NCIDQ Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX) Practice Exam

Using resilient channels significantly improves the transmission loss of a sound barrier between rooms. Resilient channels are thin metal strips that are installed perpendicular to the existing studs, allowing the drywall to be mounted onto these channels. This technique creates a decoupling effect between the drywall and the studs, reducing the direct transmission of sound vibrations through the wall assembly.

When sound waves hit a wall, they can transfer energy through rigid connections, such as directly mounted drywall. By incorporating resilient channels, the wall's structure becomes more flexible, which helps to dissipate sound energy and prevents it from passing through effectively. This ultimately leads to enhanced sound insulation, making the space quieter and more private.

In contrast, single layer construction and common stud walls do not provide the same level of sound isolation because they offer little to no decoupling, resulting in more sound transmission. Increased air pressure does not influence the sound transmission loss in this context; rather, the effectiveness relies on structural design choices like the use of resilient channels.