Skip to content

Fast & Free Shipping on all USA orders

Second Skin Audio

How to Soundproof a Concrete Floor

Second Skin Audio
Table of Contents

What You'll Learn (and Why It Matters)

Concrete floors reduce airborne noise better than wood but still transmit impact sound efficiently. This guide covers the two practical ways to soundproof a concrete floor—treating the floor surface itself or treating the ceiling below.

By the End of This Guide, You’ll Be Able To:

  • Understand why concrete still needs impact noise control
  • Know when a floor-side solution is appropriate
  • Identify ceiling-side options for exposed or finished ceilings
  • Choose the correct isolation method based on construction limits
Skill

Skill

Handyman

Article Read Time

Article Read Time

5 minutes

Build Time

Build Time

1 day - 1 week (scope dependent)

Key Tools and Materials You'll Need

Key Tools

  • Utility knife
  • Tape measure
  • Straight edge
  • Screw gun

Key Materials

Step-by-Step: How to Soundproof a Concrete Floor

The following steps walk through the complete process for soundproof a concrete floor.

Step 1: Install Rubber Underlayment on the Concrete Slab

For floor-side soundproofing, install underlayment for a concrete slab with full wall-to-wall coverage. This is required so impact vibration cannot bypass the isolation layer.

Ceiling-Side Alternative: When Floor Removal Isn’t Possible

If the concrete floor is already finished or cannot be disturbed, soundproofing must be done from below.

For unfinished concrete ceilings, use RSIC-ADM®. This shoot-in system is designed for quick installations, shooting directly into concrete and providing ceiling drop flexibility.

For unfinished ceilings, you can also install RSIC-WHI® mid-wire to hang a drywall grid. This approach isolates the new ceiling from the structure.

Both options reduce impact and airborne noise without modifying the concrete floor.

Which Material / Which Approach Is Right For You?

FeatureFloor-Side UnderlaymentCeiling-Side Isolation Clips
Impact Noise ReductionHighHigh
Airborne Noise ReductionModerateHigh
Ease of InstallEasy–ModerateRSIC-ADM®: Easy / RSIC-WHI®: Moderate
Best ForNew floors or renovationsFinished concrete floors
Price$$$$$
Shop UnderBlock Shop RSIC-1-ADM®

Shop RSIC-WHI®

Experience Matters: Why Second Skin?

25+ Years//in business

25+ Years
in business

3,500+//5-star reviews

3,500+
5-star reviews

Used By//Professional installers and DIY enthusiasts

Used By
Professional installers and DIY enthusiasts

Made in the USA//Headquarters in Charlotte, NC

Made in the USA
Headquarters in Charlotte, NC

Featured In//Redfin, Garage Gym Reviews, Family Handyman, Breaking Muscle

Featured In
Redfin, Garage Gym Reviews, Family Handyman, Breaking Muscle

Quality Guarantee//Expert help with premium products

Quality Guarantee
Expert help with premium products

Need Help or Have Questions?

FAQ

Have Questions?

Call

us at 1.800.679.8511

Fill Out

our contact form and we'll be in touch