Noise pollution continues to rise as Melbourne’s population density increases. From inner-city apartments to suburban homes near arterial roads, unwanted noise can impact comfort, privacy, and property appeal. Soundproof plasterboard offers a proven solution to reduce noise transmission between rooms and from external sources. HB Plaster provides professional soundproof plasterboard installation across Melbourne, applying engineering-grade acoustic principles to create quieter, more liveable interiors.
Soundproofing
Soundproof plasterboard—also known as acoustic plasterboard—is specifically engineered to block and absorb sound energy. Unlike standard plasterboard, it features a denser gypsum core combined with sound-damping materials that reduce vibration and resonance. The result is a wall or ceiling system capable of substantially lowering airborne and impact noise transmission.
Product
Key performance differences between soundproof and standard plasterboard include:
- Increased density, typically 15–20% heavier per sheet.
- Enhanced sound reduction rating (Rw value).
- Polymer-infused gypsum core for vibration absorption.
- Superior low-frequency noise attenuation.
Leading products used in Melbourne installations include Gyprock Soundchek, CSR Bradford SoundScreen, and Boral Acoustic Plasterboard—all tested for Australian building compliance and performance reliability.
Acoustic
Soundproof plasterboard works by controlling vibration transfer through three main mechanisms:
Mass: Increased board density makes it more resistant to airborne sound waves.
Damping: Viscoelastic polymers convert vibration energy into trace heat, minimising resonance.
Decoupling: When installed with resilient channels or staggered studs, it prevents direct sound paths through walls and ceilings.
Together, these properties provide significant noise reduction even in challenging urban or multi-residential environments.
Ratings
Performance is measured by the Weighted Sound Reduction Index (Rw). In Melbourne construction, the following benchmarks apply:
- Standard Wall: Rw 45–50 – basic sound insulation.
- Single Layer Soundproof Wall: Rw 50–55 – adequate for most homes.
- Double Layer System: Rw 55–65 – premium performance.
- Advanced Acoustic System: Rw 65–70+ – suitable for studios or commercial applications.
Every 10-point Rw increase represents a perceptible halving of audible noise, making material choice and installation precision critical.
Applications
Soundproof plasterboard serves both residential and commercial purposes throughout Melbourne.
Residential installations include apartment party walls, bedrooms near living areas, home theatres, offices, and music practice rooms. It also improves acoustic comfort between bathrooms and adjoining spaces.
Commercial installations cover office meeting rooms, medical consulting suites, hospitality venues, and childcare centres—spaces where noise control directly impacts usability and compliance.
Installation
Correct installation determines overall acoustic performance. HB Plaster follows proven techniques to achieve maximum sound isolation.
- Framing and Design – Walls are constructed with 90–100mm studs. Staggered or double-stud framing is used for high-performance applications.
- Acoustic Insulation – Soundproof plasterboard is paired with Rockwool or Bradford SoundScreen batts to fill wall cavities.
- Sealing and Caulking – All joints, edges, and penetrations are sealed with acoustic sealant to eliminate sound leakage.
- Resilient Mounting – Resilient channels or acoustic clips decouple boards from framing, preventing vibration transfer.
- Multiple Layers – For premium systems, double sheeting with offset joints increases mass and eliminates weak points.
- Electrical and Plumbing Detailing – Acoustic pads are applied around switches, outlets, and pipes to maintain consistent soundproofing integrity.
These combined practices ensure every system delivers measurable sound reduction in line with design specifications.
Complementary
For maximum performance, HB Plaster integrates soundproof plasterboard with other acoustic treatments.
- Acoustic Underlay: Reduces noise transfer through floor-ceiling assemblies.
- Mass Loaded Vinyl: Adds additional density between plasterboard layers.
- Upgraded Doors and Windows: Completes the acoustic barrier by addressing weak flanking paths.
- Resilient Ceiling Mounts: Further isolates ceiling vibration in multi-storey dwellings.
Each element strengthens the system’s overall acoustic performance and ensures consistency across the property.
Costs
Soundproof systems cost more than standard wall construction but deliver measurable long-term value through comfort and property enhancement.
Typical Melbourne pricing:
- Single-layer soundproof walls: $90–$140 per m²
- Double-layer high-performance systems: $130–$200 per m²
- Soundproof ceilings: $110–$180 per m²
Material pricing averages:
- Soundproof plasterboard: $40–$65 per sheet
- Acoustic insulation: $8–$15 per m²
- Resilient channels: $15–$25 per linear metre
- Acoustic sealant: $15–$25 per tube
Investing in acoustic construction improves liveability, tenant appeal, and long-term property value.
Compliance
Melbourne’s building standards align with the National Construction Code (NCC), requiring minimum Rw ratings for noise separation:
- Apartments and townhouses – Rw 50 for shared walls.
- Hotels – Rw 45–50 depending on classification.
- Commercial tenancies – as per acoustic design requirements.
HB Plaster provides documentation and test data to support compliance verification during inspection and certification.
HB Plaster
HB Plaster specialises in the design and installation of compliant acoustic systems. Our Melbourne team applies precise installation techniques backed by acoustic engineering principles. Each project benefits from:
- Use of premium, certified materials.
- Full acoustic sealing and resilient mounting.
- Adherence to NCC and manufacturer guidelines.
- Transparent pricing and detailed documentation.
- A five-year workmanship warranty on all installations.
Our extensive experience across Melbourne suburbs—South Yarra, Richmond, Brunswick, Carlton, Fitzroy, Coburg, and St Kilda—ensures results tailored to both property type and client expectation.
Enhance your property’s comfort and privacy with expertly installed soundproof plasterboard. Contact HB Plaster today on 0413 822 448 or via our website for a no-obligation acoustic assessment. Our qualified team delivers professional soundproofing solutions across Melbourne—ensuring quieter, compliant, and more enjoyable living and working environments.
