Sound Insulation Testing

Sound insulation testing, also termed acoustic insulation testing, involves the measuring of how much noise passes through a property’s walls, floors and ceilings to neighbours and adjoining buildings, and is required of Building Regulations when a new building or conversion results in two adjoining dwellings being separated by party elements.

There are two types of test required by the Approved Document Part E, airborne and impact tests. Airborne tests are carried out on separating walls, and involve placing speakers in the room which generate 100 decibels of white noise and measuring the sound pressure levels in the room and the adjacent room. Impact tests use a tapping machine to hit the party element to create impact sound, with again sound measurements taken in the adjoining room. Impact tests are required in conjunction with airborne tests on separating floors and ceilings of habitable rooms.

Sound insulation testing should be carried out as early on as possible, so that there is chance for  any defects to be rectified. As a minimum the following is required before the tests are conducted:

• All doors, windows and seals should be fully fitted and closable
• All electrical fittings should be fitted and working
• All walls and ceilings should be plastered
• Gaps in walls and floors should be fully sealed
• There should be no holes remaining in floors or ceilings
• 240V mains power must be available on-site in all rooms

If your building doesn’t pass, we are able to provide assistance on how to fix the problem in the most cost-effective way. However, we are also happy to consult in the early stages of your projects, aiding with detailing and specification ensuring peace of mind when it comes time to have a sound test.

To speak to an experienced member of our acoustic team, please call us on 01865 378885 or complete the Contact Us form.