A large concern when it comes to Multifamily housing construction and renovations is acoustic privacy. It can make or break just about any project. Tenants are looking for housing with units with good acoustics and noise control. It is a positive investment that adds marketable value to the property.
Going beyond early designs of not putting the fitness or laundry room next to living spaces. Also taking into account background sounds, such as HVAC, pumps and compressors, systems, road and highway sounds, loud radios and televisions, and noise from adjoining units.
“Be aware that building to code may not be good enough. Building codes offer little in the way of acoustic privacy. From an acoustics standpoint, expert panelists agreed, building to code is like getting a D on a test. Don’t rely on conformance to codes alone to achieve acceptable acoustic performance,” a group of experts recently told Building Design and Construction.
Economic solutions
Many multifamily housing are using an interior wall design with a double wall, at least an inch of sound absorbing insulation, and two rows of studs. Which is highly successful at reducing noise. Other projects are using a layer of masonry between the frame assemblies. There are many new noise damping technology on the market, laminate drywall, multiple layer window glazing, resilient clips and elements which reduce sound.
Flooring and ceiling acoustics play a major role. There are several flooring and underlayment options the minimize and muffle footsteps sounds.
If you need more information on construction design or renovations of your next project, contact SWET Construction Group.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Family at SWET Construction Group encourages everyone to join us in learning more about breast cancer and support those who are suffering with the disease.
Though we have made great progress in early detection, cancer treatment and finding a cure, we still have a long way to go