Listen Up! Don't Compromise on Acoustics By John Bishop, AIA, LEED AP
Listen Up! Don't Compromise on Acoustics By John Bishop, AIA, LEED AP
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| Farnsworth Group added acoustic wall panels that not only buffer noise, but also creates a dynamic design element that enriches the space. |
Today, school districts are under increased pressure to accomplish more with less forcing compromises in many areas.
The acoustic properties of classrooms is one area that we urge districts to take careful consideration before making any compromises. The acoustics of the classroom environment fall in two primary areas: background noise and sound isolation.
Background noise - the sound generated by occupants and devices within the space - serves both as a sound mask and, in the case of sudden or irregular sounds, a point of distraction within the classroom. Sound masking background noise can have a marked impact on speech intelligibility, which in turn can have a dramatic impact on younger students that are lacking the baseline knowledge and context necessary to fill in the gaps in intelligible speech.
Background noise can often be reduced by isolating mechanical equipment from the classroom. By avoiding installing fans, compressors, pumps and other such devices in the confines of the classroom space, all of which generate mechanical vibration and noise, the background noise level can be reduced and speech intelligibility can be improved.
Sound transmission refers to the amount of sound energy that is transferred through intervening walls, doors and ceilings. Mass is often a significant contributor to the performance of a building element in controlling sound – the heavier a wall, the less sound energy will be transmitted through the wall.
In addition to mass, attention should be given to maintain the integrity of building assemblies between adjoining spaces. For example, a gap at the base of a stud wall of only 1/8" can result in close to a 50% reduction in the effectiveness of the wall’s tested sound transmission coefficient.
Other strategies to reduce sound transmission between spaces is to seal penetrations and avoid connecting ductwork and back-to-back penetrations in wall assemblies. Appropriate use of sound absorption panels in gymnasiums, band rooms, and other loud areas can aid in both the acoustic properties of the space, as well as reduce the amount of sound transmission. However, particularly acoustically sensitive spaces should be the focus of acoustical engineering analysis.
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to reduce the first cost of a construction or renovation project by locating noise generating mechanical equipment within the classroom or by terminating walls just above the finished ceiling height, even with insulation installed on top of ceiling panels, both lines of compromise may have a significant impact on student comprehension and, consequently, on student achievement.
The acoustic properties of classrooms is one area that we urge districts to take careful consideration before making any compromises. The acoustics of the classroom environment fall in two primary areas: background noise and sound isolation.
Background noise - the sound generated by occupants and devices within the space - serves both as a sound mask and, in the case of sudden or irregular sounds, a point of distraction within the classroom. Sound masking background noise can have a marked impact on speech intelligibility, which in turn can have a dramatic impact on younger students that are lacking the baseline knowledge and context necessary to fill in the gaps in intelligible speech.
Background noise can often be reduced by isolating mechanical equipment from the classroom. By avoiding installing fans, compressors, pumps and other such devices in the confines of the classroom space, all of which generate mechanical vibration and noise, the background noise level can be reduced and speech intelligibility can be improved.
Sound transmission refers to the amount of sound energy that is transferred through intervening walls, doors and ceilings. Mass is often a significant contributor to the performance of a building element in controlling sound – the heavier a wall, the less sound energy will be transmitted through the wall.
In addition to mass, attention should be given to maintain the integrity of building assemblies between adjoining spaces. For example, a gap at the base of a stud wall of only 1/8" can result in close to a 50% reduction in the effectiveness of the wall’s tested sound transmission coefficient.
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| These acoustic wall panels were added in a gymnasium to help absorb sound. The panels were designed to mimic a sunburst, again adding an aesthetic design element. |
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to reduce the first cost of a construction or renovation project by locating noise generating mechanical equipment within the classroom or by terminating walls just above the finished ceiling height, even with insulation installed on top of ceiling panels, both lines of compromise may have a significant impact on student comprehension and, consequently, on student achievement.
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