What Is Acoustic Plasterboard? Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to improving the peace and quiet of your home, few products are as practical and effective as acoustic plasterboard. Often used as part of a complete soundproofing system, it provides a dense, durable barrier. That helps block airborne noise passing through walls and ceilings.
At West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd, we’ve installed acoustic plasterboard systems in homes, offices, studios, and flats. Across Brighton, Hove, Worthing, Chichester, Crawley, and throughout West Sussex, helping our customers enjoy real reductions in unwanted noise.
What Is Acoustic Plasterboard Made Of?
Acoustic plasterboard (also known as sound-resistant plasterboard or soundbloc board) looks similar to standard plasterboard. But it has a heavier and denser gypsum core. This added mass gives it superior sound-blocking performance compared to ordinary boards.
Leading brands such as British Gypsum (SoundBloc), Knauf Sound Panel, and Siniat dB Board manufacture the boards. Designing them to meet or exceed Part E Building Regulations for sound insulation between rooms and dwellings.
Available Thicknesses
Acoustic plasterboard comes in a range of thicknesses to suit different applications and space requirements:
- 12.5mm – the most commonly used thickness for general soundproofing on walls and ceilings.
- 15mm – offers increased mass and better acoustic performance, often used for higher-spec systems or where sound levels are greater.
- 19mm – used in premium or double-layer systems for maximum sound reduction (typically in studios or commercial builds).
At West Sussex Soundproofing, we often combine multiple layers (e.g., 2 × 15mm) to deliver exceptional results. Particularly on party walls, ceilings, and studio spaces that demand greater noise control.
How Does Acoustic Plasterboard Work?
Sound travels as vibrations through air and solid materials. The denser a wall or ceiling, the more difficult it becomes for those sound vibrations to pass through.
Acoustic plasterboard adds mass and damping to the structure, reducing airborne noise such as:
- Talking or TV sounds from neighbouring rooms or properties
- General household or office noise
- Music or entertainment sounds
When used as part of a multi-layered system, acoustic plasterboard helps create a barrier. That absorbs, reflects, and dissipates sound energy before it reaches the other side.
Acoustic Performance
The exact performance depends on how the board is used. Whether it’s a single layer, a double layer, or combined with other acoustic materials such as M20 panels, acoustic mineral wool, or resilient bars.
Typical results include:
- Single layer of 12.5mm acoustic plasterboard: around 35–40 dB airborne noise reduction.
- Double layer of 15mm boards: up to 50–55 dB reduction when installed over insulation and resilient bars.
- Full systems (with M20 or Genie Clips): often achieve 60 dB+ of airborne noise reduction, suitable for residential and studio environments.
These figures show just how effective acoustic plasterboard can be when used as part of a properly designed soundproofing system.
Where Can Acoustic Plasterboard Be Installed?
Acoustic plasterboard is suitable for almost any environment where noise is an issue, including:
- Party walls between flats or semi-detached homes
- Ceilings under noisy upstairs neighbours
- Home offices, studios, or music rooms
- Meeting rooms and offices in commercial buildings
- Converted garages or cinema rooms
In Brighton and Hove, where many period and converted properties have thin or hollow walls, acoustic plasterboard is an ideal retrofit solution. It improves comfort and privacy without major structural changes.
Key Benefits of Acoustic Plasterboard
✅ Reduces airborne noise effectively
✅ Available in multiple thicknesses for flexible system design
✅ Simple installation – same method as standard plasterboard
✅ Complies with Part E Building Regulations
✅ Durable, long-lasting and smooth finish
✅ Ideal for both new builds and retrofits
Why Choose West Sussex Soundproofing
At West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd, we design and install bespoke acoustic plasterboard systems that deliver measurable sound reduction. Our experienced team assesses every project individually, ensuring correct material combinations, proper sealing, and flanking noise control.
We work across Brighton, Hove, Worthing, Chichester, Crawley, and the wider West Sussex region, using trusted brands and proven installation methods to give you the best acoustic results possible.
Contact Us
If you’d like to learn more about acoustic plasterboard systems or arrange a free site survey, contact West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd today.
We’ll assess your property, discuss your noise issues, and recommend the most effective solution for your walls or ceilings — professionally installed for lasting peace and quiet.
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