Soundproofing wheel arches is a key element in improving acoustic comfort in the vehicle cabin. Road noise penetrating through the wheel arches often causes fatigue during long journeys. Effective sound insulation of this part of the car significantly reduces unwanted sounds such as tire noise, stone impacts or the sound of water when driving on wet surfaces.
The process of soundproofing wheel arches requires proper surface preparation and the use of specialized insulation materials. Proper soundproofing not only reduces noise levels, but also protects the car body from corrosion, thus extending the vehicle’s lifespan.
The materials used for wheel arch soundproofing must be highly resistant to difficult conditions such as moisture, mud or road salt. The most commonly used materials are butyl mats, rubber foam and soundproofing compounds. Each of these materials has a specific function in the noise reduction process.
Comprehensive wheel arch soundproofing covers both the inside and outside of the wheel arches. This approach ensures maximum sound insulation. Research shows that properly executed soundproofing can reduce cabin noise levels by up to 15%, which translates into a significant improvement in driving comfort.
Benefits of wheel arch insulation for driving comfort
Wheel arch insulation is an important element in improving the acoustic comfort in a vehicle. Wheel arches are a major source of road noise because they are located directly above the road surface and surround the tires. Vibrations from the road first pass through the wheel arches and then spread throughout the car body. Correct soundproofing can reduce noise in the cabin by up to 30–40%.
Reduction of fatigue while driving
Constant road noise makes you feel tired more quickly. Prolonged exposure to noise causes irritability and reduces concentration. Wheel arch soundproofing effectively reduces these effects.
A quiet vehicle interior improves well-being while driving. It is easier to concentrate, which improves safety. The journey is less tiring, even on long journeys.
Wheel arch soundproofing promotes a quieter environment in the cab. The difference in noise level is particularly noticeable on bumpy roads.
Improved driving safety
Noise reduction has a positive effect on safety. A quiet cabin makes it easier to concentrate and react more quickly. Lower noise levels make it easier to hear warning signals from outside.
Safety benefits include
- better concentration on the road
- less fatigue during long drives
- clearer warning signals
- faster reactions to changing road conditions
Tip: The best results are achieved by using ABM Professional or ABM Xtreme, which combine vibration damping properties with resistance to harsh external conditions.
After soundproofing the wheel arches, it is easier to notice subtle changes in the vehicle’s operation. Less noise makes it easier to pick up unusual sounds indicating technical problems.
Protecting the car body from corrosion
Soundproofing materials serve a dual purpose. They dampen noise and protect the wheel arches from water, mud and road salt. They form a barrier that protects the metal from corrosion.
Wheel arches are particularly vulnerable to mechanical damage from stones and other road debris. Sound deadening materials absorb some of the impact energy. They reduce the risk of paint damage and corrosion.
ABM Insulation butyl mats are highly resistant to external factors. They retain their properties for a long time, effectively protecting the wheel arches.
Regular inspection of the soundproofing status enables quick detection of damage. Early response to corrosion avoids costly body repairs.
How to prepare the wheel arch surface for soundproofing for the best acoustic results
Proper preparation of the wheel arch surface is a key stage in the soundproofing process. Cleaning and preparing the surface ensures that the soundproofing materials adhere permanently and that sound insulation is effective. Careful execution affects the efficiency of the entire process and the durability of the solutions used. The preparation process involves several important steps.
Dismantling and cleaning
The first step is to remove the wheels and plastic wheel arch liners. This allows full access to the entire wheel arch area. After dismantling, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned.
The cleaning process includes:
- removing mud, sand and other impurities with a brush or pressure washer
- degreasing the surface with suitable preparations
- removing rust, if any, with a wire brush or sandpaper
Thorough cleaning ensures better adhesion of the sound-absorbing materials. It also removes substances that can impair the acoustic properties.
After cleaning, the surface must be thoroughly dried. Moisture trapped under the material can lead to corrosion or detachment of the sound-absorbing layer.
Assessment of surface condition and repair of damage
The next step is to thoroughly assess the surface condition. Check for damage such as cracks, dents or signs of corrosion.
Tip: Before applying soundproofing materials, it is a good idea to take photos of the condition of the wheel arches. This will make it easier to monitor any changes in the future.
Any damage must be repaired before starting the soundproofing. Cracks and dents can weaken the soundproofing effect. Corrosion under the insulation material leads to further damage.
Repair may include:
- puttingtying and sanding minor damage
- welding or gluing larger cracks
- corrosion protection for exposed metal parts
A well-prepared surface improves the adhesion of the material and increases the durability of the entire solution.
Masking and protecting components
The last step of preparation is to protect components that should not come into contact with the soundproofing materials. Wheel hubs, suspension components and brake lines, among others, should be protected.
Masking tape or protective film can be used for masking. All sensitive components should be carefully taped. Particular attention should be paid to areas that are difficult to access.
Correct protection prevents damage and dirt. It also makes it easier to reinstall parts that have been removed.
After masking, check once again that the wheel arch surfaces are clean and dry. Any dirt that may have been caused by the masking must be removed before applying the soundproofing materials.
Choosing the right materials for soundproofing wheel arches
Effective wheel arch insulation requires materials with special properties. Wheel arches are exposed to water, mud, salt and stone chips. The materials must be resistant to these harsh conditions and have good acoustic properties. ABM Insulation offers products that meet these requirements, from butyl mats to rubber foams.
Butyl mats as the basis for insulation
Butyl mats are the basis for soundproofing. They have a high density and dampen vibrations well. ABM offers two series: Professional and Xtreme.
The Professional series is suitable for standard conditions. The thickness of the mats is between 1.3 and 4 mm. The temperature resistance is between -40°C and 120°C. The flexible structure allows the mats to adapt to curved surfaces.
The Xtreme series is designed for more demanding conditions. The mats can withstand temperatures of up to 170°C and have a better adhesive effect. A 0.1 mm thick aluminum layer improves the damping effect.
The main advantages of butyl mats for wheel arches:
- high resistance to moisture and dirt
- flexible, making it easier to install on curved surfaces
- self-adhesive layer eliminates the need for adhesives
- resistant to extreme temperatures
Tip: Before installing the butyl mats, it is worth warming them up slightly with a hair dryer. This increases the flexibility of the material and makes it easier to adapt to complex wheel arch shapes.
Rubber foam as a finishing layer
ABM rubber foam is a good complement to butyl rubber mats. The mats dampen vibrations, while the foam absorbs airborne sound. It is available in thicknesses from 3 to 13 mm.
The foam has a closed cell structure, which makes it resistant to moisture and water. This is particularly important when soundproofing wheel arches.
Foam with aluminum foil is particularly practical. The foil provides an additional barrier against moisture. Foam with foil is available in thicknesses from 6 to 13 mm.
ABM foams are self-extinguishing. They do not absorb odors and do not promote mold growth. They can be easily cut to the required shapes with a knife or scissors.
Optimal arrangement of insulation layers in wheel arches:
- base layer – ABM butyl mat (Professional or Xtreme)
- Finishing layer: ABM rubber foam (preferably with aluminum foil)
This combination provides effective protection. The butyl mat absorbs structure-borne noise. The rubber foam absorbs airborne noise. Both layers also form a thermal barrier.
Installation accessories
ABM Insulation offers accessories to facilitate installation. The ABM polyurethane pressure roller allows the material to be pressed firmly against the surface. This eliminates air bubbles.
ABM rubber insulation tapes (25 mm and 50 mm wide) are used to seal edges and joints. They ensure the continuity of the insulation and improve its effectiveness.
Correct installation of the materials is crucial. The surface of the wheel arches must be clean and free of grease. The materials must be pressed down firmly for full adhesion.
ABM Insulation offers complete kits for wheel arch soundproofing, including base materials and accessories. The right choice of products and careful installation guarantee effective soundproofing for many years.
Step-by-step installation instructions for butyl mats
Installing butyl mats in wheel arches requires accuracy and patience. Careful installation affects the effectiveness of soundproofing and the durability of the entire solution. The process consists of several stages – from surface preparation to final finishing. ABM Professional and ABM Xtreme mats are self-adhesive, which makes application easier, but the order of operations is crucial.
Prepare tools and materials
Before starting the installation, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. A well-organized workstation makes the whole process easier and faster.
Basic tools needed for installing butyl mats:
- a sharp knife or scissors for cutting the mats
- a pressure roller (e.g. ABM roller)
- clean cloths or paper towels
- isopropyl alcohol for degreasing the surface
- protective gloves (the edges of the film can be sharp)
- measuring tape or ruler
- marker for marking dimensions
It is best to lay out the mats in a warm room before use. The material becomes more flexible under the influence of temperature and adapts more easily to the surface of the wheel arches.
Measuring and cutting the mats
The effectiveness of the soundproofing depends on how well the mats fit the shape of the wheel arches. If they are too small, they will not cover the entire surface. If they are too large, they may wrinkle and stick out.
First, measure the surface of the wheel arch. You can use a paper or cardboard template to trace the shape. Based on this, it is easy to cut the mat to the right size.
You can cut ABM mats with scissors or a knife. It is recommended to wear protective gloves because of the sharp edges of the aluminum foil. It is best to cut on a flat surface, e.g. a workbench.
Tip: For complex wheel arch shapes, it is best to divide the surface into smaller sections. It is easier to adjust several smaller pieces than one large piece. This approach avoids wrinkling of the material.
When cutting, leave a margin of about 5 mm. This will allow you to trim the material to the perfect shape later. Too small an element will not cover the surface, and too large can be cut.
Application of butyl mats
After cutting the mats, you can proceed to their application. This is a crucial stage that determines the effectiveness of the insulation.
Before applying the mats, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and degreased. Isopropyl alcohol works well – it evaporates quickly and does not leave a film. The surface must be completely dry.
Butyl mat application process:
- peel off a piece of the protective paper from one end of the mat
- apply the mat to the wheel arch, starting at one end
- gradually peel off the paper and press the mat onto the surface
- use a pressure roller to remove air and ensure adhesion
The mats should adhere with their edges, without overlapping. Small cuts can be made in curved areas. This makes it easier to adapt to irregular shapes.
Press the mat firmly onto the surface. Air bubbles and loose parts reduce the effectiveness of the insulation. The ABM roller allows for even pressure and removes air from under the mat.
Check all edges after application. If necessary, they can be tightened with a roller or secured with ABM aluminum tape.
How to apply rubber foam to reduce noise in wheel arches
Rubber foam is the second layer in the process of soundproofing wheel arches. Butyl mats eliminate vibrations, while foam absorbs airborne sounds such as tire noise and stone chipping. Studies show that the use of foam can reduce cabin noise by 4-6 decibels. The application requires precision and preparation, but the effects are clear – a quieter ride and less fatigue on the road.
Preparing the rubber foam for installation
Before installation, the foam and the wheel arch surface must be prepared. ABM Insulation foam is available in sheets with a thickness of 6 to 13 mm.
The first step is to carefully measure the surface to be installed. The templates used for installing butyl mats are helpful. The foam should cover the entire surface of the mat, forming a closed layer.
Cutting the foam is easier than with butyl mats. Scissors or a sharp knife are sufficient. The foam is flexible and easy to adjust, but you should avoid excess, which can cause it to bend.
The surface must be clean and dry before application. Dirt can reduce adhesion and insulation effectiveness.
Tip: In hard-to-reach places, it is better to divide the foam into smaller pieces. Several small pieces are easier to adjust than one large sheet, especially for irregular shapes.
Application techniques for maximum effectiveness
Installing foam is different from applying butyl mats. The lighter and more flexible material adapts better to the shapes.
ABM Insulation foam has an adhesive layer, which facilitates installation.
The application process includes:
- removing the protective film from the foam
- applying the foam to the prepared surface
- pressing from the center towards the edges
- smoothing the surface to remove air bubbles
The foam should be the second layer, applied directly on top of the butyl mat. This arrangement improves sound insulation – the mat dampens vibrations, while the foam absorbs airborne sounds.
In places exposed to moisture, it is worth using foam with aluminum foil. The foil creates a barrier against water and increases the durability of the insulation. This is important because wheel arches often come into contact with mud and water.
For the best acoustic effect, the foam should cover the entire surface of the mat. The edges of the pieces must adhere to each other to form a uniform layer.
Protection and maintenance of rubber foam
After installation, the foam needs to be protected. Wheel arches are exposed to harsh conditions, so protection extends the life of the insulation.
The edges of the foam can be protected with aluminum tape. This prevents the material from curling and protects against moisture. The tape should be applied to the joints and edges of the insulation.
Areas that are exposed to water should be treated with a special impregnation agent. This increases the material’s resistance to moisture and extends its durability.
Regularly checking the condition of the foam allows for early detection of damage. During inspections, it is worth assessing the condition of the soundproofing and replacing worn-out parts.
ABM Insulation foam that has been installed and secured correctly will retain its properties for many years. The cellular structure protects against noise and moisture, and the elasticity allows it to adapt to the movements of the car body while driving.
Comprehensive soundproofing of the wheel arches from the inside and outside
Full wheel arch soundproofing requires action on two sides – the outside and inside of the cabin. Research shows that this solution can reduce cabin noise by up to 30–40%. External insulation protects against road and tire noise. The internal insulation stops sounds penetrating through the bodywork. The best results are achieved by using different materials on each side of the wheel arch. This approach allows for maximum noise reduction and improved driving comfort.
Soundproofing the outside of the wheel arches
The outside of the wheel arches is exposed to road noise, stone chips and the effects of weather. It therefore requires materials with high protective resistance.
The process begins with removing the wheels and plastic covers. Then, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned of dirt, rust and grease. A clean surface ensures better adhesion of the insulating materials.
Apply the two-component sound-deadening compound ABM Insulation to the prepared surface. The compound reduces noise and protects the metal from corrosion. Apply the compound with a brush to cover the entire surface.
Tip: When applying the compound to the outside of the wheel arches, protect the suspension and brake components with plastic wrap or masking tape. This makes cleaning easier later and prevents dirt from getting in.
After the compound has dried, the ABM Professional sound insulation mats can be installed. The mats should be cut to the shape of the wheel arch and carefully glued on using a pressure roller. Special attention should be paid to the joints of the mat pieces.
Finally, the plastic wheel arch covers are installed. A thin layer of ABM butyl mats can be attached to the inside of the covers. This increases the insulation effect of the entire system.
Soundproofing the inside of the wheel arches
Internal insulation is just as important as external insulation. Sounds that penetrate the body can be effectively blocked with the right materials on the inside of the cabin.
The inside of the wheel arches can be accessed by removing the floor covering and side panels. In some models, it may also be necessary to remove the seats and center console.
It is best to stick 4 mm thick ABM Xtreme butyl mats to the exposed metal. The material effectively dampens vibrations and reduces the transmission of structure-borne noise. The mats should be adjusted to the shape of the wheel arch and glued on with a roller.
ABM rubber foam with aluminum foil can be applied on top of the mats. The foam absorbs airborne sound and the foil reinforces the acoustic barrier. The combination of both materials creates a solid insulation system.
The effects of comprehensive wheel arch soundproofing:
- significant reduction of road noise
- less fatigue during long journeys
- better sound quality in the audio system
- increased driving comfort
Measurements taken before and after soundproofing show an average noise reduction of 15–20%. In vehicles with thin factory insulation, the effect can be as high as 30%.
A comprehensive wheel arch soundproofing is an investment in driving comfort. Carefully executed insulation works for a long time, ensuring quieter and more pleasant journeys.
Summary
Soundproofing the wheel arches of a car is an effective way to improve driving comfort and reduce noise. The process involves several stages: surface preparation, material selection, installation of butyl mats and the application of rubber foam. Taking into account both sides of the wheel arches – inside and outside – achieves the best acoustic results.
ABM Insulation butyl mats dampen vibrations. Rubber foam absorbs airborne sound, creating a sound barrier. This solution reduces noise and protects the car body against corrosion and weather conditions. Carefully executed soundproofing improves driving comfort and sound quality in the cabin, and reduces fatigue during long journeys.
A comprehensive wheel arch soundproofing is an investment in the durability of the vehicle. A quiet interior improves the driver’s concentration and increases safety. The right materials and precise installation ensure a long-lasting effect. It is worth taking care of this element to ensure that every journey is peaceful and comfortable.
