While the installation of acoustic joist tape is not quite an industry standard, it can be used in place of joists when building or even when upgrading existing walls. Many homeowners choose to use this material because it comes in various sizes and shapes, allowing for optimum soundproofing. Unlike traditional methods, which leave small spaces between the wall studs that allow noise to travel through them quickly and easily, you can prevent noise transfer in your home by installing joist tape in its place.
Joist Tape Uses an Acoustical sealant, also known as an acoustic sealant, prevents noise from flowing through the joint where two objects come together (typically between a top plate and sill plate). This is commonly seen within homes with open floor plans, as the lack of walls creates an opportunity for noise to travel throughout the house. Acoustic sealant is sometimes called joist tape because it is commonly used as a replacement for traditional wall sheathings such as plywood and drywall.
How To Apply Acoustical Sealant
1 – Measure and cut acoustical sealant to size with a utility knife or scissors (cutting tools may vary).
2 – Remove backing from the adhesive and place into position between the top plate and sill plate (where studs intersect).
3 – Secure in place by applying pressure over the entire surface. Pressure can be applied by hand or with a roller if desired. It is important to hold down the acoustical sealant until it is firmly in place.
Acoustic sealant should be applied to all seams, gaps and joints where sound could escape the room or dwelling. As you apply an acoustical sealant to these areas, ensure that there are no gaps between the product and the stud (or top plate).
4 – After securing, use a tool like a paint roller or even your hands (if using self-levelling products) to smooth out any bubbles or creases in the acoustical sealant.
5 – Using painter’s tape, cover any open areas on adjacent walls so that you do not inadvertently get paint on them when painting over the newly installed material.
6 – Allow sufficient time for the adhesive to dry completely prior to painting the wall. (typically 24 hours)
HOW TO INSTALL ACOUSTIC JOIST TAPE Acoustic sealant is sometimes referred to as joist tape because it serves as a replacement for traditional drywall, especially in open floor plans. When installed correctly, acoustical products allow you to fill the seams and joints where two walls meet without compromising your home’s structural integrity or causing any damage to the existing sheetrock. Joist tape covers up these areas and helps prevent sound from moving through them (thereby preventing noise leakage). To install:
1 – Prior to installation, clean both surfaces with an alcohol pad (the same type of pad used for sterilizing skin prior to injections).
2 – Remove backing from the adhesive strip on the top edge of the product.
3 – Holding onto the top edge of the material so that it does not fall, lower it into position (with adhesive side down) between two wall studs (where the seam is to be filled).
4 – Check for positioning and alignment once the product is in place; reposition or re-align if necessary. You want to make sure that the seam is properly sealed after installation.
5 – Using painter’s tape, cover all adjacent walls (to avoid getting paint on them while painting over acoustical sealant).
6 – Allow 24 hours before painting new material. Acoustic products are self-levelling; do not apply pressure or attempt to smooth out any air bubbles until completely dry (typically 24 hours). Seams & Joints Acoustic Joist tape will help you seal the seams and joints where two walls meet; it is important to make sure there are no gaps in the material when installed. For best results, ensure that both surfaces (stud and joist tape) are properly cleaned prior to installation.
It’s also important to apply acoustical sealant or tape between studs (where sound might travel through the wall). If possible, apply sealant directly onto framing members. After cleaning both surfaces, use painter’s tape if covering sheetrock on adjacent walls while painting over the new material. The only downside of using this method is that paint colors may not match perfectly.