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STC (Sound Transmission Class) is a rating that describes how well a building material or assembly blocks airborne sound. A higher STC rating means less noise will pass through the material, providing better sound reduction. This rating system applies to various building components, including windows, doors, flooring, drywall, and insulation.

For context, a typical single-pane window has an STC rating of around 25 (where normal conversations are audible), while a well-sealed, double-pane window can exceed STC 45 (blocking loud speech and most music). It is important to note that for some products, like soundproofing drywall, the STC rating refers to the entire wall system, not just the individual panel.

Additionally, STC ratings are most effective for measuring sound reduction at mid-to-high frequencies, such as human speech, and may not accurately reflect how well a material blocks low-frequency sounds like bass music or thunder. Because of these factors, it is recommended to consult a professional to determine the right STC-rated materials for your specific soundproofing needs.

For your safety, you should always wear a mask when cutting batts of fiberglass insulation. We also recommend wearing eye protection, safety gloves, and long sleeves to protect your skin. Properly suiting up helps you avoid several fiberglass issues, such as cuts from the tiny shards of glass and inhaling small bits of fiberglass.

There are many reasons one bedroom may be hotter than the rest of the house. The sun will quickly heat a south-facing bedroom with a large window, especially if it lacks quality curtains. If the room has poor insulation, this could let more warm outside air in. Upstairs bedrooms are often hotter than ground-floor rooms because heat rises. Finally, rooms further away from the air conditioning unit may heat up a lot if the system is not properly balanced.

Insulating under a concrete slab foundation is a great way to improve the energy efficiency of your home, but it isn't necessary for outdoor projects like driveways, patios, sidewalks, and walkways. If you’re pouring in cold weather, insulating under the slab can help prevent heat loss from the concrete, aiding in proper curing. Along with accelerants, this can be a good way to ensure strong concrete despite pouring in the cold.