NOISE MONITORING & ACOUSTIC SOLUTIONS SILENCE IS GOLDEN
Ben Hancock, Managing Director of Oscar Acoustics, discusses how to beat noise distractions when working from home.
In the wake of the pandemic, many of us have experienced dramatic changes to our daily working lives. The most significant of which are changes to our work environment, with millions having switched their office space for the comfort of life working from home. Whilst this does have its benefits, many are now experiencing the fallout from this new found freedom with sudden exposure to noise distractions. With 43% of Londoners living in flats, disturbances such as loud music, raucous neighbours, or lively discussions are having a huge impact on our ability to concentrate.
So, given that the future of working life is likely to mean even more time at home, what tactics should we consider to ensure a peaceful working environment, free of distractions? Thankfully, there are now multiple ways to soundproof our homes and reduce the daily burden of unwanted noise.
SPOT THE SOURCE One of the first steps to achieving a distraction-free
work space is to identify the source of the noise. Being mindful of where it is coming from can help you find the right solution. If the noise is coming from outside, installing double-glazing and shutters can significantly reduce external sounds. Opting for specialised acoustic fencing can also help quieten down road noise and can be particularly effective against blocking out traffic.
ACOUSTIC HANGERS One of the main perpetrators of disruptive noise,
particularly for those who live in flats, is from neighbours above. Sound passes through ceilings and floors as vibrations and sound pressure waves that penetrate and travel through floorboards, joists and ceilings in the form of vibration and noise. Installing acoustic ceiling hangers, can significantly reduce noise from overhead by creating an isolated, ‘floating ceiling’ which stops the vibration that causes the transfer of unwanted noise from floor to floor.
Some types of acoustic hangers can be self-installed by competent DIY persons, reducing installation costs. Another major bonus is that all the work can be carried out from below and only the minimal amount of ceiling height is lost if you choose the right one. Fire-rated products should be top of the agenda when looking for the right acoustic hanger for a project. It’s also worth checking for industry certifications as a sign of quality too – a superior soundproofing product should meet the British Building Regulations for ‘Approved Document E’ for airborne and impact sound.
NOISE INSULATING CAVITY FILLERS A common reason for overhead sound transfer are
cavity gaps in walls and ceilings that allow sound to travel through, as there is no insulation barrier in place.
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“CAVITY FILLERS ARE A PERFECT SOLUTION TO REDUCING SOUND TRANSFER IN THE HOME.”
Cavity fillers are a perfect solution to reducing sound transfer in the home. They can either be sprayed in the wall cavity before a void is closed or they can be blown through holes to improve the acoustic insulation of walls and ceilings, either way you’ll notice no difference to the appearance of your ceiling once complete, it will look just as it did before.
Noise insulating cavity fillers have come on a long way in terms of their specs and features and a top-quality product will use materials that are naturally safe and recyclable – most notably cellulose fibre. There are other reasons to consider investing in cavity insulation, beyond the reduction in unwanted sound transfer. A high-quality cavity filler will also result in lower heating bills due to impressive thermal qualities. For those looking to really make an impact, it’s possible to combine a cavity filler with an acoustic ceiling hanger for even more protection against unwelcome sounds, allowing you to work peacefully in the tranquillity of your own home.
www.oscar-acoustics.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com
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