Are Carpet Tiles Good for Soundproofing?

Carpet tiles offer many advantages that make them an appealing option. They provide the cushion, comfort, and shock absorption of carpeting, but they’re much more versatile and can be installed in areas, like basements, where traditional carpeting can’t. In doing so, carpet tiles can make a space more enjoyable and welcoming. But are carpet tiles good for soundproofing? Let’s break down how the tiles absorb sound and how you can use them to create the qualities you want in your space.

Are Carpet Tiles Good for Soundproofing?

Carpet tiles can help dampen sound, providing noise reduction and helping to prevent echo and reverberation. Adding carpet to a space can help make the area less “live,” since carpet’s sound-absorbing properties create a sound insulation effect. Carpeting doesn’t entirely soundproof a room, but it does offer acoustic benefits that can make a space quieter.


For example, if you have a large room with hardwood floors and high ceilings, footsteps and voices can reverberate throughout the space. Noises can sound amplified, and the space may be less enjoyable because of that volume. Installing soundproof carpet tiles can help reduce that echo, creating a quieter space. The carpet tiles are ideal because you can easily remove them again when you no longer need or want them. Plus, with carpet tiles, you can install the flooring over just part of a room if needed.

The same is true of a space like a large gymnasium. Gyms have wooden floors, concrete or brick walls, and high ceilings, all of which amplify sounds and contribute to a louder space. Gym classes, sporting events, and other events, like meetings or dances, will all be louder because of the gym’s acoustics.

You can install carpet tiles directly over a gym floor when you’re hosting events that require a quieter atmosphere, like a meeting or dance. The tiles also create a welcoming, cushioned surface while dampening noise, making the gym more enjoyable for attendees.

What Carpet Tiles Are Best for Soundproofing?

If you’re looking for carpet tiles specifically for their sound-dampening properties, then you’ll want to consider our carpet tiles with padding. Not only do these tiles feature a carpeted surface that helps absorb sound, but their pad bottom also helps buffer sound.

For the maximum sound absorption, look for a thick tile, which has more material to buffer noise. We have many products that are ⅝, ¾, or 1 inch thick.

Since these tiles feature a built-in backing, there usually isn’t a need to install a separate underlayment. However, you can add an underlayment for extra soundproofing benefits.

Additional Considerations When Choosing Soundproof Carpet Tiles

A carpet tile’s ability to absorb and reduce sound is just one quality to consider. To choose the tiles that are best for your installation, evaluate these other factors, too.

Pile Height

Carpet tiles vary in pile height. A higher pile offers more cushion and insulation, and it can help absorb more sound. Tiles with a shorter pile height feature a firmer surface, but they’re better if you’re going to be using the space for wheeled carts or other items.

Durability

The durability of carpet tiles varies depending on the tile’s materials and construction. If you’re going to be using the tiles at home, a tile designed for residential use should be just fine. But if you’re buying tiles to be used in a space like a gymnasium, look for a commercial tile with the durability needed for these types of installations.

Other features affect a tile’s durability, too. Some tiles are designed to be stain-resistant, helping to maximize their lifespan.

Installation Method

Carpet tiles are designed with different installation methods, so think about which installation method is best for your needs. Puzzle-style tiles can be pressed together for a secure and easy installation; they have the benefit of being removable if needed. Other tiles feature a peel-and-stick backing for a more permanent installation, while some are designed for installation with adhesive.

Size and Design

A tile’s size and design will also affect your installation. Larger tiles are great for covering larger spaces, while smaller tiles can create more intricate patterns. Look for a carpet tile that features the finish and overall look that you want for your space.

Contact Greatmats to Learn More About Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles alone won’t soundproof a room, but they can make a significant difference in the volume of the noise within the space. Carefully choosing the right carpet tiles for your project can transform your space’s acoustics, plus the tiles offer perks in terms of comfort and aesthetics.


We carry an excellent selection of carpet tiles here at Greatmats. Contact our customer service team today with any questions. We’d be happy to help you determine which product is best for your project.