Acoustics: Should I Choose Steel or Wood?
When designing a space, we often focus on colours, furniture, and lighting. But acoustics play just as big a role in how a room feels and functions in everyday life. That’s why more and more people are turning to acoustic wall panels as an effective way to improve indoor sound environments. Wall panels are not only a smart way to reduce unwanted noise and echo - they’re also a cost-efficient alternative to replacing an entire ceiling.
Wood or Steel?
When DAMPA was founded in 1951, we also worked with wood. Over time, however, our experience showed that metal offers several significant advantages. Steel combines strength, flexibility, and sustainability - and can be recycled again and again without losing its quality. Today, metal forms the foundation of all our acoustic solutions.
Learn more about the advantages of using steel in acoustic design here.
A key benefit of DAMPA’s steel acoustic panels lies in their simple and flexible installation system. The panels are mounted on wall carriers, allowing them to be easily removed and repositioned - almost like hanging a picture in a new place. This flexibility means you don’t need to buy new acoustic panels if you move, change your interior design, or want a new aesthetic. The same panels can simply move with you.
Slatted wooden panels have become increasingly popular in recent years as both a decorative and acoustic element - and it’s easy to see why. However, wooden panels are typically permanently fixed, which can become a challenge if you want to rearrange your space or move them to a new location.
Proven Acoustic Performance
One of the strongest reasons to choose acoustic panels from DAMPA is their documented acoustic performance. All DAMPA panels are delivered in Acoustic Class A, meaning they are developed and tested for optimal sound absorption from the very beginning.
By comparison, slatted wooden panels can also achieve Acoustic Class A, but this depends heavily on the materials used. It’s therefore important to check whether they truly meet your acoustic needs.
Poor acoustics - characterised by echo, reverberation, and background noise - can be a problem in everything from offices and restaurants to private homes. DAMPA’s acoustic panels are a reliable solution that reduce echo and create a calmer, more comfortable indoor environment.
Read more about the documented acoustic performance of our panels here.
Why Choose Steel Acoustic Panels?
Steel is a material that retains its strength even after countless recycling cycles. It’s also highly durable, ensuring that your acoustic panels maintain their quality and aesthetic for decades.
Choosing a steel acoustic panel is not only an investment in better sound today - it’s a future-proof solution that adapts to your life and surroundings over time. You get an acoustic design that improves your space today and continues to serve you in new environments in the years to come.
Good acoustics aren’t just about first impressions. They’re about creating spaces that work - and sound - beautifully over time. With DAMPA® Silent Board, you get a reliable acoustic solution that brings tranquillity to everyday life - and lasts for many years ahead.
