INSTALLING ACOUSTIC INSULATION

Guide for Installing Acoustic Insulation
In our experience to stand the best possible chance of passing your sound tests at the first attempt it is important not only that you use the right products, but also you install them correctly.

We have produced a list below of the major problem causes that can arise during our experience during sound testing and sound test design and construction. (It's worth noting that some items may not apply to your type of construction).

1. Ensure that the sub-floor is watertight and sealed with mastic or silicon.
2. If installing floating screed ensure all isolation layer joints are overlapped and taped.
3. Ensure that the Acoustic floor is fitted with staggered joints.
4. Ensure all the Acoustic floor is sealed watertight even around heating pipes.
5. Do not nail or screw through an Acoustic Floor.
6. Do not screw plaster board into joists, when using Resilient Bars.
7. Ensure the insulation fills the whole width of void, also pack around pipe work.
8. Ensure that the plasterboard on any walls is complete right down to sub-floor, seal all gaps.
9. Ensure you use the isolation tape around the wall of each room.
10. Ensure plasterboard is fitted with staggered layers and all joints sealed.
11. If using Resilient Bars ensure that they are fitted as per manufacturer's recommendations.
12. Ensure all Fireplaces are blocked up with brick or plasterboard.
13. Ensure that any RSJ's or supporting steel work is insulated and isolated from plasterboard.
14. Ensure all waste pipe service runs are boxed in with insulation and plasterboard.
15. Do not fit carpets or laminated flooring before you have passed the test.
16. You must fit doors and windows before the test is carried out, to stop noise transference.
17. Please ensure 240v power is available on each floor, we cannot use 110V.
18. Please ensure we have access to all areas under test, i.e. for flats the plots to the sides, above and below. For houses the plots either side.
19. No building work can take place during tests as it excess background noise levels can have adverse effect on the results.

If you would like more information in regards to sound testing please follow our blog at: http://soundtestinguk.blogspot.co.uk/, or contact us at: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or visit our website at: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk

APT Sound Testing Services
Head Office: Sayells Farm, 7 Harlington Road, Upper Sundon, Bedfordshire, LU3 3PE