The Truth About Soundproofing in Sliding Doors
We were disappointed to see statements that misrepresent our collaboration with a public figure in the design industry. As a company, we are committed to the highest standards of service, and our reputation is built on years of hard work and client satisfaction. We therefore feel obliged to clarify the actual course of this collaboration.
The influencer who chose to work with us received a 50% discount on the doors she ordered – a gesture of goodwill and trust to foster a partnership. We made every effort to meet her requirements, with the owner of the company personally overseeing the process to ensure a successful outcome.
In our showroom, the client had the option to select doors specifically designed for acoustic insulation, but she ultimately chose interior sliding doors, which primarily serve as a decorative element rather than a soundproof solution. She was fully informed that these doors – although they provide slight sound reduction in our showroom – are not strictly soundproof. She was also aware that the acoustic quality of our showroom is due to soundproof walls, ceiling, and flooring, rather than the doors themselves.
The influencer requested additional, non-standard modifications, such as special seals and glass, to improve sound insulation. We advised her that these additions would not deliver full acoustic results and could negatively impact the doors’ aesthetics. Nevertheless, she chose these options despite our numerous cautions, all of which are documented in our email correspondence.
We would also like to emphasise that sliding doors with large steel panels have their own characteristics, which we clearly communicated to the client. Given the size and weight of the panels, it is natural for them to have some movement when sliding. This type of door, designed primarily for aesthetics, does not provide the same stability or sound insulation as hinged doors.
After the project was completed, the influencer contacted us with a request to replace the sliding doors with hinged doors that would offer better acoustic properties. Despite the costs we had already incurred and additional concessions, we were prepared to make this change for an additional fee. As a company specialising in acoustic doors and windows, we asked her to specify the exact acoustic parameters she required, particularly the level of decibel reduction, so that we could tailor the doors to her needs. We suggested she consult an acoustic engineer to determine the precise requirements, including the decibel level needed for both the doors and glass, to ensure her expectations were fully met.
Unfortunately, we did not receive this information, so we assumed she was in consultation with an engineer to finalise the details. Instead of continuing this dialogue with us, the influencer chose to publish an inaccurate post that does not reflect the actual events.
As a designer and public figure, the influencer should be aware of the distinctions between acoustic and aesthetic solutions and the consequences of her choices. Her public comments, which imply unprofessionalism on our part, are unjustified and damaging. In this situation, we expect an apology and a correction of the misinformation that has affected our reputation.
To safeguard our reputation and the interests of our clients, we cannot remain indifferent to actions that may mislead others. We would like to inform you that we are considering further legal action to protect our company from these false allegations, and we remain committed to ensuring that every client receives high-quality products that meet the previously agreed specifications.
We are deeply saddened that this situation has escalated to such a public confrontation, and despite our best efforts, we have been unfairly criticised. Fortunately, years of hard work with many clients and their recommendations cannot be undone by a single inaccurate account. Regrettably, it is becoming more common for influencers with large followings to exert pressure on suppliers by threatening to post negative reviews. This is particularly upsetting to us, as an unjust review can inflict serious harm on a company that has worked hard to build its reputation.
Additionally: The doors were specially crafted for this influencer in an expedited timeframe – we completed the order within just 8 weeks to meet her deadlines. This extra effort on our part reflects our professional approach and commitment to establishing a successful partnership.
We fulfilled the client’s request and recommended doors with soundproofing qualities. However, the client ultimately chose sliding doors, fully aware from the outset that they would not meet her expectations for acoustic insulation. While a client’s choice is not ours to question, it is disheartening that we are now being blamed for the consequences of her own decisions.
