Resilient Bar Buyer’s Guide: RB1-Type Bars, Acoustic Flanking and What to Order
Resilient bars (often called acoustic bars, and sometimes specified as RB1-type sections) are light-gauge metal channels fixed to studs or joists so that plasterboard is held off the structure. That decoupling reduces the amount of vibration that travels into the lining — useful on party walls, ceilings under noisy floors, and HMO conversions where flanking sound is a problem.
Quick answer
Insulation Warehouse Direct stocks Alpha and Hadley resilient bars (packs of 10 × 3m). They are used with acoustic plasterboard, mineral wool and acoustic sealant as part of a specified sound-control lining. They are not a magic fix on their own: junctions, flanking paths and gaps still matter. We sell the bars and related drylining kit; we do not design or install acoustic systems.
What a resilient bar does
- Creates a break between the structural frame and the plasterboard lining.
- Works with mass (acoustic board) and absorption (mineral wool in the cavity).
- Helps where structure-borne and flanking paths would otherwise bypass a simple stud wall.
For the wider Part E picture see Part E sound insulation materials.
What to buy with the bars
| Item | Why | Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Resilient bars (Alpha / Hadley) | Decouple the lining | angles & resilient bar |
| Acoustic plasterboard | Adds mass to the lining | plasterboard / British Gypsum |
| Mineral wool | Absorbs sound in the cavity | Rockwool acoustic / glass wool |
| Acoustic sealant | Seals perimeter gaps | drylining accessories |
| MF components (if ceiling) | Independent ceiling options | MF ceiling system |
| Metal studs / track | Frame for partitions | metal studs & track |
Buyer checklist
- Match bar type and centres to the detail on your drawings or the manufacturer's system sheet — do not guess centres.
- Keep bars clear of rigid bridging (screws into studs through the board in the wrong place can short-circuit the isolation).
- Follow the board manufacturer's screw pattern and leave the recommended perimeter gaps, then seal with acoustic sealant.
- Treat junctions at walls, floors and services — flanking often spoils an otherwise good lining.
- For floors, resilient layers under chipboard or screed are a different product family (see our scheduled acoustic floor guides once live, and Cellecta / Yelofon / Pliteq ranges where stocked).
RB1 naming
Specifications sometimes say "RB1" as a shorthand for a resilient bar section. We stock Alpha and Hadley branded resilient bars. Compare the section size and published use with your detail before ordering; if unsure, send the drawing reference to 03330 908479 and we will help match what we hold.
Frequently asked questions
Will resilient bars stop all neighbour noise?
No product guarantees that. They help when used in a proper build-up; flanking and weak doors/windows still matter.
Do I need acoustic plasterboard as well?
Most tested systems combine decoupling with denser board and wool. Check the system you are following.
Do you install resilient bar systems?
No — materials only.
Do you install insulation, do surveys or help with grants?
No. Insulation Warehouse Direct sells insulation materials online. We do not install insulation, carry out surveys or handle grant applications. If you want it fitted, use a qualified installer, and for grants check the official GOV.UK energy schemes. We are happy to supply the materials your installer specifies.
England delivery only for metal?
Metal and drylining ranges follow our England delivery rules; see the table below.
| Where | What we deliver | Delivery charge |
|---|---|---|
| England | All ranges | Free on insulation, plasterboard and drylining from £400 ex VAT. Celotex: £400 ex VAT minimum, free delivery. Access panels: £15 + VAT under £300 ex VAT, free from £300 |
| Mainland Wales and mainland Scotland | British Gypsum (including Gypframe), Celotex, Knauf and access panels | £400 ex VAT minimum plus £40 + VAT (access panels: £15 + VAT under £300 ex VAT, free from £300) |
| Scottish islands | Not delivered | – |
| Northern Ireland | Not delivered | – |
Browse resilient bars, plasterboard and MF ceilings. Company: Bay Drywall and Insulation Supplies Ltd (company no. 14473556), Unit 3 Babbage Court, Totnes Industrial Estate, Totnes, Devon TQ9 5JE.