Soundproof Insulation in Malaysia: Prices, Types, and Best Uses for Homes & Offices

Your Guide to Noise-Free Living and Working Spaces

In Malaysia’s bustling cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, noise pollution from traffic, construction, and urban activity is a growing concern. Whether you’re designing a serene home or a productive office, soundproof insulation is essential to block unwanted noise. However, with various materials and prices available, choosing the right type can be overwhelming. This article breaks down the costs of popular soundproof insulation options in Malaysia and explains which types suit different residential and commercial spaces.

Why Soundproof Insulation Matters

Soundproofing enhances comfort, privacy, and productivity by:

• Blocking External Noise: Traffic, loud neighbors, or machinery.

• Controlling Internal Echo: Reducing reverberation in home theaters or conference rooms.

• Improving Focus: Minimizing distractions in offices or study areas.

• Increasing Property Value: A well-insulated home or office is more attractive to buyers.

Types of Soundproof Insulation in Malaysia

Below are the most common materials, their average prices, and ideal applications:

1. Acoustic Foam Panels

Price: RM 15–RM 50 per panel (1m x 1m)
Best For: Home studios, podcast rooms, or offices needing echo reduction.
Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to install.

• Available in decorative designs (e.g., pyramid or wedge shapes).
  Cons:

• Does not block low-frequency noises (e.g., traffic).

• Less durable than other materials.

2. Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)

Price: RM 30–RM 80 per square meter
Best For: Walls, floors, or ceilings in apartments, offices, or music rooms.
Pros:

• Excellent for blocking airborne noise (e.g., voices, TV sounds).

• Flexible and can be layered under flooring or drywall.
  Cons:

• Heavy and requires professional installation.

• Higher cost for large areas.

3. Fiberglass Insulation

Price: RM 10–RM 30 per square meter
Best For: Residential homes, offices, or industrial spaces needing thermal and sound insulation.
Pros:

• Affordable and widely available.

• Effective for both high- and mid-frequency noise.
  Cons:

• Irritates skin and lungs during installation (requires protective gear).

• Less effective for low-frequency sounds like bass.

4. Soundproof Curtains

Price: RM 100–RM 300 per curtain (depending on size and thickness)
Best For: Temporary solutions in rental apartments, home theaters, or office windows.
Pros:

• Easy to install and remove.

• Doubles as blackout curtains.
  Cons:

• Limited effectiveness compared to permanent solutions.

• May not fully seal gaps around windows.

5. Green Glue Noiseproofing Compound

Price: RM 50–RM 150 per tube (covers 15–20 sq ft)
Best For: Existing walls, ceilings, or floors in homes and offices needing retrofitting.
Pros:

• Converts vibrations into heat energy, dampening sound.

• Works with drywall, plywood, or subfloors.
  Cons:

• Requires pairing with other materials (e.g., MLV).

• Labor-intensive application.

6. Mineral Wool (Rockwool)

Price: RM 20–RM 50 per square meter
Best For: Home theaters, office partition walls, or HVAC systems.
Pros:

• Fire-resistant and moisture-repellent.

• Excellent for absorbing mid- to high-frequency noise.
  Cons:

• Heavier than fiberglass; requires sturdy framing.

• Slightly pricier than fiberglass.

Choosing the Right Soundproof Insulation

For Homes

1. Bedrooms:

   • Use MLV or mineral wool in walls/floors to block street noise.

   • Add soundproof curtains for windows facing busy roads.

2. Home Theaters:

   • Combine acoustic foam panels (for echo control) and MLV (for noise blocking).

3. Apartment Floors/Ceilings:

   • Install green glue between floorboards or use mineral wool in ceilings to reduce footstep noise.

4. Home Offices:

   • Fiberglass insulation in walls paired with soundproof doors ensures minimal distractions.

For Offices

1. Open-Plan Offices:

   • Acoustic foam panels on walls and ceilings to reduce echo.

2. Meeting Rooms:

   • MLV in walls and soundproof glass doors for privacy.

3. Call Centers:

   • Mineral wool in partitions and soundproof curtains for windows.

4. Restaurants/Cafés:

   • Acoustic baffles (hanging foam panels) to absorb kitchen noise and customer chatter.

Cost Comparison Table

5 FAQs About Soundproof Insulation in Malaysia

1. What’s the most cost-effective soundproofing for apartments?

• Fiberglass insulation or MLV in walls and ceilings offers the best balance of affordability and effectiveness. Soundproof curtains are a budget-friendly temporary fix for renters.

2. Can I install soundproof insulation myself?

• Acoustic foam panels and soundproof curtains are DIY-friendly. However, MLV and mineral wool require professional installation to ensure airtight sealing and safety compliance.

3. Which insulation is best for blocking traffic noise?

• Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) paired with double-glazed windows is ideal. MLV blocks airborne noise, while double glazing reduces vibrations from heavy vehicles.

4. How much does it cost to soundproof a room in Malaysia?

• A small home office (10 sq m): RM 1,500–RM 3,000 (using fiberglass or MLV).

• A conference room (20 sq m): RM 4,000–RM 8,000 (with acoustic panels and soundproof doors).

5. Are eco-friendly soundproofing options available?

• Yes. Recycled denim insulation and natural wool panels are sustainable alternatives, though pricier (RM 40–RM 100 per sq m).

Conclusion

Selecting the right soundproof insulation in Malaysia depends on your budget, noise type, and space requirements. For homes, prioritize comfort with MLV or mineral wool, while offices benefit from acoustic foam and soundproof glass. Suppliers like TF Renovation offer tailored solutions, ensuring compliance with local building standards. Investing in the right materials can transform noisy environments into peaceful sanctuaries or productive workspaces.