Mass Loaded Vinyl Noise Barrier

Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) is a safe, non-toxic vinyl acoustic noise barrier designed to hang as a limp mass in a variety of soundproofing applications. MLV for soundproofing can be placed between the layers of a wall in order to reduce sound. It is typically attached to joists or studs and often followed by acoustic caulking or barrier tape. Mass loaded vinyl offers an affordable alternative to lead sound barriers.

MLV sound barriers affect sound much like a sheet of cloth stopping a baseball. If the sheet is too taunt, the ball will bounce right back. However, if the sheet has some give to it, the ball will have most of its force absorbed. A mass loaded vinyl sound barrier works the same way. When it has some wiggle room, the vinyl can absorb sound better, resulting in less noise transfer between rooms. For more information about vinyl soundproofing and how effective it is, simply scroll to the bottom of this page.

Our custom-designed mass loaded vinyl noise barrier is available in one or two pounds per square foot density - abbreviated as MLV 1# or MLV 2#, respectively. Check out our mass loaded vinyl blog for more information about this versatile acoustic product.

Sound Transmission Class

The industry standard unit of measure for a sound barrier material like mass loaded vinyl for wall, ceiling or floor assembly is referred to as the Sound Transmission Class (STC). A standardized test, performed in a certified, independent, soundproof lab, measures the transmission loss between a sound source (Source) and a target room (Target). Measurements are taken over a range of 6 frequency points ranging from 125Hz to 4000Hz. The sound in the Source and Target rooms is measured. The difference between the two is the transmission loss. Our mass loaded vinyl is STC rated to ensure you receive the proper soundproofing equipment for your home or office.

Soundproofing systems combine mass, isolation, absorption, and damping to achieve the sound reduction results best suited for the application. MLV noise barrier adds mass in a minimal thickness. The MLV 1# is 1/8" thick. The MLV 2# is 1/4" thick. The MLV is typically embedded behind the finished walls, floor, or ceiling materials. The performance table summarizes the STC rating for the various MLV products.

Acoustic Transmission Loss (dB)

We offer a full spec sheet of our mass loaded vinyl if you would like to compare and contrast products. For large scale projects, we have pallet quantities of MLV #1 available for purchase. If you’re not certain how much MLV you need, our helpful staff can put together a quote for you. If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-866-768-6381.