As part of our full spectrum of acoustic services, Stroma Built Environment offers UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing and consulting tailored to the needs of the UK’s residential and commercial markets. See our UKAS accreditations for more details.
When Is Sound Insulation Testing Required?
Sound insulation testing, also known as acoustic insulation testing, measures the extent to which sound travels through a building’s walls, floors, and ceilings. This testing is crucial for constructing and refurbishing adjoining buildings to ensure they are adequately insulated, thereby enhancing comfort and quality of life for occupants.
You will need a sound insulation test if you:
- Are constructing multiple dwellings, such as a block of flats
- Are constructing semi-detached or terraced houses
- Are converting a single dwelling or commercial building into flats
- Are constructing large residential / public properties, such as nursing homes, hotels & schools
- Have designs that do not currently include “robust details” (pre-approved construction elements known to provide effective acoustic insulation)
Our Sound Insulation Testing Services
During building design or pre-completion stages, our sound insulation testing specialists can assess wall, floor, and ceiling construction details to identify potential risks of non-compliance. If necessary, we provide suggestions for improvements to ensure adherence to Part E Building Regulations and other project-specific acoustic requirements.
All acoustic tests will be carried out by our experienced, UKAS-accredited technicians. This includes airborne sound insulation tests to BS EN ISO 140-4:1998 and BS EN ISO 717-1:1997 and impact sound insulation tests to BS EN ISO 140:7:1998 and BS EN ISO 717-2:1997 as specified in the Sound Testing Building Regs Part E.
We understand that failing a noise test during the pre-completion stage can be a major concern for our clients. By involving us early in the process, we can help ensure a first-time pass. In the event of a sound insulation test failure, our experts are here to advise on cost-effective and convenient remedial strategies to quickly get your project back on track.
Building Regulations Part E (Approved Document E)
According to Building Regulations Part E, all new building projects and conversions with adjoining elements (e.g., flats, terrace houses, and residential properties) must be tested for sound insulation. This is required in pre-completion stages, before soft furnishings like carpet and other flooring are installed.
Part E sound testing involves investigating whether walls, floors, and ceilings meet the acceptable amount of noise transference. This is required for a set number of buildings per development; for up to 10 dwellings, you would typically need 2x airborne wall sound tests, 2x airborne floor sound tests, and 2x impact floor sound tests.
Why Choose Stroma for Part E Sound Testing?
- Comprehensive Support: With Stroma, you receive end-to-end sound insulation testing and design support throughout the construction lifecycle.
- Acoustic Expertise: Our team of acoustic insulation testing specialists bring years of experience, ensuring regulatory compliance across diverse sectors.
- Nationwide Coverage: With our extensive network, we provide timely and efficient noise test services, minimising delays and keeping your project on track.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest technology and equipment in our acoustic noise testing processes, guaranteeing accurate and high-quality results.
- Client-Focused: We prioritise our clients, striving to provide a service that meets every need in terms of cost, sustainability, and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Part E of the Building Regulations?
Building Regulations Part E, or Approved Document E (resistance to the passage of sound), sets standards for sound insulation in homes, flats, and schools. It aims to minimise noise transmission between dwellings and within buildings with adjoining walls, ceilings, or floors.
Under the regulations, Part E sound testing must be carried out in pre-completion stages to ensure dwellings demonstrate acceptable levels of noise attenuation performance. Carpets should not be fitted until a sound insulation test pass has been achieved.
How many sound insulation tests do I need?
Per the Sound Testing Building Regs Part E, the minimum sound insulation test programme is one set of tests for every 10 dwellings (unless Building Control specify differently). One full set involves two floor acoustic tests (2x airborne and 2x impact) and two wall acoustic tests (airborne).
What is the airborne sound insulation test?
The airborne sound insulation test measures how well the walls, floors, and ceilings between dwellings block airborne noise like voices, music, and traffic. This noise test involves generating controlled noise (typically 100dB) in one room and measuring the sound levels in an adjacent room to determine the effectiveness of the building element in reducing noise transmission.
What is the difference between airborne and impact sound?
Airborne sound and impact sound are two distinct types of noise that can affect the acoustic environment within buildings. Airborne sound travels through the air and includes noises like voices and music. Impact sound is caused by physical impacts on a building element, such as footsteps, doors banging, or furniture moving.
How is impact sound insulation measured?
The impact sound insulation test is typically used to measure the transmission of noise between two rooms adjoined from above and below. This noise test involves using a tapping machine positioned in the upper room (the source room) to mimic the sound of impacts, and then measuring the resulting noise levels heard from the lower room (the receiving room).
When should sound insulation testing be carried out?
Sound insulation testing is required for new buildings or refurbished developments separated by party elements. According to Sound Testing Building Regs Part E, buildings should be tested at the pre-completion stage, which is when the development is nearly complete, with doors, windows, trickle vents fitted, and power installed.
Sound Insulation Testing Services from Stroma
Stroma Built Environment and its team of experts are proud to offer UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing packages for any new project. Get in touch today!