Choose APT for your Thermal Imaging Survey

Why Choose APT for your Thermal Imaging Survey? well for a start we have many years’ experience in all aspects of infrared inspections for the engineering, construction, maintenance and management industries. We work across the UK and our professional thermography engineers are qualified in accordance with BS EN 13187 and are trained to 3 whish even surpasses the requirements of BREEAM.

Another very important item to take into consideration is the quality of the thermal imaging cameras, our thermal imaging equipment is some the best and most accurate on the market, ensuring we pick up faults that other equipment may miss. Many other companies use thermal cameras that cost 2-3K, our cameras cost in the region of 10-30K! This means our equipment not only has much higher resolution, it also provides more sensitivity.

Here is a quick breakdown of our premium service:

• Supply of an ITC trained Level 3 thermographer
• We us large format FLIR P6n-Series (640×480 resolution) thermal imaging cameras.
• Comprehensive report to include Introduction and fault cover pages, summary problem pages, elevation inventory,
• Detailed fault documentation pages with possible root cause and remedial recommendation (isotherm included if using equations), baseline IR and DC image of every elevation (100% coverage-no isotherm)
• Application of thermal indexing formulas
• Eco Friendly Email Report

Identifying Hidden Issues Without Direct Access

One of the significant advantages of thermal imaging is its ability to identify hidden defects that are not visible to the naked eye. Thermal cameras can detect temperature differences that indicate problems such as insulation deficiencies, moisture intrusion, and electrical faults. Our surveyors can assess these issues without having to access confined or elevated spaces, minimising the risk of accidents, such as falls from height.

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 

Thermal Imaging Surveys: Enhancing Building Efficiency and Performance

When it comes to maintaining the health, safety, and efficiency of your building, thermal imaging surveys are an indispensable tool. Utilizing cutting-edge infrared technology, these surveys detect temperature variations that reveal hidden issues invisible to the naked eye. Whether it’s identifying energy losses, spotting water leaks, or uncovering structural defects, thermal imaging provides a comprehensive diagnostic solution for both commercial and residential buildings.

At APT Sound Testing, we have over 15 years of experience conducting high-quality building thermographic surveys across England and Wales. Our detailed thermal imaging reports meet the stringent requirements of construction and insurance companies, facility managers, building control authorities, and BREEAM assessors.

The Benefits of Thermal Imaging Surveys

A thermal imaging survey is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can reveal various underlying building issues, including:

1. Improving Building Energy Efficiency

A heat loss thermal survey helps identify areas where the greatest energy savings can be achieved. By pinpointing insulation gaps and heat loss locations, property owners can take action to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

2. Detecting Dampness and Water Ingress

Infrared thermography can identify moisture trapped within walls, ceilings, and floors. Whether due to water leaks, damp penetration, or hidden structural defects, thermal imaging helps diagnose and resolve issues before they cause serious damage.

3. Identifying Water Leaks

Leaks within a building’s water system, including hidden leaks in pipework and underfloor heating systems, can be detected accurately using thermal imaging. Early detection reduces the risk of extensive water damage and costly repairs.

4. Detecting Thermal Bridging Issues

Thermal bridging occurs when insulation is missing or ineffective at door and window reveals, leading to excessive heat loss and condensation problems. Thermal imaging highlights these weak spots so they can be properly addressed.

5. Pinpointing Missing or Damaged Insulation

Poor workmanship can lead to missing or damaged insulation within floors, walls, and roofs. A thermal imaging survey quickly detects such deficiencies, allowing for targeted repairs that enhance building performance.

6. Identifying Air Infiltration and Leakage Paths

Cold drafts entering a building through gaps in the building envelope can create an uncomfortable indoor environment. Likewise, excessive air leakage allows warm air to escape, increasing energy costs. Thermal imaging helps locate and address these issues effectively.

Thermal Imaging for Homeowners

Thermal imaging house surveys are highly effective in assessing the thermal performance of residential properties. A home thermal camera survey can provide insights into:

• Heat loss through walls, roofs, windows, and doors.
• Damp or moisture ingress in walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Underfloor heating performance and hidden water leaks.
• Air leakage and drafts affecting indoor comfort.

By identifying and addressing these issues, homeowners can significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs.

BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is the world’s leading sustainability assessment standard for buildings. Thermal imaging surveys are a crucial component of BREEAM certification, ensuring insulation continuity and high energy efficiency standards.

APT Sound Testing has been conducting BREEAM-compliant thermal imaging surveys for over a decade. Our infrared inspections are carried out by Level 3 certified thermographers using state-of-the-art, high-resolution FLIR thermal cameras. By meeting BREEAM’s strict requirements, our surveys help property developers and managers secure valuable BREEAM credits for their buildings.

Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

We are a trusted provider of professional thermal imaging surveys, offering:

• Expertise: Our team consists of highly trained Level 3 certified thermographers with extensive experience in building diagnostics.
• Advanced Equipment: We use the latest FLIR thermal imaging cameras to deliver accurate and reliable results.
• Comprehensive Reports: Our thermal imaging reports meet the requirements of construction companies, insurance providers, and BREEAM assessors.
• Fast & Efficient Service: With an office in central London, we provide rapid response times and flexible scheduling, including last-minute and weekend appointments.
• Multi-Accredited Laboratory: We operate under strict ISO standards to ensure the highest quality service from start to finish.

Contact APT Sound Testing

We are committed to delivering top-quality thermal imaging surveys tailored to your building’s specific needs. Our expert team is ready to assist you with identifying energy inefficiencies, water leaks, and structural issues.

Get in touch with us today to schedule your thermal imaging survey. Call us now at 01525 303 905 or visit our website to learn more about how we can help improve your building’s performance and efficiency.

Top 10 Ways to Prepare Your Smoke Shaft for an Air Tightness Test

Ensuring the safety and compliance of smoke shafts in buildings is a critical aspect of fire safety. Conducting an air tightness test on smoke shafts is essential to confirm their effectiveness in preventing the spread of smoke and fire.

Here are the top 10 ways to prepare smoke shafts for the test:

1. Consult with the Smoke Shaft Experts: Early consultation with air tightness consultants, that specialise in smoke shaft testing, can provide valuable insights into effective smoke shaft design and sealing strategies.
2. Set Airtightness Targets: Determine the required airtightness level, typically less than 3.8 m³/h/m² @ 50 Pa, and design your smoke shaft to meet this target; however, however some smoke shafts require different targets, so it’s always best to check.
3. Use Robust Construction Materials: Ensure the construction materials are robust enough to provide a tight air barrier, such as concrete walls or high-density blocks.
4. Seal Internal Finishes: Treat the inside of the shaft as the primary air seal line. Ensure the finish is smooth and sealed at all junctions and joints, especially where steels etc. penetrate through the shaft envelope.
5. Seal Service Penetrations: Carefully seal all service penetrations, structural penetrations, and cable penetrations to the smoke shaft envelope.
6. Seal Door Openings: Ensure all doors within the smoke shaft are fully sealed with heavy-duty materials.
7. Seal AOV Door Frames: The perimeter of the AOV doors should be mastic sealed to the shaft.
8. Seal Base and Head of Shaft: Carefully seal the base and head of the shaft prior to the air test.
9. Use Proper Testing Equipment: Use a UKAS calibrated blower door fan set to pressurize the shaft and measure the air tightness.
10. Address Test Failures: If the shaft fails to meet the air leakage target, use smoke testing and/or thermal imaging to identify and seal leaks.

By following these steps, you can ensure your smoke shaft is well-prepared for the air tightness test, enhancing building safety and compliance inline with latest building regulations.

Why choose APT for your Smoke Shafts Air Test

Our qualified and trained UKAS personnel are knowledgeable about the latest industry standards and testing methodologies. This expertise allows our engineers to identify potential issues via smoke testing and thermal imaging, and provide actionable recommendations to improve the performance of your smoke shafts.

By using a UKAS-accredited testing company, you can be assured that the test is conducted in accordance with relevant regulatory requirements and industry best practices. This compliance is essential for meeting building codes and ensuring the safety of occupants.

If you have a smoke shaft that requires testing, please contact APT Sound Testing on 07775 623464, or email us at info@airpressuretesting.net

BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys: Ensuring Energy Efficiency & Compliance

When it comes to sustainability and energy efficiency in buildings, BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) sets the gold standard. As the world’s leading environmental assessment and rating system for buildings, BREEAM recognises the importance of thermal imaging surveys in ensuring energy efficiency and structural integrity. By conducting a thermographic survey, buildings can earn valuable BREEAM credits, provided the inspection is carried out by a certified Level 2 thermographer.

At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys for various sectors, including:

• Data centers – Ensuring critical infrastructure is energy efficient and free from thermal anomalies.
• Building envelopes – Identifying insulation gaps, air leakage, and construction defects.
• Flat roofs – Detecting water ingress and thermal bridging issues.
• Electrical and mechanical installations – Preventing overheating, inefficiencies, and potential failures.

Why Choose a BREEAM Thermal Survey?

Thermal imaging surveys are a non-invasive and non-destructive way to inspect a building’s performance. They help in identifying areas where heat is escaping or where insulation is compromised, which can lead to energy loss and increased operational costs. Whether you’re assessing insulation continuity for Building Regulations Part L, checking for air leakage paths, or inspecting underfloor heating systems, our thermal surveys provide precise and actionable results.

Certified Expertise You Can Trust

Our team at APT Sound Testing consists of certified professional engineers with years of experience in thermal imaging surveys, BREEAM compliance, construction, engineering, and maintenance. We ensure that every survey is conducted meticulously, delivering accurate results that help you meet compliance standards and optimize your building’s performance.

When Can a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey Be Carried Out?

A thermographic inspection can be conducted once the building envelope is complete and heating is operational. To streamline the compliance process, we also offer complementary pre-completion testing services, including:

• Air Tightness Testing (Building Regulations Part L compliance)
• Sound Testing (Building Regulations Part E compliance)
• Planning Noise Surveys (BS8233 & BS4142)
• Server Room Integrity Testing

Preparing for a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey

To ensure accurate and effective results, a few steps must be taken before the survey:

1. Provide Building Drawings – We require a full set of elevation, roof, and floor plan drawings before the site visit.
2. Heating & AC Setup – The building’s heating or air conditioning system must be turned on at least 12 hours before the inspection to create a minimum 10°C temperature difference between the interior and exterior.
3. Dry & Stable Conditions – Surfaces must be dry and free from solar loading (i.e., no sunlight warming external surfaces before testing).
4. Clear Surroundings – Remove any materials stacked against the building envelope, such as timber sheeting.
5. Time the Survey Right – To prevent interference from solar gain, we typically start the survey one hour before sunrise. This may require an early morning visit, so a responsible site contact should be available.
6. Provide Safe Access – The site representative must ensure safe access to all areas, including roofs and elevated sections. If necessary, the client must supply a cherry picker and a certified operator.
7. Control Internal & External Openings – Internal doors should remain open to maintain uniform internal temperatures, while external doors and windows must be closed to prevent heat loss.
8. Site Safety Briefing – Our engineer must receive a site-specific risk briefing from a competent person.
9. Obtain Permits to Work – Any necessary permits must be secured before fieldwork begins.

Let’s Get Started

We make the process of booking and conducting a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey simple and efficient. Just provide us with basic details like floor plans, elevation drawings, and the building location, and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll also send you a helpful checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared.

For professional BREEAM-compliant thermographic inspections, contact APT Sound Testing today at 01525 303905. Our Level 2 certified thermographers are ready to assist you anywhere in London and the UK. Let’s work together to enhance your building’s energy efficiency and sustainability!

Enhance Safety and Efficiency with Thermal Imaging

In recent years, facility management companies have recognized the critical role of electrical thermal imaging inspections in predictive maintenance programs. This advanced technology helps identify potential faults before they become costly failures, making it an essential tool for maintaining electrical systems efficiently.

What is Electrical Thermal Imaging?

Thermal imaging is a non-invasive technique used to detect heat patterns and irregularities in electrical systems. Unlike spot pyrometers, which require testing individual components, a thermal imaging camera can capture a comprehensive image of an electrical system, revealing multiple issues in a single scan. This allows maintenance teams to address potential problems before they escalate into serious failures.

Why Do You Need an Electrical Thermal Imaging Inspection?

Electrical systems are the backbone of many industries, and their failure can lead to severe consequences such as power outages, equipment damage, and even fires. A thermal imaging inspection is a cost-effective solution to prevent such risks, especially for businesses that rely on high-voltage systems or uninterrupted power supply. Industries that benefit the most from thermal imaging include:

• Data centers – Ensuring uninterrupted server operation
• Banks – Protecting critical financial transactions
• Hospitals – Maintaining power supply for life-saving equipment
• Manufacturing plants – Avoiding production downtime
• Utility suppliers – Ensuring continuous energy distribution

Key Benefits of Electrical Thermal Imaging Inspections

• Extended Equipment Lifespan – Identifies faults early, preventing premature wear and tear.
• Reduced Downtime – Minimises unexpected failures, keeping operations running smoothly.
• Energy Efficiency – Detects inefficiencies in electrical systems, reducing energy waste.
• Enhanced Safety – Prevents electrical fires and hazardous incidents.
• Optimised Maintenance Planning – Helps prioritise maintenance tasks for maximum efficiency.

Buildings That Require Thermal Imaging Inspections

Thermal imaging inspections are beneficial across a wide range of facilities, including:

• Office buildings
• Hospitals
• Server rooms
• Data centers
• Industrial plants and factories
• Warehouses and cold storage facilities
• Retail stores
• Backup generators and UPS rooms

What to Expect from APT Thermal Imaging Services

At APT Thermal Imaging, we provide comprehensive thermal imaging reports tailored to your predictive maintenance programs. Our reports are easy to understand, and our experienced thermographers are available to explain the findings in simple terms.

If you require an electrical infrared thermal imaging survey, our certified Level 2 and Level 3 Thermographers will perform inspections in accordance with industry standards and regulations, including BREEAM compliance.

How to Get a Quote

Getting started is easy! To provide you with an accurate quotation, we require the following details:

• Building address and location
• Number of electrical installations within the facility
• Floor plans and elevation drawings (if available)

We will also send you an informative checklist to help you prepare for the thermal survey, ensuring a smooth and efficient inspection process.

Contact Us Today

For more information on our thermal imaging services, contact APT Sound Testing today. Our team is ready to assist you with professional thermal imaging inspections to keep your facility safe and efficient.

📞 Call us: 01525 303905
📧 Email us: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk

Ensure your electrical systems are running at peak performance and schedule your thermal imaging inspection today!

BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys

For over a decade, APT Sound Testing has been providing professional BREEAM thermal imaging surveys to ensure insulation continuity in buildings. Leveraging state-of-the-art, high-resolution thermal imaging equipment and conducted by certified Level 2 thermographers, our surveys deliver precise and reliable results.

What Are BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys?

Thermal imaging surveys have become a core component of BREEAM—the world’s leading environmental assessment and rating system for buildings. BREEAM establishes the benchmark for excellence in sustainable building design, construction, and operation. Both BREEAM New Construction and BREEAM Domestic Refurbishment programs acknowledge the importance of thermal imaging surveys, awarding credits for assessments conducted by a Level 2 certified thermographer.

Our Thermal Imaging Survey Services

At APT Sound Testing, we offer thermal imaging surveys across a variety of sectors and applications, including:

• Data Centres: Ensuring efficient thermal management and detecting insulation deficiencies.
• Building Envelopes: Identifying air leakage paths and insulation gaps in walls, roofs, and facades.
• Flat Roofs: Assessing roof conditions to detect trapped moisture or compromised insulation.
• Electrical & Mechanical Installations: Locating faults, overheating components, and inefficiencies.

Whether your project requires compliance with Part L2 (b) of the Building Regulations, air leakage detection, insulation continuity checks, or underfloor heating inspections, we have a tailored solution to meet your specific needs. Our commitment to accuracy and integrity ensures that we deliver dependable results every time.

Non-Invasive and Reliable Testing

BREEAM thermal imaging surveys are completely non-invasive and non-destructive. This means that during inspections, your building will not experience any mechanical or physical damage. This approach ensures minimal disruption while delivering actionable insights.

Experienced and Certified Professionals

Our team of certified Level 2 thermographers has extensive experience conducting thermal imaging surveys across a range of industries and applications. With expertise spanning BREEAM standards, construction, engineering, maintenance, and management, we bring unparalleled knowledge and skill to every project.

Preparing for Your Survey

To provide a quote and prepare for your thermal imaging survey, we require some essential details, including:

• Floor plans and elevation drawings
• The location of the building

We’ll also provide you with a helpful preparation checklist to ensure your property is ready for the survey, maximizing the effectiveness of the inspection.

Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

• Top-of-the-Line Equipment: Our cutting-edge thermal imaging cameras detect faults and issues that standard equipment might miss.
• Comprehensive Reports: Professionally compiled and delivered via email, our reports are typically available within 24 hours of survey completion.
• Proactive Client Support: Our commitment to exceptional service has earned us long-term partnerships with our clients.
• Passion for Excellence: We are dedicated to helping businesses and individuals achieve significant improvements in sustainability and efficiency.

When to Conduct a BREEAM Thermal Inspection

A BREEAM thermal inspection can be conducted once the building envelope is complete, and the heating systems are operational. We also provide a complete range of pre-completion testing services, including:

• Air Tightness Testing for Building Regulations Part L
• Sound Testing for Building Regulations Part L
• Planning Noise Surveys for BS8233 and BS4142 compliance
• Server Room Integrity Testing

Contact Us

If you need a professional BREEAM thermal imaging survey in London or anywhere across the UK, look no further than APT Sound Testing. Our certified Level 2 thermographers ensure compliance with all relevant standards and regulations, delivering the highest level of accuracy and professionalism.

To book your survey or request a quotation, contact us today:

• Phone: 01525 303905
• Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk

We look forward to helping you achieve your BREEAM compliance goals with our industry-leading thermal imaging services.

Indoor Air Quality Testing and the Construction Industry
In recent years, the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) has gained significant attention, and for good reason. As we spend a substantial amount of time indoors, whether it be at home, work, or other indoor spaces, the quality of the air we breathe can have a profound impact on our health and well-being. This is particularly relevant to the construction industry, where IAQ testing plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and healthy environments for workers and occupants alike.

During the construction process, various materials, such as paints, adhesives, solvents, and building products, are used extensively. While these materials are essential for building construction and renovation, they can release harmful pollutants into the air, potentially causing health issues if not managed properly. Indoor Air Quality testing in the construction industry aims to identify and mitigate these risks, creating healthier and safer indoor environments.

So, what exactly is IAQ testing, and how does it relate to the construction industry? IAQ testing involves the assessment of indoor air to determine the presence of pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, particulate matter, mold, and other potential contaminants. It typically involves a combination of sampling, monitoring, and analysis to evaluate air quality parameters, such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, and specific pollutants.

In the construction industry, IAQ testing serves multiple purposes:

1️⃣ Compliance with Regulations: Construction projects must adhere to building codes, regulations, and standards established by local, state, and federal authorities. Many jurisdictions now require IAQ assessments to ensure that new buildings or renovations meet minimum air quality requirements. By conducting IAQ testing, construction companies can demonstrate compliance and avoid potential legal and health-related issues.

2️⃣ Worker Safety: Construction workers are exposed to various hasardous substances and conditions on a daily basis. Poor IAQ can exacerbate these risks, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, headaches, fatigue, and other health concerns. Regular IAQ testing allows construction companies to identify and address potential hasards, implementing appropriate control measures to protect workers’ health and well-being.

3️⃣ Occupant Health and Comfort: Once a construction project is completed, buildings are occupied by individuals who expect a safe and healthy environment. Poor IAQ can contribute to “sick building syndrome,” where occupants experience symptoms like coughing, sneesing, eye irritation, and fatigue. IAQ testing during and after construction helps ensure that the building’s indoor environment meets acceptable standards, promoting the well-being and comfort of its occupants.

4️⃣ Reputation and Customer Satisfaction: In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, people are becoming more aware of the importance of IAQ and its impact on their health. Construction companies that prioritise IAQ testing demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of their workers and the future occupants of the buildings they construct. Such proactive measures not only enhance their reputation but also contribute to customer satisfaction and overall project success.

To effectively address IAQ concerns in the construction industry, it is crucial for companies to incorporate IAQ testing into their project planning and execution. This includes engaging IAQ professionals who can conduct comprehensive assessments, provide guidance on best practices, and assist in implementing appropriate ventilation systems and pollutant control measures.

5️⃣ Green Building Certifications: Many construction projects strive to achieve green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or WELL Building Standard. These certifications place a strong emphasis on IAQ and require comprehensive testing and monitoring throughout the construction process. By conducting IAQ testing, construction companies can meet the criteria for these certifications, enhancing the marketability and sustainability of their projects.

6️⃣ Building Performance Optimisation: IAQ testing is not limited to new construction. Existing buildings can also benefit from testing to identify and rectify potential IAQ issues. Construction companies involved in renovation and retrofitting projects can conduct IAQ assessments to improve the performance of older buildings, enhancing energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and overall air quality.

7️⃣ Preventing Mold and Moisture Issues: Construction sites are susceptible to moisture intrusion, which can lead to mold growth if left unaddressed. Mold not only affects IAQ but also poses a serious health risk to occupants. IAQ testing can help identify areas of moisture buildup, enabling construction companies to take preventive measures and ensure proper ventilation and drying techniques are in place, thereby mitigating the risk of mold formation.

8️⃣ Long-Term Cost Savings: Investing in IAQ testing during construction can yield long-term cost savings for building owners and occupants. By identifying and rectifying IAQ issues early on, construction companies can prevent costly remediation efforts down the line. Additionally, optimising ventilation systems and controlling pollutant sources can result in energy savings and reduced operational costs for building owners.

9️⃣ Collaboration with HVAC Professionals: Indoor air quality is intricately linked to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Collaboration between construction companies and HVAC professionals is essential to ensure proper design, installation, and maintenance of HVAC systems that promote good IAQ. By working together, construction companies can ensure that the building’s ventilation system meets industry standards and effectively removes contaminants from the indoor environment.

Indoor air quality testing is not merely an optional add-on in the construction industry but a vital component for creating safe, healthy, and sustainable indoor environments. By integrating IAQ testing into construction projects, companies can demonstrate their commitment to worker safety, occupant health, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility.

Ultimately, prioritising IAQ testing contributes to the overall success, reputation, and longevity of the construction industry in an era where indoor environmental quality is gaining increasing attention and significance.

Soundproofing & Sound Insulation Testing

Adequately soundproofing your project to ensure you pass your sound insulation testing and meet the requirements of Approved Document Part E, should not be seen as pain. Achieving good soundproofing between dwellings such as houses and flats is incredibly important for our cities.

Residents don’t want to hear their neighbours through a poorly soundproofed party wall or floor. Currently, poor Sound Insulation is an issue that plagues many types of developments. This is accentuated if you have a noise neighbour who may like to play loud music, drum kits or simply enjoy tap dancing on the floor above your poorly soundproofed property.

Sound Insulation Testing
Most home owners may not understand the importance of Sound Insulation Testing to show compliance with the Part E of Building Regulations. When developers undertake the acoustic design and construction to their projects, they should be aiming for more than just a marginal pass; it should be about trying to attain a sound insulation performance of 55dB for airborne sound and 52dB for impact sound.

If developers design their projects to attain the aforementioned sound insulation values, they will reap the benefits in the long run. If they rent the blocks, their clients renting the dwellings will be less likely to leave due to noise issues.  Another plus is they will not have to deal with noise complaints on a weekly basis which can be stressful for both the resident and the development team. 

Having undertaken hundreds of design reviews for architects, developers and builders we know the challenges behind soundproofing new and converted developments. However complicated the construction, we try to find a solution to improve the sound insulation and help you pass your sound insulation test.

Firstly we look at the four basic principles of soundproofing

Ensuring Adequate Mass

One of the key ways to improve the sound insulation of a party floor or wall is to ensure there is adequate mass, this can be done by using one of the high mass acoustic mineral wool products. Using sound board (15mm) will help to ensure your plasterboard lining/s have the optimum mass to pass. It is very difficult to achieve the requirements of Approved Document E when using standard 12.5mm plasterboard on your wall and/or ceilings. If extra linings such as plywood, OSB, and cement board are introduced it makes the walls heavy and a lot more rigid, meaning the vibrations will be reduced

Decoupling Materials

All too often, residents can hear their neighbours walking across the floor in the apartment above them. This is particularly noticeable in if the apartment above has a marble tile and/or or a hardwood finish. When the units have this type of finish, it is essential that the floor partition has an acoustically robust construction

There are many ways to reduce the sound of footfall noise from the flat above, the best way is to introduce is decoupling to the ceiling structure to make it separate from the floor joists.  This can be done incorporating a Resilient Bar System, A suspended MF Ceiling or Independent Ceiling and/or a Genie Clip System. All these systems should decouple the soundboard lining from the joists above.

To improve further on the above upgrade/s you can also add a good quality acoustic mineral wool between the joists, studwork or ceiling void.  This needs to be tightly fitted between the framework to ensure good material coverage ‘so it doesn’t have any gaps or voids. You can also upgrade party walls; by using the systems mentioned above, as it will help to reduce the intensity and spread of sound waves and vibration through the party wall and should help you pass your sound insulation test.

In our experience the best results are usually attained by constructing a twin wall consisting of two layers of studwork, with a high density acoustic mineral wool between each stud wall with two layers of soundboard either-side.

We offer a total acoustic package consisting of acoustic consultancy and sound insulation testing; with a practical and costs effective approach from start to finish.

Ensure an Air Tight Construction

You can greatly improve your sound insulation performance by the introduction of an air tight seal. If there is any air leakage paths, gaps or holes sound will find a way through. Inadequate air sealing is one of the most common reasons for Sound insulation Test Failures. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest things to improve.

Introduce Damping to your Construction

If you introduce damping to your party wall and ceilings it can help to reduce the vibrations through the construction caused by sound waves. Previously we have advised clients to use Tecsound between the plasterboard layers to great effect.

Damping materials such as Tecsound can be applied almost all types of party wall and floor construction where two layers of plasterboard board are being installed. When combined with genie clips, this can be a quick and effective way to upgrade your acoustic construction on site.

More Information on Sound Insulation Testing
If you would like more information on how to prepare your HMO project for sound insulation testing, please download our checklist of visit our website at: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk

If you need to contact us please you have a protected enclosure and you require a room integrity test, please contact us at: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or call us on 01525 303905.

Clean Room Testing Services

Cleanrooms play critical roles in maintaining contamination free production environments for critical processes. To ensure your cleanroom is working as designed it is essential that a well planned and executed cleanroom testing and certification and maintenance program is undertaken for operation and regulatory compliance. APT cleanroom testing offers clean room testing and clean room certification. APT Clean Room Testing specialise in the testing and validation of all types of clean rooms from the Nano technology to the automotive industries.

Clean Room Testing Services

We offer the complete range of performance tests, including non-viable airborne particulate monitoring and HEPA filter testing, through to airflow volume flow measurement and air change rate calculations for non-unidirectional systems. We also offer airflow velocity measurements for unidirectional systems and room differential pressure measurement. Using our latest smoke survey equipment we also offer accurate airflow visualisation testing.  We also offer temperature and humidity monitoring and air tightness testing to check for air leakage paths through the clean room envelope.

Our primary cleanroom tests include:

• Non-viable particulate monitoring
• Airflow volume/velocity profiling
• Room air exchange rates
• HEPA filter integrity testing
• Room pressurisation monitoring
• Temperature and humidity monitoring

Using our technical knowledge and experience in cleanroom testing coupled with our steadfast commitment to quality and the highest standards of customer service we provide our clients with reliable, accurate and thoroughly documented clean room testing results, ensuring optimal cleanroom performance, documented regulatory and quality compliance, and minimised facility down time as most companies clean rooms are their main critical asset.

Following our clean room testing service or validation service, we present you with a clear, well-structured reportage that can be compiled, quality checked and issued to you while still on site, minimising the down time of your operations. We will also take time to explain the process and reportage to ensuring that you fully understand the testing process and your final results.

We will issue you with test certificates, as well as calibration certificates for all of the equipment used and we will also document any recommendations for improvements that could be made to make the clean room more efficient in regards to its operation.

Particulate Testing to Clean Rooms

APT Clean Room Testing provide trained clean room test engineers, offering comprehensive and proactive validation service to the requirements of all current ISO standards and guidelines. We are customer driven and continually try to exceed our customers’ expectations, both in terms of price and service. Our careful attention to detail ensures that our reports and certificates are of the highest quality and customers can be confident that their external calibration and validation requirements have been met. Our commitment to quality is backed up by our UKAS accreditation. Our test engineers are well trained, highly motivated and flexible individuals who ensure constant and consistent delivery of our high standards.

ISO Standard 14644-1: 1999 has recently been updated to the 2015 version. It requires changes to sampling procedures and monitoring plans for cleanrooms and clean zones, all of which is outlined in the revised ISO 14644-1:2015 standard. Organisations will be required to redefine their validation sampling plans and data evaluation and will obviously affect the clean room testing reportage.

The updated ISO 14644-1:2015, specifies the classification of air cleanliness in terms of concentration of airborne particles in cleanrooms and clean zones and is the first significant revision since its original release in 1999.

The major change from ISO 14644-1:1999 publication is the adoption of a more consistent statistical approach to the selection and number of sampling locations; and thereafter the evaluation of the data collected. 

This new approach allows each location to be treated independently with at least a 95 % level of confidence that at least 90 % of the cleanroom or clean zone areas will comply with the maximum particle concentration limit for the target class of air cleanliness.

Cleanroom users will have to make changes to the cleanroom validation procedures to meet the requirements laid out in the latest version of ISO 14644-1:2015 and ISO 14644-2:2015.  It is possible that the revised standard will require cleanroom owners to make changes to their cleanroom to ensure they continue to achieve the required classification and remain compliant.

If you would like more information on our cleanroom testing services please don’t hesitate to contact APT Sound Testing directly on 07775 623464 or email us at: info@aptcleanroomservices.co.uk

UKAS Accredited Sound Testing

The need to carry out sound insulation testing to assess and report the acoustic performance of dividing partitions between dwellings has become increasingly important in order to demonstrate that a building’s intended performance is achieved when constructed.

Poor design detailing and/or onsite construction can have a significant impact on the overall performance of building elements and the building as a whole. Post completion sound testing provides greater certainty that designed performances are actually being achieved in compliance with Approved Document E.

Pre-completion Sound Testing is now an integral part of supporting the completion certificate process throughout the UK and Ireland. In order to ensure that testing is undertaken within a robust regime which controls the reliability of test results, government guidance is in place which describes restrictions on those who should carry out sound testing and reportage.

Approved Document E states a set of sound tests should be carried out for every ten dwellings (houses, flats or rooms for residential purposes). However, if the development has several different construction types, you may need to carry out further tests for each type of construction.

For houses this usually means you are required to undertake 2 airborne wall sound tests (up to 10 houses) to the dividing walls. For flats you will be usually be required to undertake 2 airborne wall, 2 airborne floor and 2 impact floor tests (up to 10 Flats). When we undertake a fee proposal for clients, we always include a full testing schedule so it can be submitted to building control for their approval prior to the test date.  

One of the stipulations of Approved Document E is that the testing company needs to be UKAS accredited, this is covered under the Resistance to the passage of sound: Approved Document E [ADE] it goes on to state that “The person carrying out the building work should arrange for sound insulation testing to be carried out by a test body with appropriate third party accreditation” and is downloadable at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/resistance-to-sound-approved-document-e.

APT Sound Testing is UKAS accredited to carry out sound insulation testing and is laboratory and as a result our reports will be accepted by building control – here is a link to our UKAS Sound Testing Accreditation: https://www.ukas.com/wp-content/uploads/schedule_uploads/00002/4340Testing%20Multiple.pdf

For future note we are also UKAS accredited to carry out Air Tightness Testing – here is a link to our UKAS Air Tightness Accreditation: https://www.ukas.com/wp-content/uploads/schedule_uploads/00002/4340Testing%20Multiple.pdf

If you would like more information on our sound testing service and/or other services please contact us now at: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or visit our website at www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk.