The correct material is critical for soundproofing. Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) and Green Glue are two common alternatives.
These items have distinct advantages and disadvantages, making them suited for various applications. I’ve used both several times, and they both perform quite well. However, they have advantages and disadvantages; you must know when to use them.
In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine the qualities, installation, efficacy, and pricing of Mass-Loaded Vinyl and Green Glue to help you decide which is the best option for your soundproofing needs.
Contents
1. Properties
Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV):
- MLV is a thick, flexible, and heavy substance composed of vinyl impregnated with metal particles or barium sulfate.
- It is particularly engineered to prevent sound transmission and vibrations, making it an excellent noise barrier. It can, for example, be utilized to improve the noise-blocking properties of a fence.
- MLV is commonly sold in rolls and thicknesses ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch.
Green Glue:
- Green Glue is a viscoelastic glue that bonds layers of plasterboard, plywood, or other stiff materials.
- Its principal purpose is to absorb vibrations and convert sound energy into heat, reducing impact and airborne noise.
- Green Glue comes in tubes and is applied with a regular caulking gun.
2. Installation
Mass Loaded Vinyl:
- MLV may be installed in walls, ceilings, and floors to offer good soundproofing. I’ve highlighted 12 soundproofing projects that can benefit from MLV.
- It can be trimmed to size and nailed, screwed, or glued to the surface.
- MLV can also be sandwiched between layers of plasterboard or other building materials to reduce noise.
- Here’s a video showing how to set up MLV.
Green Glue:
- Green Glue is most typically utilized between plasterboard layers or other hard materials.
- It should be applied in a zigzag pattern across the whole surface to ensure complete coverage.
- Following application, the second layer of plasterboard is installed on top and connected to the studs, resulting in a constrained layer damping system.
- Here’s a video showing how to apply Green Glue.
3. Effectiveness
Mass Loaded Vinyl:
- MLV is extremely good at filtering airborne sounds such as voices, music, and traffic.
- Its hefty construction makes it an effective sound barrier.
- Its efficiency can be improved by layering it or mixing it with additional soundproofing materials.
Green Glue:
- Green Glue is excellent at minimizing airborne, and impact sounds like footsteps or fallen things.
- Because of its viscoelastic qualities, it can absorb and dissipate vibrations.
- Green Glue works best with other soundproofing materials, such as plasterboard or insulation.
4. Cost
Mass Loaded Vinyl:
- MLV is more costly than Green Glue, ranging in price from $1.50 to $2.80 per square foot.
- Its efficacy and longevity, on the other hand, make it a sensible investment for many soundproofing projects.
- Soundsulate is the greatest MLV I’ve used, and the current pricing can be found on Amazon.
Green Glue:
- Green Glue (Amazon link) is usually less costly than MLV. It used to be that way, but prices have just risen, so bear this in mind before purchasing.
- Remember to factor in extra materials, such as plasterboard, when determining the cost of a Green Glue soundproofing job.
Pros and Cons of Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)
Pros:
- Effective in blocking airborne noise: Because of its rich composition, MLV is extremely effective at blocking airborne noise, such as voices, music, and traffic.
- Versatile installation: MLV may be used in walls, ceilings, and floors, making it appropriate for various soundproofing applications. It can also be used alongside other materials, such as rock wool batts and green glue, to boost insulation.
- Easy to cut and install:Â MLV is simple to cut and install since it can be cut to size and affixed to surfaces with nails, screws, or glue.
- Durable: MLV is a long-lasting soundproofing solution made of sturdy materials that endure wear and tear.
- Can be combined with other materials: MLV’s efficiency can be increased by employing many layers or mixing it with other soundproofing materials like insulation or plasterboard.
Cons:
- Heavy: MLV is heavy due to its thick composition, which might make handling and installation more difficult.
- Not as effective for impact noise:Â MLV is good at absorbing airborne noise but has not been specially developed to minimize impact noise like Green Glue.
Pros and Cons of Green Glue
Pros:
- Reduces both airborne and impact noise: Because of its viscoelastic qualities, Green Glue is good at reducing both airborne and impact noise, such as footsteps or fallen items.
- Easy application: Green Glue is simple to use and install since it can be applied with a regular caulking gun.
- Cost-effective: Green Glue is often less costly than MLV, making it a more cost-effective solution for soundproofing applications.
- Compatible with multiple materials: Green Glue may be utilized between layers of plasterboard, plywood, or other hard materials, making it adaptable for a variety of building applications.
- Green Glue improves the efficacy of other materials: When used with other soundproofing materials, it can considerably boost their noise reduction properties.
Cons:
- Requires additional materials:Â Green Glue must be used between layers of stiff materials, such as plasterboard, increasing the cost and complexity of a soundproofing job.
- Longer cure time: Because Green Glue takes time to cure, it might delay the completion of a soundproofing job. It is possible that full efficacy will not be realized for several weeks.
- Less effective as a standalone solution:Â While Green Glue is an excellent soundproofing compound, it is most effective when used with other materials and may not provide significant noise reduction on its own.
FAQ:
1. Can you put Green Glue on MLV?
Green Glue is intended for use between hard materials like plasterboard or plywood to form a restricted-layer damping system. It is not suggested to apply Green Glue directly on Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) since MLV is a flexible material, and the viscoelastic qualities of Green Glue would not be completely used.
To maximise noise reduction, use Green Glue and MLV in the same soundproofing installation. Install the MLV on a wall or ceiling, for example, and then apply Green Glue to a layer of plasterboard or plywood before adhering it to the MLV.
This results in a multi-layered soundproofing system that successfully reduces both airborne and impact noise by combining the bulk and density of MLV with the damping capabilities of Green Glue.
Remember that such a system’s efficiency depends on correctly installing and maintaining a good seal to avoid sound leaking.
2. Is Green Glue toxic?
Green Glue is a non-toxic, low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) soundproofing product. It is designed for use in both household and business settings. However, like with any building material, following the manufacturer’s instructions and safety measures during installation is critical.
Wear adequate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when applying Green Glue to avoid direct skin or eye contact. Additionally, sufficient ventilation in the working area should be provided to reduce fume irritation.
Once the Green Glue has dried and the wall or ceiling assembly is complete, there is no major risk to the inhabitants’ health.
If you are concerned about the safety of Green Glue, it is always a good idea to review the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete information on its composition and potential risks.
3. Is MLV Toxic, Flammable, and Waterproof?
1. Toxicity:Â MLV is typically considered non-toxic and acceptable for use in household and commercial applications. It’s made of vinyl impregnated with metal particles or barium sulfate.
Although it is safe for most applications, it is critical to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety measures during installation, especially if cutting or trimming the material. Wear appropriate safety equipment, such as gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask, to avoid breathing particles.
2. Flammability:Â MLV is normally built to be fire-resistant but not entirely fireproof. The majority of MLV products are Class A fire-rated, which means they have a low flame spread and smoke generation index.
While this makes MLV acceptable for most residential and commercial applications, it is critical to examine the exact fire rating of your product and confirm that it conforms with local building standards and laws.
3. Waterproof:Â MLV is constructed of vinyl, which is inherently water-resistant. This implies that MLV can withstand certain moisture and water exposure, making it acceptable for wet or humid conditions.
However, it is not completely waterproof, and extended contact with water may cause damage or degeneration. If you anticipate the MLV being exposed to substantial amounts of water, talk with the manufacturer to identify the optimum option or consider utilizing alternate waterproof soundproofing materials.
Final Word
Consider the precise application, your budget, and the desired amount of noise reduction when deciding between Mass Loaded Vinyl and Green Glue for your soundproofing needs.
MLV works best to block airborne noise, but Green Glue works well to lower airborne and impact noise. Each product has advantages and disadvantages, and your personal needs and tastes will determine the ideal option.
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