Installing SONOpan on one side of a wall will soundproof Noise travelling both ways however, installing SONOpan on both sides of the wall does provide better soundproofing and will help maintain a solid barrier when electrical outlets or other openings are cut into one side. If you have the option it is still recommended to install SONOpan on the wall where the noise originates.

Although SONOpan can be used alone and absorbs a wide range of noise frequencies, including low bass, it is designed to be used in conjunction with other standard materials to achieve better soundproofing. If SONOpan is combined with insulation (fiberglass, wool or cellulose) and 5/8 drywall, a much better overall soundproofing result will be achieved.

If used on interior walls a vapour barrier is not necessary. If used on exterior walls the vapour barrier would be installed as usual with the SONOpan being installed on the warm side before drywall.

SONOpan is a fibreboard panel made from recycled wood. It is similar in this way to the timber structure of a home. If a fire rated assembly is required, follow the architect’s directions for fire rated (Type X) drywall. SONOpan is UL approved when installed as directed.

SONOpan is made from 100% recycled wood fibres and is intended for interior use only. It must always be protected from the elements before, during and after installation.

Any opening can be boxed in with SONOpan or an acoustic putty can be used on outlet boxes. Stagger any electrical boxes so they are not back to back.

Ductwork acts as a path for sound to travel along. Removing the duct or blocking the vent opening would be the best solution, but usually not realistic as it eliminates air flow. If you are building a new home or have an opportunity to rework the ducts, ensure the ductwork does not directly link rooms where you want to prevent sound transfer. Ductwork may be your weakest link when soundproofing, however SONOpan helps significantly by creating a solid barrier over the ductwork leaving only the vent as a source of sound transfer.

It is best to leave the surface of SONOpan natural for optimal sound absorption. SONOpan can be covered with fabric if it is being used to absorb noise within a room (acoustics) as opposed to soundproofing.

Yes. It is recommended to cover the SONOpan with fabric when doing so to cut down on any dust that may shed from the panels over time. SONOpan with Noise STOP Technology provides excellent sound absorption.

Resilient channel, Isolation clips or a gap between walls helps in certain situations. This strategy is called de-coupling and like it sounds, it is a soundproofing method used to separate two materials thus stopping the path of sound vibrations. We generally don't see many single family homes that opt for resilient channel, however it is recommended for party walls and ceilings where bass frequencies or impact sounds are likely to be present.

SONOpan can be used alone and will provide a significant amount of sound dampening. However, for better soundproofing results it is recommended that SONOpan be used in conjunction with drywall and insulation. We recommend purchasing the appropriate insulation for the cavity, min. R12 in walls R20 in ceilings. It can be cellulose, mineral wool or fibreglass. Insulation is not used here for thermal purposes but rather to stop resonance (echoing) in an empty cavity and help capture certain frequencies.

Heavier drywall (ex: 5/8’’) will contribute to dampening sound transmission by adding mass. SONOpan remains the most important component of a soundproof wall or ceiling assembly.

SONOpan has a patented Noise STOP Technology that allows it to capture a wide range of sounds however, soundproofing is achieved through using a combination of different materials and building strategies. Please contact us to determine the best option for your particular situation.

SONOpan is less expensive and much easier to install than Green Glue. SONOpan can also be used with a single sheet of drywall. When it comes to performance SONOpan assemblies have a higher STC rating than those with green glue.

Yes, it can be retrofitted by sandwiching SONOpan between the existing drywall and the new layer of drywall.

Yes, adding a second layer will improve the soundproofing, the first layer is the most impactful although adding SONOpan to both sides of a wall has several benefits.

Most noise does tend to travel through the adjoining wall or ceiling however, flanking paths (those around the dividing wall or ceiling) allow for noise transmission. Although soundproofing is at its best when all walls are covered and flanking paths are eliminated, it will come down to the level of soundproofing desired.

SONOpan can be exposed while during construction as long as it is protected from the elements. It is made from 100% recycled wood, natural binders and food grade colour ensuring that it is not harmful. There may be minimal shed of wood fibre. You can cover SONOpan with any wall covering like wood panelling or felt, but drywall is the best option for soundproofing.

Absolutely! We make SONOpan without the use of any glues or chemicals. The panels are made from 100% recycled wood and are 100% recyclable. We use natural binding agents and a food grade colour so there are zero VOCs or formaldehyde.

SONOpan is designed to be installed on walls and ceilings to control airborne noise. SONOpanX is designed for flooring applications to control impact noise and, to a degree, airborne noise as well. SONOpanX is a denser panel and can withstand the compression requirements for flooring applications.