Basement – Quantitative measurement for sound dampening methods

basementinsulation

I'm planning to finish off my basement. Which type of basement ceiling insulation is most effective at reducing sound transfer between levels, blown in cellulose or rock wool batts and how much more effective is one versus the other? Where can I get quantitative measurements? I'm not considering closed-cell spray foam insulation as that is too costly for my project.

Best Answer

The overall construction method makes much more difference than the type of insulation. It seems intervening air gaps in assemblies is usually beneficial so batts may be more beneficial than blown in, given identical material. All just a guess on my part. Acoustics can be maddeningly illogical.

Some time ago California compiled acoustical tests from various sources into a catalog of sound-rated wall and floor/ceiling assemblies.