The Role of Drywall in Soundproofing and Office Productivity

Posted on November 24, 2025 by bafcorp20

An open office can foster collaboration, but it often comes at the cost of concentration. The constant chatter, ringing phones, and clicking keyboards can create an environment where focus is hard to find. While many factors contribute to a productive workspace, one of the most effective yet overlooked solutions is right there in the walls: drywall.

Drywall, or gypsum board, is a fundamental component of modern construction, known for its fire resistance and smooth finish. However, its role in managing sound is just as critical, especially in a commercial setting. Properly selected and installed drywall can significantly reduce noise transfer, turning a distracting office into a sanctuary of productivity.

This guide will explore how drywall contributes to soundproofing, its impact on employee focus, and how to leverage it to create a more efficient and pleasant office environment.

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Understanding Sound and Its Office Impact

Sound travels in waves, moving through the air and solid objects until it reaches our ears. In an office, these waves come from countless sources—conversations, footsteps, office equipment, and even external traffic. When left unchecked, this collection of sounds becomes noise, a disruptive force that can hinder productivity and decrease employee well-being.

An environment with high noise levels is more than just an annoyance; it can lead to increased stress, reduced concentration, and a higher rate of errors. Studies have consistently shown that a quiet workspace allows employees to focus more deeply on complex tasks, leading to better outcomes and greater job satisfaction.

Soundproofing isn’t a luxury; it’s a strategic investment in your team’s performance. The goal is to absorb or block sound waves, preventing them from traveling between spaces and creating a more controlled acoustic environment.

The Right Drywall for Soundproofing

Not all drywall is created equal when it comes to blocking sound. While standard drywall offers some level of sound reduction, several specialized types are engineered specifically for better acoustic performance.

Standard Drywall

Standard drywall, typically 1/2-inch thick, is the most common type used in construction. It provides a baseline level of sound insulation, but it may not be sufficient for offices where noise control is a priority. Doubling up layers of standard drywall can improve its sound-blocking capabilities, but specialized options are often more effective.

Soundproof Drywall

Also known as acoustic or noise-reducing drywall, this product is designed with soundproofing in mind. It consists of a layer of gypsum combined with other materials like viscoelastic polymers, which are sandwiched between two outer layers of paper.

This construction allows the drywall to dampen sound vibrations more effectively than standard panels. Though it comes at a higher cost, its superior performance often makes it a worthwhile investment for conference rooms, private offices, and other areas where confidentiality and quiet are essential.

Type X Drywall

Primarily known for its fire-resistant properties, Type X drywall is denser and thicker (usually 5/8-inch) than standard drywall. This added mass helps it block sound more effectively. While its main purpose is fire safety, its acoustic benefits make it a solid choice for office construction, offering a dual advantage.

Laminated Drywall

This option involves layering standard drywall panels with a sound-dampening compound, like Green Glue, in between. The compound converts sound energy into a small amount of heat, effectively stopping the noise from passing through the wall. This method can be used to retrofit existing walls or as part of a new construction project to significantly boost soundproofing.

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Why Professional Installation Matters

Choosing the right type of drywall is only half the battle. The effectiveness of your soundproofing efforts heavily depends on the quality of the installation. Even the most advanced acoustic drywall will fail to perform if it’s not installed correctly.

Sound is like water; it will find any crack or gap to travel through. This means that airtight construction is key to successful soundproofing. Commercial drywall installation professionals understand the nuances of acoustic sealing. They will ensure that all joints between drywall panels are properly staggered and sealed with acoustic caulk. They also pay close attention to potential weak points, such as electrical outlets, light switches, and the perimeters of walls, floors, and ceilings.

Furthermore, creating a decoupled wall assembly by using resilient channels or a double-stud wall can dramatically improve sound isolation. These techniques create a break in the path of the sound waves, preventing vibrations from transferring from one side of the wall to the other. An experienced commercial general contractor can recommend and implement the best installation method for your specific needs, ensuring you get the maximum acoustic benefit from your investment.

More Ways to Boost Office Productivity

Beyond soundproofing with drywall, several other remodeling strategies can enhance the office environment and support employee satisfaction.

Improved Lighting: Integrating natural light through larger windows or skylights can boost mood and energy. Supplementing this with high-quality, adjustable LED lighting allows employees to customize their workspace brightness, reducing eye strain.
Ergonomic Workstations: Investing in adjustable desks, supportive chairs, and monitor arms allows employees to create a workspace that fits their physical needs, reducing discomfort and improving focus.
Flexible Spaces: Create a variety of work zones, including quiet areas for focused work, collaborative spaces for team projects, and comfortable lounges for breaks. This flexibility allows employees to choose the environment that best suits their task at hand.
Biophilic Design: Incorporating natural elements like indoor plants, wood finishes, and water features can reduce stress and improve creativity. A connection to nature, even indoors, has been shown to have a positive impact on well-being.

Build a Better Workspace

A productive office is a carefully designed ecosystem where employees can do their best work. While open-plan layouts have their benefits, managing noise is crucial for maintaining focus and reducing stress. By strategically using the right type of drywall and ensuring its professional installation, you can create a quieter, more productive atmosphere for your team. This foundational step, combined with other thoughtful design choices, can transform your office into a place where your business and your employees can thrive.

If you’re ready to enhance your office environment with professional commercial remodeling in the Indianapolis area, our team is here to help. Contact Us Today to discuss how we can create a more productive and satisfying workspace for your team.

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Commercial Wallcoverings: Enhancing Spaces with Style

Posted on March 12, 2024 by bafcorp20

Within the world of interior design and space planning, each component plays a role in shaping the professional look and usability of a commercial space. Wallcoverings, in particular, offer a canvas to portray your brand’s messaging, create an ambiance that resonates with customers, and enhance the overall experience of a place. But with various options available in the market, selecting the right wallcovering for your commercial space can be a daunting task.

This comprehensive guide intends to ease that decision-making process for hotel owners, retail spaces, office managers, and property developers by shedding light on the types, benefits, and selection strategies for commercial wallcoverings. Scroll down to get started!

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Types of Commercial Wallcoverings

Commercial wallcoverings come in a wide range of styles, patterns, and textures, offering versatility to suit various design preferences. Each type brings unique benefits, such as durability, sound absorption, or easy maintenance. Such options make commercial wallcoverings ideal for different spaces, such as offices, hotels, clinics, or restaurants. Choose the perfect one to elevate the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your space. Here are some common selections to consider:

Vinyl

Vinyl wallcoverings lead the industrial sector due to their superior durability and moisture-resistant qualities. Especially suitable for high-traffic areas such as hospitals and restaurants, vinyl wallcoverings are easy to clean and maintain, providing long-term value.

Fabric

Fabric wallcoverings exude luxury and are popular in upscale settings due to their rich texture and noise-absorbing properties. Hotels and corporate offices often opt for fabric wallcoverings to impart a lavish yet sophisticated feel.

Natural Material

Featuring a range of organic materials like grasscloth, sisal, or cork, natural wallcoverings appeal to Eco-conscious design schemes and create a warm, earthy ambiance. Their textural appeal makes them a favored choice for spas and wellness centers.

Specialty Finishes

For spaces demanding a unique, standout wall feature, metallic, reflective, or textured finishes provide an eye-catching allure perfect for retail and boutique environments.

Benefits of Commercial Wallcoverings

The right commercial wallcovering can be a game-changer, offering a multitude of benefits beyond just aesthetic enhancement.

☑ Durability and Longevity

In comparison to traditional wall paint, commercial wallcoverings are more robust and built to endure heavy use over extended periods. This longevity ensures that your interior retains its polished look for years to come.

☑ Customization and Branding

Custom-printed wallcoverings provide an opportunity to showcase brand colors, logos, and themes, reinforcing brand identity within the space. They offer a canvas for storytelling, turning walls into a dynamic form of brand communication.

☑ Easy Maintenance and Cleanliness

Many commercial wallcoverings are designed for simple maintenance, which is crucial in high-traffic environments. Stains and dirt can be wiped away easily, minimizing the downtime needed for cleaning.

☑ Aesthetic Versatility

From classic elegance to bold contemporary designs, wallcoverings can transform any space, adapting to the desired atmosphere. They provide a range of options, including vibrant prints, subtle textures, and color gradients that add depth and interest to a room.

Choosing the Right Wallcoverings

Selecting the perfect wallcovering is an art that involves careful consideration of several factors, such as the purpose of the space, the demographic, and the desired atmosphere.

▶ Hotels: Luxury and comfort are paramount; opt for durable, non-fading materials to withstand guest turnover.

▶ Retail: Wallcoverings should draw attention and create an inviting ambiance. High durability and easy maintenance are essential in this setting.

▶ Offices: Consider the impact on office productivity and the overall workplace culture. Sound-absorbing options can reduce noise levels and improve the working environment.

▶ Clinics: Moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean wallcoverings are critical in healthcare environments, where hygiene is crucial.

▶ Restaurants: Wallcoverings should be easy to maintain, somewhat water-proof, and resistant to stains, while also setting the right mood for dining.

▶ Schools: Durable, textured options work best in high-traffic areas like hallways and classrooms, while fun and bright patterns can enhance creativity in younger students.

Color Schemes and Patterns

Color choices can influence mood, so consider the psychological effects of various shades when choosing a wallcovering. Cohesive color schemes that match the branding or theme of the space are essential.

Patterns can enhance the perceived size of a room and offer a structured or free-flowing aesthetic. Be mindful of the balance between the size of the patterns and the size of the room to avoid overwhelming the space.

Texture and Material

Each material offers a distinct tactile experience and aesthetic. Consider the expectations of your clientele and the tactile elements that could augment the space, bearing in mind ease of cleaning for each material type.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

While the initial selection is important, proper installation and ongoing maintenance are critical to maximizing the benefits of commercial wallcoverings.

Professional Installation

For a flawless finish and to ensure warranties are upheld, commercial wallcoverings should be installed by professional commercial drywall contractors familiar with the intricacies of each material.

Cleaning Techniques

Regular cleaning maintains the look and hygiene of the interior. Understanding the appropriate cleaning techniques for each wallcovering type is crucial to avoid damage. For vinyl wallcoverings, a simple solution of water and mild detergent is sufficient for regular cleaning.

As for fabrics and natural materials, these typically require a more delicate approach to avoid fraying or loosening of fibers. Dry methods like vacuuming with a soft brush attachment are often recommended.

Maintenance Schedules

Developing a maintenance schedule based on the traffic and use of the space can prevent any major cleaning or damage issues. Regular dusting and spot-cleaning are typical components of such schedules.

In Summary

Commercial wallcoverings are an integral element of interior design that can add flair, durability, and personalization to any space. By considering the different types, their varied benefits, and the selection strategies, businesses can make informed decisions that resonate with their specific needs and objectives. The lasting impression of a well-designed environment not only leaves a mark on visitors but also serves as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and excellence.

For businesses aiming to excel in their market, commercial wallcoverings represent an investment not just in design, but in the overall success of their enterprise. Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for help with commercial drywall, painting, and wallcoverings in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients throughout the state.

Common Types of Ceiling Cracks and What They Mean

Posted on September 13, 2022 by bafcorp20

When you spot a crack in the ceiling in your commercial building or office, you might feel a sense of panic. After all, your bottom line is always at the top of your mind. Your queries might mimic questions like, “What could this crack mean? Is there a serious underlying matter causing this crack? Is my property going to require a tedious renovation? How much is this going to cost me?” But before you fear the worst, keep in mind that not all ceiling cracks are serious. In fact, some are merely cosmetic. For this reason, a little knowledge goes a long way, especially when it comes to peace of mind.

Continue reading to learn 3 of the most common types of commercial ceiling cracks, what they might be telling you, and where to get trusted commercial general contracting service to resolve your structural problems.

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Top 3 Most Common Commercial Ceiling Cracks

Thin Straight Cracks

If you discover a fine, straight crack in your ceiling, it is often an indication of poor joint taping. Basically, whoever did the framing work for the building did not use a sufficient amount of drywall mud during the taping step of the project. As a result, the tape did not adhere well enough to the joint. This creates a crack along the edge of the slackened tape. The good news is that this is entirely superficial, so there is no need for immediate repair. If you do mind the cosmetic defect, you can apply a thin layer of drywall compound under the loose tape and re-securing it to the drywall.

Tiny Spider Web Cracks

When you have tiny, web-like cracking in your ceiling, it is likely another superficial defect. Such cracks generally occur as a result of insufficient drywall compound when creating a textured ceiling. In contrast, if the cracks are more like a starburst, or go outward in multiple directions, it is likely a result of using too much drywall compound to create a textured ceiling. This is because compound shrinks as it is drying. To fix this problem, you can simply cover the blemish with more drywall compound, but this may require some sanding and priming first.

Discolored Cracks

When you spot yellowish brown stained cracks in the ceiling, it is not a good sign. Not only could discolored cracking be a sign of a water leak, but it could also pose serious structural hazards. In this case, you would need emergency commercial property inspection services to confirm the cause of the leak. Once you have determined what has caused the leak, you will need to have that problem repaired before you can refinish the drywall and ceiling.

Regardless of the types of cracks you have in your ceiling, it is important to have them inspected as soon as possible in case the problem is a water leak or structural issue. Try to have your inspection scheduled within 3 to 5 days to be safe. Be sure to choose a licensed, bonded, and insured Indiana commercial general contractor for trusted repairs and renovations.

Are you ready to remodel or renovate your commercial property and start fresh with a clean and well-designed space? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for professional commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Common Drywall Texture Styles for Commercial Buildings

Posted on September 6, 2022 by bafcorp20

Although there are several different types of drywall texture styles, those primarily used for commercial applications can be categorized into 2 specific groups. The first group is manual application, also referred to as hand-applied drywall textures, which generally involve using a variety of manually operated hand tools. The second group is machine application, or sprayer-applied drywall textures, which use an automatic dispersal device to apply texture to commercial drywall.

Continue reading to learn more about commercial drywall texture styles, plus how to get started with the best commercial drywall service in Central Indiana.

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Top Commercial Drywall Texture Options

Sprayed Drywall Textures

One interesting and unique trait to sprayer-applied drywall textures is that their designs cannot be mimicked by hand. Only a specialized apparatus designed to apply texture material to drywall surfaces can create the styles most-noted for machine application. Some common commercial drywall texture designs include Orange Peel, Splatter Knockdown, and the classic, Popcorn.

The device used to apply the texture material operates by storing the substance in a hopper, and then releasing it through a long hose with an air compressor operated by a manual trigger. They come in a variety of sizes and brands, so it is important to choose the proper apparatus for your commercial drywall texture goals. For larger drywalling projects, commercial contractors will use innovative sprayers powered by actual motors and internal combustion engines.

Hand-Applied Textures

An interesting fact about hand-applied drywall textures is that there is literally no limit to the designs, styles, and originality you can choose to do. Even if an Indianapolis commercial drywall contractor uses the same style, such as the common “skip trowel”, no solitary application will be exactly the same as another. It is virtually impossible to replicate a hand-applied drywall texture design. The options are merely limited to one’s own natural artistic ability.

Other common designs for manual commercial drywall textures include Hawk and Trowel, Swirl, Double Skip, Sante Fe, Stomp Knockdown, Rosebud Stomp, and Cross Foot Stomp. Most often, manual textures are applied using a pan and trowel. There are also specialized drywall brushes, knives, and rollers that commercial contractors can use to create specific designs and custom styles.

Whether hand or machine-applied, it is important to outsource the job to an experienced and skilled contracting team for outstanding results you can trust. Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to learn more about our commercial drywall and painting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with clients all throughout the state.

Types of Drywall Textures Recommended for Commercial and Industrial Buildings

Posted on September 1, 2020 by bafcorp20

When you are building or remodeling a new commercial property, you will likely be faced with a few drywall-related decisions. One such decision is your drywall texture styles and application methods. Although there are several different types of drywall texture styles, all can be categorized into 2 specific groups. The first group is manual application, also referred to as hand-applied drywall textures, and generally involves using a variety of manually-operated hand tools. The second group is machine application, or sprayer-applied drywall textures, which uses an automatic dispersal device to apply texture to drywall.

Continue reading to learn more about each group and the various texture styles that fall within them.

Indianapolis Commercial Drywall and Painting Contractors 317-253-0531

Sprayed Drywall Textures

One interesting and unique trait to sprayer-applied drywall textures is that their designs cannot be mimicked by hand. Only a specialized apparatus designed to apply texture material to drywall surfaces can create the styles most-noted for machine application. Some common styles include Orange Peel, Splatter Knockdown, and the classic, Popcorn.

The device used to apply the texture material operates by storing the substance in a hopper, and then releasing it through a long hose with an air compressor operated by a manual trigger. They come in a variety of sizes and brands, so it is important to choose the proper apparatus for your drywall texture goals. For large scope projects, professionals will use innovative sprayers powered by actual motors and internal combustion engines.

Hand-Applied Drywall Textures

An interesting fact about hand-applied commercial drywall textures is that there is literally no limit to the designs, styles, and originality the artist can choose to do! Even if a commercial drywall contractor uses the same style, such as the common “skip trowel”, no one application will be exactly the same as another. It is virtually impossible! The options are merely limited to one’s own imagination!

Other common designs for manual drywall textures include:

☭ Hawk and Trowel
☭ Swirl
☭ Double Skip
☭ Santé Fe
☭ Stomp Knockdown
☭ Rosebud Stomp
☭ Cross Foot Stomp

Commercial Drywall Application

Most often, manual textures are applied using a pan and trowel. There are also specialized drywall brushes, knives, and rollers contractors can buy to create specific designs and custom styles. For hand applied projects, it is important to be experienced and skilled in the artistry of drywall texture. For this reason, be sure to hire a professional drywall contractor for outstanding results you can trust.

Trusted Commercial Painting and Drywall Services in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial painting and drywall services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.