Sound Insulation Testing
SITMA Accredited sound insulation testing for new-build and converted dwellings across the UK.
NCSL provides sound insulation testing for new-build and converted residential developments across the North West and throughout the UK.
Testing is normally carried out towards the end of construction to demonstrate the performance of separating walls and floors against the requirements of Approved Document E. We undertake both airborne and impact sound insulation testing and provide a clear report for submission to Building Control.
NCSL undertakes sound insulation testing through the SITMA scheme, giving developers, contractors and Building Control teams confidence that testing is being carried out to the required standard.
What is Sound Insulation Testing?
Sound insulation testing measures how effectively a wall or floor reduces the transfer of sound between adjoining properties.
For separating walls, an airborne test is carried out using a loudspeaker in one room while sound levels are measured on both sides of the partition. Measurements of background noise and reverberation are also taken so that the final result reflects the performance of the separating construction itself.
Separating floors may require both airborne and impact testing. Impact testing uses a standard tapping machine on the floor above, with the resulting noise measured in the room below.
The completed results can then be assessed against the relevant performance requirements.
When Should Testing Be Carried Out?
Sound insulation testing should normally take place when the building is substantially complete.
Before we attend site, we would generally expect:
• Separating walls and floors to be complete;
• Windows and external doors to be fitted;
• Internal doors to be installed;
• Electrical sockets and penetrations to be finished and sealed;
• Rooms to be reasonably clear of construction activity; and
• A working 240 V power supply to be available.
Carpets should normally not be laid before testing.
If you are unsure whether a site is ready, send us a few photographs or give us a call before booking. It is usually much easier to resolve readiness issues before the engineer arrives.
Airborne and Impact Sound Testing
Airborne Sound Insulation
Airborne testing is used to assess sound passing through separating walls and floors. A controlled noise source is used in the source room and measurements are taken in both the source and receiving rooms.
Impact Sound Insulation
Impact testing is applicable to separating floors. A calibrated tapping machine is used to excite the floor and the resulting sound level is measured in the room below.
The two tests assess different transmission mechanisms, which is why separating floors may require both.
What Happens After The Test?
Once testing is complete, we calculate the final performance and issue a report setting out the results.
If everything passes, the report can be supplied to the relevant Building Control body.
If a construction does not achieve the required performance, we can also help investigate the likely cause. Poor results are not always caused by the main wall or floor construction; flanking transmission, gaps, service penetrations and workmanship can all affect the measured result.
Where required, NCSL can provide practical advice before remedial work is undertaken and return to site for retesting.
Sound Insulation Design Reviews
It is considerably easier to address an acoustic problem on a drawing than after a building has been completed.
For projects still at design or construction stage, NCSL can review proposed wall and floor constructions, junctions and details before the final test. This is particularly useful for conversions, unusual constructions and projects where space or build-up depth is limited. Click here to find out more about our acoustic design services.
Sound Insulation Testing Across the UK
We regularly carry out testing throughout Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Liverpool and the wider North West, with projects undertaken elsewhere in the UK where required.
Arrange Sound Insulation Testing
If you have drawings, floor plans or details of the number of plots, send them over and we can advise on the likely testing requirement and provide a quotation.
Call us on 01942 580 340 to book your sound insulation test.
You can also have a look at the information provided by the GOV.UK website relating to acoustic testing. We also have a blog post on sound insulation testing which you may find useful.