Pre-construction Acoustical Field Testing

Conduct acoustical field testing of the existing construction to identify the acoustical properties of the existing construction. Preconstruction Acoustical Field Testing can provide critical information needed for the appropriate acoustical design.

• Noise Isolation Class (NIC) testing will identify the sound isolation properties of walls, ceilings, etc. and will be used in the design process of the renovated space.
• Reverberation Time (RT60) testing determines the existing degree of reverberation, or acoustic reflection in the interior space. This data will be used to assist in finish schedule development of the renovated space.
• Noise Criteria (NC) testing quantifies the ambient noise caused by building mechanical systems. The data is used by the MEP to determine the final mechanical system design needed to meet the NC requirements of the project.

Preliminary Acoustical Specifications for Design Development Stage

Develop preliminary construction specifications needed to meet the identified acoustical design goals of the renovated space

• Wall construction (STC)
• Door and window construction (STC)
• Ceiling/Floor Construction (STC)
• Mechanical systems sound attenuation package (NC)
• Method for treatment of penetrations (electrical outlets, ductwork, plumbing, etc.) (STC)
• Interior Acoustics treatment (RT60)

Preliminary Report and Review

Submit a report including the results of the acoustical analysis and the construction specifications for review by the architect.

Review meeting to present and discuss the results of the report, address questions, and consider design modifications.

Late Stage Review and Construction Administration Oversight

Provide technical review of design changes made after the completion of the Design Development Phase. The review will consider the effect proposed changes may have on the acoustical integrity of the construction.

Provide periodic construction site inspections to review construction methods as they relate to the acoustical criteria of the project.

Post-Installation Acoustical Testing

Upon completion of construction, perform Field Sound Transmission Class/Noise Isolation Class (FSTC/NIC) testing, Noise Criteria (NC) testing, and Reverberation Time (RT60) testing to document the as-built acoustical environments of the new interior spaces and compare the results to the design criteria of the project.

Submit a final report of the final measured acoustical values and a comparison with the project design criteria to validate the acoustical performance of the facility.

Architectural acoustics tests are a sound investment when it comes to making sure the final construction has appropriate acoustical characteristics.