How Acoustic Flooring Systems Improve Sound Control In Commercial Buildings

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In commercial buildings, managing noise isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s essential for productivity, privacy and wellbeing. At INS Acoustics, we specialise in delivering high-performance engineered acoustic flooring systems designed to reduce unwanted sound transmission and enhance the acoustic quality of any commercial environment.

From busy office spaces to multi-storey residential developments, sound control plays a critical role in shaping how people experience a space. And with the right acoustic flooring system in place, it’s possible to create environments that are quieter, more comfortable and more functional.

Understanding Acoustic Flooring

Acoustic flooring systems are designed to tackle two major types of sound: impact sound and airborne sound. Impact sound is caused by physical contact with the floor, such as footsteps or dropped items, while airborne sound comes from sources like speech, music or machinery.

Our commercial acoustic treatment solutions are developed to reduce both types, helping you maintain sound integrity across floors and rooms. Whether you’re building new or upgrading an existing structure, we provide a range of engineered solutions to meet your needs.

Types of Acoustic Flooring Systems We Offer

At INS Acoustics, we offer a selection of flooring systems tailored to different build types and soundproofing goals. Each one is designed to absorb and deflect sound efficiently, using materials and methods that integrate seamlessly with a wide range of flooring finishes.

Acoustic Underlays

Acoustic underlays are one of the most practical and widely used ways to improve impact sound insulation. These layers are typically installed beneath floor coverings using adhesive bonding. They vary in thickness and resilience depending on the application, and when installed correctly, they absorb energy from foot traffic and other impacts, reducing the sound that travels to rooms below.

To avoid flanking transmission — when sound travels around, rather than through, the floor — it’s important to isolate the underlay from surrounding walls. This can be done with resilient strips or by leaving a small gap at the perimeter.

Acoustic Platform Floors

Platform floors consist of a durable deck layer, such as compressed chipboard with tongue and groove edges, backed by a resilient layer. The design allows for a uniform surface treatment while protecting the softer acoustic material underneath from wear and tear.

This combination of layers effectively blocks both impact and airborne sound, making platform floors an excellent all-round option for many commercial environments.

Resilient Acoustic Batten Systems

In these systems, timber battens are fitted with a pre-bonded resilient strip made from foam or fibrous polyester. These battens must be installed on a flat surface, such as an existing subfloor, and should never be laid directly on joists.

For timber joist floors, a sub-deck is installed first, and the resilient battens are then fixed on top. These systems are particularly effective in spaces where floor height adjustments or service voids are needed, and they provide excellent isolation from structural noise.

Resilient Cradle Floor Systems

Where services such as cabling or pipework need to run across different directions under the floor, cradle systems are ideal. This system involves a deck layer supported by timber battens, which in turn rest on adjustable, resilient cradles. These cradles allow for precise levelling and spacing, and the resilient material helps to isolate vibrations and impact sound.

This is a flexible solution often used in refurbishments or complex builds, where access and acoustic control must go hand in hand.

Benefits of Acoustic Flooring in Commercial Settings

The right acoustic flooring system provides far more than just silence. Here are some key benefits:

  • Improved Privacy: By reducing airborne sound transmission, you ensure conversations and work remain private, especially in open-plan or multi-use buildings.

  • Enhanced Comfort: A quieter environment leads to better concentration, less stress and a more enjoyable space for staff, clients or residents.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Many buildings must meet specific standards for sound insulation, particularly in housing developments and hospitality.

  • Design Flexibility: With our range of systems, you can meet acoustic goals without compromising on the aesthetic or layout of your space.

  • Long-Term Durability: Our solutions are built to perform over time, resisting wear while continuing to deliver effective noise reduction.

Why Choose INS Acoustics?

As specialists in commercial acoustic treatment solutions, INS Acoustics combines technical expertise with high-quality materials to deliver systems that work. Our team has decades of experience designing, supplying and installing acoustic flooring in commercial settings across the UK.

We provide support throughout every stage of the process — from product selection and specification to installation guidance and aftercare. Our in-house manufacturing capabilities also allow us to tailor products for bespoke projects and performance goals.

Whatever the demands of your space, we’ll help you build a quieter, more effective environment with acoustic solutions that fit.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Project

If you’re planning a new development or looking to upgrade the sound performance of an existing space, we’re here to help. From detailed consultation to professional supply and installation, INS Acoustics provides engineered acoustic flooring systems designed for real-world commercial needs.

Get in touch with us today to find out how our flooring solutions can improve sound control in your building.