Acoustic Floor Direct to Joists vs Overlay Acoustic Floor — What’s the Difference?
When planning a soundproofing upgrade in your home or commercial property, one of the most common questions we get asked is: “Should I install an acoustic floor directly to the joists, or choose an overlay acoustic floor system?”
Both systems offer excellent noise control, but they work in very different ways and are suitable for different situations.
At West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd, we specialise in designing and installing high-performance acoustic floors across Brighton, Hove, Worthing, Crawley, Shoreham, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill and surrounding Sussex areas, making sure you get the right solution for your space.
Below, we break down the key differences to help you choose the system that best meets your needs.
1. What Is an Acoustic Floor Direct to Joists?
A direct-to-joists acoustic floor is built by upgrading the floor structure before the sub-floor (chipboard or floorboards) is installed. It is essentially a structural upgrade that enhances airborne and impact noise performance at the source — the timber joists.
How It Works
- Acoustic materials such as mineral wool slabs, resilient bars, soundproofing membranes and acoustic deckingare installed directly on or between the joists.
- The system isolates the floor structure, reducing vibration transfer and improving airborne sound insulation.
- Ideal for households suffering from TV noise, talking, music, bass transfer or footstep noise between floors.
Best For
- Renovations where the floor is already being lifted
- Major refurbishments
- Long-term structural noise improvement
- Flats where compliance with Part E Building Regulations is needed
2. What Is an Overlay Acoustic Floor System?
An overlay acoustic floor is installed over your existing floorboards or sub-floor, making it a popular choice for quick and non-invasive upgrades.
How It Works
- Acoustic boards (such as rubber-crumb mats, acoustic chipboard, high-density composite boards, etc.) are laid on top of the existing floor.
- The system treats mainly impact noise — footsteps, dropped objects, movement, and vibration — by adding density and cushioning to the surface.
- Excellent when you cannot take up floorboards.
Best For
- Minimal disruption installations
- Tenanted properties
- Older houses where lifting boards is not practical
- Quick impact-noise treatment
- Timber floors needing improvement without major building work
3. Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Direct to Joists Acoustic Floor | Overlay Acoustic Floor |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Position | Installed onto/within joists | Installed over existing floor |
| Noise Treated | Excellent airborne + impact | Strong for impact, moderate airborne |
| Installation Disruption | Higher – requires lifting boards | Low – boards stay in place |
| Thickness Impact | Medium to high depending on build-up | Minimal floor height increase |
| Best For | Major refurbishments | Quick upgrades / rented spaces |
| Longevity & Performance | Highest long-term performance | Efficient but less structural |
4. Which System Should You Choose?
Choosing between the two comes down to the type of noise you need to reduce and how much disruption is acceptable.
Choose Direct to Joists if you want:
- Maximum airborne and impact noise reduction
- A long-term structural solution
- Floors lifted as part of a project
- High sound insulation performance between flats or rooms
Choose an Overlay Acoustic Floor if you want:
- Fast installation
- Excellent impact noise improvement
- No lifting of timber boards
- A cost-effective upgrade that still offers strong results
Professional Acoustic Floor Installations in Brighton & Sussex
At West Sussex Soundproofing Ltd, we supply and install both direct-to-joists acoustic floors and overlay acoustic flooring systems, ensuring the best results tailored to your property.
We cover:
Brighton, Hove, Shoreham, Worthing, Crawley, Eastbourne, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Portsmouth, Chichester, and all surrounding BN, RH and PO postcode areas.
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