sound insulation testing...

We specialise in the sound insulation testing of new and refurbished dwellings for compliance with Part E of the Building Regulations.

In July 2003 the new Approved Document E of the Building Regulations came into force. Document E requires that at least 10% of all new residential properties are tested to demonstrate that the levels of sound insulation provided between adjacent dwellings achieve minimum standards.

Since 2003, schemes such as EcoHomes and the Code for Sustainable Homes have also emerged. These schemes often require increased sound insulation testing in registered developments.

Types of test

There are two types of sound insulation test - airborne and impact. Airborne tests are carried out on walls and floors separating dwellings, impact tests are only carried out on floors.

How are the tests carried out?

Airborne tests are carried out using loudspeakers and a sound level meter. The loudspeakers are used to generate noise in one room which is then measured in the room on the other side of the separating partition. Using additional acoustic measurements, the difference between the noise levels in each room can then be calculated to give the airborne sound insulation of the partition.

Impact tests are only performed on floors between adjoining dwellings. The test is performed using a standard "tapping" machine and a sound level meter. The tapping machine is a device that 'taps' on the floor emulating the sound of people walking around or other objects impacting on the floor surface. The machine is turned on and measurements are taken in the lower of the two rooms. Using additional acoustic measurements inside the receiver room, the impact sound insulation can then be calculated.

How long do the tests take?

Each dwelling will take around 1 hour to test.

What happens after the test have been carried out?

The test data is analysed and a report is then prepared, usually within a few days of the tests.

What happens if a test fails?

In the event of a partition not achieving the Part E requirements, it is necessary to carry out remedial works and then retest. In this event, the cause of failure is normally obvious from the results of our testing and UK Sound Testing can provide you with free remedial design advice to bring the construction up to Part E standards.