneficial in certain circumstances, but they should not be assumed necessary in all soundproofing assemblies.
If you plan to install resilient channels, be extra careful to follow the proper installation procedure. Mark out stud and joist locations and measure screws to avoid shorting out the channels. They are only effective if they are allowed to flex as designed once the installation is complete.
If you’re not sure whether to install resilient channels in your soundproofing assembly, contact us for help.