TotalMass Reinforced MLV Barrier

Performance is notably better with TotalMass MLV because it is a true limp mass barrier. Most mass loaded vinyl is rather stiff to simplify the manufacturing process and to use cheaper materials. This is even more of an issue with imported MLV products that use random filler materials.

Some of the most expensive branded MLV is often the same low-quality material, stiff, made with fillers, and inconsistent.

Our TotalMass MLV is a true limp mass barrier made with virgin materials. It is always the same high-quality material made in the USA.

Technically anywhere you would like. Although we do recommend higher performance products that decouple. When those products aren't an option, MLV should be considered.

We generally only recommend mass loaded vinyl in lightweight assemblies with minimal layers of material, or for utility use in fences, doors, windows, duct, cars, etc. However, mass loaded vinyl does have a value over products like Green Glue Compound or QuietRock in that mass loaded vinyl will work in any type of wall, ceiling, or floor, regardless of other materials used in that assembly. For example, a plaster wall with Green Glue Compound and a new layer of drywall over the plaster has proven ineffective because plaster is difficult to dampen (mass, rigidity). Mass loaded vinyl does not have the same issue as Green Glue Compound in this assembly because it isolates sound in an entirely different way than the Green Glue Compound. Same issue with use in floors for isolating airborne noise. Mass loaded vinyl will be able to work as advertised whereas a product like Green Glue Compound would be less predictable depending on joist length, joist spacing, assembly weight, etc.

When used in a framed structure, any benefit created by mass loaded vinyl is not from the actual mass itself. The structure already weighs several pounds per square foot more than the MLV. To increase isolation considerably with mass alone, the material would need to double the structure weight.

What MLV brings to the assembly is a material that resonates like no other building material. Every structure or material has a resonance point. Including mass loaded vinyl in the structure will resolve many resonance issues allowing consistent performance in mid to high frequencies.

More recent advancements in sound isolation with resilient sound clips, damping compounds, and rubber underlayment minimizes the value of mass loaded vinyl in a framed structure. However, where these new products cannot be used, the mass loaded vinyl likely can. Including fences, doors, windows, duct, cars, and other similar uses.

MLV is not as assembly dependent as Green Glue Compound, so it is often the better choice if the assembly isn't ideal for the use of Green Glue Compound.

No, mass loaded vinyl will not help to isolate impact footfall noise. We would suggest rubber underlayment because it will compress and bounce back upon impact. Check out our IsoRubber product on this site for more information.

Fasten TotalMass MLV using nails, screws, or staples. When using nails or screws, add a thin washer to distribute weight and prevent tearing. Hang MLV parallel to framing members to minimize overlapping seams. Seal seams tightly using duct tape or foil tape, applied between framing or over studs/joists. If joining seams directly over framing, apply acoustical sealant before taping for an airtight seal. Pay special attention to openings for electrical boxes, ducts, and plumbing. Use acoustical caulk and tape to maintain a continuous seal.

For best results, install MLV as part of a floating floor assembly. Roll out the material, butt seams tightly, and tape seams securely. Seal perimeter gaps with acoustical sealant. Install the finished flooring or additional mass layers directly over the MLV. Avoid installing tile or other brittle finishes directly on MLV. For improved impact and footfall noise isolation, use IsoRubber instead of MLV.

Cut MLV to size, to hang from the top of the fence to come into contact with the ground. Nails or screws with washers, or wide crown staples should be used. The initial fasteners are most crucial. Assistance is required to hold the material in place while the initial fasteners are placed. Failing to do so will result in the material tearing. We recommend fasteners to be at least 1" from the perimeter and at least every 10" along each rail.

Simply cut to size, wrap it around the surface to cover 100% with a slight overlap, and duct tape in place. Adhesives are not required for this installation. They can make it easier in hard-to-reach places.