Soundproofing a Juvenile Detention Center

G.W. Home Improvements

Overview

Cameron Carr of G.W. Home Improvements took on an important project at a juvenile detention center in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The facility required increased soundproofing for shared walls separating a classroom, a counseling room, and a doctor’s office. The existing cinder block wall had ½” drywall glued to it with acoustic panels applied on the drywall. This assembly failed to prevent voices from being heard, posing significant privacy concerns within the facility.

Solution

G.W. Home Improvements, with their extensive expertise in soundproofing solutions, devised a retrofit application focused on maximizing space efficiency while enhancing the soundproofing capabilities of the assembly. To address the privacy concerns, they decided on a solution utilizing SONOpan soundproofing panels installed continuously over the existing block walls. SONOpan panels served to introduce essential sound absorption capabilities previously absent in the block wall assembly. Resilient channels were then installed over SONOpan by screwing into the block walls, providing additional sound isolation by decoupling. Over the resilient channels, 5/8″ drywall was applied, forming a solid layer capable of meeting the stringent requirements of the project.

Results

The results of the retrofit application were remarkable. Workers at the facility immediately noted a significant improvement in privacy and soundproofing between the rooms. The implementation of SONOpan panels, with resilient channel installation and 5/8″ drywall, effectively mitigated sound transmission, creating a more secure and confidential environment within the juvenile detention center. This case study demonstrates how thoughtful planning of appropriate soundproofing solutions can effectively address privacy challenges and enhance the usability of institutional spaces.

Applications

For homeowners or property managers, the same SONOpan-based retrofit method can be adapted to address privacy and noise control in residential or commercial environments. Spaces such as home offices, shared walls in duplexes or townhomes, and multi-use basements can benefit from SONOpan panels combined with insulation, resilient channels and drywall. The system minimizes the transmission of both airborne and impact sound, making it ideal for creating quiet zones or improving confidentiality between rooms. Best of all, the method can be implemented with minimal space loss and without major structural changes, making it a practical and scalable solution for DIYers or contractors alike.
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