We’re big fans of our eardrums around here, and one of the best ways to suppress unwanted noise in a vehicle is by installing sound deadening panels underneath the cabin carpet and behind the headliner. So we asked the experts at HushMat to offer some insight into the process and here’s what they told us.
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Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Sound Deadening Their Cars
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Soundproofing your car is one of the best ways to create a quieter, more comfortable driving experience. But when it comes to DIY car soundproofing, some enthusiasts make potentially costly mistakes that hinder the results they expect.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-time installer, it’s important to avoid these common pitfalls to get the most out of your soundproofing project. To help you out, we’ll walk through the top five mistakes people make when soundproofing their cars (and show you how HushMat helps you avoid them).
Mistake #1: Using Non-Approved Materials in Automotive Application
Many car owners try to save money by opting for low-cost, low-quality, and non-automotive grade(!) materials. While they may seem like a bargain upfront, these materials often fail to survive in automotive use, won’t block noise effectively, and may deteriorate over time. Don’t follow the same mistakes that are often posted on social media.
Conversely, heat barrier and sound deadening mats from trusted and reliable companies like HushMat are tested and proven to perform against the most rigorous automotive quality standards, and are made from high-quality materials that are durable and efficient.
Fun Fact from the Editor: The famous “Levi’s Edition” AMC cars and Jeeps didn’t actually use real Levi’s denim for this very reason. Instead, AMC used an automotive-grade fabric to better withstand the rigors of an automobile seat, and to meet fire safety regulations that prohibited the use of actual cotton-derived denim.
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Mistake #2: Not Covering Enough Areas
A common mistake is applying soundproofing to only a few isolated spots or small areas in the vehicle, such as one of the doors or only the driver’s area of the floor. While this may reduce noise in those specific areas, it leaves the other areas of the vehicle vulnerable to unwanted sound and no thermal protection.
HushMat products, for instance, are designed to prevent this by offering full-coverage sound proofing. By addressing critical spots like the roof, firewall, floor, doors, trunk, and wheel wells, you create a comprehensive barrier against road noise, vibration, and excessive heat.
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Mistake #3: Ignoring Vibration Reduction
Some enthusiasts focus only on soundproofing and forget to consider the impact of vibration on their vehicle’s noise levels. Vibrations from the road and engine can amplify unwanted sounds, making your car interior feel louder.
First and foremost, follow the included instructions. Then, HushMat encourages you to look for a product that not only suppresses ambient sound, it can mitigate the affects of vibration and reduce rattles to create a smoother, quieter ride.
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Mistake #4: Not Using the Proper Installation Process
Improper installation is one of the most common mistakes when soundproofing a vehicle. Whether it’s applying the material incorrectly or missing spots, a poor installation can compromise the effectiveness of your soundproofing.
HushMat sound deadening pads, for instance, use a peel-and-stick backing that allows for quick application and HushMat offers high quality installation tools to help you finish the job.
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Mistake #5: Overlooking the Value of Thermal Insulation
Many people focus only on reducing sound, but they forget that thermal insulation can also improve the overall comfort of their car. In hot weather, heat can accumulate inside, making the cabin uncomfortable. The inverse is true in frigid temperatures, where frosty ambient air can keep passengers shivering even with the heat on full blast.
HushMat recommends selecting a product that not only reduces noise but also regulates temperature. That way, you can enjoy a more pleasant ride without relying heavily on your heat and air conditioning system.
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Soundproofing your car is an investment in comfort, but it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to subpar results. By choosing high-quality materials like HushMat and ensuring comprehensive coverage, you can enjoy a quieter, more comfortable driving experience.
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