McMillan Floors | Engineered for Comfort
The floor you walk on does more than complete the look of your home. It also plays a major role in how sound travels.
If you live in a multi-story home or an apartment, you’ve probably experienced the difference: footsteps echoing from above, muffled voices coming through the floor, or that hollow, clacky sound in rooms without rugs.
At McMillan Floors, we know your flooring needs to feel great and sound great. That’s why we guide homeowners and property managers toward smart choices that blend style, function, and acoustics.
Why Sound Matters in Flooring
Sound doesn’t just bounce off walls—it also reflects and travels through your floors. In shared spaces, the right flooring can make the difference between cozy and chaotic.
There are two types of sound to consider:
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Impact noise (footsteps, dropped items)
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Airborne noise (conversations, music)
Some materials absorb sound. Others amplify it. If you’re renovating a townhome, condo, duplex, or a multi-level home, sound control isn’t optional—it’s essential.
What Flooring Types Are Best (and Worst) for Sound?
1. Hardwood Flooring
Beautiful, but noisy. Hardwood is timeless, but without a good underlayment or area rugs, it’s known for amplifying sound. It’s a favorite for style, but not always for silence.
Want to keep the look of real wood but soften the sound? Consider engineered hardwood with an acoustic underlay.
2. Laminate Flooring
Tough and moderately quiet. Laminate flooring such as our Evolved Collection is designed for durability and everyday wear. It includes a built-in liner that can help reduce sound transmission, making it a moderately quiet option for active households.
3. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Quiet and waterproof. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a popular flooring option known for its durability, water resistance, and noise-reducing qualities. It’s especially effective in busy households or apartments, where sound insulation is important. When paired with built-in padding or an added underlayment, LVP can significantly reduce footfall noise—making it a practical choice for homes with children, pets, or downstairs neighbors.
4. Carpet
Best for sound, but not always practical. Carpet is the quietest option, hands down—but not the easiest to clean or maintain in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas.
Consider using carpet in bedrooms or on stairs, where sound and softness both matter most.
5. Tile & Stone Flooring
Hard and loud. While tile is perfect for moisture resistance in kitchens and bathrooms, it offers very little sound absorption. Sound bounces easily, which can create echoes and sharp noise.
Quick Tips for a Quieter Home
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Use Underlayments Wisely: Cork or rubber padding under laminate or vinyl can dramatically reduce sound transmission.
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Zone Smart: Use softer materials in upstairs bedrooms or high-traffic hallways.
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Add Rugs and Runners: Rugs with felt pads reduce both impact and airborne sound.
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Seal Gaps: Even floorboard gaps can let noise through—quality installation matters.
Sound Isn’t Just a Luxury—It’s a Lifestyle Choice
You deserve a home that sounds as peaceful as it looks beautiful. Whether you're flooring an upstairs apartment or a family home with teens and toddlers, every step counts.
We can help you choose the right flooring + soundproofing combo for your layout, lifestyle, and budget.
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