Introduction
Noise control is a key priority in today’s multi-storey residential, commercial, and modular buildings. From footsteps on upper floors to mechanical vibrations or impact noise, unwanted sound can quickly reduce comfort and perceived quality.
This is where fiber cement boards come into play — not only as durable and fire-resistant substrates, but also as valuable components in acoustic flooring systems designed to reduce noise transmission between floors.
Understanding Acoustic Flooring Systems
Acoustic flooring systems are engineered to minimize both impact noise (such as footsteps or dropped objects) and airborne noise (such as voices or television sound). The most effective assemblies combine:
- A rigid top layer for load distribution
- A resilient underlay that absorbs impact
- A dense core material — such as a fiber cement board — that dampens sound transmission
When installed correctly, this combination creates a balanced flooring system that is quiet, stable, and compliant with modern acoustic standards.
Why Fiber Cement Boards Are Ideal for Acoustic Flooring
1. High Density and Mass
Sound transmission loss increases with mass. Fiber cement boards have a high density (typically 1,300–1,600 kg/m³), which helps block airborne sound. This makes them effective in separating floors between living units or office levels.
2. Dimensional Stability
Unlike wood-based panels, fiber cement boards remain dimensionally stable under temperature or humidity changes, preventing gaps that could allow sound leakage over time.
3. Fire and Moisture Resistance
Acoustic performance often goes hand in hand with fire and moisture control. Fiber cement boards offer Class A1/A2 fire ratings and are moisture-resistant, ensuring durability even in bathrooms, corridors, or service areas.
4. Compatibility with Resilient Layers
They can be used over acoustic underlays, mineral wool, or rubber mats, acting as a stiff top layer that distributes load evenly while maintaining acoustic separation.
Applications in Modern Construction
1. Modular and Prefabricated Buildings
Fiber cement boards provide a robust sub-floor solution that integrates easily into modular floor cassettes, maintaining sound separation between modules.
2. Multi-Storey Residential Projects
Installed over resilient underlays, they improve acoustic performance without increasing floor thickness — ideal for apartments or hotels.
3. Office and Educational Buildings
Combined with raised access flooring, they reduce noise from walking and mechanical systems while allowing easy maintenance access.
Design and Installation Considerations
- Substructure: Always ensure a flat, rigid base to prevent drumming or vibration.
- Joints: Leave small expansion joints (~3 mm) filled with acoustic sealant to maintain airtightness.
- Fasteners: Use countersunk screws at correct spacing to avoid vibration points.
- Underlay selection: Pair with high-density rubber, cork, or mineral wool for optimal acoustic damping.
- Sealing: Perimeter edges should be sealed to prevent flanking sound transmission through gaps.
Proper detailing is crucial — even a small unsealed joint can significantly reduce the acoustic performance of an otherwise well-designed floor.
Measured Benefits
Depending on system configuration, flooring with fiber cement boards can deliver:
- Impact sound reduction (ΔLw): up to 25–30 dB
- Airborne sound insulation (Rw): improvements of 3–6 dB compared to wood-based subfloors
These gains help meet acoustic requirements for apartments, hotels, schools, and modular buildings under EN ISO 717 or local building codes.
Maintenance and Lifecycle
Once installed, acoustic flooring using fiber cement boards requires minimal maintenance. Their inorganic composition prevents warping, decay, or delamination — ensuring consistent sound insulation over decades of use.
Conclusion
Fiber cement boards play a vital role in modern acoustic flooring systems, offering high density, dimensional stability, and long-term reliability.
When paired with resilient underlays and proper sealing techniques, they deliver exceptional sound reduction performance, supporting the development of quieter, more comfortable multi-storey and modular environments.
For acoustic flooring systems that combine strength, safety, and comfort, fiber cement boards are one of the most effective and future-ready solutions.
👉 Visit the Smartfiber Fiber Cement Board page to explore specs, sizes, and delivery options.
Authored by Smartcon Int’l. Trade & Marketing Ltd. on 08.11.2025. All rights reserved.