When Is It A Good Time To Invest In Sound Proofing Panels For Your Office?

Before we discuss when to invest in acoustic panels, we need to clarify what soundproofing panels are. Many people confuse soundproofing with sound absorption, believing that panels will block out noise completely, but acoustic panels will absorb noise rather than make the room silent.

They use porous materials, such as fibre, foam, wool and polyester, due to their ability to trap and disperse sound energy.

While soundproofing panels will significantly enhance a space’s acoustics, they won’t eliminate sound altogether. For example, the panels are more effective at absorbing high frequencies, but they might struggle with lower ones.

Investing in acoustic panelling solutions means that you can create a quieter environment, improve employee productivity and create a working atmosphere that people want to be a part of.

Acoustic panels are an investment; there’s no denying that. But they’re designed to create quieter offices, which can lead to long-term savings.

Research published by TotalJobs highlights that British businesses lose around £143 billion annually due to an unproductive workforce. While completely blocking sound is impossible, using sound panels to absorb noise can create a better office environment.

Here’s what you should consider when deciding whether to invest in acoustic panels.

The noise is disrupting productivity

All employees need a productive space where excess noise isn’t an issue, but it can seem impossible at times. From the tapping of keyboards to phone conversations and people moving around the office, even background noise can kill productivity.

It’s important to remember that workplace noise can be more than a mere inconvenience, as SAS International reports elevated stress levels in 40% of employees. Reducing unwanted noise by using sound absorbing materials can enhance productivity, which results in more profitability.

Open-plan offices

Open-plan offices are kind of like Marmite; some people love them, others hate them. Their main purpose is to create a collaborative environment and make the workplace feel more inclusive instead of splitting people into cubicles and different rooms, but this also creates noise and distractions.

Privacy is always an issue in open-plan offices, but acoustic panels absorb sound waves, which decrease vibrations and echoes. When you correctly use ceiling and wall panels, your employees will feel less overwhelmed and can concentrate on their tasks.

You use meeting spaces and conference rooms regularly

Conference rooms, especially those with hard surfaces like glass walls, concrete, or hardwood floors, can become echo chambers. Echoes make conversations unclear, cause issues during meetings, and make virtual calls challenging.

If your business relies heavily on conference rooms for team discussions or video conferences, investing in soundproofing panels is a smart move. The panels can soften sound reflections, speeding up meetings and ensuring complete clarity.

Creating a private space or focus area

Office soundproofing is always a good idea, and creating a designated area for quiet time can make it easier for employees to have private conversations.

Unfortunately, general noise reduction measures, such as creating partitions, can still cause acoustic leaks, but installing advanced soundproofing solutions, such as panels, can make your office space multi-functional.

When sound quality is vital

Some offices have special needs when it comes to sound, including podcast studios, multimedia rooms, or working from home and relying on video calls. Bad sound can mess up podcasts, online meetings, and even regular phone calls.

Employing acoustic treatment controls will dampen sound waves and reduce noise pollution, creating a better environment for both workers and visitors.

When excess noise levels cause extensive stress

Health and wellbeing is something all companies should take seriously, as high stress levels can have a knock-on effect throughout the business. If you notice your employees struggle to concentrate, take a lot of breaks and call in sick, it’s worth exploring different soundproofing materials.

Investing in soundproofing panels reduces ambient noise and creates a more relaxed, comfortable work environment. A peaceful environment keeps your team happy and your business running smoothly.

Aligning practicality with aesthetic appeal

Acoustic panels are available in a range of styles, making them suitable for all office spaces. You’ll find them in all colours, shapes and textures, from acoustic wall panels to hanging acoustic panels.

NOVA Acoustics has a wide selection of decorative acoustic panels, which block out unwanted sound and look great. From photos to foam panels and pinboards, there’s a solution for all budgets.

Noise compliance regulations

Buildings and certain industries must align with acoustics standards to avoid repercussions. Yes, you can take measures to reduce unwanted noise, but opting for the right acoustic panel solution also means you won’t have to worry about falling foul of compliance.

For example, sound reverberation can become a huge distraction in open-plan environments, but it usually isn’t a legal issue. If you handle sensitive data and excess noise levels means that others can hear personal information, failing to invest in office soundproofing could be a legal issue.