Many artists are still trying to build DIY panels or acoustic boards from rockwool and other materials like fiberglass. Influencers on Youtube and Instagram recommend cheap materials which can be easily obtained in any Home Depot or hardware store. There are so many tutorials on “how to build acoustic panel for only $30” or “how to build own cheap sound panels for home recording studio” but the real question is – are building materials affect our health?
Since we’re going to spend many hours in close proximity to DIY panels recording audio, music and voice overs, health concerns are real. Let’s review most popular materials in DIY panels:
Rockwool has been in use in home insulation since the 1970s but has recently come under scrutiny for potential dangers from its fibers.
The dust from rockwool can irritate the skin and eyes if a person comes into direct contact with it. Gloves and goggles should be worn when working with rockwool. When handling rockwool, it should be kept away from children and animals. Clothes need to be thoroughly washed after coming into contact with the dust, so others are not directly exposed.
Cheap Fiberglass is excellent for soundproofing. You can reliably soundproof almost everything: floors, ceilings and even walls. However, on contact (once again, DIY panels will be close enough to your body during recording sessions), eyes may become red and irritated (itchy) after exposure to fiberglass. Soreness in the nose and throat can result when fibers are inhaled. Asthma and bronchitis can be aggravated by exposure to fiberglass. Fiberglass that reaches the lungs may remain in the lungs or the thoracic region for long period of time.
The small glass fiber in fiberglass does excellent job in sound absorption, but at the same time can irritate the skin upon touch.
Safety should be our top priority
Acoustic Panels Art does not use dangerous materials. Our soundproofing panels are made from high quality 100% polyester. It doesn’t smell nor produce dangerous fumes. It’s safe to be around our acoustic panels. More of this, they provide excellent noise reduction in home, bedroom or home recording studio – up to 98% (NRC 0.98)!
With acoustic panels from Acoustic Panels Art you’ll be safe and sound!