BlastBlock MLV Installation Guide
Step-by-step installation guidance for BlastBlock mass loaded vinyl soundproofing on walls, ceilings, floors, pipes, and HVAC systems. Proper installation is as important as the material itself — small gaps, insufficient adhesive coverage, or unsealed penetrations can reduce real-world acoustic performance significantly below the rated laboratory STC.
Wall Installation — Step by Step
- Measure and calculate: Measure wall height and width. Multiply for total area. Add 10% for seam overlaps and waste from cuts.
- Prepare the surface: Remove dust, debris, grease, and loose material. Surface must be dry, structurally sound, and free from contamination. Prime concrete surfaces if required.
- Apply BA990 adhesive: Apply in a zigzag pattern covering approximately 70% of the surface area. Full coverage is preferred for maximum acoustic sealing.
- Position BB830: Start at the top corner. The aluminum facing side faces the noise source. Leave no gaps to floor, ceiling, or adjacent panels.
- Press and bond: Press firmly across the entire surface. Use a rubber roller for best adhesive contact. Work from center outward to eliminate air pockets.
- Overlap seams: Overlap adjacent panels by at least 50mm (2 inches) to maintain a continuous barrier with no air gaps at joints.
- Seal with BA890: Apply BA890 BlastSealant to all edges, seams, and perimeter joints where the MLV meets the floor, ceiling, and adjacent walls. This step is critical — unsealed perimeters are the most common cause of poor real-world acoustic performance.
- Install BA650 putty pads: Wrap BA650 acoustic putty pads around all electrical boxes and outlet penetrations before closing the wall assembly.
- Apply finish layer: Install drywall, paneling, or other finish material over the MLV assembly per building requirements.
Ceiling Installation Notes
Ceiling installation follows the same principles as walls but requires temporary mechanical support during adhesive curing. Apply BA990 adhesive and press BB830 firmly to the ceiling substrate. Use temporary fasteners or blocking to support the MLV while the adhesive achieves initial strength (typically 24 hours). Remove supports after full bond is confirmed. For BB830LF (10 kg/m²), additional support during curing is essential.
Pipe and Duct Wrapping
For pipes and HVAC ducts, wrap BB830 around the circumference with a minimum 50mm overlap. Secure with BA990 adhesive and seal the longitudinal seam and ends with BA890 sealant. This technique significantly reduces flanking noise transmission through plumbing and mechanical systems.
Installation Products
- BB830 MLV — Primary acoustic barrier for walls, ceilings, and floors
- BA990 BlastAdhesive — Permanent flexible adhesive for MLV bonding
- BA890 BlastSealant — Acoustic sealant for all perimeter joints and penetrations
- BA650 Putty Pads — For electrical box and outlet penetration sealing