Soundproof Flooring System and Installation
Applying soundproofing treatments to flooring has two distinct methods of application, this depends on the type of floor. For Timber Flooring, ensuring a mineral wool is applied beneath the Ply / OSB or MDF board is essential. For Concrete, flanking is a much more apparent issue which has to be resolved before applying any treatment.
For a Carpet Installation:
• Apply a Perimeter strip surrounding all applicable areas.
• Then apply a Mass loaded vinyl up to the perimeter ensuring all panels / tiles / rolls are laid at staggered joints. Cover all joints with a high tack tape.
• Then apply the carpet grips over the perimeter strips.
• Apply the sound absorbent / soundproof underlay directly to the mass loaded vinyl reaching the entire perimeter of the floor. Cover all joints with a high tack tape.
• Finish with a carpet of your choosing.
For a Laminate or Vinyl Finish:
• Apply a Mass loaded vinyl leaving a gap around the perimeter of 2 to 5 mm.
• Fill the perimeter with an air-tight bond or sealant.
• Then apply a minimum of 6mm Ply / OSB or MDF board over the mass loaded vinyl, using an appropriate bond / adhesive and matching the perimeter of the mass loaded vinyl. (Ensure the boards are applied at staggered joints, cover all joints with a high tack tape.
• Apply the sound absorbent / soundproof underlay directly to the mass loaded vinyl reaching the entire perimeter of the floor. Cover all joints with a high tack tape.
• Then apply the laminate or vinyl chosen in the appropriate method suggested by the manufacturer.
Requirements for Part E Building Regulations
Table 3.1 Dwelling Houses and Flats – Performance Standards for separating walls, floors and stairs that have a separating function.
|
|
|
Value in dB |
Dwellings formed by material change of use |
Walls, floors and stairs |
Airborne Sound Insulation DnT,w + Ctr (Minimum value) |
45 dB |
43 dB |
Floors and Stairs |
Impact Sound Insulation L’nT,w (Maximum values) |
62 dB |
64 dB |
Table 3.2 Rooms for Residential Purposes – Performance Standards for separating walls, floors and stairs that have a separating function.
|
|
|
New Build |
Dwellings formed by material change of use |
Walls, floors and stairs |
Airborne Sound Insulation DnT,w + Ctr (Minimum value) |
45 dB |
43 dB |
Floors and Stairs |
Impact Sound Insulation L’nT,w (Maximum values) |
62 dB |
64 dB |
