Can Perforated Aluminum Walls Provide Better Acoustics Than Drywall?

Perforated aluminum wall systems paired with acoustic infill materials can outperform traditional drywall assemblies in controlling noise and reverberation. While drywall alone offers limited sound absorption—typically relying on cavity insulation—perforated metal panels allow targeted sound waves to enter an absorptive core, significantly improving acoustic performance. Designs can incorporate tailored hole patterns, sizes, and open-area ratios optimized for specific frequency ranges, delivering NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) values ranging from 0.60 up to 0.90 when combined with mineral wool or foam backing.

Furthermore, the rigid aluminum surface ensures consistent acoustic properties over time, resisting sagging or compaction common in traditional fiberglass-backed drywall systems. Perforated panels can be customized with decorative patterns and backlit features, integrating aesthetic appeal with superior acoustic control. For auditoriums, open-office layouts, restaurants, and transit hubs, these systems offer both functional noise mitigation and a high-end metal facade finish—advantages that gypsum board with surface-mounted absorbers cannot match in a single, integrated product.