Constant exposure to high noise levels can damage hearing, distract your team, slow down productivity, and make communication difficult. One of the most effective and affordable solutions to these issues is soundproof curtains. However, before you make a purchase, it’s important to understand what makes the best soundproof curtains and which style is right for your facility. In this article, we’ll look at some of the main features you should consider when choosing noise cancelling curtains.
Best Soundproof Curtain Materials
All of the best soundproof curtains start with the right materials. For industrial environments, you’re looking for something thick that’s engineered to block or absorb sound. Often, this means the curtain will be made from three parts: dense materials like mass-loaded vinyl to physically block sound; porous materials like fiberglass or mineral wool to absorb sound energy; and an outer fabric layer that protects the inner materials and also helps with the way the curtain looks. These layers work to block low-frequency sounds like engines or compressors, while the soft layers absorb higher-frequency sounds like voices or clinking metal. Combined, they reduce the overall noise that makes it into or out of the space.
Specifically in terms of material, heavy-duty fabrics like vinyl-laminated polyester or mass-loaded vinyl are excellent options. These materials are dense enough to either block or absorb sound effectively. Look for multi-layered curtains that combine soundproofing layers with soft, absorbent inner linings. You want a combination of mass and softness.
Sound Absorbing Curtain Thickness and Weight
For acoustic curtains, thicker is usually better. Lightweight curtains may be okay for your home office, but in an industrial environment, you’re going to want something more heavy-duty. You’ll find that the best soundproof curtains weigh more than traditional ones. This is because mass is part of what stops sound from passing through. In general, look for curtains that weigh two to five pounds per square foot, as these are often the most effective. The added weight helps block low-frequency sounds like machinery, HVAC systems, and heavy equipment. However, keep in mind that higher weight means you’ll also need sturdy curtain tracks and hardware.
Acoustic Curtains Size
Sound can penetrate small gaps, so if your curtains don’t completely seal off a space, you’re still going to hear a lot of noise and may struggle to protect your hearing. Make sure the curtains you choose are wide enough to overlap beyond the opening, tall enough to go from ceiling to floor, and designed to seal tightly at the edges when closed. Many noise cancelling curtains come with Velcro or magnetic edges to eliminate gaps where sound can travel. This is especially important if you’re using them to partition a space or isolate a particularly noisy machine or operation.
Here at Singer Safety, our sound dampening curtains come in both standard and custom sizes to fit any space perfectly.
Sound Dampening Curtain Flexibility
In an industrial setting, flexibility is important. You might need to move your curtain barrier around depending on changing layouts or temporary projects. That’s why modular soundproof curtain systems are typically better. Look for curtains with grommets or track systems for easy installation and removal, retractable options so you can move them when needed, and custom sizing if you’re dealing with unique spaces or machinery.
Fire Resistance and Durability
If you work in an industrial setting, your curtains are going to face wear and tear, dust, moisture, and possibly sparks or chemicals. For this reason, durability should be high on your list. Make sure your sound absorbing curtains are made of fire-resistant materials that meet local codes, are easy to wipe down or clean if exposed to dirt and debris, and are reinforced at stress points such as hanging grommets or bottom hems.
Noise Rating (STC/NRC Scores)
Sound transmission class (STC) or noise reduction coefficient (NRC) ratings help you understand how effective a product is at controlling noise. STC measures how well something blocks airborne sound. NRC measures how well it absorbs sound. For industrial use, aim for acoustic curtains with an STC of 25 or higher and an NRC of 0.7 or more. The higher the rating, the better the performance. These numbers are usually available on product spec sheets.
Sound Dampening Curtain Design
Not all noise problems need the same type of curtain. A woodworking shop might need to isolate a sanding station, while a warehouse might need to reduce overall echo. Additionally, sound dampening curtains are often designed for different purposes like machinery enclosures, temporary work zones, overhead crane areas, portable welding booths, indoor-outdoor loading dock doors, and more. Knowing what you’re trying to solve will help you choose the best design.
At Singer Safety, we offer custom solutions for these use cases and more. If you need sound dampening curtains for your space and want to ensure the right fit, our helpful staff can get you started.
Ease of Installation
Some of the best soundproof curtains come ready to hang with mounting hardware or easy-to-follow instructions. Others require professional installation, but that might be worth it if you’re outfitting a large facility. Before purchasing a curtain, consider if you want a permanent solution or something you can move later. Do you have an existing framework to hang from, like beams or tracks? And are you willing to drill into walls or ceilings? Ease of installation matters, and the right curtain for you might change depending on these answers.
Learn More About Noise Cancelling Curtains
The best soundproof curtains are the ones that solve your specific noise problem. If your facility is producing a lot of unwanted noise that’s affecting your workers’ health, safety, and productivity, noise cancelling curtains are a great tool. They reduce noise in a wide range of settings, are cost-effective, and can give you the flexibility you need for many projects.
At Singer Safety, we take pride in helping our customers create quieter, safer facilities that benefit both their workers and operations. Ready to get started? Our experts can help you determine which system is best for you. Contact us today to learn more.
