There are multiple sound reduction solutions to choose from for your designed space. Free-hanging clouds come in a variety of shapes, while baffles can be installed in large or small sizes. However, many buildings come with restrictions on what can be installed on the ceiling, limiting a designer’s ability to reduce the spread of sound across the space.
Fortunately, direct-to-deck panels can work within these restrictions. They may be the best choice for reducing reverberation in your office.
Direct-to-Deck Panels Provide Flexibility
Direct-to-deck solutions are increasingly used in buildings that are undergoing remodeling projects. Urban reuse projects turn factories and warehouses into coworking spaces and food halls by taking advantage of their large spaces and bright windows. However, updated fire codes limit the types of items that can be hung from the ceiling, which means designers can’t pack a small room with free-hanging clouds or baffles.
Direct-to-deck panels can work with fire suppression systems. They are installed alongside upright sprinkler heads and won’t block any of the water that flows from them. This allows you to keep a space up to code while investing in reverberation control.
Direct-to-deck panels can also benefit buildings with low ceilings or spaces with exposed or metal beams. While these beams might add a rustic design to the room, they also increase reverberation and allow sound to travel farther than it should.
Coverage is Important With Direct-to-Deck Panels
Direct-to-deck panels can be mounted with glue or screws depending on your design plans. They have a similar absorption level as high-performance suspended panels, even though they are attached directly to the ceiling. However, coverage is key with direct-to-deck panels. The higher the coverage area, the more sound your panels will absorb.
Choose Your Design Style
One of the main benefits of direct-to-deck panels is their ability to blend in. When you opt for a full-coverage design, your panels will look like a monolithic drywall finish on the ceiling. This is why these panels are preferred for rooms with low ceilings: you don’t want to make a space seem smaller or more cramped. Even the perception of something hanging from the ceiling can make a room seem small.
With the right placement, your direct-to-deck panels can look like a standard ceiling while still providing sound absorption.
You also have the option of installing single tiles or fields of direct-to-deck panels. In this case, you can create a pattern across your ceiling and choose panels that complement your current design elements.
Learn More About Your Sound Absorption Options
Sound absorption panels are found across all kinds of ceilings. They can be hung from historic buildings without hiding the original beams or cover an entire space to preserve the height of a room. Direct-to-deck panels are ideal for areas that need to comply with strict fire codes or for buildings with angled ceilings.
Learn more about your ceiling options by understanding all of the available options for open spaces (PDF). You can choose one option or use multiple panel styles across your campus. Choose the right sound absorption panels for your needs and design preferences. Visit CertainTeed Architectural to start your design off right.
