RaceDeck Tile Noise Comparisons

[kngelv]

I currently have RaceDeck FreeFlow in my garage. I just built a new 24' x 24' garage and am considering a mix of FreeFlow and solid with the solid being undrer my 4-post lift. The reason I went with my current tiles was because they were noticeably quieter than the solid ones while walking on them. I purchased the lift about seven months ago and think solid tiles would work better under the lift. I ordered a few samples plus some of the shock tower inserts. Today I used my Apple watch's sound meter on bare concrete for comparisons. and here are the results.

Stomping feet as fast as possible on each tile:

FreeFlow XLC = 64db
Solid with Shocktower = 73db
Solid = 83db

Moving feet at walking pace:

FreeFlow XLC = 53db
Solid with Shocktower = 61 db
Solid = 70db

Not super scientific like in a lab but pretty good as far as real world IMHO. The differences were quite noticeable. Also remember that every 3db increase doubles perceived loudness. I'm definitely going with the Shocktower if I get solid tiles.

James

 

[Blackbyrd]

Sound measurements can be very tricky especially using non laboratory grade equipment. Actually did a comparison last year between a phone app and NIST traceable setup.

Key is consistent placement of mic for each measurement. Slight difference in placement and ambient noise can really swap measurement especially in the lower decibel ranges.

Still interesting data, my one and only complaint about my garage deck floor is the sound of walking across it.

 

[racer1735]

The noise that I was concerned with when I layed my garage flooring was the 'click click' sound when you walk on them. I put down landscaping fabric, wall to wall, underneath the floor tiles and I does a great job of 'quieting' things down (use painters tape to hold the fabric at each end and overlap slightly). Also, when I need to wash the floor tiles, I just power wash or hose away, as the fabric allows the water to flow thru and out the garage door into the driveway.

 

[Blackbyrd]

I wish I'd heard of that trick before I installed mine.

 

[mike93lx]

10 dB is doubling perceived loudness. 3db increase requires doubling the input power

 

[kngelv]

10B is doubling perceived loudness. 3db increase requires doubling the input power

Copy.

James