Sound insulation in dwellings: Part 1: An introduction (GG 83-1)

BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.

Sound insulation in dwellings: Part 1: An introduction (GG 83-1) was written by Gary Timmins and Ian West and published by BRE on 24 February 2014.

GG 83-1 is part of a three-part Good Building Guide providing practical guidance for designers, construction managers, construction operatives and property developers to help them understand the requirements of the building regulations concerning the provision of sound insulation in dwellings.

Unwelcome noise in homes, is a major problem in the UK that requires serious consideration from both architects and builders. Noise nuisance can be a cause of stress and, if not remedied, can affect our health and wellbeing as well as influencing our enjoyment of buildings. People have different attitudes to noise; building occupants may be unaware that the noise they are making can be heard by their neighbours and regarded as a nuisance.

Considering the requirements relating to sound insulation at an early stage of any development reduces the likelihood of costly remediation and delays at completion.

Part 1 explains the importance of providing good sound insulation between and within homes, describing:

• The problems associated with neighbour noise.
• How to satisfy the current regulatory requirements in England and Wales.
• Methods of measuring sound transmission in dwellings.

Part 2 explains how to provide a reasonable level of sound insulation between new dwellings, and part 3 gives advice on providing the correct level of sound insulation for converted dwellings.

The contents of part 1 are:

• The noise problem.
• Basic principles.
• Satisfying building regulations.
• Sound insulation testing.
• Enhanced standards of sound insulation between homes.
• References.

--BRE Group

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