Controlling Acoustics in Aquatic Centers

The noise build-up inside an aquatic center can be head-splitting, but we have solutions.

MBI Products has been transforming noisy indoor pool environments for decades.

Nearly 40 years ago, MBI Products was called upon to start providing noise control solutions to aquatic centers, also known by the term natatorium. Since then, our American-made acoustical products have been installed in thousands of natatoria across the U.S. and Canada. 

Uncontrolled Sound Abounds

Before the advancement of acoustical panels and other sound-absorbing materials, indoor water facilities were noisy and chaotic. Layered sounds created by swimmers, whistles, voices, and splashing had nowhere to go, so they bounced off the many reflection points in the space. This sound reflection, along with hard surfaces and high ceilings, created a chamber of echoes and amplified sound to the point of cacophony.

Noise Reduction with Acoustical Panels

Similar to acoustical treatments for arenas and other sizeable cubic volume spaces, properly installed acoustic panels can efficiently absorb unwanted sound within the four walls of an aquatic center. With a fiberglass core encapsulated in PVC film, Lapendary Panels, Spectrum Panels, and Cloud-Lite® Baffles are moisture-resistant and do not degrade from exposure to chemicals such as chlorine. Once in place, the panels lower the annoying din, enabling normal conversation volume in the environment. This transformation improves the noise condition for employees and guests, a great benefit for the facility’s usability.

Experience + Sound Expertise = Proven Solutions

Some venues require the technical measurements and recommendations of an acoustical engineer. Relying on this consultant’s experience and knowledge of how sound behaves can help determine an optimal panel design solution for the typically large space.

MBI Products has the expertise, resources, and application knowledge to choose the right sound-absorbing product for any indoor aquatic environment. A balance of aesthetics and practical considerations for ceiling architecture, HVAC, and lighting fixtures helps us determine the best products to prevent aggravating noise build-up.

Indoor pools are supposed to be fun! But lifeguards, swim coaches, teachers, and spectators will tell you that the acoustics can cause an unpleasant auditory experience. Poor speech intelligibility and headaches from prolonged exposure to this deafening atmosphere negatively impact aquatic center occupants. Fortunately, MBI’s panel systems deliver proven solutions to conquer this challenge. 

Need help with natatorium acoustics? Don’t hesitate to contact the sound experts at MBI Products. We’re here to help!