SM20 Rubber Wall Panels

The SM20 Rubber Wall Panels are designed to provide high-performance soundproofing, particularly for airborne noise through party walls. Made from recycled rubber, the SM20 panels offer a reliable sound insulation solution that’s easy to install—even for those with basic DIY skills. These panels effectively enhance the soundproofing of single-skin brick, stud, and breezeblock walls, making them an ideal choice for domestic properties.

What is a Soundproof Rubber Panel?

A soundproof rubber panel is a dense, high-mass barrier created from recycled rubber, specifically engineered to block sound transmission through walls. These panels are designed to absorb and reduce airborne noise, making them ideal for soundproofing party walls and other shared walls in residential settings. The SM20 panels are particularly effective for upgrading sound insulation without taking up much space.

How Do the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels Work?

The SM20 panels work by creating a dense barrier that blocks airborne sound waves from passing through walls. When properly installed with SM20 adhesive and finished with acoustic plasterboard, these panels prevent sound leaks by sealing gaps and reinforcing the wall’s overall density. The recycled rubber material efficiently absorbs and dissipates sound energy, reducing the amount of noise that travels between rooms.

See the SM20 being installed:

How Effective are the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels at Stopping Nuisance Noise?

The SM20 Rubber Wall Panels are highly effective at stopping airborne noise, especially when used as part of a full soundproofing system. When installed on a single-skin brick wall, the system can achieve noise reduction levels exceeding 48dB, meeting and surpassing Part E requirements for party wall soundproofing. This makes SM20 panels an excellent choice for reducing nuisance noise in shared walls.

Where Can the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels Be Used?

These versatile panels are ideal for use in residential and domestic properties, especially in party walls between rooms or neighbouring homes. They can be applied to single-skin brick, stud, and breezeblock walls. The SM20 panels are suitable for spaces where effective soundproofing is required without sacrificing room space, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.

How to Install the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels

Installing the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels is a straightforward process that’s DIY-friendly and effective for soundproofing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure the best results:

1. Prepare the Wall Surface
   Begin by preparing the wall surface. The wall should be smooth, clean, and free from any loose materials, such as flaking paint or wallpaper. Fill any cracks or holes with acoustic mastic, and for larger holes, use sand-cement mortar to achieve a solid, even surface. If the wall condition is poor, consider applying a PVA solution to help bond any loose areas and create a more secure base for the panels.
2. Seal Potential Noise Leaks
   One of the most common sources of noise leakage is around floor and ceiling joists, where gaps can allow sound to travel through. Carefully inspect these areas, and if you find any gaps, seal them with acoustic mastic or sealant to ensure the wall is as airtight as possible. This step is crucial for effective soundproofing.
3. Apply the SM20 Panels
   Using the proprietary SM20 adhesive, attach the rubber panels to the wall. Cut the panels as needed with a sharp knife to fit around edges or outlets. Press the panels firmly to ensure a strong bond with the wall. For optimal performance, be sure to cover the entire surface area evenly.
4. Cover with Acoustic Plasterboard
   Once the SM20 panels are in place, cover them with two layers of acoustic plasterboard. To create a full soundproof barrier, leave a small gap around the perimeter of the plasterboard and fill this gap with acoustic mastic. This extra step prevents sound from leaking through the edges.
5. Final Checks and Sealing
   Before completing the installation, make sure there are no unsealed gaps or openings. Check that all joins between panels, plasterboard, and wall edges are thoroughly sealed with acoustic mastic for a seamless, airtight finish.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve a robust soundproofing system that effectively reduces airborne noise through walls. This straightforward process creates a reliable, long-lasting soundproof barrier with the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels.

What are the Benefits of Using the SM20 Rubber Wall Panels?

• High Acoustic Performance: Effectively blocks airborne noise, meeting and exceeding Part E requirements for party walls.
• Easy to Install: DIY-friendly, with straightforward instructions and minimal tools required.
• Space Efficient: Provides effective soundproofing without a significant increase in wall thickness.
• Durable and Sustainable: Made from recycled rubber, the SM20 panels are both eco-friendly and long-lasting.
• Complete Solution: Comes with proprietary adhesive and installation guidance, making it easy to create a reliable soundproofing system.
• Versatile Application: Suitable for various wall types, including brick, stud, and breezeblock.

Other Areas to Consider when Soundproofing a Wall

If you are soundproofing a party wall be aware of the possibility of sound passing through wall below the level of the floor boards. To combat this you should consider using 100mm AMW60 filling the void under the floor immediately adjacent to the wall.

Another area where sound might be penetrating is through the party wall above the ceiling. If the ceiling is single skin plasterboard you can try and augment this by adding a further layer of 19mm plank and even think about using the noise blocker quilt in between the ceiling and that 19mm plank. While flanking transmission is an issue do not become too overly concerned with it if it puts you off doing the job in the first place. Ceiling improvement can be done post wall work if it proves to be a weak link.

If the party wall contains a fireplace that is not used then the ideal solution would be to brick up the opening and then treat the whole party wall with SM20 panels. Whilst this is ideal it is not often possible. From our experience we tend to find that it is the alcoves that are performing much worse than the chimney itself. This is due to the quality of original craftsmanship and the thickness of bricks used in the party wall originally.