I Used to Recommend These β Now I Donβt
Jun 09, 2025Why I Switched from Hush Frame Rafts to Genie Clips for Soundproofing Projects
Sound isolation in construction is never a one-size-fits-all solution. What works well on paper—or even in early projects—can quickly reveal hidden flaws when scaled or misused. In this article, I want to walk you through a significant change I’ve made in my soundproofing approach: moving away from Hush Frame Rafts and embracing Genie Clips.
From Promise to Pitfall: My Experience with Hush Frame Rafts
When I first started using Hush Frame Rafts, they seemed like a solid choice. They were marketed well, designed to reduce vibration transmission, and promised better acoustic separation. And for a while, they worked. But over time, especially as I took on more complex projects, issues began to surface—literally and structurally.
Why I Made the Switch
- Ceiling Failures
Despite early success, we began to notice sagging ceilings. In some cases, the ceiling structure couldn’t hold the intended weight of drywall layers, leading to serious structural and acoustic failures. - Over-Design is Safer
If there's one principle we live by now, it's this: always over-design. If you plan to hang two layers of drywall, design for three. Soundproofing systems aren’t forgiving, and structural integrity must always come first. - Installation Headaches
Hush Frame Rafts require precise, manual-dependent installation. The performance of the product often hinged on how well a contractor could interpret and follow the install manual—a risky variable in the field.
In one unfortunate case, a ceiling literally collapsed due to misaligned or incorrectly installed components. That’s a risk we can’t take twice.
What Makes Genie Clips Better?
When I started transitioning to Genie Clips, the difference was immediate.
β Easier Installation
Genie Clips are simpler and less dependent on contractor finesse. Their design makes correct installation more intuitive.
β Better Performance
Not only are they easier to install, but they also are advertised at having a better low frequency attenuation over other clips on the market. It's hard to give a direct comparison with Hush Frames with out real test data, but overall I would say most acoustic clips like the RISC-1, Hush Frame's and Genie Clips are solid choices from simply an isolation perspective based on acoustical testing in verified labs.
β Cost-Effective
Surprisingly, Genie Clips come in cheaper, making them a smart upgrade both in budget and results.
Installing Genie Clips: Best Practices
To make the most of Genie Clips, here’s how we install them effectively:
- Attachment: Secure Genie Clips directly to framing, then mount 7/8" furring channels using standard screws.
- Check Alignment: Always ensure clips are level and fully engaged with the channel—this avoids future failures.
- Ceilings and Walls: Use Genie Clips on both ceilings and walls for full-room isolation.
- Layering: We typically layer OSB and drywall to create mass and decouple effectively.
Lessons Learned & Final Recommendations
β Avoid Hush Frame Rafts on Ceilings
Due to repeated failures and installation inconsistency, we’ve adopted a strict policy to no longer use Hush Frame Rafts on ceiling applications.
π Stay Flexible, Stay Educated
Soundproofing is an evolving science. What works today might not tomorrow. That’s why I stress the importance of ongoing education, field testing, and adaptation.
Cautionary Notes
Even with a better product like Genie Clips, success still depends on proper installation. I recommend:
- Training all contractors thoroughly on the correct clip and channel installation method
- Running quality checks during and after the install
- Keeping a written checklist to avoid overlooked steps
Quick Tips for Efficient Soundproofing Installs
β Use a step-by-step install checklist for every project
β Hold regular training with your build crew or contractors
β Pre-plan layering and ceiling load based on acoustic targets
β Never skip over details like correct screws or the distance between clips—they matter.
Final Thoughts
Switching from Hush Frame Rafts to Genie Clips wasn’t a decision I took lightly. But it’s one that’s made our projects safer, more efficient, and better performing in the long run.
If you're designing a soundproof space, take it from me: the product is only as good as the install, and sometimes the best choice is knowing when to move on.
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