What are the benefits of sound insulated curtains?

Sound insulated curtains provide a dual benefit of significant decibel reduction and thermal temperature control. They are ideal for separating noisy manufacturing zones from temperature-sensitive areas, improving both worker comfort and energy efficiency.

Can the track be cut to size on site?

Yes. The galvanised steel track system is designed to be cut on site using a standard hacksaw or reciprocating saw for a precision fit in your workspace.

Do sound insulated curtains help with HSE noise regulations?

Yes. Our sound insulated curtains help employers meet the requirements of the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 by reducing workplace noise exposure levels below the upper and lower action values.

How much sound reduction do these curtains provide?

Depending on the material thickness and specific configuration, our sound insulated curtains can provide an STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating of up to 25–30, significantly reducing noise transmission between zones.

Heavy-duty industrial sound-insulated curtains hanging on a track system to reduce noise transmission in large commercial spaces

OVERVIEW

Industrial padded sound curtains are available in a wide range of sizes and bespoke configurations. Depending on your requirements, these thick padded sound curtains can be custom designed to match the exact width and height you need. They are an excellent alternative to permanent rigid walls and can be fitted quickly with minimal disruption.

Our sound insulated curtains use multiple layers of dense acoustic material sandwiched between durable industrial vinyl. This construction delivers outstanding noise reduction across a broad frequency range. We supply these curtains for factories, warehouses, workshops, and commercial premises throughout the UK and Ireland.

Build My Curtain

Why Use Sound Insulated Curtains?

Q: How hard is it to install the industrial curtain track?

Installation is straightforward. All components fit together and are secured with set screws. The process is intuitive and typically can be completed by facility maintenance staff using basic tools.

Q: What is the spacing from the bottom of the track to the top of the curtain?

Standard curtains have a gap of approximately 2 to 2.5 cm between the bottom of the track and the top of the curtain to allow for the smooth movement of the heavy-duty roller trolleys.

Risks From High dB Noise Levels

Loss of concentration
Long-term hearing loss
Potential accidents
Noise may interrupt ongoing operations
Noise may increase blood pressure
Reduced workplace productivity

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, employers must take action when daily noise exposure reaches 80 dB(A). Our sound insulated curtains help you meet these obligations and protect your workforce.

Sound Blocking Curtain Benefits

Ideal for enclosing large machinery
Protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss
Create a more pleasant working environment
Suitable for HVAC units, blowers, and compressors
Help meet HSE noise exposure guidelines
Reduce noise complaints from neighbouring premises
Quick to install with no structural modifications required

Useful Curtain Applications

Noise control room separators
Soundproof enclosures for machinery
Heavy machine enclosures
Temporary noise barriers during construction
Soundproofing existing open-plan spaces
Warehouse and distribution centre partitioning
Testing and quality control rooms
Generator and compressor enclosures

The Benefits

Cost-Effective

Sound insulated curtains cost roughly a third of the price of rigid walls or panel systems, and they can be easily stored or relocated when no longer needed.

Divide Space

Reorganise your facility with ease by separating areas with different sound levels or different manufacturing operations using flexible curtain partitions.

Dust Control

Sound curtains also shield employees from airborne dust and particulates, helping to maintain a cleaner working environment and supporting respiratory health.

Superior Noise Control

Insulated outdoor curtain wall used as a garage divider, showing custom curtain installations for temperature zoning.

Greatly Improve Working Conditions

Many industries involve extremely noisy operations. Heavy mechanical work, pneumatic tools, and large-scale fabrication all generate sound levels that can pose serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to high decibel noise leads to hearing damage, stress, and reduced concentration.

Our sound insulated curtains provide a practical barrier that significantly reduces noise transmission between work zones. By containing noise at its source, you create a safer, more comfortable environment for all personnel. This approach is far more cost-effective than constructing permanent partition walls.

Sound Blocking Vinyl

Premium accordion-style insulated outdoor curtains folding neatly, designed for quick storage and weather-resilient performance.

The Material

Industrial grade vinyl
Will not shrink, rot, or cause metal corrosion
Excellent resistance to adverse environments
Resistant to oils, weak acids, and alkalis
Contains antimicrobial agents to inhibit mould and mildew growth
Reinforced with polyester scrim for added strength
Easy to wipe clean with standard cleaning products

Flexible Design

The sound blocking industrial-grade vinyl greatly reduces noise levels within your facility, protecting quieter rooms and offices. This technical fabric is made from a flexible, high-density reinforced vinyl that significantly reduces the transmission of sound from one area to another.

Every curtain is custom made to your exact specifications. Whether you need a simple single-sided barrier or a complete four-sided enclosure, we design and supply a solution that fits your space precisely. The curtains slide open on heavy-duty roller trolleys, giving you full access when needed and complete acoustic separation when closed.

Meet HSE Guidelines

Heavy-duty insulated outdoor industrial curtains on a curtain track, designed for weather protection and temperature control.

Keep Noise Levels Low and Avoid Penalties

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforces strict regulations regarding worker exposure to noise. Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, employers are legally required to assess and manage noise risks. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and significant fines.

Our sound insulated curtains help you maintain workplace ambient noise within acceptable limits. By fitting these curtains around noisy machinery or processes, you demonstrate a proactive approach to noise management and protect your organisation from costly compliance issues.

Custom Made to Order

Close-up of a floor sweep accessory for insulated outdoor curtains to seal bottom edges and improve temperature control.

Floor Engagement

Sound can travel beneath a standard curtain that rests just above the floor, reducing the effectiveness of the insulated sound curtain. Using a floor sweep to engage the floor prevents this issue by controlling sound transmission from one zone to another.

The floor sweep is a flexible strip that attaches to the bottom of the curtain via Velcro. It sits lightly on the floor surface, sealing the gap without impeding curtain movement. This feature is particularly important in environments where even small sound leaks undermine the overall acoustic performance.

Hardware How to Measure Curtains Features Benefits FAQ Ordering

Hardware

Rolling Hardware

16-gauge galvanised steel tracks
Nylon roller hooks for easy opening
6 mounting styles to connect to various structures
Freestanding hardware for heights up to 6.1 m

Static Mount Hardware

Aluminium Angle – Use with self-tapping Tek screws to pinch the curtain to the angle.
Grommets Only – You can then use many DIY methods to hang the curtains.
Beam Clamps – Clamps onto the flange of beams, joists, and purlins.

How to Measure

Width

Measure the distance that you are trying to cover.
- Add 5% to that dimension for proper drape and coverage

Height

Measure the distance from the floor to the mounting point.
- Take that dimension and subtract 7.5 cm
  - By subtracting 7.5 cm for the hardware, this will keep your curtain just off the floor and allow the floor sweep to rest lightly on the surface.

Need More Help? Watch This

Common Questions

What is the spacing from the bottom of the track to the top of the curtain?

Standard curtains have approximately 9.5 mm to 2.5 cm of a gap from the bottom of the track to the top of the curtain.

What are the dimensions of the track?

Can the track be cut to size as required on site?

Yes, the track is designed to be cut on site using a hacksaw or reciprocating saw.

How much width does the radius corner add to the length?

A radius corner has a 0.6 m radius. So if you specify 3.0 m for curtain length you will end up with approximately 3.7 m once the radius corner is attached. If that is too long, you can simply cut the track on site and the radius will still function correctly.

How does the track go together?

The track is modular in design and will arrive in sections that bolt together easily.

How close together do I need the track supports?

The track should be supported approximately every 1.5 m. For lighter curtains, you can space them up to about 2.4 m apart. Your order will include enough supports for the 1.5 m spacing.

Can I simply drill straight through the track and into the ceiling or structure?

Yes. This is called a flush mount installation and is very common. Simply drill through the middle of the track and use a small wood screw, bolt, Tek screw, etc. Space the holes approximately every 0.9–1.5 m.

How hard is it to install the industrial curtain track?

It is very easy. All components fit into each other and connect with set screws. The installation is intuitive. If you have any difficulty, simply call or email us and we will guide you through the process.

Will the track rust? Can it be used in wet environments?

The track is hot-dip galvanised (HDG), which is commonly used to protect steel from corrosion in harsh environments, providing decades of low-maintenance performance. Corrosion rates vary based on the environment but HDG typically corrodes at around 1/30 the rate of bare steel.

Curtains

Outer Layers

The outer layers of our insulated curtains are made from both 13 oz and 18 oz vinyl, reinforced with a polyester scrim. This is a waterproof fabric that is easy to wipe clean should it become soiled. The material will not absorb liquids or stains, so it maintains its appearance for many years. The 18 oz coated vinyl is ideal for outdoor use and performs well in temperatures as low as -28°C.

Inner Batting

The inside insulation is a polyester fibre batting that does not use fibreglass. The sound blocking material is secured inside the outer skins and stitched in place so that it will not settle towards the bottom. The industrial padded sound blocking curtains achieve their noise-cancelling properties from the air space that this batting creates.

Weights | Thickness

R3 – 7 mm thick · 1.1 kg/m²
R6 – 13.5 mm thick · 1.1 kg/m²

To calculate total weight, take your (W × H) × (weight per square metre) = total weight in kg.

Features

Curtain Features

Curtain Valances

A valance is made from the same material as the
lower curtain. They are used to seal the opening
above the curtain. This is generally the space from
the roof deck to the bottom of the joist or purlin.
They can be rectangular or follow the slope of the roof.

Floor Sweeps

A floor sweep seals the open area between the
curtain and the floor. It attaches to the main
curtain by Velcro. They are 15 cm tall and as wide
as the entire length of the curtain.

Anchor Straps

Velcro straps hold your curtain in place if wind
is present or a more secure curtain is required.
These anchors feature Velcro straps which loop
through a D-ring anchored into the concrete
floor. Typically spaced every 1.22 m.

Seal Velcro

Seal Velcro, also known as adhesive Velcro, sticks
onto your curtain and can be installed on site.
Please note that this is not ideal for low-temperature
applications or high-frequency use.

Chain Weights

If you have a slight breeze near the curtain, we
can add a galvanised 4.8 mm chain weight to
the bottom of the curtain.

Connecting Curtains

Velcro

Velcro is used to connect curtain sections
together to form larger curtain walls. The
Velcro also serves as an access point for
larger curtains and makes them easier to
install.

Magnets

Seal magnets are an ideal way to attach curtains
to each other or adjacent steel walls and beams.
Best utilised in dusty areas that would clog up
Velcro.

Entry Options

Sewn-In Strip Doors

Strip doors sewn into the curtain are ideal for
light foot traffic. This allows for quick movement
of people into and out of the industrial curtains.

Freestanding Strip Doors

For motorised traffic, a freestanding steel frame
strip door is ideal. The steel frame takes the
stress off the curtain wall, ensuring longevity
and performance for motor traffic and high use.

Swinging Impact Doors

A freestanding industrial swinging door can
also be provided for access. Also known as
impact doors, these heavy-duty doors can
take a lot of abuse from trolleys, fork lift trucks,
or heavy foot traffic.

Roll Up Doors

Supported with a freestanding steel frame,
the power roll up doors can be opened and
closed via remote from a fork lift truck. Door
styles and prices vary based on frequency
of opening and closing, speed requirements,
and size.

Colours

Benefits

Key Benefits

Less expensive than rigid walls
Can be taken down quickly when not needed
Can be re-purposed in other areas
Ability to purchase additional sound curtains and attach to existing ones
Divide work areas quickly
Insulated sound blocking curtains improve worker safety
Quick to roll out of the way when not in use
Easy to clean with the slick surface of vinyl
Also contains air migration, odours, dust, and overspray
Lifetime warranty on all hardware and 5-year warranty on curtains

Many Layout Options

AKON can supply just about any industrial sound blocking curtain layout you can think of. They can be single-sided, double-sided, triple-sided, four-sided, or multiple straights to create complete enclosures. Simply inform us of your desired design and we will have it fabricated exactly as you need it. For customised layouts, sketch your design and upload it using our online RFQ form. See button below.

FAQ

How much more expensive are the insulated curtains versus the standard curtains?

Our industrial insulated sound curtains are about 3× the investment of our standard industrial curtains. If you only have mild noise issues, then we recommend using the less expensive single-layer retractable sound curtains. The insulated padded curtains are ideal for very loud noise control and thus are more expensive.

When folded up, how much space does it take?