Does Sound Proof Paint Really Work?

• All sound falls on a scale of low to high frequencies.  Sound proof paint only addresses the mid range frequencies, which is basically the frequency of regular speech.  High frequencies (like sound from a flute) and low frequencies (like planes or outside traffic) are not treated using sound deadening paint.  
  

• Sound proof paint is designed to absorb sound, much like Audimute Acoustic Panels and Audimute Sound Absorption Sheets, however it’s only 30-40 thousandths of an inch thick.  Acousti-Coat, one sound proof paint company, even states in its online FAQ section, "you can only expect so much from an application that is 30-40 thousandths of an inch thick."
  

• Sound deadening paint is a low cost solution for those looking to optimize the look and sound of their room, but there are a few limitations when it comes to its effectiveness, both in sound and sight.
  

-  First, sound proof paint does not make a significant difference.  To put it in perspective, 
   humans perceive a loss of 10 decibels to be 50% quieter.  sound deadening paint companies have 
   yet to make a claim as great as this, despite the fact that most soundproofing products guarantee
   even better results.

-  Second, sound proof paint can only be tinted to light pastel colors due to its high pigment 
   content.  Your décor options are limited with soundproof paint.

-  Lastly, sound deadening paint is known to leave a very heavy bodied coating on the wall producing a 
   stippled or raised texture.  The upside to this textured look is that it hides surface defects and
   blemishes, but the problem is that in order to achieve noticeable soundproofing results, you
  have to apply more than one coat, which leads to even heavier texture.

• There are two main options when it comes to applying sound deadening paint - either roll it on the walls or use it as a sound proof spray.  The rolling option is the least recommended because only a thin layer of sound proof paint is applied in the process, requiring at least two, maybe three, additional coats.  Using a sound proof spray will take less time, but will also be messier, requiring surface protection in your room for all the things you don’t want painted.
  

• The best way to measure the effectiveness of soundproofing products is by testing them in a lab to see how they rate on a  standardized scale.  Manufacturers of sound proof paint have yet to publish any test results for the product.
  

• Since sound proof paint isn’t made to block sound and only partly absorb it, the main selling point of the product is price- it’s an affordable option to those who are looking to stay within a budget.  What consumers don’t realize is that one gallon of sound deadening paint is only $30.00, but to get satisfactory results, most people typically need to purchase between 3-5 gallons, which ends up being costly and does very little to control sound.