HDB is a concrete-based construction. Bass and other sound frequencies can pass through the walls and beams of the building, causing it to be inaudible. HDB’s soundproofing process may cost $5k to XXK, depending on the materials used, design, and eq in the home. Before you decide on soundproofing your HDB home, you should know what kind of noises you’re experiencing.
Concrete
You may be wondering whether concrete is HDB soundproof. After all, it is a standard building material that has many advantages. It is sturdy and durable, and can withstand the test of time. Concrete’s versatility also makes it suitable for a wide range of settings. And the best part? It does not cost a fortune. Unfortunately, concrete does not have great soundproofing properties, and you may not benefit from the full potential of the material.
Generally, sound travels in three ways: it either is absorbed or reflected. Since air particles are close but loose, they receive sound waves differently than solids. Sound waves vibrate the first particle that they collide with. Solids, on the other hand, absorb sound waves. As such, while concrete is thick and durable, it is not a sound-blocking material. However, it is a good material for ceilings.
Composite material
If you’re looking for a way to improve the soundproofing of your HDB unit, you can use composite materials. Composite materials are made with a combination of a toughening agent and functional filler. Hollow silica nanotubes were synthesized using a sol-gel method and were used as toughening agents and functional fillers. Hollow polystyrene spheres were also used as thickening agents. These materials were then mixed with polyethylene glycol to form ternary composites.
While the density of a layer and its intrinsic porosity are highly significant factors in determining the soundproofing properties of a material, the overall grain size is the lesser factor. The overall thickness and density of the composite layer can be optimized through a good fit to the phenomenological model. This way, the overall acoustic performance of the material can be optimized. The use of composites for HDB soundproofing can be advantageous in a number of ways.
Getting a professional to do it
Getting a professional to do HDB soundsproofing is important if you have a lot of other responsibilities. While it can be tempting to do the renovations yourself, you’ll find that it’s best to leave it to the experts. Unless you’re a construction professional, you may waste your time and money on unproductive materials. While DIY methods can be effective, they’re also likely to make the project much more expensive.
Soundproof walls are typically used in studios. They’re mounted with thick padding and are effective at blocking mid and high-frequency sound waves. They absorb sound from within the room and can be found in various colours and patterns. Soundproof walls can be mounted yourself, but it requires proper permissions and time. It’s best to get a professional to perform HDB soundproofing for you because this option is likely to require a higher price tag.
