Architectural Acoustic Design

Why is Architectural Acoustics Design Important?

Architectural acoustics is important as the usability of a space can be materially affected by poor sound insulation. Hearing unacceptable levels of noise from a neighbour (be it in a residential or commercial setting) can affect the way it is possible to use and enjoy a space.

We have been involved in many products where there are also strict requirements, which must be complied with for a building to be signed off. One such example of requirements is Approved Document E of the Building Regulations (ADE). Approved Document E requires UKAS Accredited Sound Insulation Testing for any new build or material change of use (i.e., conversion) residential development, which is a service we provide. This generally relates to flats and houses but can include other residential uses such as hotels or university halls of residence.

In order for your development to comply with the requirements of Approved Document E, we would carefully design all separating walls and floors to ensure a good level of airborne and impact sound insulation performance is achieved.

Following on from the above, non-residential uses where building acoustics should also be considered includes schools, offices, hospitals, and entertainment premises (such as cinemas).

What are the Building Regulations requirements?

In order to satisfy the requirements for ADE of the building regulations, the minimum sound insulation performance criteria, as shown in the table below, should be met by all wall and floor constructions (i.e. separating elements between residential dwellings).

Approved Document E design criteria for party elements

In addition to the above, ADE requires that the sound insulation between residential areas and non-domestic spaces (e.g., retail units, bars, restaurants) is designed and built to suitably control noise transmission. Consequently, this could mean that a higher level of sound insulation is required in these cases, as compared to the sound insulation between dwellings.

How Can We Help with Acoustic Design Advice?

Clement Acoustics have extensive experience in providing acoustic design advice for both new build and conversion projects. The experience provides us with the knowledge to ensure that your development complies with the requirements of ADE.

Based on proposed room layouts, we would undertake a review to establish the required sound insulation performance of separating elements between dwellings.

We would present a customised sound insulation upgrade solution, dependent on budgetary and performance requirements would be proposed, with references to proprietary materials and suppliers as appropriate.

Furthermore, we would undertake a value engineering exercises to determine if any savings can be made, whilst retaining the targeted performance requirements.

Acoustic design advice would include recommendations for the following:

• Design of separating wall and floor systems
• Associated junction details
• Internal walls
• Service penetrations through partitions or floors
• Reverberation in sensitive rooms and common parts
• Elevators
• Doors

We often attend design team meetings in order to liaise with the team and feedback our recommendations

At What Stage Should I Seek Acoustic Design Advice?

It is recommended that an acoustic consultant is engaged with as early as possible within the project timeline. Typically, the specification of the sound insulation between dwellings (and between dwellings and non-domestic spaces) could be imposed as a Planning Condition, along with the specification of external façade elements. For larger projects, we can provide acoustic design advice for all RIBA stages.

Furthermore, all residential developments will need to undergo Sound Insulation Testing for Building Control sign-off when the project is near completion.

Why Choose Clement Acoustics for Architectural Acoustics?

• Quick turnaround time
• Helpful team of qualified acoustic engineers
• Competitive rates