At Falcon Energy we help building developers and homeowners meet the necessary standards for sound insulation testing. We offer a complete testing service that is compliant with Building Control Regulations Document E, which sets out the requirements for resistance to the passage of sound.
- Fully accredited by UKAS
- Experienced, qualified testers
- Nationwide service
- Certification within 2 days of testing
- Free, no obligation quotes
Sound testing is a requirement for all new residential buildings involving party walls and/or floors, and conversions. Speak with our team today for a free, no obligation quote and to book a qualified tester.
Our process for sound insulation tests
Our sound testing service is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the testing process. We use state-of-the-art equipment and experienced professionals to ensure accurate and reliable results. Once the testing is complete, we provide a certification that verifies compliance with the necessary regulations for sound insulation.
We're proud of our commitment to quality and our ability to help our clients achieve compliance with the necessary standards for sound insulation. Whether you're a building developer or a homeowner, we're here to help you ensure that your property meets the required standards for acoustic privacy and comfort. Contact us today to learn more about our sound insulation testing service and how we can help you meet the necessary regulations.
To get in touch with us, you can call our team directly at 01403 253439. You can also email us at info@falconenergy.co.uk for more information. Our team of experts are available to provide you with advice and guidance on the best solutions for your specific needs.
Why you need sound insulation testing for your building project
If you're planning a new residential or commercial build, you need to comply with Part E of the Building Regulations. That means carrying out sound insulation testing to make sure your development meets the required standards for noise reduction. At Falcon Energy, we're experts in sound insulation testing, and we're here to help you ensure your project passes the test with flying colours.
At Falcon Energy, we pride ourselves on our expert team and efficient, friendly, and transparent customer service. So, whether you're an experienced new-build constructor or new to the field, we can offer the help and guidance you're after.
Why is sound insulation testing so important?
If you want to avoid costly delays and non-compliance issues, you need to get it right from the start. That's why we recommend getting in touch with us at the planning stage of your build. Our experienced team will assess your plans and ensure they comply with the necessary regulations for sound insulation. We'll then conduct professional airborne and impact testing procedures to determine the number of tests needed for your property.
What is a sound insulation test?
In order to comply with Part E regulations and ensure your sound test is comprehensive, we undertake two types of sound insulation tests; Airbourne Tests and Impact Tests.
Both types of sound tests are mandatory for new or refurbished buildings and are an essential part of ensuring that buildings meet the required standards for acoustic privacy and comfort. Compliance with these regulations is enforced by local authorities, and failure to comply can result in penalties and legal action.
AIRBOURNE TESTS
Airborne sound testing is a crucial aspect of building design and construction, particularly in residential and commercial buildings where acoustic privacy is essential. The tests aim to measure the amount of sound transmission through walls, floors, and ceilings between dwellings. This type of testing is often carried out during the construction phase, before residents move into the building.
During airborne sound testing:
- A speaker is placed on one side of the wall and white noise is produced at a constant volume.
- The amount of noise transmitted through the wall is then measured on the other side, using a sound level metre.
- The results are expressed in decibels (dB), with lower dB values indicating better sound insulation.
- The tests typically cover a range of frequencies, from low bass to high treble, to ensure that the insulation is effective across the full spectrum of sound.
To pass the airborne sound test, the building must achieve a minimum level of sound insulation, as specified in the building regulations. This level varies depending on the type of building and its intended use, but typically ranges from 40-45dB for residential buildings.
If the building fails the test, remedial action may be required, such as the installation of additional insulation or the use of alternative building materials. Once the necessary improvements have been made, the test can be repeated to ensure that the building meets the required standards.
IMPACT TESTS
Impact sound testing is another crucial aspect of building design and construction, particularly in multi-storey buildings where sound insulation between floors is essential. The tests aim to measure the amount of sound transmission through floors and ceilings caused by impact, such as footsteps, dropped objects and furniture movement. This type of testing is also often carried out during the construction phase, before residents move into the building.
During impact sound testing:
- A standardised tapping machine is used to simulate the sound of footsteps, which is then measured on the floor below using a sound level metre.
- The results are expressed in decibels (dB), with lower dB values indicating better sound insulation.
- The tests typically cover a range of frequencies, from low to high, to ensure that the insulation is effective across the full spectrum of sound.
To successfully pass the impact sound test, a building must meet the minimum sound insulation standards set in the building regulations. These standards differ based on the building's type and intended purpose, generally falling between 40-62dB for residential structures.
Should the building not meet these criteria during the initial test, corrective measures may need to be taken. After implementing these adjustments, the test should be conducted again to verify that the building now adheres to sound insulation requirements.
Choose Falcon Energy for your sound insulation testing
If you're looking for a team of experts to conduct a sound insulation test, look no further than Falcon Energy. Our experienced team is committed to completing all tests quickly and efficiently, with little disruption to your building schedule or onsite contractors. We understand the importance of keeping costs low and deadlines in mind, so you can trust us to get the job done right.
Our team is highly skilled at identifying the exact type and number of tests that your property needs. We work hard to keep the testing process stress-free for you, ensuring minimal upheaval and disruption. With our professional and hardworking attitude, no job is too big or too small for us to handle. We cover the entire nation, so no matter where your property is located or its size and layout, we can help.
Why work with Falcon Energy?
- Quick and efficient sound insulation testing
- Experienced and qualified UKAS Engineers
- Little impact on your building schedule or onsite contractors
- Professional and hardworking team
- Affordable prices and strict adherence to deadlines
- Nationwide coverage
- No job too big or small
At Falcon Energy, we're committed to delivering the highest standards of service and ensuring that your property meets all the necessary sound insulation regulations. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your sound insulation testing needs.
Give our team a call on 01403 253439 or email info@falconenergy.co.uk and we'll be happy to offer a free, no obligation quote. Alternatively, get in touch for expert advice and to see how we can help.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should you choose a UKAS-accredited company?
UKAS is a national accreditation body recognised by the UK Government. It ensures that the team working on your site or property is fully qualified and capable of performing accurate sound insulation testing.
At Falcon Energy, our team members are fully accredited by UKAS for sound insulation testing. This ensures you can contact us in confidence and means that any resulting certification is official and will be recognised by the relevant Building Control Officer.
When is a site ready for testing?
A site is ready for testing just before the completion of the build when doors, windows, trickle vents and power are fitted on site. This allows the readings to be more accurate and provides us with the quiet environment necessary for the tests to be undertaken, as any additional noise from building work would most likely affect the results.
But make sure you enlist the help of an expert sound insulation company at the planning stage of your development, as this ensures that the builds are compliant from the very beginning.
How soon can you test my site?
We recognise that many clients wish for tests to be conducted promptly. When you contact us, we will arrange for the test to be scheduled at the earliest available time.
We have a highly skilled, efficient team who will complete testing and issue a detailed report of certification to meet your own deadlines.
Typically, we are able to release certification within two days of testing.
What happens if a test shows sound insulation fails to meet standards?
Should the test fail, our expert team is able to offer free advice on how to improve sound insulation and discounted retest fees.
What is the Part E Building Regulations Approved Document?
Part E of the Building Regulations in the UK is an Approved Document that outlines the standards for sound insulation in buildings. The document provides guidance on how to achieve the necessary levels of sound insulation in new residential and commercial buildings, as well as in conversions and renovations. Part E of the Building Regulations sets out the minimum standards for airborne and impact sound insulation, which must be met in order to comply with the regulations.
The Approved Document includes details on how to conduct sound insulation testing, which is mandatory for all new residential and commercial builds. The document also provides information on the different types of sound insulation materials and construction methods that can be used to achieve compliance with the regulations.
Part E of the Building Regulations is intended to ensure that buildings provide a reasonable level of acoustic privacy for their occupants, and that noise from one dwelling or room does not disturb others. Compliance with the regulations is enforced by local authorities, and failure to comply can result in penalties and legal action. It's important to work with experienced professionals who understand the regulations and can help you achieve compliance with the requirements of Part E of the Building Regulations.
What are the requirements for sound insulation testing?
Part E of the Building Regulations in the UK requires all new residential buildings involving party walls and/or floors to undergo sound insulation testing. This is to ensure that the building meets the minimum standards for sound insulation and provides a reasonable level of acoustic privacy for its occupants.
For new-build or converted residential properties, a minimum sample of 10% of properties must undergo sound insulation testing. This testing is mandatory and must be conducted by an experienced professional to ensure compliance with the regulations.
The regulations also require that the results of the sound insulation testing be reported to the Building Control Body responsible for the building. This is to ensure that the building meets the necessary standards for sound insulation and is safe and comfortable for its occupants.
Contact us for your next project
Reach out to us during the initial planning phase of your upcoming project, and let us be your proactive team for achieving energy efficiency!
No project is too complex, so contact us today!