Last updated: December 29, 2021 at 14:29 pm
If you’re having electrics fitted into your soundproofed wall, you may be thinking that the integrity of the soundproofing could be damaged. This is a genuine concern- soundproofing a wall is very expensive, and you wouldn’t want that to go to waste, simply for the sake of a few plug sockets.
You may have come across putty pads, and you may even be considering buying them. In this article, we’ll explore all of the aspects of putty pads- what they actually are, the different types, and even their advantages.
So, if you’re looking for a way to maintain the soundproofing of your room, read on.
IN THIS ARTICLE
What are Acoustic Putty Pads?
Acoustic putty pads are made from a non-setting silicone material, based from intumescent polymer. This material is very hard to crack and won’t dry out as it get older, which makes many inquisitive with the pads.
Putty pads have the function of maintaining the fire and smoke barriers when service holes are cut into any dry lining or fire-rated boarding. They can also be used inside or outside the electrical socket boxes.
Putty pads help to maintain a fire and smoke barrier around sockets in most drylining systems and helps to maintain good acoustic properties within the room. They also enable adhesion, have self-bonding properties, and can be used to fit most common socket boxes – making them a very versatile choice.
Their main purpose is to maintain the acoustic integrity of any wall when the soundproofing material is damaged with electrical sockets. So, they’re great for musicians, podcasters, or anyone who wants a fully soundproof room.
So, acoustic putty pads are very versatile pieces of equipment. But when should you use electrical putty?
- Maintains fire and smoke barriers where service holes are cut into dry...
- High tack adhesion, pliable and mouldable with excellent self bonding...
Last update on 2023-11-21 at 14:03 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When to Use Electrical Putty Pads
Packing out junction boxes against moisture and dust. This can otherwise be very difficult and cumbersome, not to mention expensive.
Sealing cables and pipe runs. Electrical putty is easily the most efficient and easiest way to seal cables and pipe runs.
Filling holes to protect against water. If you’re worried about water damage, then electrical putty can become your best friend. It’ll easily stop water coming from pretty much anywhere and takes a matter of minutes to install.
Forming removable cable glands. If your project requires removable cable glands, then electrical putty will most likely be your best, and cheapest choice.
Dampening vibrations of loose wires. If you’re experiencing unwanted noise due to loose wires, then you can effectively use electrical putty to insulate the wire, stopping unwanted vibrations.
Making gaskets on uneven surfaces. If you’re looking to make gaskets on an uneven surface, many options open to you will be very time consuming and expensive. On the other hand, electrical putty will give you a quick and easy fix.
5 Steps to Install a Putty Pad in a Socket
- Make sure the inside of the socket is clean and free of any dust, dirt or even mould
- Putty pads will come within two sheets of paper. Peel them off and push the putty pad into the socket as tied and snug as possible. Make sure that the pads is fully tucked onto each of the corners as well
- Once the pads has completely covered the whole socket, fold the putty pad tabs outwards and onto the wall
- Cut off any additional pads which goes over onto the wall keeping clean lines along the socket
- Finally, using the knife used to cut off any excess, cut small holes to reveal the fixings and a slit in to back for wires to come through
Advantages
Reduced Noise Transfer
Acoustic putty pads are simply excellent for keeping noise out. So, if you’re looking for a quiet space, acoustic putty pads may just become your best friend.
Increases Fire Protection
Safety is important in any building or project. Acoustic putty pads will help you to achieve this, providing an efficient method of reaching the requirements established by the Building Relations document 2006.
Easy Installation
If you’re looking for a hassle free, time efficient installation, then you should definitely consider acoustic putty pads. They’re much easier than other methods, because they come pre-cut.
Little Emission of Smoke
Smoke can be incredibly harmful in work environments. So, if you want to look out for yours, and other people’s health, then acoustic putty pads can be an excellent option. They’ll reduce smoke emission significantly, helping your and your colleagues and family stay safe and healthy.
Remains Malleable
If you’re looking for versatility, it’s pretty hard to beat acoustic putty pads. They’ll allow you to change the shape of the pads, even when set, and you can even remove them and reuse them elsewhere. It’s hard to beat this kind of versatility.
Long Service Life
Acoustic putty pads are extremely reliable. They’ll last you a very long time, and you won’t need to change them often at all. They’ll pass any inspections from professionals too, making them even more desirable.
Water Resistant
This will help to reduce the build up of water, combatting mould and other damages.
Non-Setting
The non-setting nature of electrical putty means that you can apply it quickly and easily. But, if you want to move it, you’ll be able to just as easily.
- Maintains fire and smoke barriers where service holes are cut into dry...
- High tack adhesion, pliable and mouldable with excellent self bonding...
Last update on 2023-11-21 at 14:03 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fire Safety
It’s always vital to assess whether a new piece of equipment is going to be safe. It could be the exact thing that you’re looking for, but if it increases your risk of a fire, then no benefits should tempt you to purchase it.
Luckily, this is not the case with putty pads. These will pass any regulation check with flying colours. They are designed to increase the fire safety of a room, and not take away from it. So, if you’re looking for a safe choice, putty pads couldn’t be better for you.
Rounding Up
To conclude, putty pads are a simply excellent way to keep your room soundproofed when having electricals fitted. Not only will they maintain the integrity of the soundproofing surface, but they’ll also come with a whole host of other benefits. They’re malleable, so you can change them at any time.
They’ll increase the fire safety of your room, rather than taking away from it. And they’re incredibly durable so will last you a long time. Putty pads are ultimately a great choice for anyone looking to keep their soundproofing in check.
