This article explains the different types of Sound testing in London
There are two different types of sound testing you need to pass to comply with Building Regulations Part E. This article offers a brief description of both.
Airborne Sound Testing in London
The airborne performance requirements of Part E stipulate that new build properties ned to achieve 45dB and converted properties 43dB. This applies both to party walls and floors between properties. This level is the difference between the source level and the receiver level during London sound tests.
If the source level in one flat is 110dB and the receiver level in the neighbouring flat is 55dB, the level difference (or sound reduction performance) is 55dB. Thereafter the measurement is corrected for several factors such as background noise, room characteristics and frequency weighting, giving the final sound insulation performance value of the tested partition.
In this case the higher the number achieved the better the sound insulation performance, whereas Impact testing is the opposite, i.e. the lower the figure the better performance. The measurement is done by using a Norsonic Class 1 Analyser, Amplifier and Speaker (as shown below)
Impact Sound Testing In London
Impact sound testing only applies to party floors and related to the effectiveness of the floor construction in absorbing shock such as footfall noise. The measurement is done by using a Norsonic tapping machine (as shown below). The machine has 5 weights which tapping in regular succession on the tested floor which emulates footfall noise. The noise levels are taken in the receiving room below, which are then measured and averaged for different tapper positions, which then gives the sound reduction rating of the floor. In this case the lower the figure, the better the performance.
If you have a project that’s needs acoustic design advice or Sound Testing in London, then please contact us at: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or phone us directly on 07775623464.