Acoustical Products Made in USA.
On many vessels, noise doesn’t just come from machinery—it comes from the deck itself.
The most effective way to reduce metal deck resonance is by using a damping + decoupling underlayment system that limits vibration and prevents it from turning the deck into a sound source.
Across Washington shipyards, ferries, and marine vessels, steel decks are constantly exposed to vibration from equipment, foot traffic, and structural movement. When this energy reaches the deck surface, it can trigger a “drumming” effect, where the metal amplifies sound and radiates it throughout the space.
Under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards applied in Washington:
- 85 dB(A) → Action Level (8-hour TWA)
- 90 dB(A) → Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)
Why Steel Decks Amplify Noise
Steel is strong—but acoustically, it behaves like a resonating surface:
- Vibration excites the deck, causing it to flex and radiate sound
- Reflective surfaces increase sound buildup in confined areas
- Multiple vibration sources compound the effect
Result: a loud, sharp “drumming” noise that spreads across the vessel
Why Standard Treatments Don’t Fix It
- Absorbers reduce echo but don’t stop deck vibration
- Barriers block sound but don’t reduce resonance
- Coatings and finishes don’t add sufficient damping
This leaves the deck acting as a continuous noise amplifier.
The Right Solution: Damping + Isolation
MassiCore® Marine SilentStep Underlayment (ANC-SSP-M)
- Adds damping to reduce deck resonance
- Creates a decoupling layer to isolate vibration
- Limits sound radiation from the metal surface
- Designed for marine durability and heavy-use conditions
Controls both vibration energy and sound radiation
Where It’s Most Effective
- Open deck walkways
- Machinery-adjacent flooring
- Work platforms and service areas
- Interior decks with high activity
Performance + OSHA Compliance
With proper installation:
- Noise reduced from 85–100 dB → 60–70 dB
- Reduced harshness and “ringing” effect
- Improved comfort and working conditions
- Supports OSHA compliance in Washington
Why do metal decks sound so loud on ships?
Because vibration causes the steel surface to resonate and radiate sound like a drum.
How do you stop deck drumming noise?
Install a damping + decoupling underlayment system to reduce vibration and prevent sound amplification.
What is the best way to reduce resonance in steel decks?
A floor isolation system that adds damping and blocks vibration at the source.
Final Takeaway
In Washington marine environments, deck noise isn’t just from equipment—it’s amplified by the structure itself.
To control it effectively, you need:
- Damping of the deck surface
- Structural isolation of vibration
- OSHA-compliant noise control
MassiCore® Marine SilentStep Underlayment (ANC-SSP-M) provides a targeted, long-term solution for reducing metal deck resonance and improving onboard acoustics.
