Question 1

What is HushFrame?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame is a patented soundproofing solution designed to inhibit noise transmission in multi-unit housing by decoupling gypsum surface panels from the structural framing members. This is achieved using HushFrame Raft Connectors with Vi-Bridge® silicone vibration isolation.

Question 2

How do HushFrame Raft Connectors work?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame Raft Connectors work by decoupling the gypsum surface panels from the structural framing members. They consist of two plywood elements separated and secured by a Vi-Bridge® silicone core, which absorbs and dissipates noise vibration energy.

Question 3

What are STC and IIC ratings?

Accepted Answer

STC (Sound Transmission Class) measures a wall or floor/ceiling assembly's ability to resist air-borne noise. IIC (Impact Insulation Class) measures the ability to resist structure-borne noise. Higher numbers indicate better noise control. The minimum code requirements for STC and IIC in multi-unit housing are both 50 as tested in laboratories.

Question 4

How are STC and IIC ratings determined?

Accepted Answer

STC and IIC ratings are determined through acoustic laboratory tests. These involve constructing a test assembly in an aperture between two rooms, generating noise in one room (source side), and measuring the noise that passes through to the other room (receive side). The difference in noise levels determines the STC or IIC rating.

Question 5

What makes HushFrame different from other soundproofing products?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame is unique because it uses wood-based decoupling connectors that work with wood furring, unlike metal-based products. This allows for direct attachment of electrical and HVAC components, eliminating short-circuiting and flanking paths. HushFrame's Vi-Bridge® silicone core effectively absorbs low-frequency vibrations, providing superior noise control.

Question 6

How important is proper installation for the effectiveness of HushFrame Raft Connectors, and what are the key steps to ensure it?

Accepted Answer

Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of HushFrame Raft Connectors in providing optimal noise control. Incorrect installation can significantly reduce the performance of the soundproofing system. Here are the key steps to ensure proper installation:

Grid Pattern Attachment: Attach HushFrame Raft      Connectors to the structural framing members in a precise grid pattern.      This ensures uniform distribution and effective decoupling across the      entire surface.
Securing Wood Furring Strips: Once the connectors are in      place, securely attach the wood furring strips to the connectors. Ensure      that the strips are properly aligned and firmly fixed to maintain the      integrity of the decoupling system.
Gypsum Panel Installation: Attach the gypsum panels to the      wood furring strips, ensuring that there is no direct contact between the      panels and the structural framing. This step is essential to maintain the      decoupling effect and prevent structure-borne noise transmission.
Handling Ancillary Components: Make sure that all electrical      outlets, HVAC ducts, and other mechanical components are attached to the      wood furring and not directly to the structural framing. This prevents      short-circuiting and flanking paths that can compromise the soundproofing      effectiveness.
Inspection for Gaps and Openings: Thoroughly inspect the assembly      for any gaps or openings that could allow noise to bypass the decoupling      system. Seal any such gaps to ensure complete noise isolation.
Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Adhere strictly to HushFrame’s      installation guidelines and recommendations. Using the correct tools and      techniques as specified by the manufacturer ensures the system performs as      intended.
Field Testing: Conduct field testing after installation to verify the acoustic      performance of the assembly. This helps identify any potential issues and      confirms that the system meets the desired STC and IIC ratings.

Question 7

How can noise movement through building assemblies be controlled?

Accepted Answer

Noise movement can be controlled by using soft insulation materials to prevent noise vibration waves from resonating within stud or joist bays and by decoupling the gypsum panels from the structural framing members to interrupt the noise transmission path.

Question 8

What are the advantages of using HushFrame in construction?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame offers several advantages, including superior acoustic performance, ease of installation, compatibility with sustainable construction practices, and cost-effectiveness. It outperforms traditional methods and other decoupling products, providing long-lasting noise control solutions.

Question 9

Why is field testing important for noise control products?

Accepted Answer

Field testing is crucial because it measures the real-life acoustical performance of products in actual building environments, as opposed to ideal laboratory conditions. This helps ensure that the products perform as expected in real-world applications.

Question 10

What is the Vi-Bridge® silicone vibration isolation used in HushFrame Raft Connectors?

Accepted Answer

Vi-Bridge® silicone vibration isolation is the patented core component of HushFrame Raft Connectors, designed to absorb and dissipate noise vibration energy. The silicone core is specifically engineered to tackle low-frequency vibrations that are most disturbing to humans.

Question 11

How does the decoupling process work in layman's terms?

Accepted Answer

Decoupling involves separating the finish assembly surface (typically gypsum board) from the structural framing members (Studs or Joists). This limits the surface area for noise vibration transmission, interrupting the noise pathway.

Question 12

What is the significance of using wood furring with HushFrame Raft Connectors?

Accepted Answer

Using wood furring with HushFrame Raft Connectors is significant because it allows for direct attachment of all ancillary devices like electrical outlets and HVAC components. This eliminates the short-circuiting and flanking paths common with metal-based products, enhancing overall acoustic performance.

Question 13

Why are STC and IIC ratings important in noise control?

Accepted Answer

STC (Sound Transmission Class) and IIC (Impact Insulation Class) ratings are important because they quantify the effectiveness of a building assembly in blocking air-borne and structure-borne noise, respectively. Higher ratings mean better noise control, essential for meeting building code requirements and ensuring occupant comfort.

Question 14

What are the limitations of traditional noise control products?

Accepted Answer

Traditional noise control products, such as dense cavity insulation and direct attachment of gypsum panels, often fail due to issues like short-circuiting and flanking. These methods allow noise to bypass intended barriers, leading to inadequate noise control and frequent failure to meet code requirements.

Question 15

How do HushFrame Raft Connectors compare to metal decoupling products?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame Raft Connectors outperform metal decoupling products in several ways. They avoid the short lifespan of plastic polymers used in metal clips, are easier to install, and prevent short-circuiting and flanking. HushFrame’s wood-based connectors also support sustainable construction practices.

Question 16

What is the process of certified acoustic laboratory testing for STC and IIC ratings?

Accepted Answer

Certified acoustic laboratory testing involves constructing a test assembly between two rooms. Noise is generated in the source room, and the level of noise that passes through to the receive room is measured. For STC testing, pink noise is used, while IIC testing involves a tapping machine. The difference in noise levels between the rooms determines the STC or IIC rating.

Question 17

Why is fiberglass batt insulation preferred over dense mineral fiber for noise control?

Accepted Answer

Fiberglass batt insulation is preferred because it effectively absorbs low-speed noise vibration waves within the stud or joist bays, preventing them from bouncing around. Dense mineral fiber, while marketed as acoustically superior, often creates rigidity that allows noise vibration to travel across, reducing its effectiveness in real-world applications.

Question 18

What are the common shortcomings of metal resilient channel (RC) furring in acoustic assemblies?

Accepted Answer

Metal resilient channels often fail due to their tendency to create continuous paths for noise transmission (short-circuiting). Additionally, the rigid attachment of RC to framing members can lead to poor acoustic performance, especially in ceiling installations, where an estimated 90% of installations do not meet IIC code minimums. This failure is exacerbated by the need for additional subfloor acoustic treatments, which are costly and still may not achieve the desired noise reduction.

Question 19

How does HushFrame address the issue of short-circuiting in noise control?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame addresses short-circuiting by using wood furring and Raft Connectors that decouple the gypsum panels from the structural framing. This prevents noise from traveling through direct attachments and eliminates common flanking paths, resulting in superior noise control.

Question 20

What is the significance of the UL Design M565 for HushFrame?

Accepted Answer

The UL Design M565 is significant because it is the only one-hour fire resistance rated wood-framed floor/ceiling assembly that allows wood furring in the construction. This design supports both acoustic performance and fire safety, making HushFrame a robust solution for noise control in wood-framed buildings.

Question 21

What is structure-borne noise, and how does it differ from air-borne noise?

Accepted Answer

Structure-borne noise originates from physical impacts, such as footsteps or furniture movement, and travels through the building's structural elements. In contrast, air-borne noise comes from sources like human speech or music and travels through the air. Structure-borne noise moves faster and is more challenging to control due to its direct transmission through dense materials.

Question 22

How does the velocity of noise transmission affect soundproofing strategies?

Accepted Answer

Noise travels through dense materials (structure-borne) at approximately 12,000 feet per second (FPS) and through air (air-borne) at about 1,200 FPS. Effective soundproofing strategies must address both types of transmission. HushFrame’s decoupling technology disrupts the faster structure-borne noise, significantly reducing overall noise transmission.

Question 23

Why is HushFrame more effective than other technologies in controlling low-frequency vibrations?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame uses Vi-Bridge® silicone cores with a Shore A durometer of 25, which is particularly effective at absorbing low-frequency vibrations. These low-frequency vibrations are most disturbing to humans and challenging to control with traditional methods, making HushFrame's solution superior.

Question 24

What is the expected lifespan of HushFrame Raft Connectors?

Accepted Answer

The Vi-Bridge® silicone cores used in HushFrame Raft Connectors have a lifespan that matches the building’s, as silicone is unaffected by atmospheric and chemical pollution. This longevity ensures that HushFrame provides a durable and lasting solution for noise control.

Question 25

Should HushFrame be used in combination with other soundproofing materials?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HushFrame should be used alongside fiberglass batt or other soft insulation material, to enhance overall noise control. While HushFrame addresses structure-borne noise through decoupling, combining it with effective cavity insulation can further reduce air-borne noise, providing a comprehensive soundproofing solution.

Question 26

What are the primary factors influencing STC and IIC ratings in a building assembly?

Accepted Answer

The primary factors include the density and composition of the materials used, the presence and type of insulation, and the effectiveness of decoupling methods like HushFrame Raft Connectors. Proper installation—including direct structural connections—is also crucial for achieving high STC and IIC ratings.

Question 27

Can HushFrame Raft Connectors be used in both wall and floor/ceiling assemblies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HushFrame Raft Connectors are versatile and can be used in both wall and floor/ceiling assemblies to provide effective noise control. They decouple the gypsum panels from the structural framing in both applications, reducing the transmission of both air-borne and structure-borne noise.

Question 28

How does HushFrame compare in cost to other noise control solutions?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame is generally more cost-effective than traditional noise control solutions, which often require additional materials and complex installation processes. The simplicity and efficiency of HushFrame Raft Connectors reduce labor costs and material expenses while providing superior acoustic performance.

Question 29

How does HushFrame ensure compliance with building codes for acoustics?

Accepted Answer

When appropriately installed, HushFrame exceeds building code requirements for STC and IIC ratings. The product’s performance is validated in both laboratory and real-world condition field testing, ensuring reliable compliance with acoustical standards.

Question 30

What are the environmental benefits of using HushFrame?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame supports sustainable construction practices by using wood-based materials and avoiding the need for metal components. The product’s long lifespan and effectiveness in improving living conditions also contribute to the overall sustainability of the buildings where it is used.

Question 31

Can HushFrame be retrofitted into existing buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HushFrame can be retrofitted into existing buildings to improve acoustic performance. However, great care must be taken to ensure proper installation on old studs and joists as outlined in the installation guide, and of course all the old gypsum panels or composite plaster must be removed prior to the installation.

Question 32

How does HushFrame address the issue of tenant complaints about noise?

Accepted Answer

HushFrame significantly reduces noise transmission—particularly footfall noise-- addressing one of the most common sources of tenant complaints. By providing superior acoustic performance, it enhances occupant comfort and satisfaction, reducing the likelihood of noise-related complaints and potential litigation.

Question 33

How do I prevent short-circuiting in a HushFramed assembly when installing mechanicals (electrical, HVAC) as well as doors and windows?

Accepted Answer

All mechanical devices such as electrical boxes, light fixtures, motorized fans, HVAC ducts and registers, etc. must be connected directly to the decoupled wood furring and not to the studs and joists to maintain effective noise reduction.  Windows and doors are more difficult. Triple-pane glass windows are beneficial as are solid-core doors with carefully installed weather stripping.

Question 34

How do I treat corners in a HushFrame assembly to avoid short-circuiting?

Accepted Answer

As shown in the installation guide, the wood furring should not make contact with inside corner installation and fastened contact of the furring in outside corners is permitted.  Follow the guide instructions.

Question 35

Is there a weight limit for materials on a HushFrame ceiling assembly?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Total allowable material weight as calculated by square foot of attached components is shown at the bottom of the page of each of the assembly installation grid pattern sheets at the end of the installation guide.  Contact the factory for clarification if there is any confusion or concern about overloading.

Frequently asked questions