Acoustic Specifications for separating walls and floors regarding Flats and conversions.
Under Approved Document E, all residential properties must provide a good level of acoustic insulation between dwellings.
In order to achieve a good level of sound control between dwellings you will need to achieve a good level of sound insulation to party walls and floors. Under Approved Part E this is a must.
The legislation is concerned with protecting residents from nuisance noise in attached dwellings and within the dwelling itself and so it requires separating walls and floors to be built in order to provide specific levels of protection. Planning Policy Guidance documents (such as PPG24) should be consulted when it comes to protecting dwellings from external noise sources, such as road or air traffic. (LABC)
The passage of sound in a building can be controlled through the design of wall and floor constructions, which will absorb sound. A construction element’s ability to resist the passage of airborne sound energy is largely determined by the following factors:
• The sound absorbency of any cavities in the construction
• The structural isolation between the two outer surfaces
• The mass of the structure
• The air tightness of the construction (LABC)
To help developers, architects and builders specify the correct products we can visit site and combine meetings with a full specification or advice for all your acoustic needs to ensure compliance with Part E of Building Regulations.
A SAP Calculation is The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for energy ratings of dwellings. It is a Calculation of a buildings energy efficiency.
An SBEM or Simplified Building Energy Model, is a Government Defined process in accordance with Building Regulations Part L.
An Energy Performance Certificate shows the official energy rating of a property and its environmental impact on a scale from A to G.
Simulation modelling enables us to assess every aspect of thermal performance, from annual energy consumption and carbon emissions down to individual surface temperatures.
An Air tightness test consists of a computerised fan being fitted to a main entrance or suitable doorway.
There are two types of sound test - airborne and impact. Airborne tests are carried out on walls and floors separating dwellings, impact tests are carried out on floors separating dwellings.
Under Approved Document E, all residential properties must provide a good level of acoustic insulation between dwellings.
BREEAM is the world's foremost environmental assessment method and rating system for buildings