Sound Insulation

Sound testing for Building Regulations Approved Document E Sound testing is required for most new houses and flats in England and Wales.  It is applicable for both new build properties and flats formed by the conversion of an existing building.  The purpose of the test is to confirm if the installed soundproofing meets the minimum […]

There is a current trend for converting offices and other commercial buildings into residential flats.  Many of these buildings include concrete separating floors.  The mass of a concrete floor means that they will usually provide a good standard of airborne sound insulation.  However, the impact sound insulation of concrete floors is often poor.  Without appropriate […]

When converting an existing building into residential flats, it is essential that you consider the sound insulation performance of the separating floors at an early stage.  Getting this wrong can result in failed Building Regulations sound insulation tests, significantly increasing costs and putting back final completion.  This design guide discusses the best ways to make […]

Rw, DnTw, and Dw are all different indices which describe sound insulation performance – or how much noise will transmit through a wall or floor.  Having different indices can be confusing and misunderstanding these terms could mean your building fails the final sound tests.  This guide gives an explanation of the terms and what you […]