Rockwool (also known as mineral wool) is the single best all-around insulation for reducing airborne noise and mid-to-high frequencies inside the home. It has good fire resistance and has excellent acoustic absorption.
Other materials that do well include cellulose, fibreglass, spray foam, and Mass Loaded Vinyl.
With that said, no insulation by itself will fully soundproof a room. To maximize gains, you can combine mineral wool with ceiling assemblies, double drywall, or sealing gaps.
We will guide you through the reasons why Rockwool is highly recommended, where other materials shine, and how to choose for best results for your home.
To save on your project, just complete the online form on this page to get FREE QUOTES!
Why Soundproof Insulation Matters
Whether you live in a busy city or a quiet suburb, unwanted noise can affect concentration, relaxation, and even health.
Traffic noise, barking dogs, loud TVs, and thin walls are all culprits of poor sound isolation.
Soundproof insulation not only blocks sound but also absorbs and dampens vibrations, thereby reducing how noise travels between walls, floors, and ceilings. When installed correctly, it can:
- Reduce airborne noise (voices, music, TV sounds)
- Minimize impact noise (footsteps, doors slamming)
- Improve room acoustics by cutting echo
- Increase energy efficiency as a bonus
Insulation alone cannot fix weak structural or flanking paths. If the loudest path is a poorly sealed window, a rigidly connected floor joist, or a thin hollow door, filling the cavity will not solve the problem. For this reason, professional soundproofing contractors recommend the full assembly: insulation, seals, mass, and decoupling together.
Now let’s look at the best insulation types that deliver real results.
Why is Rockwool Insulation Highly Recommended?
Rockwool (mineral wool) acoustic products are designed for acoustic performance, and fire and thermal performance.
It has higher density compare to standard fibreglass batts, which means it absorbs reverberant sound inside cavities and contributes to transmission loss when used properly in wall/ceiling floor assemblies.
The practical advantages of Rockwool insulation include:
- Sound performance: Denser fibres and higher mass per volume provide better dampening of sound than fibreglass batts.
- Fire and moisture resilience: It is non-combustible and resists moisture and mould better than cellulose or other foams.
- Installation: Available in batts, rolls, or rigid boards to fit typical stud cavities or under cladding.
So unlike other materials that just muffle sound, Rockwool actually stops sound vibrations in their tracks, creating a significant difference in the quiet and comfort of any room.
Whether it’ is traffic, loud neighbors, or echoes within your walls, Rockwool delivers consistent noise reduction without the need for extra layers or complicated installation. Additionally, it offers benefits such as fire resistance, moisture control, and energy efficiency, making Rockwool a high-performing choice from every perspective.
For homeowners and builders who want real, lasting soundproofing results, Rockwool is the clear winner. It’s not just insulation but a smart investment in peace, safety, and comfort that pays off for years to come.
Compare Rockwool with Other Insulation Types
While Rockwool is often regarded as the gold standard for soundproofing, it is not the only option available.
Each insulation material—fibreglass, cellulose, spray foam, and more—has its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses. Some are cheaper and easier to install, while others excel at sealing air leaks or providing eco-friendly benefits.
In this section, we will evaluate how Rockwool compares with other popular insulation types, allowing you to clearly see where it excels and where another option would be more suitable for your space or budget.
Insulation | Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) | Ideal For | Fire Resistance | Moisture Resistance | Estimated Cost (per sq. ft.) |
Rockwool | 0.90–1.05 | Bedrooms, studios, shared walls |
| High | $1.50–$2.50 |
Fibreglass | 0.75-0.95 | General use, | Good | Moderate | $0.50–$1.20 |
Cellulose | 0.75–0.85 | Older homes, eco-friendly projects | Fair | Moderate | $1.00-$2.00 |
Spray Foam | 0.70–0.85 | Sealing gaps, energy efficiency | Excellent | High | $2.00–$4.50 |
Acoustic Foam Panels | 0.60–0.90 | Echo reduction, studios | Poor | Low | $2.00-$4.00 |
Mass Loaded Vinyl | STC 55–65 | Walls, floors, professional setups | Excellent | High | $2.50-$5.00 |
Rockwool consistently scores highest for sound absorption, fire resistance, and moisture protection, making it the most advantageous insulation for both residential and commercial use.
While fibreglass and cellulose are cheaper, they cannot match Rockwool’s density and long-term durability.
If your priority is maximum soundproofing and comfort without constant maintenance, Rockwool remains the top performer overall.
Rockwool vs. Fibreglass for Soundproofing
We thought it would be good to directly compare Rockwool with fibreglass since these two are the most popular choices among homeowners.
When comparing them directly, the main difference lies in density and performance. Rockwool is denser; thus, it absorbs and blocks a wider range of sound frequencies, including low, reverberating noises that are difficult for fibreglass to control.
Rockwool also retains its shape better over time, resists moisture, and offers superior fire protection.
In contrast, fibreglass is more budget-friendly and is easier for DIY installation. It works well for moderate soundproofing projects, such as interior walls or ceilings. It does not offer the same level of sound isolation or durability as Rockwool, but it is a cheaper alternative.
If you desire maximum soundproofing and top-quality results, Rockwool is your best option. But if you are on a tight budget or want a quick renovation, fibreglass is your second-best choice.
Is Professional Installation Necessary?
While professional installation is not always necessary, it does make a HUGE difference.
Installing Rockwool or fibreglass batts in small rooms or wall partitions can be a manageable DIY project. Both materials are cut to size and fit snugly between wall studs or ceiling joists. With basic tools, gloves, and a dust mask, most homeowners can handle the job themselves.
However, professional installation becomes worth it for:
- Soundproofing large or multi-room spaces
- Combining insulation with other soundproofing layers (like resilient channels, double drywall, or MLV)
- Uneven framing or moisture issues
- Optimal sound ratings (STC/NRC)
Professionals ensure that every cavity is sealed properly and insulated. They understand how to decouple structures, prevent sound leaks, and maximize acoustic performance. A poorly installed wall, even with premium materials, can still allow sound to pass through gaps or compressed batts.
While DIY installation can save you some money initially, hiring a certified insulation contractor can make the difference between a mildly quieter room and one that is truly soundproof.
For many homeowners, the best strategy is to obtain quotes from several local insulation experts to compare costs. You may be surprised to see that professional installation is more affordable than you expected.
Fortunately, you can easily compare quotes from local insulation contractors at NO COST by filling out the short online form on this page.
Cost-to-Benefit Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Insulation
To help you decide if going DIY or professional is the right approach for you, we have summarized the pros and cons of both options.
DIY installation can be a rewarding, cost-effective project, particularly for small spaces or simple wall cavities.
But when you plan to insulate multiple rooms, complex structures, or desire guaranteed noise reduction, the expertise of a professional makes all the difference.
Let’s compare the two approaches side by side to help you decide which makes the most sense for your home, budget, and noise-control goals.
Factor | DIY Insulation | Professional Insulation |
Upfront Cost | Cheaper | More expensive due to expertise and labour. |
Skill Level Required | Moderate- cutting, fitting, sealing | None – all the work handled by pros |
Ideal For | Small rooms, small budget | Studios, whole-home soundproofing, complex structures |
Efficiency | Moderate: depends on accuracy and technique | Optimized results |
Time | Longer- weekends or several days | 1 to 2 days |
Estimated Cost | $0.80–$1.50 (materials only) | $1.50–$3.50 (materials + labour) |
Long-term results | Adjustments may be required over time. | Guaranteed durability |
If your aim is to achieve maximum noise reduction and a flawless finish, professional installation ensures that your investment achieves its full potential, especially for home theatres, bedrooms, or offices.
When to Schedule a Soundproof Insulation Project
Timing can significantly impact the efficiency and cost of your soundproof insulation project.
In Canada, seasonal temperatures, humidity, and contractor availability are factors that affect the project. Generally, spring and early fall are the most convenient seasons to schedule soundproof insulation projects.
Planning ahead also helps you take advantage of off-season discounts and ensures materials like Rockwool or acoustic foam are installed under optimal conditions for maximum performance.
Get Free Quotes for Soundproof Insulation
Are you ready to make your home quieter and more comfortable?
Whether you’re planning a DIY project or looking for expert installers, it pays to compare your options. Get free quotes from trusted insulation and soundproofing professionals near you — and find the best price for your budget.
Our insulation partners are very competent, experienced, and insured for your protection and peace of mind.
It takes less than 2 minutes to fill out the short online form on this page, and you get FREE QUOTES with NO OBLIGATION that can help you save time and money.