If you’re looking to reduce road noise, vibrations, or rattling in your car or van, sound deadening is the answer. But one common question is: How much sound deadening material is enough for the best results? In this guide, we’ll cover how much coverage is optimal, why quality materials make a difference, and why adding soundproofing can help create the quietest ride possible.
How Much Sound Deadening Coverage Do You Need?
To achieve effective sound deadening in your vehicle, it’s generally recommended to cover between 50-80% of the surface area. This level of coverage offers a balance between performance and weight, helping to reduce noise effectively without adding excessive bulk to your vehicle.
Why Not Cover 100%?
While it may seem logical to cover 100% of your car or van’s surface, studies show that going beyond 80% provides only minimal additional benefit in terms of noise reduction. Covering at least 50% will address the primary sources of vibration, while aiming for closer to 80% will give you optimal results.
Choosing High-Quality Sound Deadening Material
When it comes to sound deadening, material quality is just as important as coverage. Low-grade materials might add weight but won’t necessarily deliver the noise reduction you’re looking for. Choosing a high-quality product, such as NK Mat, ensures that the material will dampen vibrations effectively, giving you a quieter cabin without unnecessary bulk. High-quality mats adhere well to metal surfaces, minimizing resonance and maximising noise reduction.
Why Cheap Materials Fall Short
Lower-quality sound deadening materials often don’t stick as well, degrade faster, or don’t adequately dampen vibrations. This can result in less noise reduction, a less durable solution, and added weight that doesn’t contribute effectively to your goals.
Beyond Sound Deadening: Adding Soundproofing for Airborne Noise
While sound deadening materials like NK Mat are excellent for reducing vibrations, they don’t fully block airborne noise (like engine hum, traffic, or wind noise). To achieve a truly quiet cabin, it’s beneficial to add soundproofing materials that complement your sound deadening. Here are two key types of soundproofing materials to consider:
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Sound Barrier
Sound barrier is a dense rubber sided dampening material with open cell foam centre, designed to block sound waves, preventing noise from entering or exiting the vehicle. The open cell foam centre is effective for absorbing higher-frequency airborne sounds. The two components together enhance cabin quietness by trapping and dissipating sound waves inside the vehicle.
The Ideal Setup for Vehicle Sound Reduction
For the best sound reduction in your car or van, consider a layered approach. Start with 50-80% coverage of a high-quality sound deadening material like NK Mat to tackle structural vibrations. Then, add sound barriers and open cell foam to address airborne noise. This combination creates a comprehensive noise reduction package, delivering a noticeably quieter driving experience.
Final Thoughts
In sound deadening, coverage and material quality are the two biggest factors that determine success. Aim for 50-80% coverage with a trusted product like NK Mat to manage vibrations effectively, and add soundproofing materials like sound barriers and open cell foam to keep out airborne sounds. By using quality materials and an effective setup, you’ll get the quietest, most enjoyable ride possible.
Check out our full range of soundproofing and deadening products at Noisekillers.