There are a variety of reasons why sound insulation may need to be improved to pass the sound testing. Some of the typical reasons given by occupants, property managers and developers are:
1. The original existing construction was never suitable to meet the insulation standards required of a separating wall or floor structure – in-line with Part E of Building Regulations for sound testing
2. The existing wall or floor components have deteriorated over time and are in need of replacement this may be because the wrong fixings have been used on the existing floors bridging the acoustic elements and have damaged original components
3. Poor workmanship at the time of construction has led to poo rsound insulation and noise flanking.
4. The upgrading of the existing windows to double and/or triple glazing has reduced external or background noise through the building façade, thus making it easier to hear neighbour noise through separating walls and floors.
5. A change in material of wall or floor finishes (e.g. carpet to laminate flooring), has increased the level of noise transmitted to the dwelling below – this is one of the most common reasons an increase in noise. Also cut outs in the existing wall to flush fit LCD TV’s is another popular reason for noise bridging through walls.
6. A building is converted and requires separating wall and floor sound insulation performance levels in compliance with Building Standard, which is often difficult to achieve as the building was not purpose built to be separate dwellings and to comply with sound testing inline with Part E.
We hope that helps to clarify the main reasons for noise transference through existing walls and floors. If you have any questions in regards to improving sound insulation please contact us now at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or call us on 01525 303905