How to install mass loaded vinyl, the right way.
MLV is simple to work with, but a barrier only performs if it's continuous and sealed. Here's how to measure, cut, decouple, fix and pair AcoustiLayer® for the quietest possible result.
Tools you'll need
- Sharp utility knife and a steel straightedge
- Tape measure and marker
- Construction adhesive or mechanical fasteners
- Acoustic sealant and seam tape
- Closed-cell foam or resilient layer (for decoupling)
The six steps
1. Measure and plan
Measure the surface and plan where seams will fall so sheets overlap or butt tightly. Continuity is everything - a barrier with gaps performs like a barrier with holes.
2. Cut to size
Score AcoustiLayer® with a sharp knife against a straightedge and snap or cut through. It cuts cleanly with no special tooling.
3. Decouple where possible
On rigid structures, add a closed-cell foam or resilient layer so the mass floats rather than rigidly coupling to the surface - this stops vibration bridging straight through.
4. Fix in place
Fix with construction adhesive or mechanical fasteners, keeping the sheet flat and continuous. On vertical runs, support the weight while the adhesive grabs.
5. Seal every seam
Overlap or tape every seam and seal the perimeter with acoustic sealant. Cut neat openings around sockets and fixings and seal around them too.
6. Cover and pair
Cover with plasterboard, panel or trim. For a bigger jump in performance, combine MLV with an absorbent layer (see below).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving gaps at seams, edges and penetrations - the single biggest cause of disappointing results.
- Coupling the mass rigidly to the structure, so vibration bridges across.
- Relying on mass alone when decoupling and absorption would add far more.
- Ignoring flanking paths - noise travelling around the barrier via floors, ceilings and ducts.
Pairing for more performance
Mass loaded vinyl is one part of a system. For the best results, combine AcoustiLayer® MLV (the barrier) with mineral wool or acoustic foam (absorption) and decoupling (resilient bars, isolation clips or foam). Together these address transmission, resonance and vibration.
A sealed, decoupled barrier with an absorbent cavity beats raw mass every time.
Want a build-up recommendation?
Tell us the noise, the surface and your target - we'll spec a grade and a layer stack that works.