Acoustic Design Considerations
In our experience you need to take into account the acoustic design from the offset of the project, failing to do so usually results in sound test failure; if you do, it usually results in successful pre-completion testing in compliance with Building Regulations Part E.
In many cases, sound test failure can also be down to the poor workmanship rather than the actual design, that is why we offer a full acoustic design package which includes for site survey visits; that way we have the acoustic design and ongoing onsite construction covered, reducing the chance of sound test failure.
There are many Design Considerations, here are a few of the most important:
- Avoid the use of lightweight blocks in the inner envelope construction as sound will travel both vertically and horizontally from dwelling to dwelling.
- The use of resilient suspended ceilings will help improve the performance of the floor partition.
- Ensure all support steels/timbers are carefully boxed out where they travel from flat to flat vertically and horizontally.
- Use a high quality resilient acoustic membrane on top of the floor to improve the impact performance of a floor.
- Ensure all penetrations are fully sealed where they terminate through floors and they are adequately boxed with acoustic quilt and two layers of plasterboard.
For peace of mind, many of our clients choose our complete acoustic design package, which contains the following elements:
- Site Survey Visits – to let us view the existing site construction.
- Sample Sound Testing – of the existing construction. This offers an accurate overview of the acoustic performance of the existing partitions.
- Acoustic Design Review – a full design review of the proposed party floors and walls.
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.