Floating floor is a second screed layer separated from the structural concrete slab by an elastic mat. Operating on the mass-spring-mass principle it reduces impact noise (ΔLw) by 25-35 dB. The base acoustic solution for any building where vertical sound transfer matters — apartments, hotels, studios and fitness gyms.
What is a floating floor?
A floating floor is a two-layer system: an elastic acoustic mat is laid on the structural slab and a separate reinforced screed (typically 4-6 cm) is poured on top. The upper screed never touches the structural slab — it "floats" — so impact and vibration energy is significantly reduced before reaching the floor below.
System layers
- Structural concrete slab (existing build)
- Elastic acoustic mat (rubber, cork, elastomeric)
- Edge perimeter strip (breaks wall contact)
- PE foil separator (water and mortar barrier)
- Reinforced floating screed (≥ 4-6 cm, with mesh)
- Finish layer (parquet, ceramic, carpet)
Performance
- ΔLw (impact-noise reduction): 25-35 dB
- Airborne contribution: +3 to +5 dB Rw
- Dynamic stiffness: 10-30 MN/m³ (critical parameter)
- Screed thickness: ≥ 4 cm reinforced
- Edge strip: 8-10 mm foam / rubber
Where it is used
- Apartments, flats and villa floors
- Hotel-room floors (TSE / star standard)
- Recording studios, cinemas, rehearsal rooms
- Fitness, dance, sports gyms
- Schools, hospitals, offices
- Above-restaurant solutions
Installation steps
1) Clean and level the structural slab. 2) Fix the perimeter strip along the surrounding walls. 3) Lay the acoustic mat without overlap; seal joints with acoustic tape. 4) Spread the PE foil over the mat. 5) Pour a min. 4-6 cm reinforced screed. 6) After curing, trim the protruding perimeter strip and apply the finish. Critical: the screed must not touch any wall, column or service penetration; a single bridge can negate the entire system.
Related
For mat selection see rubber underlay sheet, cork mat and acoustic underlay mat.
Features
Internationally fire-retardant certified (BS476 Class 0, UNI 9175 M1)
Custom-size and custom-color production options
High acoustic performance and long service life
Easy installation and application-friendly
Durability in industrial and residential projects
Usage Process
Site Measurement
On-site acoustic and dimensional measurement.
Product Selection
The right specification for the performance target.
Cutting & Supply
Custom-size preparation and packaging.
Installation
DIY application or expert installation.
Technical Specifications
| Standard | BS476 Class 0, UNI 9175 M1 |
|---|---|
| Typical Thickness | 20-100 mm (project-dependent) |
| Custom Cutting | Available (2-5 business days) |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty + Dedatek quality assurance |