E

Sound

Building
Regulations
2014

Technical
Guidance
Document

Comhshaol, Pobal agus Rialtas Áitiúil

Environment, Community and Local Government
 
Building Regulations 2014

Technical Guidance Document E

Sound

BAILE ÁTHA CLIATH

ARNA FHOILSIÚ AG OIFIG AN tSOLÁTHAIR
Le ceannach díreach ó
FOILSEACHÁIN RIALTAIS,
52 FAICHE STIABHNA, BAILE ÁTHA CLIATH 2
(Teil: 01 – 6476834 nó 1890 213434; Fax 01 – 6476843)

__________

DUBLIN
PUBLISHED BY THE STATIONERY OFFICE
To be purchased from
GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS,
52 ST. STEPHEN'S GREEN, DUBLIN 2.
(Tel: 01 – 6476834 or 1890 213434; Fax: 01 – 6476843)

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minimum of 75% post-consumer waste
© Government of Ireland 2014
Contents

Page
Introduction 5
Transitional arrangements 5
The guidance 5
Existing buildings 5
Technical specifications 6
Materials and workmanship 6
Interpretation 6

Part E - The requirement 7

Section 0: General guidance 8

0.1 Application of Part E 8

0.1.1 General 8
0.1.2 Guidance 9
0.1.3 Definitions 9

0.2 Sound 11
0.2.1 General 11
0.2.2 Direct transmission of sound 11
0.2.3 Flanking transmission of sound 12

0.3 Other design considerations 12

0.3.1 General 12
0.3.2 Room layout and building services 13

Section 1: Performance 14

1.1 Performance 14
1.1.1 General 14
1.1.2 Compliance method 14
1.1.3 Protected structures 14

Section 2: Testing 16

2.1 Testing 16
2.1.1 General 16
2.1.2 Competency of tester 16
2.1.3 Requirements for testing 16
2.1.4 Establishing the appropriate amount of testing required 16
2.1.5 Sets of tests 17

2.2 Programme of testing 18

2.2.1 General 18
2.2.2 Initial testing 18
2.2.3 Minimum frequency of testing 18
2.2.4 Reporting procedure 18
2.2.5 Actions following a failed set of tests 18

1
2.3 Assessed Sound Details (ASDs) 19
2.3.1 General 19

2.4 Other Constructions 19

2.4.1 General 19

Section 3: Separating walls and associated flanking construction details 20

3.1 Separating wall construction 20

3.1.1 General 20
3.1.2 Types of wall 20

3.2 Flanking provisions 21

3.2.1 General 21
3.2.2 Junctions between separating walls and other building elements 21
3.2.3 Corridor walls 21
3.2.4 Entrance doors opening onto a common area of a building 21
3.2.5 Noise from services 21

3.3 Wall Type 1 (WT 1) - Solid masonry / concrete with plaster finish 23
3.3.1 General 23
3.3.2 Wall specification 23
3.3.3 Key junctions and flanking details 23

3.4 Wall Type 2 (WT 2) - Solid masonry with dry lining 27

3.4.1 General 27
3.4.2 Wall specification 27
3.4.3 Key junctions and flanking details 27

3.5 Wall Type 3 (WT 3) - Cavity masonry with plaster finish 31

3.5.1 General 31
3.5.2 Wall specification 31
3.5.3 Key junctions and flanking details 31

3.6 Wall Type 4 (WT 4) - Timber framed wall with absorbent material 35
3.6.1 General 35
3.6.2 Wall specification 35
3.6.3 Key junctions and flanking details 35

Section 4: Separating floors and associated flanking construction details 47

4.1 Separating floor construction 47

4.1.1 General 47
4.1.2 Types of floor 47

4.2 Flanking provisions 48

4.2.1 General 48
4.2.2 Junctions between separating floors and other building elements 48

2
4.3 Ceiling treatments 48
4.3.1 General 48
4.3.2 Example ceiling treatment for a concrete separating floor 48
4.3.3 Example ceiling treatments for a timber separating floor 48

4.4 Floor treatments 49

4.4.1 General 49
4.4.2 Resilient material 49
4.4.3 Impact sound reduced at source for FT 1 concrete separating floors 49
4.4.4 Floating floors 49
4.4.5 Example floating floor suitable for use with a FT 2 concrete separating floor 49
4.4.6 Example floating floor suitable for use with timber base separating floor 50

4.5 Performance based approach 51

4.5.1 General 51

4.6 Floor Type 1 (FT 1) - Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under 52
4.6.1 General 52
4.6.2 Floor specification 52
4.6.3 Key junctions and flanking details 52

4.7 Floor Type 2 (FT 2) – Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under 58
4.7.1 General 58
4.7.2 Floor specification 58
4.7.3 Key junctions and flanking details 58

4.8 Floor Type 3 (FT 3) – Floating layer on timber base with ceiling under 64
4.8.1 General 64
4.8.2 Floor specification 64
4.8.3 Key junctions and flanking details 64

Section 5: Reverberation control 69

5.1 Reverberation control 69

5.1.1 General 69
5.1.2 Common spaces 69
5.1.3 Choice of material 69

5.2 Methods of satisfying the requirement of Regulation E2 69

5.2.1 General 69
5.2.2 Method A 69
5.2.3 Method B 70

5.3 Report Format 70

5.3.1 General 70

3
Appendix A: Procedure for sound insulation testing and reporting 71

Appendix B: Assessed Sound Details 75

Appendix C: Reverberation control - Method B calculation 77

Referenced standards and publications 81

Other standards and publications 82

4
Building Regulations 2014
Technical Guidance Document E
Sound
Introduction Existing buildings
This document has been published by the In the case of material alterations or changes
Minister for the Environment, Community and of use of existing buildings, the adoption
Local Government, under article 7 of the without modification of the guidance in this
Building Regulations 1997. It provides document may not, in all circumstances, be
guidance in relation to Part E of the Second appropriate. In particular, the adherence to
Schedule to the Regulations. The document guidance, including codes, standards or
should be read in conjunction with the technical specifications, intended for
Building Regulations 1997-2014, and other application to new work may be unduly
documents published under these restrictive or impracticable. Buildings of
Regulations. In general, Building Regulations architectural or historical interest are
apply to the construction of new buildings and especially likely to give rise to such
to extensions and material alterations to circumstances. In these situations,
buildings. In addition, certain parts of the alternative approaches based on the
Regulations apply to existing buildings where principles contained in the document may be
a material change of use takes place. more relevant and should be considered.
Otherwise, Building Regulations do not apply
to buildings constructed prior to 1 June 1992. Technical specifications
Building Regulations are made for specific
Transitional arrangements purposes, e.g. to provide, in relation to
In general, this document applies to works, or buildings, for the health, safety and welfare of
buildings in which a material change of use persons, the conservation of energy and
takes place, where the works or the change access for people with disabilities. Technical
of use commence or takes place, as the case specifications (including harmonised
may be on or after 1 July 2015. Technical European Standards, European Technical
Guidance Document E – Sound dated 1997, Assessments, National Standards and
also ceases to have effect from that date. Agrément Certificates) are relevant to the
extent that they relate to these
considerations. Any reference to a technical
The guidance
specification is a reference to so much of the
The materials, methods of construction, specification as is relevant in the context in
standards and other specifications (including which it arises. Technical specifications may
technical specifications) which are referred to also address other aspects not covered by
in this document are those which are likely to the Regulations. A reference to a technical
be suitable for the purposes of the specification is to the latest edition (including
Regulations. Where works are carried out in any amendments, supplements or addenda)
accordance with the guidance in this current at the date of publication of this
document, this will, prima facie, indicate Technical Guidance Document. However, if
compliance with Part E of the Second this version of the technical specification is
Schedule to the Building Regulations. subsequently revised or updated by the
However, the adoption of an approach other issuing body, the new version may be used
than that outlined in the guidance is not as a source of guidance provided that it
precluded provided that the relevant continues to address the relevant
requirements of the Regulations are complied requirements of the Regulations.
with. Those involved in the design and
construction of a building may be required by A list of other standards and publications that
the relevant building control authority to deal with matters relating to this Part of the
provide such evidence as is necessary to Building Regulations is included at the end of
establish that the requirements of the this document. These standards and
Building Regulations are being complied with. publications maybe used as a source of
further information but do not form part of the

5
guidance.

Materials and workmanship

Under Part D of the Second Schedule to the
Building Regulations, building work to which
the Regulations apply must be carried out
with proper materials and in a workmanlike
manner. Guidance in relation to compliance
with Part D is contained in Technical
Guidance Document D.

Interpretation
In this document, a reference to a section,
sub-section, part, paragraph or diagram is,
unless otherwise stated, a reference to a
section, sub-section, part, paragraph or
diagram, as the case may be, of this
document. A reference to another Technical
Guidance Document is a reference to the
latest edition of a document published by the
Department of the Environment, Community
and Local Government, under article 7 of the
Building Regulations, (as amended).
Diagrams are used in this document to
illustrate particular aspects of construction -
they may not show all the details of
construction.

6
Sound

Part E - The requirement

Part E of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 1997 to 2014, provides as follows: -

Sound. E1 Each wall and floor separating a dwelling from -

(a) another dwelling or dwellings,
(b) other parts of the same building,
(c) adjoining buildings,
shall be designed and constructed in such a way so as to
provide reasonable resistance to sound.

Reverberation. E2 The common internal part of a building which provides direct

access to a dwelling shall be designed and constructed so as to
limit reverberation in the common part to a reasonable level

Definitions for this Part. E3 In this Part –

“Reverberation” means the persistence of sound in a space after

a sound source has been stopped.

7
Section 0
General guidance

0.1 Application of Part E thereof) becoming used as one or more

dwellings.
0.1.1 General
0.1.1.1 The aim of Part E of the Second 0.1.1.4 The purpose of the requirement of
Schedule to the Building Regulations is to Regulation E1 is to protect occupants from
ensure that dwellings achieve reasonable airborne and impact noise generated in and
levels of sound insulation from sound around dwellings. Diagram 1 illustrates the
transmission emanating from adjoining relevant location of walls and floors which are
buildings or differently occupied parts of the required to have reasonable sound insulation
same building. in order to satisfy the requirement of
Regulation E1.
0.1.1.2 For the purposes of Part E of the
Second Schedule of the Building Regulations 0.1.1.5 The purpose of the requirement of
(as amended), the types of sound to be Regulation E2 is to protect occupants from
considered are airborne and impact sounds noise produced from reverberation in
and sound arising from reverberation. common internal areas which provide direct
access to a dwelling or dwellings.
0.1.1.3 The Requirements of Part E apply to:
0.1.1.6 Part E does not address
(a) new dwellings and extensions to environmental noise through the building
dwellings which adjoin other buildings, facade from external sources such as aircraft,
and trains, road traffic or industry.

(b) works, involving a material change of

use that result in a building (or part

Diagram 1 Scope of requirement of Regulation E1

(Par. 0.1.1.4)

8
 0.1.4 Definitions
0.1.3 Guidance
0.1.4.1 For the purposes of this document,
0.1.3.1 This document applies to dwellings
the following terms and definitions apply:
and some common areas of buildings
providing direct access to dwellings. It gives
Absorption - Conversion of sound energy to
guidance in relation to the achievement of
heat, often by the use of a porous material.
reasonable sound insulation insofar as it
relates to non-complex buildings of normal
Absorption coefficient - A quantity
design and construction. Specialist advice
characterising the effectiveness of a sound
may be needed in certain situations to
absorbing surface. The proportion of sound
establish if a higher standard of sound
energy absorbed is given as a number
insulation is required and, if so, to determine
between zero (for a fully reflective surface)
the appropriate level.
and one (for a fully absorptive surface).
0.1.3.2 This Technical Guidance Document is
NOTE: Sound absorption coefficients
divided into six sections.
determined from laboratory measurements
Section 0 provides general information on may have values slightly larger than one.
sound. Refer to I.S. EN ISO 354.

Section 1 relates to the performance level Absorptive material - Material that absorbs
required to meet the requirement of sound energy.
Regulation E1.
Airborne sound - Sound which is
Section 2 provides guidance on testing as a propagated from a noise source through the
means of demonstrating that the construction medium of air, e.g. speech and sound from a
complies with the requirement of Regulation television.
E1.
Airborne sound insulation - Sound
Section 3 provides examples of wall types insulation that reduces transmission of
which, if constructed correctly, should airborne sound between buildings or parts of
achieve the performance level set out in buildings.
Section 1.
Air path - A direct or indirect air passage
Section 4 provides examples of floor types from one side of a structure to the other.
which, if constructed correctly, should
achieve the performance level set out in Cavity stop - A proprietary product or
Section 1. material such as mineral wool used to close
the gap in a cavity wall to minimise flanking
Section 5 provides guidance on the control of sound transmission along the wall cavity.
reverberation in certain common internal
parts of buildings and relates to the Cavity barrier - A construction provided to
requirement of Regulation E2. close a concealed space against penetration
of smoke or flame, or provided to restrict the
0.1.3.3 It is important to recognise that the movement of smoke or flame within such a
guidance in this document will not guarantee space (refer to TGD B – Fire Safety).
freedom from unwanted sound transmission.
The aim of the guidance is to limit the effects Decibel (dB) - The unit used for many
from sound levels created from normal acoustic quantities to indicate the level with
domestic activities, but not from excessive respect to a reference level.
noise from other sources such as power
tools, audio systems inconsiderately played Density - Mass per unit volume, expressed in
at high volume or even raised voices. kilograms per cubic metre (kg/m3).

9
Direct transmission - Refers to the path of octave band).
either airborne or impact sound through
elements of construction. Hertz (Hz) - The unit of frequency of a sound
(cycles per second).
DnT - The difference in sound level between
a pair of rooms, in a stated frequency band, Impact sound - Sound resulting from direct
corrected for the reverberation time. Refer to impact on a building element.
I.S. EN ISO 16283-1.
Impact sound insulation - Sound insulation
DnT,w - The weighted standardised level which reduces impact sound transmission
difference. A single number quantity from direct impacts such as footsteps on a
(weighted) which characterises the airborne building element.
sound insulation between rooms in
accordance with I.S. EN ISO 717-1. Internal floor - Any intermediate floor within
a dwelling.
Dynamic stiffness - A parameter used to
describe the ability of a resilient material or Intermediate landing - A landing between
wall tie to transmit vibration. Specimens with two floors (see also landing).
high dynamic stiffness (dynamically ‘stiff’)
transmit more vibration than specimens with Internal wall - Any wall within a dwelling that
low dynamic stiffness (dynamically ‘soft’). does not have a separating function.
Refer to I.S. EN 29052-1 for resilient
materials. See BRE Information Paper IP Isolation - The absence of rigid connections
3/01 for wall ties. between two or more parts of a structure.

Flanking element - Any building element Landing - A platform or part of a floor

that contributes to sound transmission structure at the top or bottom of a flight of
between rooms in a building that is not a stairs or ramp.
separating floor or separating wall.
L’nT - The impact sound pressure level in a
Flanking transmission - Sound transmitted stated frequency band, corrected for the
between rooms via flanking elements instead reverberation time. See I.S. EN ISO 140-71.
of directly through separating elements or
along any path other than a direct path. L’nT,w - The weighted standardised impact
sound pressure level. A single-number
Floating floor - A floating floor consists of a quantity (weighted) to characterise the impact
floating layer and resilient layer (see also sound insulation of floors, in accordance with
floating layer and resilient layer). I.S. EN ISO 717-2.

Floating layer - A surface layer that rests on Mass per unit area - An expression in terms
a resilient layer and is isolated from the base of kilograms per square metre (kg/m2).
floor and the surrounding walls (see also
resilient layer). Noise - Unwanted sound.

Frequency - The number of pressure Octave band - A frequency band in which

variations (or cycles) per second that gives a the upper limit of the band is twice the
sound its distinctive tone. The unit of frequency of the lower limit.
frequency is the Hertz (Hz).
One - third octave band - A frequency band
Frequency band - A continuous range of
frequencies between stated upper and lower 1
limits (see also octave band and one-third I.S. EN ISO 16283-2 should be used when
published

10
in which the upper limit of the band is 21/3 carried via the structure of a building.
times the frequency of the lower limit.
∆Lw - The measured improvement of impact
Rw - A single number quantity (weighted) sound insulation resulting from the installation
which characterises the airborne sound of a floor covering or floating floor on a test
insulation of a building element from floor in a laboratory (See I.S. EN ISO 717-2).
measurements undertaken in a laboratory, in
accordance with I.S. EN ISO 717-1.
0.2 Sound
Resilient layer - A layer that isolates a 0.2.1 General
floating layer from a base. 0.2.1.1 Sound is a form of energy which can
be transmitted over a distance from its source
Resilient material - A material which returns through a medium, such as air or a solid
to its original thickness after it has been element of construction, e.g. a wall or a floor.
compressed. Sound may be transmitted directly or
indirectly (flanking transmission). See
Resonance – increased amplitude of Diagram 2.
oscillation of an object when it is subjected to
vibration from another source at or near its 0.2.1.2 The principle methods of isolating the
own natural frequency. receiver from the source of the sound are:
Reverberation - The persistence of sound in (a) eliminating pathways along which the
a space after a sound source has been sound can travel, and
stopped.
(b) using barriers formed of materials of
Reverberation time - The time, in seconds, sufficiently high mass which will not
taken for the sound to decay by 60 dB after a easily vibrate.
sound source has been stopped.
In practice, sound insulation is usually
Separating floor - A floor that separates a achieved by using a combination of both
dwelling from an adjoining dwelling or methods described above.
another part of the same building.

Separating wall - A wall that separates a 0.2.2 Direct transmission of sound

dwelling from an adjoining dwelling, another 0.2.2.1 Direct transmission means the
part of the same building or from an adjoining transmission of sound directly through a wall
building. or a floor from one of its sides to the other.
Sound pressure level - A quantity related to
0.2.2.2 When sound waves strike a wall or
the physical intensity of a sound.
floor, the pressure variations cause the
construction to vibrate. A portion of the
Sound reduction index (R) - A quantity,
vibrational energy on the sound source side
measured in a laboratory, which
will be transferred through the wall or floor
characterises the sound insulating properties
where it is radiated as airborne sound on the
of a material or building element in a stated
other side.
frequency band. Refer to I.S. EN ISO 10140-
1 to 5.
0.2.2.3 The reduction in the level of airborne
sound transmitted through a solid masonry
Spectrum - The composition of a particular
wall depends on the mass of the wall. If the
sound in terms of separate frequency bands.
wall is heavy, it is not easily set into vibration.
Walls comprising of two or three leaves
Structure-borne sound - Sound which is

11
depend partly on their mass and partly on 0.2.3 Flanking transmission of sound
structural isolation between the leaves.
0.2.3.1 Flanking transmission means the
indirect transmission of sound from one side
0.2.2.4 With masonry walls, the mass is the
of a wall or floor to the other side.
main factor but stiffness and damping (which
turns sound energy into heat) are also
0.2.3.2 Because a solid element may vibrate
important. Cavity masonry walls need at
when exposed to sound waves in the air, it
least as much mass as solid walls because
may cause sound waves in the air on both
their lower degree of stiffness offsets the
sides. Flanking transmission happens when
benefits of isolation.
there is a path along which sound can travel
between elements on opposite sides of a wall
0.2.2.5 Floors should reduce airborne sound
or floor. This path may be through a
and also, if they are above another dwelling,
continuous solid structure or through an air
impact sound.
space (such as a cavity of an external wall).
Usually, paths through a structure require
0.2.2.6 Impact noise is sound that is spread
greater consideration with solid masonry
from an impact or vibrational source in direct
elements, while paths through an air space
contact with a building element such as a
require greater consideration with thin panels
floor. A structural vibration is transmitted
(such as studwork and ceilings) in which
from the point of impact through the structure
structural waves do not travel as freely.
setting the surface into vibration leading to
the radiation of the sound. In a building this
0.2.3.3 The junction of a sound resisting
is commonly caused by an object hitting the
element and a flanking element provides
floor from where the vibration is transferred
resistance to structural waves, but it may not
into the structure. Usually the vibration path
be enough unless the flanking element is
will lead to the ceiling and perimeter walls.
heavy or is divided by windows or similar
The amount of impact noise heard below will
openings into small sections which do not
depend upon many factors including the force
vibrate freely. Usually a minimum mass is
of the impact, the vibration transmission
also needed for thin panels connected by
characteristics of the floor construction and
paths through air spaces (such as ceilings
the floor covering.
connected by air in roof spaces and over the
ridge of the separating wall). The mass
0.2.2.7 A heavy solid floor depends on its
which is required will be less if the path is
mass to reduce airborne sound and on a
blocked by non-porous material.
resilient layer to reduce impact sound at
source. A floating floor uses a resilient layer
to isolate the walking surface from the base 0.3 Other design considerations
and this isolation contributes to both airborne 0.3.1 General
and impact sound insulation. The resilient
layer is only effective if it is not too stiff and 0.3.1.1 In addition to the importance of
so it is important to choose a suitable construction details and workmanship, other
material and to make sure that it is not by- considerations such as the layout of rooms in
passed with rigid bridges such as fixings and a dwelling or the presence of steps or
pipes (see paragraph 4.4). staggers between dwellings and adjoining
dwellings or buildings are important factors to
0.2.2.8 Air paths must be avoided – porous be considered.
materials and gaps at joints in the structure
must be sealed. Resonances must be 0.3.2.2 Additional guidance is provided in BS
avoided; these may occur if some part of the 8233 Sound Insulation and noise reduction
structure (such as dry lining) vibrates strongly for buildings - Code of practice and sound
at a particular sound frequency (pitch) and control for homes.
transmits more energy at this pitch.

12
0.3.2 Room layout and building services
0.3.2.1 Internal noise levels are affected by
room layout. The layout should be
considered at the design stage to avoid
placing noise sensitive rooms next to rooms
in which noise is generated where possible.

Diagram 2 Principle of sound transmission paths

(Par. 0.2.1.1)

13
Section 1
Performance

designed and constructed using acceptable

1.1 Performance
constructions in accordance with Sections 3,
1.1.1 General this will, prima facie, indicate compliance with
1.1.1.1 This section provides guidance the requirement of Regulation E1.
relating to the performance level required to
1.1.2.4 A higher standard of sound insulation
meet Regulation E1.
may be required between spaces used for
normal domestic purposes and communal or
1.1.2.1 In general for dwellings, the
non-domestic purposes. In these situations
performance required by Regulation E1
the appropriate level of sound insulation will
should be satisfied by achieving the sound
depend on the noise generated in the
insulation performance levels as specified in
communal or non-domestic space. Specialist
Table 1 below.
advice may be needed to establish if a higher
Table 1 Sound performance levels standard of sound insulation is required in
(Par. 1.1.1) order to achieve a reasonable resistance to
Airborne Impact sound.
Separating sound sound
1.1.2.5 Protected structures include buildings
construction insulation insulation
that have been identified as having particular
DnT,w dB L’nT,w dB
cultural significance and heritage value and
Walls 53 (min) - are included by each Planning Authority on a
Record of Protected Structures. Protected
Floors structures may require special consideration,
(including stairs
53 (min) 58 (max) see paragraph 1.1.3.
with a separating
function)
NOTE: For works to protected structures, refer to 1.1.3 Protected structures
paragraph 1.1.3
1.1.3.1 Protected structures will, prior to
conversion, display unique characteristics as
1.1.2 Compliance method far as sound insulation is concerned. The
1.1.2.1 The sound insulation values set out in original building design and construction, and
Table 1 are for walls and floors that separate any subsequent alterations, will influence the
spaces used for normal domestic purposes. level of sound insulation achievable for any
separating walls and separating floors. For
1.1.2.2 For new dwellings, where the relevant this reason, the adoption without modification
walls and floors are: of standard solutions may not always be
appropriate.
a) designed and constructed using
acceptable constructions in 1.1.3.2 In the case of material alterations or
accordance with Sections 3 and 4, changes of use to protected structures, the
and recommended approach is as follows:

b) demonstrated by testing in (i) An acoustic assessment of the existing

accordance with Section 2 to meet the structure should be carried out, including
performance levels of Table 1, a sound insulation test in accordance
with Section 2. This should enable the
this will, prima facie, indicate compliance with acoustic performance of the existing
the requirement of Regulation E1. construction to be established. The
design and construction of the existing
1.1.2.3 For new dwellings / extensions to structure should also be established
dwellings, adjoining an existing building,
where the relevant walls and floors are (ii) Expert acoustic advice should be sought

14
 on appropriate solutions to improve the
sound insulation without damaging or
creating the potential for damage to the
character and special interest of the
building.

1.1.3.3 In certain circumstances, achieving

the sound insulation standards set out in
Table 1 may not be practicable for protected
structures. However, the aim should be to
improve the sound insulation value as much
as practicably possible. Such improvements
should not be to the detriment of the
character and special interest of the
protected structure or contravene any specific
planning condition prohibiting modification of
an identified existing feature. In such cases,
a dispensation or relaxation (or partial
dispensation or relaxation) of the
Requirements may be granted by the local
Building Control Authority.

15
Section 2
Testing

2.1.3.5 Sound insulation tests should be

2.1 Testing
carried out between rooms or spaces that
2.1.1 General share a common area of separating wall or
2.1.1.1 This section provides guidance on an separating floor.
appropriate program of sound insulation 2.1.3.6 Impact sound insulation tests should
testing to be carried out on site on a be carried out without a soft covering3 (e.g.
proportion of as-constructed dwellings in carpet, foam backed vinyl) on the floor.
order to demonstrate compliance with the Where a resilient material is being used on
requirement of Regulation E1. the surface of the floor, it should be bonded
to the floor prior to testing. For further
2.1.2 Competency of tester information on impact sound insulation
testing see Appendix A.
2.1.2.1 To ensure a proper standard of
testing, it is essential that persons are 2.1.3.7 Sound insulation testing does not
competent in the measurement of sound need to be carried out between the dwelling
insulation in buildings2 possess sufficient space and common circulation areas as
training, experience and knowledge testing between such spaces may give
appropriate to the nature of the work he or unreliable results due to the possible complex
she is required to perform having particular shape of the circulation spaces, and the
regard to the size and complexity of such possible difficulty of establishing the volume
works. of a circulation space. However, compliance
can be demonstrated by inference (by means
of similar construction), i.e. that the sound
2.1.3 Requirements for testing
insulation performance of the construction
2.1.3.1 Testing should be carried out for: type of walls or floors at these interfaces is at
least equivalent to that of the separating wall
(a) new dwellings, and or floor respectively between the dwellings.

(b) works involving a material change of 2.1.3.8 While only a proportion of dwellings
use that results in a building (or part must be tested, all separating walls or
thereof) becoming used as one or more separating floors, subject to the requirement
dwellings. of Regulation E1, should be designed and
constructed to achieve the performance as
2.1.3.2 The sound insulation tests should be described in Section 1.
carried out once the dwellings either side of a
separating element are essentially complete, 2.1.3.9 When sound test measurements are
except for decoration. made in small rooms, the results can be less
accurate. Guidance on this is given in
2.1.3.3 The performance levels that should Appendix A, paragraph A.2.6.
be demonstrated by testing are set out in
Table 1. 2.1.4 Establishing the appropriate
amount of testing required
2.1.3.4 Testing should be carried out on a
2.1.4.1 The results of sound insulation tests
proportion of dwellings on development sites
only apply to the particular dwellings tested
as part of the construction process (see
and are only indicative of the performance of
paragraph 2.2) in accordance with the
others of the same construction type in the
procedure set out in Appendix A.
same development. Therefore in order for
meaningful inferences to be made from tests,
2
Sound insulation tests carried out by a person it is essential that developments are
certified by an independent third party to carry out
this work offers a way of ensuring that such
3
certification can be relied upon. A bonded resilient material is not a soft covering.

16
considered as a number of notional groups, 2.1.4.6 Sub-grouping is generally not
with the same construction type in each necessary for dwelling houses or apartments/
group. duplex dwellings that have the same
separating wall and / or separating floor
2.1.4.2 The two basic dwelling group types construction type, with the same associated
are dwelling houses (including bungalows) flanking construction(s), and where room
and apartments/ duplex dwellings. dimensions and layouts are broadly similar.
2.1.4.3 If differences in construction type 2.1.5 Sets of tests
occur within these dwelling groups, sub-
2.1.5.1 A number of individual sound tests is
groups should be established accordingly.
required to be carried out on a separating
wall and / or separating floor construction to
2.1.4.4 For dwelling houses (including
ensure accuracy. The aggregate number of
bungalows) sub-grouping should be
individual tests conducted in a dwelling,
established by the type of separating wall
apartment / duplex dwelling is referred to as a
construction.
‘set of tests’. The number of individual sound
insulation tests within a ‘set of tests’ is given
2.1.4.5 For apartments / duplex dwellings
in Table 2 below.
sub-grouping should be established by the
type of separating wall and / or separating
floor construction.

Table 2 Number of individual tests in a ‘set of tests’

(Par. 2.1.5.1)
Dwelling Group Types
Type of test Dwelling houses Apartments and duplex
(including bungalows) dwellings5

Airborne test of separating walls1 Yes Yes

Airborne test of separating walls2 Yes Yes

3
Airborne test of separating floors N/A Yes

Airborne test of separating floors4 N/A Yes

3
Impact test of separating floors N/A Yes
4
Impact test of separating floors N/A Yes

Total No. of individual tests in a

2 No. 6 No.
‘set of tests’5
NOTES:
1. A test of insulation against airborne sound between one pair of rooms.
Living rooms on opposite sides of the separating wall should be chosen, where possible.
2. A test of insulation against airborne sound between another pair of rooms than in Note 1.
Bedrooms on opposite sides of the separating wall should be chosen, where possible.
3. A test of insulation against airborne and impact sound between one pair of rooms.
Living rooms above or below each other should be chosen, where possible.
4. A test of insulation against airborne and impact sound between another pair of rooms than in Note 3.
Bedrooms above or below each other should be chosen, where possible.
5. To conduct a full ‘set of tests’ on any individual unit, access to other adjoining units will be required.

17
2.2 Programme of testing Table 3A Minimum frequency of testing
2.2.1 General per group or sub-group type
(Par. 2.2.3)
2.2.1.1 The ‘set of tests’ as required by Table
Number of attached ‘Sets of tests’
2 should be carried out as part of the
dwellings required
construction process and in accordance with
the procedure set out in Appendix A. 4 or less At least 11
Greater than 4 but less
At least 2
2.2.2 Initial testing than or equal to 20
At least 2 + 10% x No.
2.2.2.1 On each site, at least one ‘set of tests’ Greater than 20 but less
of attached dwellings
should be carried out on a dwelling group or than or equal to 40
greater than 20
sub-group within the first four dwellings (of
that group or sub group) which are planned At least 4 + 5% x No.
Greater than 40 but less
for completion. of attached dwellings
than or equal to 100
greater than 40
2.2.2.2 This applies regardless of the At least 7 + 5% x No.
intended size of the group or sub-group. More than 100 of attached dwellings
Therefore, if a site comprises of only one pair greater than 100
of dwelling houses or apartments / duplex
dwellings, they should be tested. NOTES:

1. This also satisfies the initial testing requirements

2.2.3 Minimum frequency of testing (see paragraph 2.2.2).

2.2.3.1 Assuming no initial tests have failed, 2. Refer to Table 2 for number of individual tests
the minimum number of ‘sets of tests’ for required in a ‘set of tests’.
each group or sub-group is outlined in Table
3. Round up to the nearest whole number.
3A. For failed tests, see paragraph 2.2.5.
4. Refer to paragraph 2.3 where constructions other
2.2.3.2 The minimum number of ‘sets of tests’ than those detailed in Section 3 and 4 are used.
required as outlined in Table 3A is applicable
if the construction types in Section 3 and 4
are adhered to. For other construction types, 2.2.5 Actions following a failed set of
see paragraphs 2.3 and 2.4. tests
2.2.3.3 Testing should be conducted more 2.2.5.1 A ’set of tests’ is deemed to have
frequently at the beginning of a series of failed if any of the individual tests of airborne
completions than towards the end, to allow or impact sound insulation do not show
any potential problems to be addressed at an sound insulation values equal to or better
early stage. On large developments testing than those set out in Table 1.
should be carried out over a substantial part
of the construction period. 2.2.5.2 Where a failed test has occurred,
remedial works to the failed element should
be carried out until the element at least meets
2.2.4 Reporting procedure the performance levels of Table 1 when re-
2.2.4.1 A test report should be recorded in tested. Dwellings on the same site
the recommended manner set out in completed prior to the failed test (excluding
Appendix A and retained as proof that the those proven acceptable by previous tests)
sound insulation performance has been met. should either have similar remedial work
carried out or demonstrate by testing that
they meet the performance levels of Table 1.

18
2.2.5.3 Where remedial work and a new test 2.4.1.3 Assuming none of these tests have
is required on any dwelling, the number of failed the minimum number of ‘sets of tests’
‘sets of tests’ required as per Table 3A (or for each group type or sub-group is outlined
Table 3B as applicable) should be increased in Table 3B. For failed tests, see paragraph
by one, for that group or sub-group type. 2.2.5.

2.2.5.4 Where the cause of the failure is Table 3B Other constructions -

attributed to the construction of the minimum frequency of testing
separating element and / or associated per group or sub-group type
flanking provisions, other separating (Par. 2.4.1.3)
elements of similar construction (where Number of attached ‘Sets of tests’
compliance is demonstrated by inference) or dwellings required
that have not been tested may also fail to
meet the performance levels of Table 1. First 8 dwellings (or part
At least one ‘set of test’
Therefore, remedial treatment on all these for each separating
thereof) planned for
elements should also be carried out. element up to 4 No.
completion
‘sets of tests’1
2.3 Assessed Sound Details (ASDs) Greater than 8 but less
At least 6 (in total)
than or equal to 20
2.3.1 General
2.3.1.1 Where construction types other than At least 6 + 10% x No.
Greater than 20 but less
of attached dwellings
those in Sections 3 or 4 are employed, the than or equal to 40
greater than 20
testing frequency outlined in Table 3A may
still be used provided the construction type Greater than 40 but less
At least 8 + 5% x No.
has been assessed and certified in of attached dwellings
than or equal to 100
accordance with Appendix B. greater than 40
At least 11 + 5% x No.
NOTE: Appendix B provides guidance More than 100 of attached dwellings
appropriate to Part E only. All elements greater than 100
incorporated into the building must comply
with all relevant parts of the Building
NOTES:
Regulations.
1. This satisfies testing requirements of paragraph
2.4 Other constructions 2.4.1.2.

2.4.1. General 2. Refer to Table 2 for number of individual tests

required in a ‘set of tests’.
2.4.1.1 Where construction types other than
those in Sections 3 or 4, or ASDs in 3. Round up to the nearest whole number.
accordance with paragraph 2.3 are
employed, it is essential that these
construction types can demonstrate their
capability of meeting the required
performance level on each individual site.
Therefore, the frequency of initial testing in
paragraph 2.2.2 should be increased to that
set out in 2.4.1.2.

2.4.1.2 On each site a ‘set of tests’ should be

carried out on every dwelling within a group
or sub-group within the first eight dwellings
(of that group or sub group) which are
planned for completion.

19
Section 3
Separating walls and associated flanking construction
details
3.1 Separating wall construction Diagram 3 Types of wall
(Par. 3.1.2.)
3.1.1 General
3.1.1.1 This section gives examples of wall
types which, if constructed correctly, should
achieve the performance level set out in
Table 1.

3.1.1.2 Guidance is provided to enable

compliance with Part E only. It should be
noted that all elements incorporated into the
building must comply with all relevant parts of
the Building Regulations.

3.1.2 Types of wall

3.1.2.1 Separating walls are grouped into four
main types as follows (refer to Diagram 3):

3.1.2.2 Wall Type 1 (WT 1) - Solid masonry /

concrete with plaster finish. The resistance
to airborne sound depends mainly on the
mass per unit area of the wall (see Diagram
3(a)).

3.1.2.3 Wall Type 2 (WT 2) - Solid masonry

with dry lining. The resistance to airborne
sound depends mainly on the mass of the
core (dense block), the absorption of the
mineral wool and the isolation (de-coupling)
of the dry lining (see Diagram 3(b)).

3.1.2.4 Wall Type 3 (WT 3) - Cavity masonry

with plaster finish. The resistance to airborne
sound depends mainly on the mass per unit
area of the leaves of the wall and on the
degree of isolation provided by the cavity.
The isolation is affected by connections (such
as wall ties and foundations) between the
wall leaves and by the cavity width (see
Diagram 3(c)).

3.1.2.5 Wall Type 4 (WT 4) – Timber framed

walls with absorbent material. The resistance
to airborne sound depends on the mass per
unit area of the leaves, the isolation of the
timber frames, and the absorption in the
cavity between the frames (see Diagram
3(d)).

20
3.2 Flanking provisions 3.2.5 Noise from services
3.2.1 General 3.2.5.1 Building service installations have the
potential to cause noise nuisance, e.g.
3.2.1.1 In order for the separating wall
passenger lifts, refuse chutes, air
construction to be fully effective, care should
conditioning units, and ventilation systems.
be taken to correctly detail the junctions
Drainage pipes running the height of a block
between the separating wall and other
of apartments have also been a source of
elements, such as floors, roofs, external walls
complaints. The design of building services,
and internal walls.
their position in the building and the building
structure should be considered at an early
3.2.2 Junctions between separating stage in the design process, to reduce their
walls and other building elements impact on occupants of apartment buildings.
3.2.2.1 Guidance is given below to control 3.2.5.2 Internal noise levels are affected by
flanking transmission at the junction of the room layout. The layout should be
separating wall types and other building considered at the design stage to avoid
elements. placing noise sensitive rooms next to rooms
in which noise is generated where possible.
3.2.2.2 Table 4 outlines the illlustrations Additional guidance is provided in BS 8233
provided in this document on the junctions Sound Insulation and noise reduction for
that may occur between each of the four buildings - Code of practice and sound
separating wall types discussed in 3.1.2 and control for homes.
the various attached building elements.
3.2.5.3 Lightweight structures need special
3.2.3 Corridor walls consideration and it may be appropriate to
support noisy plant on a separate, rigid
3.2.3.1 The separating walls described in this structure. Structure borne noise is a common
section should be used between common cause of complaints and the most effective
corridors and dwellings, in order to control approach is to structurally de-couple service
flanking transmission and to provide the installations and mechanical equipment from
required sound insulation. separating walls and separating floors.

3.2.4 Entrance doors opening onto a

common area of a building
3.2.4.1 An entrance door in a separating wall
dividing a dwelling from a common area of a
building can create a weak point acoustically
in the wall, allowing unwelcome noise into the
dwelling. However, it is not considered
reasonable to maintain the same acoustic
performance for doors as for separating
walls. To maximise the sound resistance of
the door set, it should be ensured that the
door frame is fitted tight against the wall
opening and the door has good perimeter
sealing and a mass per unit area of 25 kg/m2
(min) or a sound reduction index of 29 dB Rw
(min) measured in accordance with I.S. EN
ISO 717. The door should satisfy the
requirements of Part B – Fire Safety.

21
Table 4 Reference table of illustrations provided on separating wall junctions
(Par 3.2.2.2)
Separating Wall Type
WT 1 WT 2 WT 3 WT 4A WT 4B
Solid masonry/ Solid masonry Cavity Twin leaf Twin leaf
concrete with with dry-lining masonry with timber frame timber frame
plaster finish (Diagram 8 ) plaster finish without with sheathing
(Diagram 4) (Diagram 12) sheathing (Diagram
Separating (Diagram 17A) 17B)
Floor Type2
FT 1 Resilient material
bonded to concrete base Not Not
Diagram 34A Diagram 34B Diagram 35
with ceiling under applicable applicable
(Diagram 32)
FT 2 Floating layer on
concrete base with ceiling Not Not
Diagram 39A Diagram 39B Diagram 40
under applicable applicable
(Diagram 37)
FT 3 Floating layer on
timber base with ceiling Not Not Not
Diagram 44 Diagram 44
under applicable applicable applicable
(Diagram 42)
Flanking
requirements
Diagram 13
Diagram 5 Diagram 9
External wall Diagram 14 Diagram 18 Diagram 23
Diagram 6 Diagram 10
Diagram 15
Ceiling and roof space Diagram
Diagram 7A Diagram 11A Diagram 16A Diagram 19A
24A
Internal floor - timber Diagram
Diagram 7B Diagram 11B Diagram 16B Diagram 19B
24B
Internal floor – concrete Not Not
Diagram 7C Diagram 11C Diagram 16C
applicable applicable
Ground floor – concrete Diagram
Diagram 20A
Diagram 7D Diagram 11D Diagram 16D 25A
Diagram 21
Diagram 26
Ground floor - timber Diagram
Diagram 7D Diagram 11D Diagram 16D Diagram 20B
25B
Guidance on services Diagram 5 Diagram 9 Diagram 14
Diagram 22 Diagram 27
Diagram 6 Diagram 10 Diagram 15
NOTES:

1. The illustrations and guidance are provided to enable compliance with Part E only. It should be noted that all
elements incorporated into the building works must comply with all relevant parts of the Building Regulations.

2. Where separating floors are used e.g. apartments, reference should be made to Section 4, Table 5 for
associated flanking construction details.

22
 3.3.2 Wall specification
3.3 Wall Type 1 (WT 1) - Solid masonry
/concrete with plaster finish 3.3.2.1 Two Wall Type 1 constructions are
described in Diagram 4.
3.3.1 General
3.3.3 Key junctions and flanking details
3.3.1.1 The resistance to airborne sound
depends mainly on the mass per unit area of 3.3.3.1 Details of key junctions (including
flanking transmission) in the construction of
the wall.
WT 1A are described in Diagrams 5 to 7.
Similar details are also applicable to WT 1B.
Diagram 4 WT 1 Solid masonry / concrete with plaster finish – Specification
(Par 3.3.2)

23
Diagram 5 WT 1A Solid masonry with plaster finish - Flanking requirements at
an external (flanking) wall (similar details are applicable for WT 1B)
(Par 3.3.3)

24
Diagram 6 WT 1 Solid masonry/ concrete with plaster finish - Position of openings in
an external (flanking) wall
(Par. 3.3.3)

25
Diagram 7 WT 1 Solid masonry with plaster finish – Key junction details
(Par. 3.3.3)

26
3.4 Wall Type 2 (WT 2) - Solid masonry 3.4.2 Wall specification
with dry lining
3.4.2.1 Wall Type 2 construction (with
3.4.1 General different lining options) is described in
Diagram 8.
3.4.1.1 The resistance to airborne sound
depends mainly on the mass of the core
mass (dense block), the absorption of the 3.4.3 Key junctions and flanking details
mineral wool and the isolation (de-coupling)
3.4.3.1 Details of key junctions in the
of the dry lining.
construction of WT 2 and details to limit
flanking transmission are described in
Diagrams 9 to 11.

Diagram 8 WT 2 Solid masonry with dry lining – Specification

(Par 3.4.2)

27
Diagram 9 WT 2 Solid masonry with dry lining – Flanking requirements at an external
(flanking) wall
(Par 3.4.3)

28
Diagram 10 WT 2 Solid masonry with dry lining - Position of openings in an external
(flanking) wall
(Par. 3.4.3)

29
Diagram 11 WT 2 Solid masonry with dry lining – Key junction details
(Par 3.4.3)

30
3.5 Wall Type 3 (WT 3) Cavity masonry 3.5.2 Wall specification
wall with plaster finish
3.5.2.1 Wall Type 3 construction is described
3.5.1 General in Diagram 12.
3.5.1.1 The resistance to airborne sound
depends mainly on the mass per unit area of 3.5.3 Key junctions and flanking details
the leaves of the wall and on the degree of
3.5.3.1 Details of key junctions in the
isolation provided by the cavity. The isolation
construction of WT 3 and details to limit
is affected by connections (such as wall ties
flanking transmission are described in
and foundations) between the wall leaves
Diagrams 13 to 16.
and by the cavity width.

Diagram 12 WT 3 Cavity masonry with plaster finish – Specification

(Par 3.5.2)

31
Diagram 13 WT 3 - Cavity masonry wall with plaster finish - Flanking requirements for
an external (flanking) wall
(Par. 3.5.3)

32
Diagram 14 WT 3 Cavity masonry with plaster finish – Flanking requirements in
staggered external wall
(Par. 3.5.3)

Diagram 15 WT 3 Cavity masonry with plaster finish - Position of openings in an

external (flanking) wall
(Par. 3.5.3)

33
Diagram 16 WT 3 Cavity masonry with plaster finish – Key junction details
(Par. 3.5.3)

34
3.6 Wall Type 4 (WT 4) – Timber framed 3.6.2 Wall specification
wall with absorbent material
3.6.2.1 Two Wall Type 4 constructions are
3.6.1 General outlined in Diagram 17.
3.6.1.1 The resistance to airborne sound
depends on the mass per unit area of the 3.6.3 Key junctions and flanking details
leaves, the isolation of the frames, and the
3.6.3.1 Details of key junctions in the
absorption in the cavity between the timber
construction of WT 4A and WT 4B and details
frames.
to limit flanking transmission are described in
Diagrams 18 to 27.
3.6.1.2 Timber frame dwellings should comply
with the requirements of Irish Standard I.S.
440 Timber frame construction, dwellings and
other buildings.

35
Diagram 17 WT 4 Timber framed walls with absorbent material – Specification
(Par. 3.6.2)

36
Diagram 18 WT 4A Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing - Flanking requirements
for an external (flanking) wall
(Par. 3.6.3)

37
Diagram 19 WT 4A Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing - Key junction details
(1 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

38
Diagram 20 WT 4A Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing - Key junction details
(2 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

39
Diagram 21 WT 4A Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing - Key junction details
(3 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

40
Diagram 22 WT 4A Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing - Services and sockets in
separating walls
(Par. 3.6.3)

41
Diagram 23 WT 4B Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing- - Flanking requirements for
an external (flanking) wall
(Par. 3.6.3)

42
Diagram 24 WT 4B Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing - Key junction details (1 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

43
Diagram 25 WT 4B Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing - Key junction details (2 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

44
Diagram 26 WT 4B Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing - Key junction details (3 of 3)
(Par. 3.6.3)

45
Diagram 27 WT 4B Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing - Services and sockets in
separating walls
(Par. 3.6.3)

46
Section 4
Separating floors and associated flanking construction
details
4.1 Separating floor construction Diagram 28 Types of floors
(Par. 4.1.2)
4.1.1 General
4.1.1.1 This section gives examples of floor
types which, if constructed correctly, should
achieve the performance level set out in
Table 1.

NOTE: Impact sound requirements may not

be applicable to all separating floors, see
Diagram 1.

4.1.2 Types of floors

4.1.2.1 The floors are grouped into three
main types as follows (refer to Diagram 28).

4.1.2.2 Floor Type 1 (FT 1) - Resilient

material bonded to concrete base with ceiling
under.
The resistance to airborne sound depends
mainly on the mass per unit area of the
concrete base and partly on the mass per
unit area of the ceiling. The resilient material
bonded to the concrete base reduces impact
sound at source, see Diagram 28 (a).

4.1.2.3 Floor Type 2 (FT 2) – Floating layer

on concrete base with ceiling under.
The resistance to airborne sound depends on
the mass per unit area of the concrete base,
and partly on the mass per unit area of the
floating layer. The floating layer also reduces
the transmission of impact sound to the
concrete base and to the surrounding
construction, see Diagram 28 (b).

4.1.2.4 Floor Type 3 (FT 3) - Floating layer

on timber base with ceiling under.
The resistance to airborne sound depends
partly on the mass of the timber base and the
absorbent blanket and partly on the mass of
the floating layer. The floating layer reduces
the transmission of impact sound to the
timber base and to the surrounding
construction. A timber floor needs less mass
than a concrete floor because the material is
softer and radiates sound less efficiently, see
Diagram 28 (c).

47
 4.3.2 Example ceiling treatment for a
4.2 Flanking provisions
concrete separating floor
4.2.1 General
4.3.2.1 Plasterboard on timber battens and/
4.2.1.1 In order for the floor construction to be or counter battens.
fully effective, care should be taken to
correctly detail the junctions between the The following specification should be met:
separating floor and other elements such as
external walls, separating walls and floor  Create a ceiling void to the underside of
penetrations. the concrete floor using a single layer of
plasterboard with a mass per unit area
of 10 kg/m2 (min), fixed to timber battens
4.2.2 Junctions between separating and/or counter battens or proprietary
floors and other building elements resilient channels/ metal ceiling systems;
4.2.2.1 Guidance is given below to control
flanking transmission at the junction of the NOTE: The sound insulation performance of
separating floor types and other building all ceiling treatments is increased if an
elements. absorbent layer of 25 mm (min) mineral wool
with a density of 10 kg/m3 (min) that covers
4.2.2.2 In addition, Table 5 outlines the the ceiling board area.
illustrations provided in this document of the
junctions that may occur between each of the 4.3.2.2 Electric cables give off heat when in
three separating floor types discussed in use and special precautions may be required
4.1.2 and the various attached building when they are covered by thermally
elements. insulating materials. Refer to BRE BR 262,
Thermal Insulation: avoiding risks, section
4.3 Ceiling treatments 2.4.

4.3.1 General 4.3.2.3 Installing recessed light fittings in

ceilings can reduce their resistance to the
4.3.1.1 Reasonable sound insulation is
passage of airborne and impact sound.
dependent on an appropriate ceiling being
provided. Paragraphs 4.3.2 and 4.3.3 show
example ceiling treatments for concrete and 4.3.3 Example ceiling treatment for a
timber separating floors. Use of a better timber separating floor
performing ceiling than that described in this 4.3.3.1 Plasterboard on timber battens and/
guidance should improve the sound or counter battens.
insulation of the floor provided there is no
significant flanking transmission. The following specification should be met:

NOTE: The mass per unit area of a sub  Minimum thickness of 30 mm

ceiling should not be included in the plasterboard imperforate ceiling in two
calculation of the mass per unit area of the layers with joints staggered, fixed to
floor. timber joists to form fire resisting ceiling;

 Provide a sub-ceiling consisting of a

single layer of plasterboard with a mass
per unit area 10 kg/m2 (min) fixed to the
imperforate ceiling using timber battens
and/ or counter battens or proprietary
resilient channels.

48
4.3.3.2 Installing recessed light fittings in 4.4.3 Impact sound reduced at source for
ceilings can reduce their resistance to the FT 1 concrete separating floors
passage of airborne and impact sound.
4.4.3.1 Resilient material bonded to
4.3.3.3 Fire resisting ceilings in a timber concrete base. A resilient material as
separating floor should not normally be described in paragraph 4.4.2.1 should be
penetrated without specific fire design bonded to the concrete floor and will reduce
complying with Part B – Fire Safety. impact sound at source (see Diagram 29).
Therefore, it is recommended that a sub-
ceiling should be provided below the fire Diagram 29 Resilient material bonded to
resisting ceiling in order to accommodate concrete base
services, electric cable runs etc. (Par. 4.4.3.1)

4.4 Floor treatments

4.4.1 General
4.4.1.1 Each floor type should use an
appropriate floor treatment. This section
details three specific floor treatments.
Alternative floating floor constructions may be
adopted by following the performance based
approach in paragraph 4.5.

NOTE: The mass per unit area of a floor

treatment should not be included in the
calculation of the mass per unit area of the
floor.

4.4.1.2 Where proprietary acoustic products 4.4.4 Floating floors

are used, they should be installed strictly in 4.4.4.1 A floating floor should isolate the
accordance with the manufacturer’s finished floor from the base and reduce
recommendations. impact sound.

4.4.2 Resilient material 4.4.5 Example floating floor suitable for

use with a FT 2 concrete separating
4.4.2.1 A resilient material is a material which
floor
returns to its original thickness after it has
been compressed. Resilient material
4.4.5.1 Timber raft of board material fixed to
appropriate for impact sound is a resilient
resilient layer laid on top of the concrete floor,
material, or material with a resilient base, with
(see Diagram 30)
an overall uncompressed thickness of at least
4.5 mm. A material less than 4.5 mm may be
suitable where it consists of a resilient The following specification should be met:
covering with a weighted reduction in impact
sound pressure level (∆Lw) of not less than  timber raft of board material (with
17 dB when measured in accordance with bonded edges, e.g. tongued and
I.S. EN ISO 717-2. grooved) of thickness 18 mm (min) and
mass per unit area of 12 kg/m2 (min)
NOTE: Products which do not form part of fixed to resilient composite battens of 45
the permanent works and can be readily mm (min) deep to meet the performance
removed, e.g. carpet, underlay etc are not requirements in paragraph 4.4.2. The
appropriate for use as resilient layers. resilient layer must be continuous and

49
 pre-bonded to the bottom of the batten, The following specification should be met:
and
 floating layer of 18 mm (min) thick timber
 provide 45 mm (min) mineral wool quilt or wood-based board with tounge and
with 10-36 kg/m3 laid between battens. grooved edges with all joints glued and
spot bonded to a substrate of 19 mm
Diagram 30 Timber raft of board material (min) plasterboard, or material with at
fixed to resilient layer laid least the same mass secured to:
on top of the concrete floor.
(Par. 4.4.5.1)  resilient composite battens 70 mm (min)
deep complying with performance
requirements of 4.4.2. The resilient layer
of the batten must be continuous and pre-
bonded to the bottom of the batten;

 provide 60 mm (min) mineral wool quilt

with a density of 10-36 kg/m3 laid
between battens.

Diagram 31 Floating floor treatment

suitable for Floor Type 3 (FT 3)
(Par. 4.4.6.1)
General notes applicable to all floating floor
treatments:

1. All floor treatments must be installed in accordance

with the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Provide 5 mm (min) resilient flanking strips around

the perimeter of the flooring boards to isolate floor
from walls and skirting.

3. Void dimension indicated when floor is loaded to

2
25 kg/m .

4. Services, where required, may be located above or

below the quilt.
General notes applicable to all floating floor
5. Ensure services, where provided, do not bridge the treatments:
resilient layer.
1. All floor treatments must be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.

4.4.6 Example floating floors suitable for 2. Provide 5 mm (min) resilient flanking strips around
the perimeter of the flooring boards to isolate floor
use with a timber base separating
from walls and skirting.
floor
3. Void dimension indicated when floor is loaded to
4.4.6.1 Timber raft of board material fixed to 2
25 kg/m .
resilient layer, laid on top of a timber base
separating floor, (see Diagram 31) 4. Services, where required, may be located above or
below the quilt.

5. Ensure services, where provided, do not bridge the

resilient layer.

50
4.5 Performance based approach measurement standards). The performance
value ∆Lw should be achieved when the
4.5.1 Where a floating floor treatment other
floating floor is loaded and unloaded as
than 4.4.5 or 4.4.6 is used, it should consist
described in I.S. EN ISO 10140 for category
of a rigid boarding above a resilient layer and
II systems.
/or damping layer; with a weighted reduction
in impact sound pressure level (∆Lw) of not
less than 29dB when measured according to
I.S. EN 10140-3 and rated according to I.S.
EN ISO 717-2 (refer to Annex B:
Supplementary guidance on acoustics

Table 5 Reference table to illustrations provided on separating floor junctions

(Par 4.2.2.2)
Separating Floor Type
FT 1 FT 2 FT 3
Resilient material Floating layer on Floating layer on
bonded to concrete base with timber base with
concrete base ceiling under ceiling under
with ceiling under
Separating Wall Type2 (Diagram 32) (Diagram 37) (Diagram 42)

WT 1
Solid masonry / concrete with plaster finish Diagram 34A Diagram 39A Not applicable
(Diagram 4)
WT 2
Solid masonry with dry lining Diagram 34B Diagram 39B Not applicable
(Diagram 8)
WT 3
Cavity masonry with plaster finish Diagram 35 Diagram 40 Not applicable
(Diagram 12)
WT 4A
Twin leaf timber frame without sheathing Not applicable Not applicable Diagram 44A
(Diagram 17A)
WT 4B
Twin leaf timber frame with sheathing Not applicable Not applicable Diagram 44B
(Diagram 17B)

Flanking requirements

External wall Diagram 33 Diagram 38 Diagram 43

Service penetrations Diagram 36 Diagram 41 Diagram 45
NOTES:
1. The illustrations and guidance are provided to enable compliance with Part E only. It should be noted that all
elements incorporated into the building works must comply with all relevant parts of the Building Regulations.

2. Where separating walls are used, reference should be made to Section 3, Table 4 for associated flanking
construction details.

51
4.6 Floor Type 1 (FT 1) - Resilient
material bonded to concrete base
with ceiling under.
4.6.1 General
4.6.1.1 The resistance to airborne sound
depends mainly on the mass per unit area of
the concrete base and partly on the mass per
unit area of the ceiling. The resilient layer
reduces impact sound at source.

4.6.2 Floor specification

4.6.2.1 Two FT 1 constructions are described
in Diagram 32.

4.6.3 Key junctions and flanking details

4.6.3.1 Details of how junctions with FT 1
should be constructed to limit flanking
transmission are described in Diagrams 33 to
36.

52
Diagram 32 FT 1 Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under -
Specification
(Par. 4.6.2)

53
Diagram 33 FT 1 Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under -
Flanking requirements
(Par. 4.6.3)

54
Diagram 34 FT 1 Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under –
Key junction details (1 of 2)
(Par. 4.6.3)

55
Diagram 35 FT 1 Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under –
Key junction details (2 of 2)
(Par. 4.6.3)

56
Diagram 36 FT 1 Resilient material bonded to concrete base with ceiling under -
Services
(Par. 4.6.3)

57
4.7 Floor Type 2 (FT 2) - Floating layer
on concrete base with ceiling
under.
4.7.1 General
4.7.1.1 The resistance to airborne and impact
sound depends on the mass per unit area of
the concrete base, as well as the mass per
unit area and isolation of the floating layer
and the ceiling. The floating layer reduces
the transmission of impact sound to the base
and to the surrounding construction.

4.7.2 Floor specification

4.7.2.1 Two FT 2 constructions are described
in Diagram 37.

4.7.3 Key junctions and flanking details

4.7.3.1 Details of how junctions with FT 2
should be constructed to limit flanking
transmission are described in Diagrams 38 to
41.

58
Diagram 37 FT 2 Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under – Specification
(Par. 4.7.2)

59
Diagram 38 FT 1 Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under –
Flanking requirements
(Par. 4.7.3)

60
Diagram 39 FT 2 Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under –
Key junction details (1 of 2)
(Par. 4.7.3)

61
Diagram 40 FT 2 Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under –
Key junction details (2 of 2)
(Par. 4.7.3)

62
Diagram 41 FT 2 Floating layer on concrete base with ceiling under - Services
(Par. 4.7.3)

63
4.8 Floor Type 3 (FT 3) - Floating layer
on timber base with ceiling under.
4.8.1 General
4.8.1.1 The resistance to airborne and impact
sound depends on the mass per unit area of
the concrete base, as well as the mass per
unit area and isolation of the floating layer
and the ceiling. The floating layer reduces
the transmission of impact sound to the base
and to the surrounding construction.

4.8.1.2 Timber frame dwellings should

comply with the requirements of Irish
Standard I.S. 440 Timber frame construction,
dwellings and other buildings.

4.8.2 Floor specification

4.8.2.1 One FT 3 construction is described in
Diagram 42.

4.8.3 Key junctions and flanking details

4.8.3.1 Details of how junctions with FT 3
should be constructed to limit flanking
transmission are described in Diagrams 43 to
45.

64
Diagram 42 FT 3 Floating layer on timber base with ceiling under – Specification
(Par. 4.8.2)

65
Diagram 43 FT 3 Floating layer on timber base with ceiling under –
Flanking requirements
(Par. 4.8.3)

66
Diagram 44 FT 3 Floating layer on timber base with ceiling under – Key junction details
(Par. 4.8.3)

67
Diagram 45 FT 3 Floating layer on timber base with ceiling under – Services
(Par. 4.8.3)

68
Section 5
Reverberation control

5.1.2.5 For the purposes of this section, an

5.1 Reverberation control
entrance hall is a space for which the ratio of
5.1.1 General the longest to the shortest floor dimension is
5.1.1.1 The purpose of the requirement of three or less.
Regulation E2 is to protect residents from
noise produced from reverberation in 5.1.2.6 Where an entrance hall, corridor,
common internal areas outside the dwellings. hallway or stairwell opens directly into
This section provides guidance on how to another of these spaces, the guidance should
limit the amount of reverberation around the be followed for each space individually.
common spaces to a level that is reasonable
in order to demonstrate compliance with the 5.1.2.7 Where separating walls, without doors
requirement of Regulation E2. or windows, are adjacent to common areas it
would not normally be necessary to treat the
common areas, assuming normal usage.
5.1.2 Common spaces
5.1.2.1 The common parts of buildings tend 5.1.3 Choice of material
to be constructed with hard durable surface
finishes, which are easily maintained. 5.1.3.1 The choice of absorptive material
Unfortunately, such surfaces lack the soft should be of an appropriate class that has
open texture which efficiently absorbs sound been rated according to I.S. EN ISO 11654
and so the level of reflected, or reverberated, and should meet the requirements of Part B –
sound tends to be high in such places and Fire Safety.
can lead to an unreasonable level of noise for
the occupants of dwellings which open 5.2 Methods of satisfying the
directly onto these common spaces. requirement of Regulation E2
5.2.1 General
5.1.2.2 Whilst paragraph 3.2.4 outlines the
inherent acoustic weak point in a separating 5.2.1.1 There are two methods (Method A or
wall caused by entrance doors opening onto Method B) described below that will satisfy
a common area of a building and addresses the requirement of Regulation E2.
the acoustic performance of entrance doors,
Section 5 deals with ways of reducing the 5.2.1.2 Method A is intended for corridors,
reverberation level at source. hallways and stairwells.

5.1.2.3 It is relatively easy to increase sound 5.2.1.3 Method B is intended only for
absorption and hence reduce reverberant corridors, hallways and entrance halls as this
noise levels by surface treatment with method is not suited to stairwells.
absorbent material. In general this can be
achieved through the application of absorbent
5.2.2 Method A
treatment to common areas onto which
dwellings open directly4. 5.2.2.1 For entrance halls, corridors or
hallways the absorbent material should cover
5.1.2.4 For the purposes of this section, a an area equal to or greater than the floor
corridor or hallway is a space for which the area, with a Class C absorber or better, rated
ratio of the longest to the shortest floor according to I.S. EN ISO 11654. It will
dimension is greater than three. normally be convenient to cover the ceiling
area with the additional absorption.

4
The common area under consideration should 5.2.2.2 For stairwells or a stair enclosure,
be limited to the space contained by walls and calculate the combined area of the stair
doors (including fire doors) immediately outside treads, the upper surface of the intermediate
the dwelling entrance.

69
landings, the upper surface of the landings (c) the absorber class and the area to be
(excluding the ground floor) and the ceiling covered;
area on the top floor. Either cover an area at
least equal to this calculated area with a (d) plans indicating the assignment of the
Class D absorber, or cover an area equal to absorptive material in the enclosed
at least 50% of this calculated area with a space.
Class C absorber or better. The absorptive
material should be equally distributed
between all floor levels. It will normally be
convenient to cover the underside of
intermediate landings, the underside of the
other landings, and the ceiling area on the
top floor.

5.2.2.3 Method A can generally be satisfied

by the use of proprietary acoustic ceilings.
However, the absorptive material can be
applied to any surface that faces into the
space.

5.2.3 Method B
5.2.3.1 In comparison with Method A, this
method takes into account the actual
absorption power of the surfaces of the
enclosure prior to the provision of additional
absorbent material. This allows the amount
of additional material which is required to be
calculated and directed at the sound
frequencies at which it is most needed.

5.2.3.2 In some cases Method B should allow

greater flexibility in satisfying the requirement
of Regulation E2 and require less additional
absorption than Method A. The approach to
be adopted for Method B is outlined by the
worked example in Appendix B.

5.3 Report Format

5.3.1 General
5.3.1.1 Evidence that the requirement of
Regulation E2 has been satisfied should be
retained in the form of a report or drawing
which should include the following:

(a) a description of the enclosed space

(entrance hall, corridor, stairwell etc.);

(b) the method used to satisfy the

requirement of Regulation E2, i.e.
Method A or Method B;

70
Appendix A
Procedure for sound insulation testing and reporting

A.2.1 Airborne sound insulation testing

A.1 Introduction
of a separating wall or floor
This Appendix describes the sound insulation
The airborne sound insulation testing of a
testing procedure, and provides guidance on
separating wall or floor should be measured
sound insulation test reports.
in accordance with the default procedure
described in I.S. EN ISO 16283-1, in the
Sound insulation testing should be carried out
frequency range 100 Hz to 3150 Hz. The
by a competent person, possessing sufficient
low-frequency measurement procedure
training, experience and knowledge in the
should not be used.
measurement of sound insulation in
buildings5. All measurements and calculations should be
carried out using one-third octave frequency
A.2 Field measurement of sound bands. Performance should be rated in
insulation of separating walls and terms of the weighted standardized level
floors difference, DnT,w in accordance with I.S. EN
ISO 717-1.
The measurement instrumentation used,
should have a valid, traceable certificate of
calibration, and should have been verified A.2.2 Measurements using a single
within the past two years. The sound sound source
calibrator should be independently verified at An omni-directional sound source should be
intervals not exceeding one year. used which meets the directivity requirements
of Annex A of I.S. EN ISO 16283-1. For each
All compliance testing should be conducted source position, the average sound pressure
by an accredited laboratory or other body level in the source and receiving rooms is
with the appropriate authorisation to perform measured in one-third octave bands using
the relevant tests and calibrations. either fixed microphone positions (and
averaging these values on an energy basis)
Sound insulation testing should be carried out or a moving microphone.
in accordance with the following documents:
For the source room measurements, the
I.S. EN ISO 16283-1: 2014; difference between the average sound
pressure levels in the adjacent one-third
I.S. EN ISO 140-7: 19986; octave bands should be no more than 8 dB.
If this condition is not met, the source
I.S. EN ISO 717-1: 2013; spectrum should be adjusted and the source
room measurement repeated. If the condition
I.S. EN ISO 717-2: 2013; is met, the average sound pressure level in
the receiving room, and hence a level
I.S. EN ISO 3382-2: 2008. difference, should be determined.

When calculating sound insulation test It is essential that all measurements made in
results, no rounding should occur in any the source and receiving rooms to determine
calculation until required by the relevant a level difference should be made without
standards listed above. moving the sound source or changing the
output level of the sound source, once its
5
Sound insulation tests carried out by a person spectrum has been achieved.
certified by an independent third party to carry out
this work offers a way of ensuring that such The sound source should then be moved to
certification can be relied upon. the next position in the source room and the
above procedure repeated to determine
6
I.S. EN ISO 16283-2 should be used, when another level difference. At least two
published.

71
positions, at a minimum 1.4 metres apart, A.2.4 Impact sound transmission of a
should be used with each source position separating floor
also varied in height by at least 0.7 metres.
A standard tapping machine should be used
in accordance with A.2.4 of I.S. EN ISO 140-
The standardised level differences, in one-
77. The impact sound transmission of a
third octave bands, obtained from each
separating floor should be measured in
source position shall be inverse-energy
accordance with the procedure described in
averaged to determine the level difference,
I.S. EN ISO 140-77, in the frequency range
DnT according to equation 6 of I.S. EN ISO
100 Hz to 3150 Hz.
16283-1.
The average sound pressure level in the
A.2.3 Measurements using multiple receiving room is measured in one-third
sound sources operating octave bands using either fixed microphone
simultaneously positions (and averaging these values on an
energy basis) or a moving microphone.
Omni-directional sound sources should be
used which meets the directivity requirements The standardised impact sound pressure
of Annex A of I.S. EN ISO 16283-1. The levels, in one-third octave bands, obtained
sound sources should be driven by separate from each tapping machine position shall be
and uncorrelated signals and adjusted so that energy averaged to determine the
each sound source is of a similar level. standardised impact sound pressure level L’nT
in accordance with I.S. EN 140-7 (equation 7
The average sound pressure level in the of I.S. EN ISO 16283-2, when published)
source and receiving rooms is measured in
one-third octave bands using either fixed Performance should be rated in terms of the
microphone positions (and averaging these weighted standardised impact sound
values on an energy basis) or a moving pressure level difference, L’nT,w in accordance
microphone. with I.S. EN ISO 717-2.
For the source room measurements, the
difference between the average sound A.2.5 Measurement of reverberation time
pressure levels in the adjacent one-third The reverberation time in the receiving rooms
octave bands should be no more than 8 dB. should be measured using the uninterrupted
If this condition is not met, the source noise method or the integrated impulse
spectrum should be adjusted and the source response method as described in I.S. EN ISO
room measurement repeated. If the condition 3382-2. At least two source positions, with a
is met, determine the average sound total of six decays should be used.
pressure level in the receiving room, and
hence the level difference, D as defined in
I.S. EN ISO 16283-1. A.2.6 Room requirements
Test rooms should be restricted to living
rooms and bedrooms where possible.
Kitchens and dining rooms may be
considered where this is not possible.

Test rooms should have volumes of at least

25m3. If this is not possible then the volumes

7
I.S. EN ISO 16283-2 should be used when
published, however, the use of a rubber ball for
impact testing is not recommended and the low
frequency measurement procedure should not be
used.

72
of the rooms used for testing should be noted e.g. carpet, foam backed vinyl. If a soft
in the test report. covering has been installed, it should be
taken up. If that is not possible, at least half
In apartment buildings, the dwellings chosen of the floor should be exposed and the
for test should be representative of the tapping machine should be placed only on
various dwelling layouts. the exposed part of the floor.
In Floor Type 1 the tapping machine should
A.2.7 Tests between rooms be placed on the fixed resilient layer.
Tests should be conducted in completed but
unfurnished rooms. A.2.8 Measurement precision
Sound pressure levels should be measured
When tests are being carried out doors and to 0.1 dB precision.
windows (including trickle vents) should be
closed; kitchen units, cupboards etc., on all Reverberation times should be measured to
walls should have their doors open and be 0.01s precision.
unfilled.
When measuring airborne sound insulation A.2.9 Measurements using a moving
between a pair of rooms of unequal volume, microphone
the sound source should be in the larger At least two positions relating to the sound
room. source should be used.
For separating walls, two individual tests For measurements of reverberation time,
should be carried out on any one separating discrete positions should be used rather than
wall, providing there are two pairs of valid a moving microphone.
rooms either side of the wall (e.g. in a pair of
dwelling houses with living room pairs on the
ground floor and bedroom pairs on the first A.3 Information for inclusion in test
floor), two tests can be carried out, one at reports
ground floor and one at first floor. The test report should contain at least the
For separating floors, two individual tests following information, in the order listed
may be carried out on any one separating below:
floor, providing there are two pairs of valid
rooms between the floor (e.g. in a pair of flats (a) Address(es) of buildings subject to
with living rooms stacked one directly above testing;
another and bedrooms stacked one directly
above another) then two tests can be carried (b) Type(s) of dwelling, i.e. dwelling house,
out, living room pairs and bedroom pairs. apartment, etc;
For separating floors, the airborne and impact (c) With reference to Table 3A (or Table 3B,
tests should be treated as a set and must be as appropriate), the addresses of the
carried out on the same separating floor. other dwellings on the site for which this
Therefore, the minimum number of tests must report is also applicable.
include both an airborne sound insulation test
and an impact sound transmission test (e.g. 2 (d) Date(s) when testing was conducted;
airborne and 2 impact tests should be carried
out to make up 2 test floor constructions). (e) Organisation/ person carrying out
testing, including:
Impact sound insulation tests should be
conducted on a floor without a soft covering8 (i) Name and address,

8
A bonded resilient layer is not a soft covering.

73
 (ii) Proof of competency9, and a. single number quantities and
the spectrum adaptation
(iii) Name(s) of client(s). terms, and
b. the DnT and L’nT data from
(f) A statement (preferably in a table) giving
which the single quantities are
the following information:
calculated.
(i) Rooms used for each test within
the ‘set of tests’. (h) Although not specifically required, it
may be useful to have a description of
NOTE: State volume of room if less the building including:
than 25 m3,
(i) sketches showing the layout and
(ii) The measured single-number dimensions of the rooms tested;
quantity (DnT,w for airborne sound
insulation and L’nT,w for impact (ii) mass per unit area in kg/m2 of
sound insulation) for each separating walls and separating
individual test within a ‘set of tests’, floors;

(iii) Description of separating walls, (iii) dimensions of any step or stagger

external walls, separating floors, between rooms tested;
and internal walls and floors (iv) dimensions and position of any
including details of materials used windows or doors in external walls.
in their construction and finishes.
NOTE: Where certified
constructions types (see paragraph
2.3) are employed the certificate
number and issuing body should
also be provided.
(iv) The sound insulation values that
should be achieved according to
the values set out in Table 1.

(g) Brief details of test, including:

(i) equipment used,

(ii) a statement that the test
procedures in Appendix A have
been followed,
(iii) results of tests shown in tabular
and graphical form for third octave
bands according to the relevant
standards referred to in A.2,
including:

9
Sound insulation tests carried out by a person
certified by an independent third party to carry out
this work offers a way of ensuring that such
certification can be relied on.

74
Appendix B
Assessed Sound Details

B.1 Introduction repeatability might be typical of any given

construction type in practice, test data should
This Appendix describes a method for be obtained from a range of testers and sites.
assessing and certifying construction types Table B.1 outlines the test sampling
which, if constructed correctly, should requirements.
achieve the performance level set out in
Table 1.
Table B.1 Test sampling requirements1
NOTE: All elements incorporated into the Min Min Max Min
building must comply with all parts of the number of number number number of
Building Regulations and the following individual of sites of tests test bodies
guidance assesses compliance with Part E tests2 per site
only. 30 2 16 2
NOTES:
B.2 Description of construction type
1. Test constructions must be carried out on
The sound insulation between walls on either new dwellings on actual building sites (i.e.
side of a sound resisting wall or floor not laboratory testing).
depends not only on the wall or floor
specification but also on other factors, 2. Tests should be carried out in accordance
including the size and shape of the rooms. with the procedure for sound insulation
testing outlined in Appendix A of this
For buildings constructed in masonry, the document.
positions of doors and windows may also be
3. The flanking construction details must be the
important in reducing flanking transmission. same for all tests conducted.

A report should be prepared providing a 4. For separating floors, the airborne and
detailed description of the construction type, impact tests should be treated as a set and
in addition to: must be carried out on the same separating
floor. Therefore, the minimum number of
• details of materials used in construction tests must include both an airborne sound
and finishes; insulation test and an impact sound
transmission test (e.g. 8 airborne and 8
• mass per unit area in kg/m2 of impact tests should be carried out to make
up 8 test floor constructions).
separating walls and separating floors;

• flanking construction details.

B.5 Competency of tester
For the purposes of this Appendix, sound
B.3 Target performance
insulation tests referred to in B.4 must be
recommendations
carried out by a competent person,
The performance of any construction can possessing sufficient training, experience and
ultimately be let down by poor workmanship knowledge of construction technology and
on site. It is recommended that the target the measurement of sound insulation in
sound insulation performance level of buildings10 and should be independent of the
assessed construction should have a mean promoter of the system, e.g. builder/
value of 4 dB better than the minimum values manufacturer.
set out in Table 1.
10
Sound insulation tests carried out by a person
B.4 Test sampling requirements certified by an independent third party to carry out
this work offers a way of ensuring that such
In order to gain a more representative sample certification can be relied upon.
of what sound insulation performance and

75
B.6 Use of historic test data
Historic test data from field measurements of
sound insulation tests (not laboratory data)
may be used in part or in full to satisfy the
requirements of B.4 provided that the test
data:

(a) is relevant to the same construction type

and has the same flanking details;

(b) meets the performance levels outlined in

Table 1;

(c) fulfils the sampling requirements

outlined in Table B.2, and

(d) has been established in accordance with

the procedure for sound insulation
testing outlined in Appendix A.

B.7 Assessment and Certification

The report referred to in B.2 and the test
results in accordance with B.4, B.5 and B.6
meeting target recommendations in B.3
should be assessed by an independent
approved body11 e.g. the National Standards
Authority of Ireland (NSAI), and certified as
meeting the criteria of Appendix B.

11
Accreditation of an approved body, by a
member of the European cooperation for
Accreditation (EA) such as the Irish National
Accreditation Board (INAB) also offers a way of
ensuring that such certification can be relied on.

76
Appendix C
Reverberation control – Method B calculation

C.1 Introduction C.4 Method B calculation

Method B takes into account the actual C.4.1 Absorption areas should be calculated
absorption power of the surfaces of the for each octave band. The requirement of
enclosure prior to the provision of additional Regulation E2 will be satisfied when the
absorbent material. This allows the amount appropriate amount of absorption area is
of additional material which is required to be provided for each octave band between 250
calculated and directed at the sound Hz and 4000 Hz inclusively.
frequencies at which it is most needed. In
some cases Method B should allow greater C.4.2 Absorption coefficient data (to two
flexibility in meeting the requirement of decimal places) should be taken from the
Regulation E2 and require less additional following:
absorption than Method A.
 For specific products, use laboratory
This Appendix demonstrates by means of a measurements of the absorption
worked example the differences between coefficient data using I.S. EN ISO 354
Method A and B. Acoustics - Measurement of sound
absorption in a reverberation room. The
C.2 Technical measured third octave band data should
be converted into practical sound
C.2.1 For an absorptive material of surface absorption coefficient data αp in octave
area S in m2, and sound absorption bands, according to I.S. EN ISO 11654
coefficient α, the absorption area A is equal Acoustics – Sound absorbers for use in
to the product of S and α. buildings – Rating of sound absorption;

C.2.2 The total absorption area AT in square  For generic materials use Table C.1.
metres is defined as the hypothetical area of This contains typical absorption
a totally absorbing surface, which if it were coefficient data for the common
the only absorbing element in the space materials used in buildings. This data
would give the same reverberation time as may be supplemented by published
the space under consideration. octave band data for other generic
materials.
C.2.3 For n surfaces in a space, the total
absorption area AT, can be found using the
following equation.

AT = αS1 +αS2 +…….αnSn

C.3 Provision of absorptive material

C.3.1 For entrance halls, provide a
minimum of 0.2 m2 total absorption area per
cubic metre of the volume. The additional
absorptive material should be distributed over
the available surfaces.

C.3.2 For corridors and hallways, provide a

minimum of 0.25 m2 total absorption area per
cubic metre of the volume. The additional
absorptive material should be distributed over
one or more of the available surfaces.

77
 Table C.1 Absorption coefficient data for common materials in buildings
(Par. C.4.2)
Sound absorption coefficient, α in octave
Material frequency bands (Hz)
250 500 1000 2000 4000
Fair-faced concrete or plastered masonry 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03
Fair-faced brick 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.07
Painted concrete block 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.08
Windows, glass façade 0.08 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.02
Doors (timber) 0.10 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08
Glazed tile / marble 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02
Hard floor coverings (e.g. lino, parquet) on
0.03 0.04 0.05 0.05 0.06
concrete floor
Soft floor coverings (e.g. carpet) on
0.03 0.06 0.15 0.30 0.40
concrete floor
Suspended plaster or plasterboard ceiling
0.15 0.10 0.05 0.05 0.05
with large air space behind

C.5 Worked Example

C.5.1 The following section describes the application of Method A and B to an entrance hall of a
building (refer to Diagram C.1). Each calculation step is to be rounded to two decimal places.

Diagram C.1 Worked example

(Par. C.5.1)

Criteria:

(a) Concrete floor covered

with carpet;

(b) Painted concrete block

walls;

(c) 3 No. timber doors

(1.0 m x 2.4 m).

NOTE: All dimensions are internal dimensions.

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C.5.2 Application of Method A
In accordance with Method A (see paragraph
5.5.2) for entrance halls, the absorbent
material should cover an area equal to or
greater than the floor area, with a Class C
absorber or better, rated according to I.S. EN
ISO 11654.

Therefore, cover at least 20 m2 (i.e. 4.0 m x

5.0 m) with a Class C absorber or better.

C.5.3 Application of Method B

Provide a minimum of 0.2 m2 absorption area
per cubic metre of the volume.

Calculation to Method B is described in steps

1 to 8 of Table C.2. In this example, the
designer considers that covering the entire
ceiling is a convenient way to provide
absorption. The aim of the calculation is to
determine the absorption coefficient, αceiling,
needed for the entire ceiling.

In this example, the absorption coefficients

from Method B indicate that a Class D
absorber could be used to cover the entire
ceiling. This can be compared against the
slightly higher absorption requirement of
Method A, which would have used a Class C
absorber or better to cover the ceiling.

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 Table C.2 Example calculation using Method B
(Par. C.5.2)
Step 1:- Calculate the surface area related to each absorptive material (i.e. for the floor, walls, doors &
ceiling).
Surface Surface finish Area (m2)
Floor Carpet covered 20
Doors Timber 7.2
Walls (excluding door area) Painted concrete block 45
Ceiling To be determined from the calculation 20
Step 2 - Obtain the absorption coefficient for the carpet, painted concrete block walls and the timber
doors. In this case the values are taken from Table C.1
Absorption coefficient (α) in octave frequency bands
Surface Area (m2)
250 Hz 500 Hz 1000 Hz 2000 Hz 4000 Hz
Floor 20 0.03 0.06 0.15 0.30 0.40
Doors 7.2 0.10 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.08
Walls 45 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.08

Ceiling 20 To be determined from this calculation

Step 3 - Calculate the absorption area (m2) related to each absorptive surface (i.e. for the floor, walls
and doors) in octave frequency bands.
(Absorption area = surface area x absorption coefficient).
Absorption area (m2)
Surface Area (m2)
250 Hz 500 Hz 1000 Hz 2000 Hz 4000 Hz
0.6
(20x0.03) 6.0 8.0
Floor 20 1.2 3.0
0.72
Doors 7.2
(7.2x0.10)
0.58 0.58 0.58 0.58

Walls 45 2.7 3.15 4.05 3.60

2.25
(45x0.05)
Step 4 - Calculate the sum of the absorption area (m2) obtained in Step 3.
250 Hz 500 Hz 1000 Hz 2000 Hz 4000 Hz
2 3.57
Existing absorption area (m )
(0.6+0.72+2.25)
4.48 6.73 10.63 12.18
Step 5 - Calculate the total absorption area (AT) required for the entrance hall.
(See C.3.1; Provide a minimum of 0.2 m2 absorption area per cubic metre of the volume).
Therefore: AT = 0.2 x 5 x 4 x 2.9 = 11.60 m2 of absorption area required.
Step 6 - Calculate the total absorption area (A) to be provided by ceiling (m2). If any values of minimum
absorption area are negative e.g. 4000 Hz, then, there is sufficient absorption from the existing surfaces
to meet the requirement without any additional absorption in this octave band.
(Additional absorption = AT – existing absorption area (from Step 5)).
N.B. negative values indicate that no additional absorption is necessary.
250 Hz 500 Hz 1000 Hz 2000 Hz 4000 Hz
Additional absorption area 8.03 0.97 -0.58
7.12 4.87
(m2) (11.6 - 3.57)
Step 7 - Calculate the required absorption coefficient α to be provided by ceiling. (Required absorption
coefficient α = Additional absorption area/ area of ceiling).
250 Hz 500 Hz 1000 Hz 2000 Hz 4000 Hz
Required absorption 0.40
coefficient α (8.03 ÷ 20)
0.36 0.24 0.05 Any Value
Step 8 - Identify a ceiling product from the manufacturer’s laboratory measurement data that provides
absorption coefficients that exceed the values in Step 7.

80
Referenced standards and publications

I.S. 440: 2009+A1: 2014 Timber frame construction, dwellings and other buildings (including
amendment 1, consolidated).

I.S. EN ISO 140-7: 1998 Acoustics. Measurement of sound insulation in building elements. Field
measurements of impact sound insulation of floors.
NOTE: I.S. EN ISO 16283-2: XXXX will supersede I.S. EN ISO 140-7: 1998, when published.

I.S. EN ISO 354: 2003 Acoustics - Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room.

I.S. EN ISO 717-1: 2013 Acoustics. Rating of sound insulation in buildings and of building
elements. Airborne sound insulation.

I.S. EN ISO 717-2: 2013 Acoustics. Rating of sound insulation in buildings and of building
elements. Impact sound insulation.

I.S. EN ISO 3382-2: 2008 Acoustics – Measurement of room acoustic parameters – Part 2:
Reverberation time in ordinary rooms.

I.S. EN ISO 10140: 2010 Acoustics - Laboratory measurement of sound insulation of building
elements (Part 1 to 5).

I.S. EN ISO 11654: 1997 Acoustics - Sound absorbers for use in buildings - Rating of sound
absorption.

I.S. EN 29052-1: 1993 Acoustics – Determination of dynamic stiffness – Part 1: Materials used
under floating floors in dwellings.

I.S. EN ISO 16283-1: 2014 Acoustics – Field measurement of sound insulation in buildings and of
building elements – Part 1: Airborne sound insulation.

I.S. EN ISO 16283-2: XXXX Acoustics – Field measurement of sound insulation in buildings and
of building elements – Part 2: Impact sound insulation.

BS 8233: 2014 Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings.

BRE Information Paper IP 9/88 Methods for reducing impact sounds in buildings.

81
Other standards and publications

Housing and Sound Insulation – Improving existing attached dwellings and designing for
conversions - Building Performance Centre, Napier University 2006.

I.S. EN ISO 24340: 2012 Resilient Floor Coverings - Determination of the Thickness of Layers
(ISO 24340:2006).

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