All You Need To Know About Outback Acoustic Panels

We receive multiple enquiries about the Outback Acoustic Panels. Since these are one of our most premium products, we think they deserve a blog post of their own. So here it is—our guide on the hows, whens, and whys for the Outback Acoustic Panels.

Before we start, however, we’d like to put a disclaimer saying we do not install or affix these panels. We simply make them according to your measurements and let your local engineer work his or her magic. Don’t worry though—we will provide you with some information on the installation process nonetheless.

WHY DO I NEED THIS PRODUCT?

If you are looking for an unparalleled long-lasting soundproofing solution, this is the right product for you. We do not make empty promises here at Soundproof Warehouse. Value for money is an important factor—our reputation depends on it after all.

These panels are right for interior as well as exterior applications. You can’t go wrong with corrosion-resistant aluminium, a perforated back-surface, and a 50mm absorption core. Our trusted Sound-Stop 5 is sandwiched within the layers too!

Here is a quick list of some of the advantages offered:

• Literally the best: We don’t like exaggerating. And with a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating of 1, we don’t need to either. It is the highest possible rating for soundproofing and the numbers speak for themselves.
• They’re weatherproof: Sun, rain or snow (unlikely in Queensland)—our panels can handle it all. UV rays are not a problem since aluminium is resistant to the radiation. Water is not a problem because these panels are in fact power-washable.
• Looong lasting: We offer a 25-year guarantee on this product. With anodized aluminium, you can be certain that kids will grow up before you need to change the soundproofing. Check out our ‘Maintenance Guide’ section to learn more about ensuring longevity.
• Animal-resistant: Rats? Possums? Ibises? Skeevers? Not a problem. Our panels are vermin proof to keep your cables safe and equipment free of droppings.

That’s a pretty neat list of advantages, isn’t it? There’s a lot more where that came from. If you want to get a bit more technical, feel free to give our Spec Sheet a look.

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INSTALLATION GUIDE

What is a ‘standard’ configuration anyway?

The ‘standard’ or ‘normal’ configuration simply means a method that works well for most applications. Turns out, that normal method is Horizontal Configuration.

Don’t let this complicated-sounding word intimidate you. A Horizontal Configuration is easy to understand if you read our little pointers below:

1. Four is the norm: The recommended configuration uses four Outback Acoustic Panels. The source of noise (generator, aircon, pool pumps etc.) is surrounded on all four sides—one side being the wall. This means that there is one panel on two sides and two panels on the third side (see image). The perforated side of the panels should always be the one closest to the source for maximum soundproofing.
2. Why Horizontal? Well, horizontal is cheaper since it covers more area. If your source of noise is tall, you might want to go for a vertical configuration using five instead of four panels. The need for a vertical placement does not usually arise since the line-of-sight for most noise sources is covered by the former. A vertical placement raises the height of the soundproofed area from 43” to 60”. We say suit yourselves.

WHAT IF MY CONFIGURATION REQUIREMENTS ARE NOT ‘STANDARD’?

That is not a problem at all. We specialise in custom-made Outback Acoustic Panels.

We know that although the standard configuration may work for most basic problem areas, it is not the solution to all noise sources. To give you an example—we custom-soundproofed the extraction unit for a carpentry workshop at Glenala State High School a few years ago. As evident in the picture below, this installation was far from ‘standard’.

Our sturdy panels can soundproof a variety of noise sources. People often think that this product is only used on the ground surface. The installation can, in fact, be done on multiple areas including roofs, balconies and concrete floors.

Do remember however, that the maximum size is 1210mm x 2410mm. This means that custom-sizes can be smaller but not bigger. The thickness is always 61mm.

The 1210mm x 2410mm panel (largest size) will generally have 4 M8 holes on the long sides – 8 holes in total. We weld a crush tube into the panel, so it does not get distorted when the panel gets fixed/bolted to a structure.

The panels can also be slotted in between I-beams if desired. An equal angle can be attached/bolted to the I-beam to hold the panels in position.

MAINTENANCE GUIDE

The Outback Acoustic Panels are strong since they are made out of aluminium sheets welded together. It is important to keep in mind however that in spite of being sturdy, these panels are still susceptible to damage—even though it is most likely going to be superficial.

To keep your product looking new, here are some things to keep in mind:

1. You can avoid scratches: Almost anything hard enough to scratch will leave scratches the panels. Luckily for you—we have a solution. At Soundproof Warehouse, we can anodize your panels. This means adding extra thickness and longevity (of 25 years) to your installation.If not anodizing the panels, it might be a good idea to ask your children to avoid playing around the soundproofed area. A ball or a Frisbee could leave a dent. Don’t worry too much if it does happen though since the damage is unlikely to degrade the performance of the product.
2. Two is better than one: We are talking about the number of people handing the Outback Acoustic Panels during installation. We recommend  a minimum of two installers for the job of preparation and installation. We know that you are strong and can carry the panels by yourself, but the size and weight make them hard to handle and more prone to damage.
3. Keep oily hands away: Oily hands and fingers are gross but let’s be honest, they are very normal. All humans sweat and secrete oil. Unfortunately, this is not good for the surface of your panels. A chemical reaction from the oil will most likely leave fingerprint marks. To avoid this, use gloves and keep your product looking new.
4. Holes are a no-no: This kind of damage will adversely affect the performance of your panels. Do NOT allow any holes getting punctured through the sheet metal. We know that the product is perforated but those are the only good holes you need. In case the product does happen to get punctured (kids am-I-right?), you can patch it up with an outdoor acoustic sealant. The performance degradation from puncture will depend on the size, location and other factors.
5. Cleaning instructions: Don’t worry too much about the cleaning at all since these panels are power-washable. If you find black residue on your cleaning rag, don’t panic! This is oxidised aluminium and is completely normal. You can use Windex or any other chemical cleaner that is safe for aluminium products and appliances.

With all that information, we hope that you are a little more inclined to invest in a product that won’t let you down. Just remember—the perforated side needs to face the noise source. Once installed, you can stop worrying about noise complaints and carve your piece of peace.

If you need more convincing for your specific needs, give us a call. We will be transparent about what product might be ideal for your noise source. Not the chatty type? Not a problem. You can also email us at info@soundproofwarehouse.com.au.