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Sound Reduction

Sound Reduction Information



Better sound reduction can be achieved by using special floating or acoustic flooring, as well as ceiling and wall bars. This helps to reduce the effects of sound, and can make the room quieter.

Sound reduction products are designed to minimise the effects of the three types of sound. Airborne sound is the sound of a conversation, or TV, or music. Impact sound is the sound of something hitting something else, such as footsteps, or a noisy washing machine, or a door slamming. Flanking transmission happens when sound is transmitted from one space to another, such as from room to room. Flanking transmission needs to be minimised using sound reduction products, so that it doesn't affect other rooms in the building, or leak through to next door neighbours, or adjoining rooms in a hotel.

Sound reduction needs to be considered during the construction of a new building. It's a legal requirement, and, as well as being covered by Building Regulations, sound reduction is also covered by Health and Safety laws.

As well as needing sound reduction in new buildings, existing buildings can have additional sound reduction fitted to minimise airborne and impact sound and flanking transmission. Perhaps you want to install a home cinema, or learn a musical instrument, and want to improve the sound reduction so that you don't disturb other people in your home.

If you're renovating a building, then you'll also have to consider sound reduction. You don't want to fall foul of any regulations which would mean your build would need amending first.

There are different sound reduction requirements for different builds. A house, office and hotel will have to have different levels of sound reduction. Sound reduction as part of the UK Building Regulations is also necessary in schools, flats, retirement homes and other buildings.

The efficiency of sound reduction, and sound reduction products, is tested by Pre Completion Testing for new and refurbishment builds. If the sound insulation and the sound insulation products meet the relevant standards then the build can continue.

For projects that use products that meet Robust Details specifications, there is no requirement for Pre Completion Testing as these sound reduction products already meet or exceed the sound reduction standard required for Pre Completion Testing.

Sound reduction products, such as acoustic flooring, and ceiling and wall bars are relatively easy to install. However, it's essential that you are aware of the legal implications and requirements, and use the right sound reduction products. You might want to let a sound reduction specialist install your sound reduction products. Getting it wrong can mean that the build needs to stop and the acoustic flooring, or wall bars need to be refitted in order to meet the sound reduction regulations.

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