Soundproofing your office can benefit your workplace

Soundproofing your office can benefit your workplace

Imagine an office where you can have a conversation without being interrupted by the noise of the printer in the corner, a colleague’s conference call or the traffic noise outside. A place where peace and concentration are not a luxury, but a natural part of everyday life. Soundproofing is no longer just for concert halls and radio studios – it is a crucial factor for well-being and efficiency in modern workplaces.

For both public and private companies, leaders, facility managers and even parents concerned about their children's daily environment, it is important to understand how sound affects us – and how we can act on it. In this article, we delve into why sound insulation is important, how it works, what solutions are available, and how ÅBN can help you create a healthier and more productive indoor environment.

Why is soundproofing important in the workplace?

Sound is not just background noise. It is a constant influence on our nervous system. According to BUILD at Aalborg University, noise in the work environment can lead to stress, difficulty concentrating, lower productivity and, in the worst case, long-term sick leave. This is especially true in open office environments, where sound transmission between workstations is widespread.

But it's not just about dampening sound – it's about creating an environment where employees can thrive and perform. Soundproofing is therefore not just a technical solution, but an investment in job satisfaction and efficiency.

Noise costs – both humanly and financially

A study from the National Research Center for the Working Environment shows that employees in noisy office environments have up to a 66% higher risk of stress-related symptoms. At the same time, international studies show that poor acoustics can reduce productivity by up to 15%.

Therefore, soundproofing is not just a comfort improvement – ​​it is a strategic decision that can strengthen both the bottom line and employee satisfaction.

Legal requirements and standards for soundproofing in Denmark

In Denmark, building regulations set requirements for sound insulation – especially in new construction. Since 2008, the requirements have been tightened, and new construction must now meet sound class C in DS 490 , which corresponds to a minimum of 55 dB for airborne sound insulation and a maximum of 53 dB for impact sound. These requirements primarily apply to homes, but the principles can be usefully transferred to office environments.

Older buildings, especially those built before 1961, often have significantly poorer soundproofing. This means that many offices – especially in older properties – struggle with sound problems that are not only due to acoustics, but also to the building's construction.

How does soundproofing work?

Soundproofing is about preventing sound from moving from one room to another – either through the air (airborne noise) or via building components such as walls and floors (impact sound). It requires materials and structures that can absorb, attenuate or reflect sound waves.

Typical methods include:

• Construction of new walls with double layer plaster and vibration-damping fittings
• Installation of soundproofing panels on existing walls
• Replacing windows with soundproof double-glazed windows

These solutions can reduce noise levels by up to 50 dB, depending on the quality of the materials and the installation.

Effective solutions for office environments

1. Soundproofing walls and ceilings

One of the most effective solutions is to build new walls with two layers of plaster, vibration-damping fittings and insulating material in between. According to Dansk Lydisolering, this solution can significantly reduce airborne noise and create a quieter workplace. The price is typically between DKK 1,000 and DKK 2,000 per m², depending on the complexity of the task.

2. Soundproofing panels

Panels like Silentwall® are easy to install and can improve the acoustic environment without major renovation. They are often made of polyurethane and sound-absorbing fibers and can act as both decorative elements and functional sound barriers. They are ideal for offices, meeting rooms and common areas where flexible solutions are desired.

3. Soundproof double glazing

Outdoor noise – such as from traffic or trains – can be a major nuisance, especially in urban offices. Soundproof double glazing can reduce noise by up to 50 dB, depending on the glass thickness and construction. It is an effective way to create peace in offices facing busy roads or squares.

4. Indoor climate and acoustics – a comprehensive solution

At ÅBN, we work to visualize and improve the indoor climate – including noise. Our solutions, such as Skyen , make it possible to understand and act on noise, temperature, humidity and CO₂ in office environments. When data becomes insight, it becomes easier to make the right decisions – including about soundproofing.

More benefits of soundproofing

1. Energy savings

Soundproofing materials often also have a thermal insulation effect. This means that you not only dampen noise – you also reduce heat loss. This can improve the building's energy rating and reduce operating costs.

2. Better well-being and collaboration

A quiet work environment not only promotes concentration, but also collaboration. When employees can talk to each other without having to shout or be interrupted by noise, it strengthens both relationships and results.

3. Increased property value

Properties with good soundproofing are more attractive – for both tenants and buyers. This is especially true in urban areas where noise is a constant challenge. Soundproofing can therefore be a value-adding investment.

Practical advice for those considering soundproofing

• Get professional advice: Solutions vary depending on the building type and noise sources. A specialist can help identify problems and find the right solution.
• Work with neighbors: If the noise is coming from neighboring offices or apartment buildings, coordinating efforts may yield better results.
• Consider holistic solutions: Sound insulation should be considered together with ventilation, light and temperature – for an overall healthy indoor climate.

How ÅBN can help

At ÅBN, we believe that a good indoor climate starts with insight. Our technology visualizes noise and other indoor climate factors in real time, so you can act on knowledge rather than gut feelings. Through our Inside platform, you get access to data that can be used