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.

Our 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 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.

Reducing sound 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.

As well as needing to control sound in new buildings, existing buildings can have additional sound reduction materials 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 this is an ideal time to review your sound control. You don’t want to fall foul of any regulations which would mean your build would need amending first.

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

The efficiency of sound flow, and acoustic 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 products already meet or exceed the sound reduction standard required for Pre Completion Testing.

Soundproofing 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 products. You might want to let a sound reduction specialist install your chosen 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 acoustic regulations.