Part E Sound Testing for Building Compliance

Since July 2003, Part E Pre-completion sound testing has been a mandatory requirement for all new build properties and conversions constructed after this date. This regulatory measure aims to ensure that buildings meet specified standards for sound insulation, particularly between adjoining rooms separated by party walls or floors. In essence, Part E Sound Testing evaluates the effectiveness of the building’s construction in minimising the transmission of airborne and impact noises between different spaces within the structure.

The process of Part E Sound Testing involves several key steps to assess the sound insulation performance of the building elements. Firstly, a representative sample, typically 10% of each party wall/floor construction type, is selected for testing. This sample includes pairs of rooms separated by the relevant partitions. In most cases, the rooms subjected to testing are the primary habitable spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms, where effective sound insulation is crucial for occupants’ comfort and privacy.

Airborne sound testing is conducted between horizontally and vertically separated pairs of rooms. This test involves the use of specialized equipment, including a sound source, amplifier, and loudspeaker, to generate controlled noise levels in one room (the source room). Measurements are then taken in both the source and receiver rooms to assess the sound transmission across the partition. These measurements include background noise levels and reverberation time in the receiver room. The results are used to calculate the airborne sound insulation rating (DnT,w + Ctr), which is then compared against the requirements outlined in Approved Document E of the building regulations.

For vertically separated rooms, impact sound testing is additionally required. This test simulates the transmission of impact noises, such as footsteps or dropped objects, through the floor structure. A tapping machine, which drops weights onto the upper room’s floor, is used to generate standardized impact noise. Measurements are taken in the lower (receiver) room to evaluate the impact sound insulation performance. Similar to airborne sound testing, background noise levels and reverberation time are measured to ensure accurate assessment. The results yield the impact sound insulation rating (L’nT,w), which is compared to regulatory standards.

To conduct Part E Sound Testing effectively, specialized equipment and trained sound test engineers are essential. At APT Sound Testing, we utilize state-of-the-art Norsonic equipment with class one ratings to ensure accurate and reliable results. Our sound testing procedures adhere to strict quality control standards, and we provide full ISO compliant testing services. Additionally, we offer comprehensive support to clients, including acoustic design reviews of architectural drawings to optimize sound insulation performance and minimize the risk of test failures.

Our services extend beyond sound testing, encompassing planning noise surveys to address compliance with other regulatory requirements such as Part L. We offer cost-effective packages that include both sound and air testing, providing clients with comprehensive solutions to their building compliance needs.

At APT Sound Testing, we understand the importance of achieving sound insulation compliance without costly delays or remedial works. Our expert acoustic consultants are available to provide telephone advice and guidance on sound testing requirements. Whether you require sound insulation assessments for party walls and floors or need assistance with acoustic design reviews for your development, our team is here to help.

Contact APT Sound Testing

For further information or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact APT Sound Testing today. You can reach our expert consultants by calling 01525 303905 or emailing us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk. Let us assist you in ensuring that your construction project meets the necessary standards for sound insulation and building compliance.

Thermal Imaging London Deal

If you require a thermal imaging survey carried out in London we are currently offering a 10 % Discount, please Contact us and quote “London Thermal Imaging Deal” to get your discount.

Thermal Imaging or thermographic building surveys is a non-invasive temperature measurement testing method.  Thermographic inspections can provide a no-contact survey for many applications in detecting missing insulation in building envelopes and mechanical and electrical faults before they actually give rise to unplanned and costly breakdowns.

Whether it is for insulation continuity in Building Regulations Part L2, paths of air leakage, insulation we have a survey to fit your requirements. Our integrity is guaranteed to bring you true results. Common problems that Thermal imaging in buildings can help to identify are:

• Missing, damaged, or inadequate insulation,
• Building envelope air leaks and moisture intrusion
• Destructive water damage

Upon completion of our thermal imaging survey you will receive a report that details the following: High specification 640×480 cameras with wide angle lens

• Same Day’ delivered reports
• Dedicated scheduling and expert campaign management ensuring all data is returned correctly and quickly
• Recommendations for any further investigation required along with explanation

The Advantages of Thermal Imaging

Unlike other types of tests, thermal imaging is a non-invasive procedure which requires little physical work. Some of the images can be taken from outside the property. This also means there is no risk of damage to the building, and it can help speed up the process of identifying any problem areas, potentially saving clients time and money.

Thermography is suitable for use on all sorts of new buildings as well as old existing buildings that may suffer from draughts or air tightness issues, to new-builds which have to meet the latest building regulations. It can be used on domestic properties, business premises and all types of public buildings as well.

We only use Level 3 Thermographers

The importance of using one of our Level 3 trained thermographers cannot be understated as they are trained to be write predictive maintenance and inspection practices and to develop test procedures and ascertain severity criteria. To try and help clients prepare for the BREEAM thermal imaging survey to their building, we have written the following article: How we carry our thermal Surveys on commercial buildings.

BREEAM Technical Standards

Here is some more information in regards to the new BREEAM Technical Standards as well as scoring extra BREEAM credits for your new development.

BREEAM provides extra points to projects that have a BREEAM Thermal survey undertaken. As not many clients are aware of BREEAM thermal surveys, we have included more information in our ‘What is a BREEAM thermal Imaging Survey’ article. Also to try and help clients prepare for their survey please download our Thermal Imaging Checklist.

Please contact us for more information

If you would like to contact us for more information on our thermal imaging services, please contact us on 01525 303905 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk

Alternatively if you would like more information on how to prepare for your thermal imaging survey, please visit our website here or download our thermal imaging checklist

Clean Room Testing Services by APT Sound Testing

In today’s meticulously regulated environments, maintaining clean room standards is paramount across various industries, from pharmaceutical manufacturing to microelectronic production. APT Sound Testing offers a comprehensive suite of clean room testing services to ensure compliance with ISO standards and facilitate optimal operational conditions. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with UKAS accreditation, guarantees meticulous attention to detail and reliable results.

APT Sound Testing specialises in clean room testing services, addressing the diverse needs of industries where environmental control is critical. Our proactive approach minimizes downtime, ensuring the seamless operation of your critical assets. Through a combination of cutting-edge techniques and expert intervention, we deliver superior service tailored to exceed customer expectations.

Primary Clean Room Tests

>>> Airborne Particulate Testing: We conduct precise measurements to verify the concentration of particles and microorganisms within your clean room, ensuring compliance with specified standards.

>>> Filter (HEPA) Installation Leak Testing: Rigorous testing of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and their housings using Dispersed Oil Particulate (DOP) ensures integrity and efficiency.

>>> Air Supply and Extract Quantities: Whether unidirectional or non-unidirectional systems, we accurately measure air velocity and supply to maintain optimal airflow.

>>> Differential Pressure: Our tests ascertain that your clean room maintains a higher pressure than adjacent areas, ensuring airflow from clean to less clean zones.

>>> Containment Leak Testing: Thorough examination of the clean room’s construction guarantees no airborne contamination occurs due to leaks from neighboring areas.

>>> Air Movement Control: We analyse airflow patterns to confirm adequate movement for pollutant dilution, preventing contamination buildup.

>>> Room Recovery: Evaluating airflow effectiveness, we measure the speed at which a clean room returns to its designated cleanliness level after particulate release.

>>> Temperature, Relative Humidity: Additional tests encompass temperature, humidity, heating, cooling capabilities, noise, lighting, and vibration levels, ensuring comprehensive environmental control.

Customer-Centric Approach

Our customer-driven ethos underpins every aspect of our service delivery. We prioritize transparency, ensuring clients understand the testing process and results fully. Upon completion, we provide clear, concise test reports promptly, minimizing operational downtime and facilitating informed decision-making.

Expert Sound Testing Services

In addition to clean room testing, APT Sound Testing offers sound testing services for residential, commercial, and educational buildings. Our experienced engineers utilize advanced techniques to assess acoustic performance, providing tailored solutions to achieve regulatory compliance. With expertise in acoustic design, we offer valuable advice to optimize soundproofing measures and ensure project success.

Comprehensive Solutions

For added convenience and efficiency, we offer ‘in-house’ UKAS accredited air tightness testing alongside sound testing services. This integrated approach streamlines processes, reduces costs, and eliminates coordination challenges, providing clients with a seamless testing experience.

APT Sound Testing ~ Your Trusted Partner

APT Sound Testing stands as a trusted partner for comprehensive clean room testing and sound testing services. With a steadfast commitment to quality, adherence to ISO standards, and customer-centric approach, we ensure operational excellence across diverse industries. Contact us today to discover how our expertise can safeguard your critical assets and facilitate regulatory compliance.

Please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775623464 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk for more information on our Clean Room Testing Services.

Thermal Imaging Inspections to identify Building Faults

Thermal imaging can quickly analyse working machinery, electrical systems and identify heat loss in building construction. Thermal imaging inspections is a quick and easy way for contractors and developers to save time and money and prevent accidents that could lead to property damage and even loss of life.

What Is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging detects varying levels of heat based on the infrared waves emitted by objects. Professional thermal imaging cameras can see subtle differences in temperature to create a detailed image of hot and cold areas with accurate temperature measurements. Differences in temperature can be used to pinpoint potential problems in malfunctioning equipment and in systems that have been installed improperly. When used with our blower door systems it becomes an even more powerful tool for fault diagnosis for building envelopes.

What Industries Use Thermal Imaging?

The main benefit of thermal imaging is it doesn’t require equipment to be shut down to be inspected.  The trained operator can quickly inspect and document faults and determine when repairs should be scheduled without shutting down your critical assets.

Safety is another reason that thermal cameras have become a regular tool for maintenance teams. Technicians do not have to be close to the machinery being tested as the photo can be taken from a distance, keeping techs safe while still acquiring the needed information.

Thermal Imaging for Building Inspections

Building inspections use thermal imaging to detect defects in the fabric of the building, i.e. the walls, roof, and floor. This can be items such as damaged or missing insulation, as well as damp and/or water leaks. Its worth noting that you can also gain extra BREEAM credits if you undertake a thermal imaging survey. One of the major ussies with building inspections is identifying water leaks that have not been revealed during other ‘more standard’ visual surveys. Determining if there is excessive moisture and finding the source of a leak through the normal inspection process may prove very difficult and costly as you may need to provide safe access such as scaffold for roof inspections etc.

Wet building materials will usually be colder than dry materials and a thermal camera can alert the thermographer as to where there may be problems. Wet insulation, framing, drywall, and masonry can be revealed, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions as to the necessary repairs whilst saving on cost and program.

Thermal imaging for Industrial Maintenance

Many manufacturing companies operate 24 hours a day, so taking any critical equipment off-line to run any type of maintenance can be extremely costly. Ne quick and reliable way to inspect your critical assets is via thermal imaging. enhanced when thermal imaging is part of an asset inspection and condition-based maintenance program (CBM). Downtime and maintenance expenses can both be reduced with a CBM program since maintenance only occurs when it’s needed, rather than on a set schedule. Thermal imaging allows excessive heat in electrical, mechanical, and process equipment to be detected early in the failure curve. This minimizes the risk of a catastrophic failure, business interruption, and potentially dangerous conditions.

Thermal imaging for electrical utility inspections

Electrical distribution systems are one of the most important utilities in homes and businesses and support millions of users every day. Quickly locating potential failures in the electrical systems using thermal imaging is essential for providing constant service to customers. Main incoming, Distribution Boards, Transformers, circuit breakers and switches are common points in electrical systems that usually heat up before failure.  Thermal cameras can quickly and safely detect hotspots, by measuring the temperature, allowing for engineers to schedule repairs before system failure occurs.

Thermal imaging for home inspections

Home inspectors must find problems that are difficult to see such as water leaks damp and moisture damage as well as accurately pinpoint leak leaks. Wet insulation, framing, and drywall can be quickly revealed, allowing home buyers to make informed decisions and a good investment prior to buying a property.

Thermal imaging for identifying air leakage in buildings

When used with a blower door fan, thermal imaging can be extremely accurate when identifying air leaks through the building envelope. This allows our clients to undertake targeted remedial sealing works to improve the air tightness of their building/s. By imprinting the air tightness, it also reduces draughts and lowers your energy usage, sometimes by up to 20%.

Thermal imaging for identifying leaks in underfloor heating

Thermal imaging is often used to diagnose problems with under floor heating systems.  It’s can quickly pinpoint the leak, which often means the difference of carefully removing one tile to fix the problem, rather than tearing out an expensive tiled floored with the increased cost and damage this brings.

APT provide Level 3 thermal imaging inspections

APT Sound Testing is a leading provider of thermal imaging inspections across London and the UK. We provide Level 3 Thermographers, along with the latest high resolution thermal cameras and software to provide detailed reports to our valued clients. We offer thermal imaging services to Building Contractors, FM companies and utility and construction companies. Our team of industry professionals’ pride ourselves on offering a friendly professional service from start to finish.

Our thermal imaging inspection service includes:

• Level 3 certified field engineers
• The latest high resolution thermal imaging cameras
• Fully calibrated equipment
• The latest diagnostic software
• 20 years of experience in the thermography sector.

We can carry out on-site inspections and thermographic surveys on a one-off basis, such as a BREEAM building envelope survey, or as part of an ongoing maintenance program. Please speak to us if you’d like to learn more about this crucial service – and how we can help your project. If you would like more information on how to prepare for the thermal imaging survey please check out the following thermal imaging checklist

APT’s thermographic survey engineers can quickly identify imminent and future problems, allowing repairs to be carried out during scheduled maintenance. So, if you’re interested in thermographic surveys, on-site thermal inspections please let us know.

Please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775623464 or email us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk for more information.

Air Tightness Testing Services

APT Sound Testing offers comprehensive Air Tightness Testing services across the United Kingdom. We cater to projects of all scales, ranging from individual dwellings to expansive commercial structures. As one of the select few UKAS accredited companies, we specialise in both Air and Sound testing, ensuring full compliance with Building Regulations and Standards.

Our unique accreditation allows us to conduct Air, Sound, and Vent Testing all in one visit, offering clients cost efficiencies and streamlined on-site coordination. Unlike many firms, we handle all work directly without subcontracting.

Since its mandate in 2006 under Building Regulations Part L in England and Wales, achieving satisfactory levels of air tightness has become imperative. This requirement aligns with efforts to create environmentally friendly buildings by minimizing carbon emissions through the prevention of energy loss via air leakage. Part L defines ‘air leakage’ as the uncontrolled flow of air through a building’s gaps and cracks, commonly known as draughts.

Energy loss through the building fabric contributes to the building emission rate. New projects must adhere to specific air testing and emission rate standards. The typical target for a standard dwelling is 5.0m3/hr/m2, while commercial buildings often aim for lower rates, around 3.0m3/hr/m2.

Air infiltration usually accompanies exfiltration elsewhere in the building, potentially leading to issues like condensation, mould, or rot. Our consultancy services extend from the project’s design phase to pre-completion testing, ensuring compliance for building control signoff. For clients requiring weekend testing, we offer an ‘out of hours testing’ service to minimize disruption during weekdays.

Our combined air and sound testing packages provide substantial cost savings. With our engineers accredited in both disciplines, clients benefit from a streamlined ‘3 step’ pre-completion package, eliminating the need for multiple contractors. On-site coordination is enhanced, as both tests are conducted efficiently on the same day. Additionally, we offer out of hours testing to minimize disruption during standard working hours.

We pride ourselves on offering friendly, expert advice to help properties achieve required emission rates for air testing. Reach out to our knowledgeable team of air tightness consultants through our contact form or by calling our offices to discuss your specific air testing needs.

We can help with your Air Tightness Testing

APT Sound Testing we have large amount of experience in understanding the requirements of Approved Document L, along with extensive experience of carrying out thousands of successful air tightness tests on a wide range of developments across London and the UK.

In order to achieve the required air tightness target (which is getting lower all the time) and to avoid the risk of a failed air tightness test, we strongly recommend that early consideration is given to the design of the air leakage line within your project.

By working with our customers throughout their design and construction stages, we can provide advice and guidance on the most feasible ways to avoid air leakage and attain compliance for the air tightness test. Please download our air tightness checklist to help you prepare for your test.

How to Pass a Smoke Shaft Air Test
Achieving success in a smoke shaft air test is vital for ensuring building safety and regulatory compliance. However, passing the test on the first attempt can be challenging. Here’s a condensed guide outlining essential steps to prepare your smoke shaft for the air tightness test:

1. Consultation with Experts: Seek early advice from air tightness consultants for insights into effective smoke shaft design and sealing strategies.
2. Determine Air Tightness Target: Establish the airtightness goal, typically less than 3.8 m³/h/m² @ 50 Pa, which can be challenging for small enclosures like smoke shafts.
3. Optimal Design: Ensure robust construction materials like concrete or high-density blocks to create a tight air barrier with no mortar joint gaps.
4. Interior Finish: Smooth and seal the inside of the shaft meticulously, including all junctions and joints, using appropriate methods like parge coating or mastic sealing.
5. Seal Penetrations: Completely seal all service, structural, and cable penetrations within the smoke shaft envelope.
6. Secure Door Openings: Use heavy-duty materials to seal all door openings within the smoke shaft to prevent leakage.
7. Seal AOV Door Frames: Mastic seal the perimeter of AOV doors to prevent leakage.
8. Seal Shaft Base and Head: Ensure thorough sealing of the shaft’s base and head before the air test.
9. Conduct Air Testing: Use a calibrated blower door fan set to pressurize the shaft and measure air tightness according to CIBSE TM23 standards.
10. Address Test Failures: If the shaft fails the test, employ smoke testing or thermal imaging to identify and seal leaks, producing a detailed leakage survey report.

For comprehensive assistance in smoke shaft systems, consult experts specialising in smoke shaft design and compliance. Utilise services from UKAS accredited air tightness consultants and testing companies, equipped with the latest high-powered fan equipment and diagnostic tools like smoke machines and thermal imaging.

UKAS Accredited

We are a UKAS accredited, as well as being certified to ATTMA Level 2 for air tightness testing. For a detailed guide, you can refer to our article that provide a comprehensive roadmap and tips for preparing your smoke shaft for an air test. It’s advisable to consult with UKAS accredited air tightness consultants early in the process to increase the chances of passing the smoke shaft air test on the first attempt.

How We Can Help you PASS your Smoke Shaft Air Test

There are many ways we can help you pass your smoke shaft air test at the first attempt. Firstly, our experienced engineers have over 10 years in the field of smoke shaft testing – having undertaken hundreds of air test, so we know how to help clients to pass their testing:

Our simple roadmap to a successful smoke shaft air test:

Smoke shaft survey visits by experienced air tightness consultants.
UKAS and ATTMA Level 2 air testing company
UKAS smoke shaft air test certification
The latest high-powered fan equipment
UKAS calibrated equipment
Diagnostic leakage surveys testing using smoke machines & thermal imaging
Rapid testing service – sometimes within 48 hours!

We offer leading design, consultancy, and compliance for every part of your project. It’s APT’s aim to provide a friendly and professional stress-free experience.

Please contact APT on 07775623464, or email us at info@airpressuretesting.co.uk for more information.

As premier Acoustic Consultants, we provide comprehensive solutions to meet all your acoustic needs, ensuring compliance with planning regulations and Building Regulations Part E for seamless project approval. With our expertise, your company is guided through every phase with professional advice, maintaining a continuous focus on cost considerations.

From Initial Design to Pre Completion Testing

Our services begin with on-site visits to conduct sample sound insulation testing on existing building walls and floors, evaluating their acoustic performance against established standards. Armed with this data, we proceed to tailor an acoustic design strategy that aligns with Building Regulations Part E requirements.

From the initial design phase to pre-completion sound testing, we assist in shaping the acoustic aspects of your project. Our meticulous approach involves analyzing construction elements such as mass, isolation, and absorption to optimize acoustic performance.

To facilitate compliance with Approved Document E, we offer a comprehensive 4-step acoustic design advisory package:

1. Site Survey Visits: Our experts assess existing site construction to identify potential issues and ensure proper installation of acoustic materials.
2. Sample Sound Testing: Accurate evaluation of existing construction’s acoustic performance informs targeted acoustic design recommendations.
3. Acoustic Design Review: A thorough examination of proposed party walls and floors to ensure compliance and optimal acoustic performance.
4. Pre-completion Sound Testing: Fulfilling requirements outlined in Approved Document E for sound insulation testing, ensuring project approval.

Acoustic Design Services

We have many years’ experience of acoustic partition design on all types of developments from pairs of semi-detached houses, up apartment blocks containing hundreds of residential units. Utilising our vast experience in construction design, and the data from thousands of sound insulation tests, we have a clear understanding of the positives and negatives of all types of construction.

We are also a UKAS accredited sound testing laboratory which means we can offer a comprehensive design and testing solution for all your acoustic requirements. We can test and issue certification on completion of any works carried out and you can be safe in the knowledge that the results will be accepted by the tasked building control officer.

For further details on our acoustic consultancy services, please refer to the information below. Should you require Sound Insulation Testing as requested by local authorities, please contact us at 01525 303905 or via email at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.