What is Impact Sound Testing?

For vertically separated rooms, an Impact sound test may also be required. This type of sound test is used to imitate and test for impact noise or ‘footfall’ noise such as high heel shoes on the floor above.

This sound test is undertaken using a “tapping machine”, (as shown on the right) which drops a series of weights onto the floor of the upper room. The noise level in the lower (receiver) room is measured for a prescribed number of source and microphone locations. The background levels in the receiver room are measured and the reverberation time in the receiver room is also measured. From the results, the impact sound insulation (L’nT,w) is calculated and compared to the requirements of Approved Document E.

If you would like more information in regards to sound testing please contact us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or call us on 01525 303905.