SilentBoard ProMax 30mm Review: The Ultimate Space-Saving Soundproofing Solution for UK Stud Walls

If you're battling neighbour noise through stud walls or thin brick walls but can't afford to lose precious room space, the SilentBoard ProMax 30mm might be exactly what you need. This professional-grade, direct-to-wall soundproofing panel has become the go-to solution for UK homeowners, landlords, and contractors who need maximum acoustic performance within minimal thickness.

In this comprehensive review, we'll examine real-world test results, Part E compliance capabilities, installation requirements, and how the SilentBoard ProMax 30mm compares to thicker soundproofing systems. Whether you're a DIY homeowner or professional contractor, this guide will help you determine if this is the right soundproofing solution for your project.

What Is SilentBoard ProMax 30mm?

SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is a precision-engineered, multi-layer soundproofing panel designed specifically for direct-to-wall installation on low-mass structures. At just 30mm thick, it's the slimmest professional-grade soundproofing panel that can achieve Part E Building Regulations compliance when properly installed.

Unlike decorative acoustic foam or basic insulation, SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is structural soundproofing — engineered to add mass, damping, and acoustic isolation to walls that lack density and allow sound to pass through easily.

The Four-Layer Composite System

Each 1.2m × 1.2m panel combines four distinct acoustic layers into a single, factory-laminated system:

1. 15mm Acoustic Plasterboard — Denser and heavier than standard plasterboard, this outer layer adds mass to block airborne noise while providing a standard finish ready for decoration
2. 3mm High-Mass Acoustic Barrier — A dense, limp-mass barrier layer specifically designed to resist sound wave transmission
3. 9mm Closed-Cell Damping Layer — Absorbs and dissipates sound energy, reducing vibration and resonance within the wall structure
4. 3mm High-Mass Acoustic Barrier — A second barrier layer to further improve low-frequency sound reduction

This multi-layer approach follows the mass-spring-mass principle used in professional acoustic engineering, where alternating layers of mass and damping work together to block, absorb, and dissipate sound energy across a wide frequency range.

Real-World Performance: Acoustic Test Results

Marketing claims are one thing — real-world acoustic testing is another. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm has been independently tested on actual UK building constructions, and the results are impressive.

Timber Stud Wall Test Results

Test Construction: 100mm timber stud frame with 100mm acoustic mineral wool cavity insulation and single plasterboard layer each side

Before SilentBoard ProMax 30mm:

• 35 dB (DnT,w)
• 26 dB (DnT,w + Ctr) — low-frequency weighted

After SilentBoard ProMax 30mm installation:

• 52 dB (DnT,w)
• 41 dB (DnT,w + Ctr)

Improvement: +17 dB (DnT,w) and +15 dB (DnT,w + Ctr)

This is a dramatic improvement. In acoustic terms, a 10 dB reduction represents a perceived halving of loudness. A 17 dB improvement means neighbour conversations, TV noise, and music that were clearly audible become significantly quieter — often reduced to a faint murmur or completely inaudible depending on the source volume.

Solid Brick Wall Test Results

Test Construction: 100mm single-skin brick wall (common in older UK terraced houses and conversions)

Before treatment:

• 38 dB (DnT,w)
• 36 dB (DnT,w + Ctr)

After SilentBoard ProMax 30mm:

• 43 dB (DnT,w)
• 41 dB (DnT,w + Ctr)

Improvement: +5 dB on both measurements

While the improvement on brick is lower than on stud walls (because brick already has more mass), a 5 dB improvement is still significant and noticeable. This makes SilentBoard ProMax 30mm an excellent retrofit solution for older properties with thin brick party walls.

Part E Building Regulations Compliance

One of the most important questions for UK builders, landlords, and homeowners is: Does SilentBoard ProMax 30mm meet Part E Building Regulations?

The answer is yes — when installed correctly.

UK Part E Building Regulations set minimum acoustic performance standards for walls and floors in residential buildings. For walls between habitable rooms in different dwellings (party walls), the minimum requirement is typically 45 dB DnT,w.

Achieving Part E Compliance with SilentBoard ProMax 30mm

Compliance depends on several factors:

• Wall construction type — Stud walls, brick walls, block walls all perform differently
• Installation method — Single-sided or double-sided application
• Cavity treatment — Use of acoustic mineral wool insulation
• Sealing quality — Proper use of acoustic sealant at all joints and perimeters
• Flanking paths — Sound transmission through floors, ceilings, and adjoining structures

For timber stud walls: SilentBoard ProMax 30mm should be installed on both sides of the stud frame, or as part of a secondary independent stud frame, to reliably achieve Part E compliance. The test results showing 52 dB DnT,w demonstrate this configuration exceeds Part E requirements by a comfortable margin.

For brick/block walls: Single-sided application can achieve compliance depending on the existing wall mass and construction quality. Double-sided application provides greater certainty and higher performance.

If you're working on a project requiring Part E compliance, Sound Deadening UK's technical team can provide bespoke recommendations based on your specific wall construction and project requirements.

When Space Is at a Premium: Why 30mm Matters

The UK housing market is dominated by properties where every centimetre counts — Victorian terraces, Edwardian conversions, modern flats with tight room dimensions, and period properties with ornate features.

Traditional soundproofing systems often require 50mm, 70mm, or even 100mm+ of wall thickness. While these thicker systems can achieve higher dB reductions, they're simply not practical when:

• Door frames and architraves would need relocating
• Window reveals would become uncomfortably deep
• Room dimensions would be noticeably reduced
• Skirting boards, coving, and period features would be affected
• Electrical sockets and switches would need extending

SilentBoard ProMax 30mm solves this problem. At just 30mm thickness, it's thin enough to install around existing features while still delivering professional-grade soundproofing performance. You get the best possible acoustic result within minimal thickness — making it the ideal compromise between performance and practicality.

DIY Installation: Can You Install It Yourself?

One of SilentBoard ProMax 30mm's biggest advantages is its DIY-friendly installation. Over 80% of customers successfully install the system themselves, even without prior soundproofing experience.

What You'll Need

• Tools: Drill/driver, saw (hand saw or circular saw for cutting panels), measuring tape, spirit level, utility knife
• Fixings: Drywall screws for timber studs (50-65mm length), or suitable masonry anchors for brick/block walls
• Acoustic sealant: High-performance acoustic sealant for all joints, perimeters, and penetrations
• Cavity insulation: 100mm acoustic mineral wool for stud wall cavities
• Helper: Each panel weighs 41kg, so you'll need assistance lifting and positioning

Installation Process Summary

1. Prepare the wall — Ensure the surface is clean, flat, and structurally sound. Remove any loose material or debris
2. Fill stud cavities — Install acoustic mineral wool between studs to absorb sound energy and prevent cavity resonance
3. Fix panels to wall — Screw SilentBoard ProMax 30mm directly to timber studs or masonry using appropriate fixings. Space fixings approximately 300mm apart
4. Maintain perimeter gap — Leave a small 3-5mm gap around the perimeter (floor, ceiling, adjoining walls) to prevent rigid contact
5. Seal all joints — This is critical. Use acoustic sealant to seal all panel joints, perimeter gaps, and any penetrations (sockets, pipes). Even small unsealed gaps significantly reduce performance
6. Finish surface — Apply plaster skim coat or tape-and-joint for a smooth, paintable finish

Installation time: A competent DIYer can typically install SilentBoard ProMax 30mm on a standard bedroom wall (12-15m²) in one weekend, including preparation and finishing.

Sound Deadening UK provides detailed installation guides with your order, and their technical support team is available to answer questions throughout your project.

Professional Applications: Who Uses SilentBoard ProMax 30mm?

While DIY homeowners make up the majority of customers, SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is also widely specified by:

• Acoustic consultants — For projects requiring certified Part E compliance with minimal thickness
• Builders and contractors — Retrofit soundproofing in conversions, HMOs, and rental properties
• Architects — New build projects where space efficiency is critical
• Property developers — Meeting Building Regulations in flat conversions and multi-occupancy developments
• Landlords — Improving tenant satisfaction and meeting regulatory requirements in rental properties

The combination of proven performance, Part E compliance capability, and space efficiency makes it a trusted solution across the UK construction and property sectors.

Common Applications and Use Cases

Party Walls in Terraced and Semi-Detached Houses

The most common application for SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is reducing neighbour noise through party walls. Whether it's conversations, TV noise, music, or general household activity, the 17 dB improvement achievable on stud walls makes a dramatic difference to quality of life.

Flat and Apartment Conversions

Converting large properties into flats requires Part E compliance. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm provides a space-efficient solution that meets regulations without eating into valuable floor area — critical in conversion projects where room sizes are already constrained.

Home Offices and Study Rooms

With remote working now standard, creating a quiet, professional workspace free from household noise is essential. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm isolates home offices from adjacent rooms, ensuring video calls and focused work aren't disrupted by family activity.

Bedrooms and Nurseries

Peaceful sleep is non-negotiable. Installing SilentBoard ProMax 30mm between bedrooms, or between bedrooms and living spaces, creates the acoustic privacy needed for restful sleep — particularly important in families with young children or shift workers.

Media Rooms and Home Cinemas

Enjoying films and music at proper volume without disturbing others requires effective soundproofing. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm contains sound within media rooms while being slim enough to preserve room dimensions.

Rental Properties and HMOs

Landlords face increasing pressure to provide adequate sound insulation in rental properties. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm helps meet Part E requirements, improves tenant satisfaction, and reduces noise complaints — protecting rental income and property reputation.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

• Total thickness: 30mm
• Panel dimensions: 1200mm × 1200mm
• Coverage per panel: 1.44m²
• Weight per panel: 41kg
• Weight per m²: 28.5kg
• Fire rating: Plasterboard layer EN 13501-1 A2-s1, d0; barrier and damping layers self-extinguishing/FMVSS 302 compliant
• Thermal conductivity: Plasterboard 0.25 W/m·K, acoustic barriers 0.037 W/m·K, damping layer 0.039 W/m·K

Cost Analysis: Is SilentBoard ProMax 30mm Worth It?

At £108.19 per panel (1.44m²), SilentBoard ProMax 30mm costs approximately £75.13 per m².

For a typical project, you'll also need:

• Acoustic mineral wool — approximately £8-12 per m²
• Acoustic sealant — approximately £3-5 per m²
• Fixings and finishing materials — approximately £2-3 per m²

Total material cost: approximately £90-110 per m²

This represents exceptional value for a professional-grade, Part E compliant soundproofing system. Compare this to:

• Professional acoustic consultant fees: £500-1,500+
• Thicker independent stud systems: £120-180+ per m² in materials alone
• Post-construction acoustic testing and remediation: £1,000-3,000+

For DIY installation, you're looking at material costs only. Professional installation typically adds £30-50 per m² in labour, but any competent builder or dryliner can install the system following the provided guidelines.

SilentBoard ProMax 30mm vs Thicker Soundproofing Systems

The obvious question: How does 30mm compare to thicker systems?

Thicker soundproofing systems (50mm, 70mm, 100mm+) can achieve higher dB reductions — there's no getting around the physics that more mass and more air gap generally equals better performance.

However, SilentBoard ProMax 30mm offers the best performance-to-thickness ratio available. The four-layer composite design maximizes acoustic performance within the 30mm constraint, delivering results that would typically require 50-60mm with conventional materials.

When to Choose 30mm:

• Space constraints around doors, windows, or period features
• Room dimensions can't accommodate thicker systems
• You need Part E compliance with minimal thickness
• Budget constraints (thicker systems cost significantly more)
• Retrofit projects where disruption must be minimized

When to Consider Thicker Systems:

• Extreme noise issues requiring maximum possible reduction
• New build projects with no space constraints
• Recording studios or professional acoustic spaces
• You have room dimensions to spare

For the vast majority of UK residential soundproofing projects, SilentBoard ProMax 30mm delivers the optimal balance of performance, practicality, and cost-effectiveness.

Customer Reviews and Real-World Feedback

SilentBoard ProMax 30mm has earned an impressive 5.0 out of 5 stars from 13 verified customer reviews. Here's what actual customers report:

★★★★★ "Massive improvement. The wall feels solid and the difference was obvious immediately."
— James R., Homeowner

★★★★★ "Installed on a stud wall with mineral wool. Noise from next door is no longer an issue."
— Mark L., Contractor

★★★★★ "Slim but extremely heavy — exactly what you want for soundproofing. Fast delivery."
— Sarah T., DIY Installer

★★★★☆ "Not silent, but a huge reduction. Proper sealing makes all the difference."
— Daniel K., Flat Owner

The consistent theme across reviews is noticeable, immediate improvement in noise levels, with customers particularly appreciating the DIY-friendly installation and the slim profile that doesn't compromise room space.

Common Questions and Concerns

Will this achieve complete silence?

No soundproofing system can achieve 100% silence. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm will dramatically reduce noise transmission, but very loud sounds (shouting, heavy bass music at high volume, impact noise) will still be partially audible. The goal is to reduce noise to comfortable, non-intrusive levels — which the 17 dB improvement on stud walls reliably achieves.

Does it work for impact noise (footsteps from above)?

No. SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is designed for airborne sound (voices, TV, music). Impact noise from floors above requires floor-based soundproofing solutions that address structure-borne vibration at the source. Sound Deadening UK offers specialized floor soundproofing systems for impact noise.

Can I install it on just one side of a stud wall?

Yes, single-sided installation will still provide significant improvement, particularly when combined with cavity-filled acoustic mineral wool. However, for optimal performance and Part E compliance on stud walls, double-sided installation is recommended.

How long does UK delivery take?

Typical delivery is 3-5 working days from Sound Deadening UK's warehouse. No long lead times — they understand noise issues need resolving quickly.

What about electrical sockets and switches?

Existing sockets will need extending forward by 30mm using socket box extenders (readily available from electrical suppliers). Alternatively, sockets can be relocated to the new wall surface. This is straightforward work for any electrician or competent DIYer.

Installation Tips for Best Results

Based on customer feedback and technical guidance, here are the critical factors for achieving optimal performance:

1. Seal everything — This cannot be overstated. Acoustic sealant at all joints, perimeters, and penetrations is absolutely critical. Even small gaps significantly reduce performance
2. Fill the cavity — For stud walls, always fill the cavity with acoustic mineral wool. The combination of mass (SilentBoard) and absorption (mineral wool) is essential for maximum performance
3. Maintain the perimeter gap — Leave a small gap around edges before sealing. This prevents rigid contact that can transmit vibration
4. Address flanking paths — Sound can travel through floors, ceilings, and adjoining walls. For best results, consider how sound might bypass the treated wall
5. Use proper fixings — Ensure panels are securely fixed to studs or masonry. Loose panels reduce performance

Complete Soundproofing System: What Else You'll Need

For a professional-grade soundproofing installation, Sound Deadening UK recommends pairing SilentBoard ProMax 30mm with:

• 100mm Acoustic Mineral Wool — Essential for filling stud cavities to absorb sound energy and prevent resonance
• High-Performance Acoustic Sealant — Professional-grade sealant for all joints, perimeters, and penetrations
• Appropriate fixings — Drywall screws for timber studs or masonry anchors for brick/block walls

These components work together as a complete system to achieve the test results and Part E compliance demonstrated in acoustic testing.

Why Choose Sound Deadening UK?

Sound Deadening UK has established itself as the UK's leading specialist in professional soundproofing solutions, offering:

• Expert technical support — Industry-leading advice before, during, and after purchase from experienced soundproofing professionals
• Fast UK delivery — 3-5 working days from UK warehouse, no long lead times
• Part E compliance specialists — Deep understanding of Building Regulations and acoustic testing requirements
• Professional-grade products — Used by contractors, architects, and acoustic consultants nationwide
• Proven performance — Real-world test data, not marketing claims
• Complete solutions — Everything needed for successful soundproofing projects

Final Verdict: Is SilentBoard ProMax 30mm Right for You?

SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is the best choice when:

• You need professional-grade soundproofing but can't afford to lose significant room space
• You're working around door frames, windows, or period features
• You need Part E Building Regulations compliance with minimal thickness
• You want a DIY-friendly system with proven real-world results
• You're soundproofing stud walls or thin brick walls in UK residential properties
• You want the best possible performance within a 30mm thickness constraint

Consider alternatives if:

• You have extreme noise issues requiring maximum possible reduction and have space for 70mm+ systems
• You're dealing with impact noise from floors above (requires floor-based solutions)
• You have unlimited space and budget for thicker independent stud systems

For the vast majority of UK residential soundproofing projects — particularly party walls in terraced houses, flat conversions, home offices, and bedrooms — SilentBoard ProMax 30mm delivers exceptional results.

The combination of proven 17 dB improvement on stud walls, Part E compliance capability, DIY-friendly installation, and space-efficient 30mm thickness makes it an unrivalled solution for UK homeowners and professionals alike.

Ready to Transform Your Noisy Wall?

If you're tired of hearing every conversation, TV show, and footstep from next door, SilentBoard ProMax 30mm offers a proven, professional-grade solution that actually works.

With fast UK delivery (3-5 working days), industry-leading technical support, and a track record of successful DIY installations, there's never been a better time to reclaim your peace and quiet.

View SilentBoard ProMax 30mm specifications and order now

Need help determining if SilentBoard ProMax 30mm is right for your specific project? Sound Deadening UK's technical team provides honest, project-specific advice to ensure you choose the right solution for your needs.

Related Resources

• Complete Stud Wall Soundproofing Solutions
• UK Part E Building Regulations Compliance Guide
• 100mm Acoustic Mineral Wool for Cavity Insulation
• High-Performance Acoustic Sealant

Last updated: December 2025