As we all know, most high-rise buildings are constructed of concrete and steel, so you'd figure they'd be pretty soundproofed already, but that is not always the case. Even though the floors generally have 6" to 10" of poured Gypcrete as their foundation, Gypcrete is still a rigid hard surface and can readily transmit impact noise to the unit below. Gypcrete is a lightweight concrete that is used in high-rise structures for stability and strength, but the fact is that it is still a hard substance and if the floor above is tile, granite, marble, or the infamous hardwood, there is still the likelihood of sound transmission from the hard floor above into the Gypcrete and ultimately into the ceiling of the tenant below.
I know the price most of you pay for these units, and you want (and deserve) your nice wood or marble flooring, but if you are set on this type of flooring, it is always best to overlay the Gypcrete sub-floor with a layer of the ¼" (2 Lb.) American Mass Loaded Vinyl. You'll roll this vinyl out wall-to-wall, butt the seams together, caulk the seams (as well as the perimeter) with an acoustical caulk, and finally tape the seams with a seam or lead foil tape. This should provide an excellent soundproofing foundation for your new hard surface floor.
As for the walls in a high-rise, go to the "Soundproofing party walls" page under the soundproofing button on www.soundproofingamerica.com home page.
As always, if you need help with your soundproofing project, please contact one of the soundproofing experts at Soundproofing America Inc.
Thanks again folks, and remember, knowledge is Power!
As always, Dr, Bob!
