What Is NRC? Acoustic Panel Sound Ratings Explained
When you shop for acoustic panels, one number matters more than any other: the NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient). Here is what it means, what counts as a good score, and how to read it honestly.
What NRC measures
NRC is a single rating from 0 to 1 describing how much sound a surface absorbs. A value of 0 reflects nearly all sound; 1 absorbs nearly all of it. It is the average of a material's absorption at 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 Hz, measured in a lab under ASTM C423.
What is a good NRC?
- 0.0 to 0.2 - hard, reflective surfaces (glass, drywall, tile)
- 0.3 to 0.5 - light treatment
- 0.55 to 0.75 - effective panels for speech and echo control
- 0.8 and up - high-absorption assemblies (thicker material or an air gap)
The same panel can have two NRC numbers
Mounting changes the result. Our 1/2 inch printed panels are lab-tested at NRC 0.55 mounted flat against the wall, and up to 0.65 with a 1 inch air gap behind them (ASTM C423). If a seller quotes a single high number with no mounting detail, you are only seeing half the story.
NRC is not soundproofing
Absorption (NRC) reduces echo and reverberation inside a room. Blocking sound from passing between rooms is a different measurement (STC) and a different product. Acoustic panels make a space calmer and clearer; they are not a wall between you and the neighbours.
Our panels
Every Printed Acoustic panel is printed on 1/2 inch recycled-PET felt, GREENGUARD Gold and UL 2818 certified, Class A fire-rated, and made in Canada. Choose from abstract, nature, geometric or wood and marble designs, or explore commercial and trade options.
