A successful Architectural Acoustics solution significantly reduces unwanted noise in the built environment. By containing sound and vibrations within a space or by isolating a space from an outside unwanted noise, architectural soundproofing works.
When addressing the acoustics for a project there are 2 main sources of unwanted noise to consider. Sound transferring from room to room or from the outside can cause a sound level that is difficult to live with. The second main source of unwanted noise are vibrations from impact travelling through the structure.
The effectiveness of any assembly designed for noise and vibration control can be quantified using the metrics STC (Sound Transmission Class) and IIC (Impact Isolation Class). It is important to understand how the ratings work and how to use them properly. See below for additional information on STC and IIC.
As engineering techniques and materials have improved over the years, our structures have become lighter. The spaces within them are used more efficiently. This progress is making our built environments greener and healthier and has allowed us to increase density in cities. It has also led to new problems to be managed and an increased likelihood of unwanted noise and vibration transfer.
Acoustic Challenges Of Mass Timber Construction
The next major change in our industry is the large scale adoption of mass timber construction. Products such as cross laminated timber (CLT), nail laminated timber (NLT), glulam and other engineered and composite timber systems can have a negative affect on the environment. Using materials such as CLT is a greener alternative to concrete, but it is also a considerably less dense building material.
The STC and IIC values of floor, wall and ceiling assemblies for mass timber designs are lower than in concrete structures. The level of design and planning for noise control that was once only required on specific projects, with spaces like theatres or gyms, has become part of the standard process.
With Vibra-Sonic on your team we will be up to this challenge.
The Right Product With Expert Support
Whether you are simply looking to reduce the noise created by impact in a room or completely isolating a space by constructing a room with in a room (box in box), for acoustical design to work, it is critical you follow a number of key steps.
To start, it is very important to select the best product to meet your needs. Working with an acoustical consultant you will be presented with the best options to solve your noise problems. Once the product is selected, it is crucial that it is installed correctly. This is so the paths’ vibrations can follow through a structure to be identified and isolated.
At Vibra-Sonic we pride ourselves on our excellent support for every product we sell with highly experienced in house staff. In addition, we work closely with the engineering support team from the manufacturers that have many successful projects around the world.
Representing The Best In The Industry
Vibra-Sonic is proud to represent 2 of the industry leaders and innovators in architectural acoustics: Mason Industries and Regupol Acoustics.
With best in class noise solutions for floors, walls and ceilings, we have you covered. From floating concrete slab systems to acoustics isolation clips for walls and ceilings we have a solution to meet your needs. Our solutions are made from a variety of acoustic materials that act as an acoustic insulator for sound absorption, reduce background noise and improve sound quality.
Mason Industries has been perfecting vibration isolation systems for over 60 years. They were the first to introduce jack up floating isolation slabs to the market in 1965.
With a focus on products to meet the most demanding specifications, Mason industries is a true industry leader. Their products include in spring and LDS rubber architectural isolation systems with floor mounts, wall sway braces, and hangers for drop ceiling systems.
Regupol Acoustics brings their over 65 years of experience in sustainability into every product they make by using recycled rubber.
Regupol Acoustics will not only give your projects a green advantage with Green Circle Certified products and LEED points, you are also getting lab tested high IIC and STC assemblies so that you can be confident in the results.
Between these 2 amazing manufacturers, Vibra-Sonic can provide your next project with the full spectrum of options.
STC and IIC
Sound Transmission Class (or STC) is an integer rating of how well a building partition attenuates airborne sound. It is widely used across North America.
Apparent Sound Transmission Class, (or ASTC), is similar but it is based on field tests and includes flanking as a variable.
Impact Isolation Class (or IIC) is, in basic terms, a measure of how well a floor/ceiling assembly can mitigate the sound heard in one room from an impact made on a floor in the space directly above.
OUR PURPOSE
Vibra-Sonic Control technical experts design solutions that control noise and vibration resulting from mechanical equipment, environmental or human sources. This enables our customers to avoid risk and costly impact to productivity, privacy or quality of life.