Case Study

Clement Acoustics were appointed by Bennett Construction in 2018, in partnership with ERS Consultants Ltd, to advise the design team with regards to meeting the numerous and varied acoustic requirements, with the focus largely on the more sensitive residential uses.

In terms of environmental noise, the particular concern was with regards to protecting residential amenity during early morning hours, due to the development’s proximity with a bus depot and garage. Careful consideration was given to external façade design, to ensure the high level of early morning bus movements was controlled to a suitable level.

A rigorous commissioning program was also undertaken, to ensure all elements performed as required, particularly during early morning hours. Measurements demonstrated that the set requirements had been met, and internal levels were suitable for the residential spaces.

In terms of internal building acoustics, a particular Client concern was with regards to value engineering of the previously proposed separating floor construction, while maintaining a high level of sound insulation, in excess of typical Building Regulations requirements.

The specific aim was to investigate whether screed could be omitted from separating floor build ups between apartments, without unacceptably comprising the sound insulation performance.

Clement Acoustics determined through acoustic theory and interim sample testing that screed could be removed, and the required performance maintained by carefully detailing slab properties, resilient layers and separating wall build ups and detailing. This had a significant cost and practical benefit to the Client, and sound insulation testing on completion demonstrated that the required sound insulation performance was maintained, with the improvements over Building Regulations requirements achieved in full.