Acoustic Performance
Hemp Insulation for Soundproofing: The Complete Acoustic Guide
Published March 29, 2026 · By Mr Hemp House™
Beyond thermal performance, health, and fire resistance, hemp insulation delivers exceptional acoustic performance. If you want a quieter home — less traffic noise, less room-to-room sound transfer — GaiaCrete® the hempcrete alternative is one of the best choices available.
Why Hemp Excels at Soundproofing
Sound absorption depends on three factors: density, porosity, and thickness. Hempcrete scores highly on all three:
- Open-pore structure — hemp shiv has millions of microscopic air pockets that absorb sound waves
- High density — at 300-400 kg/m³, hempcrete has more mass than fiberglass (12-48 kg/m³)
- Monolithic application — no gaps, seams, or air channels for sound to pass through
Sound Transmission Class (STC) Ratings
| Wall Assembly | STC Rating | What You Hear |
|---|---|---|
| GaiaCrete® 8" wall | STC 50-55 | Loud speech barely audible |
| Standard drywall + fiberglass | STC 33-39 | Normal speech clearly heard |
| Double drywall + mineral wool | STC 45-50 | Loud speech faint |
| Spray foam 3.5" | STC 37-42 | Loud speech audible |
Best Applications for Hemp Soundproofing
- Home offices — eliminate distractions from other rooms
- Bedrooms — block street noise for better sleep
- Music rooms/studios — professional-grade sound isolation
- Multi-family walls — party walls between units
- Homes near highways/airports — significant external noise reduction
The Bonus: Sound + Health + Thermal
Unlike specialized acoustic panels or double-drywall assemblies, GaiaCrete® delivers soundproofing as a side benefit of a wall system that also provides thermal insulation, moisture management, fire resistance, and zero-VOC air quality. One material, five performance benefits.