ACOUSTIC INSULATION

Acoustic wall insulation, so called sound insulation, helps reduce sound transfer through both internal and external walls in residential and commercial properties, in order to enrich modern living. Acoustic product straightforwardly absorbs sound waves and reduces vibration due to its density. Because of that, it promotes comfort and privacy, protecting people from ‘outside-to-inside’ noise such as traffic, and ‘inside-to-inside’ noise from neighbouring dwellings. The design of acoustic insulation allows sound waves to be absorbed and prevents noise reverberation off other surfaces. Sound insulation is especially designed to reduce the number of decibels (dB). The first step in the soundproofing installation process will be to add mass to the walls. Second would be minimising the circulation of sound vibration. The most effective soundproofing solutions don't just add more of the same mass, they add mass which is comprised of different materials. Acoustic insulation is often thick, very dense material placed between the wall, plasterboard, partition, ceiling or floor. There are many ways to reduce acoustic levels by using the appropriate materials such as:

Foam panels ǀ Corrugated panels ǀ Sound shield rolls ǀ Acoustic slabs ǀ Acoustic floor insulation ǀ Acoustic wall insulation

The installation of those materials should result in the reduction of decibels (dB) or absorption of sound. The best choice will depend on the desirable noise minimisation, a level which is normally indicated in the form of a dB rating. It’s also worth keeping in mind that soundproofing materials will only be as strong as their weakest point.

TYPES OF NOISE

Airborne and Impact are the main types of noise. 

Airborne noise is quite simply noise transmitted through the air. It might be generated by everything from a television, home appliances, music to a barking dog. The production of airborne and structural sounds is often connected, with one causing the other. 

Impact noise is vibration such as footsteps, scraping of furniture or doors banging. To prevent sound vibrations traveling through buildings, the vibration needs to be dampened to stop it from travelling through. The most effective way to stop sound vibration energy from traveling through is to decouple the structure and then add mass. Other options include the installation of floating floors and acoustic ceiling systems.

WHAT IS SOUNDPROOFING?

Soundproofing is a method for the reduction of sound pressure in relation to a particular sound source and receptor. It may also be referred to as decibel reduction. Soundproofing materials enable the minimisation of sound in the following ways:

• Blocking airborne noise through the addition of mass to a structure 
• Separating the impact noise between structures
• Absorbing sound 

UK NOISE LAWS AND REGULATIONS

The soundproofing requirements for new homes and conversions are set out in part E (Resistance to Sound) of the UK Building Regulations. This covers the division of walls and floors. It will be necessary to install a range of acoustic products for compliance with part E of the regulations. The regulations specifically state that internal airborne sound resistance inside any dwelling must be a minimum of 40dB. Impact sounds must also be limited to 62dB for set floors and stairs in new builds as well as 64dB in conversion projects. The regulations specify the need for there to be some type of acoustic insulation between the flooring joists. The fitting of such insulation will result in the increase of mass and the minimisation of airborne sound. The ceiling should also be boarded with two layers of acoustic plasterboard. Acoustic underlay mats will be sufficient for the soundproofing of floors complete with sub-flooring. An acoustic underlay may be added to ensure compliance with the soundproofing standards. Blocks with a density of at least 7 kilonewtons should be used for the effective minimisation of flanking noise and to ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations.

HOW TO SOUNDPROOF STUD WALL?

The first key step when soundproofing a stud wall will be to carry out a check for any gaps or weak points. These can be filled with acoustic sealant for improved security. The process may then continue with the improvement of walling mass and the addition of acoustic insulation between the timber battens. It is advisable to use a combination of materials for the limitation of noise at different frequencies. Alternative methods for soundproofing walls include the installation of thin sound panels and complete acoustic wall systems. Soundproofing panels allow for the effective minimisation of sound without the need to sacrifice any interior space. However, a combination of materials should be used in instances requiring a high degree of soundproofing.

NOISY NEIGHBOURS

Noise disturbance is by far the most common anti-social behavior reported to the police, local authorities and housing associations. If your life is made a misery by rowdy neighbours who regularly throw noisy parties or play loud music throughout the day and night there are now a range of measures you can use to silence their inconsiderate and selfish behavior once and for all. Neighbours who make too much noise can be fined up to £5,000 or have their music systems confiscated. For most disturbances, though, such as barking dogs, loud music or DIY activities, the first step is to talk to the person responsible for the noise and point out the problem. People can be blissfully unaware they are disturbing you especially if you have poor sound insulation.

TYPES OF ACOUSTIC INSULATION

ACOUSTIC ROLL

An acoustic roll is excellent for use within plasterboard linings, floors and roofs. It effectively reduces reverberation. It’s also the best choice if you’re covering a very uneven wall or you have to work around roof beams in a loft space. 

ACOUSTIC SLAB

Where you have a flat wall, easy access roof space or flooring to soundproof, then acoustic slabs are popular due to the fact they can be installed through simple friction fitting. Rockwool Acoustic insulation RWA45 is a particular favourite with customers – providing thermal insulation and fireproofing on top of its acoustic dampening credentials.

ACOUSTIC PLASTERBOARD

Plasterboards are a great option if you’re low on space. They are thin but effective, can be used directly on walls and ceilings or be installed between stud frames and can be directly plastered over.

SOUND PROOFING UNDERLAY

Sound proofing underlay is a great form of acoustic insulation that can benefit upper stores of a home and could even be installed beneath the floor finish on a staircase to minimise the noise of someone going up or down the stairs. Acoustic underlay will help you to enjoy a quieter life by reducing noise transfer between rooms and floors. A layer of acoustic underlay will minimise echoes, impact noise and airborne noise from traveling between floors.

Related articles:

Rockwool acoustic insulation slabs overview

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Mineral wool insulation – what is it made of? The ugly truth?

Fire resistant board thicknesses

Fire slab thicknesses

Spray foam insulation – is it really that good?

Video credit:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0BYRb6MHBM&t=18s