Frequently Asked Questions for Sound Insulation Tests​

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• When do you test?
  Testing is performed at the pre-completion stage. This generally means that windows and doors are installed (and can be closed), skirting boards are fitted, and building services, cabling, plugs and sockets are all installed. Floor finishes such as carpet should NOT be fitted and will need to be removed unless the floor finish is to be a permanent feature. Generally testing should be performed before decorating or flooring is installed. 

• What do I need to do to ensure my site is ready for testing?
  As above and a site that is not ready cannot pass a test. It is also essential that there is no construction noise on site (indoors or externally) during testing as this will significantly impact the results (leading to a fail). The area around the site must be kept as quiet as possible. Access to 240v power is also required.

• What happens in the event of a failure?
  You will be required to discuss this with your building control body as they will likely require additional testing to identify fails within the sample. For free we will call you to discuss options on how to improve the sound insulation to achieve a pass. If any complex design is required we can additionally assist in this process as agreed. Retesting will also be required and we can offer this at discounted rates. 

• Can you provide advice to help achieve a pass?
  Yes - before a test takes place we can additionally provide design advice as you require. 

• How much testing is required?
  The number of required tests will be dependent on the size and type of project as advised by Part E and your building control. This is determined by the number of construction types for walls and floors and a sampling of 1/10 for each type for a set of tests. A set of tests can consist of multiple airborne and impact tests depending on if the property is a residential flat or house. 

• What areas do you cover?
  We are accredited to test in the whole of the United Kingdom - Part E covering England and Wales. Technical Handbook covers Scotland and Technical Booklet G is for Northern Ireland. There are small variations in these regulations, their sampling methods and target criteria.

• How much does testing cost?
  Our prices start at an introductory £400 ex VAT for a single airborne test of a wall in accordance with ISO 140-4. Any scope of work above this will be dependent on the number of tests required according to building regulations and your building control body. 

• What equipment is used for testing?
  Our measurement equipment is Class 1 UKAS calibrated which means we have to regularly send it to certified laboratories for calibration checks, in addition to Class 1 field calibration. We use 'dodecahedron' loudspeakers to ensure compliance to the relevant standards for source pattern direction. 

• Who can perform testing?
  Part E specifically refers to UKAS accreditation or ANC membership as a requirement. SITMA is vigorously accredited by UKAS and testers have to undergo regular audits under the scheme. It is also recommended that you use a suitably qualified acoustic consultant for testing - and if there are any additional planning conditions attached this likely will be a requirement of the local authority. Usually this is demonstrated with membership to the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) after having completed the IOA Diploma and additional academic qualifications (such as recognised MSc programmes). James Gardner is both SITMA accredited and has membership with the IOA. As a fully qualified acoustic consultant we can advise you if any acoustic upgrades are required in the event of a failure. Retesting can be performed at discounted rates. 

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