Multi-Housing News - January 2009 - (Page 22)

product & services Noise Control Avoid resident complaints by addressing problems at the construction stage By Lisa Iannucci, Contributing Editor Multifamily living can be a noisy affair and the possible sources of noise multiply in mixed-use and urban settings. John Jonsson of Maxxon Floor Specialists in Hamel, Minn., has witnessed his share of bad sound control. “I can tell you it’s led to higher vacancy rates, complaints from neighbors and lawsuits,” he says. “Yet the costs [of good sound control] can sometimes throw good [intentions regarding] sound control out the window.” Experts agree that multifamily units can’t be soundproof, but it’s important to do what you can to diminish as much noise as possible. The most common sources of noise in multifamily living are either airborne noise (such as TVs, voices, music) or structure-borne noise (footfall noise from people upstairs) created by residents. The International Building Code (IBC) has sound level requirements for both types of noise. However, according to Jonsson, “many acoustical consultants and architects believe that complaints will still occur at the code level requirement.” Robert Weeks, project manager at ka inc., in Cleveland, Ohio notes that ideal sound-proofing is really done at the construction phase, but the techniques used depend on the types of building construction. “Wood and light gage steel framing are the most difficult construction types,” says Weeks. “These buildings have less mass to begin with and the structures are flexible and can transmit vibration. Concrete structures have a lot of mass but don’t have Photo of Acousti-Mat II courtesy of Maxxon a lot of spring and can transmit vibration as well, but the airborne noise (voices, tv, etc.) can be mitigated.” Concrete construction is often confused for not needing much help with sound control because of its mass. “However, impact noise is terrible in concrete construction,” says Jonsson. “Project designers have to focus on that type of noise.” As the level of luxury of your development increases, so will your residents’ expectations of sound control. The best way to combat sound control is to start at the construction phase. “Acousti-Mats can add to the sound control. It attaches to the sub floor and another Maxxon underlayment to make for extra soundproofing,” says Jonsson. For example, the Acousti-Mat II (pictured above) allows a thinner floating floor composite and is a cost-effective choice for both new floors and retrofit where floor height is a concern. A green version is also available with 40 percent pre-consumer recycled content and optional water resistant fabric. Another product, Hacker Floor underlayments, can be utilized in conjunction with an acoustical control mat, such as Hacker Sound Mat II, STC and IIC (impact transmission class). As a result, the sound is considerably reduced. Weeks also suggests looking for ways to reduce the transmission of sound. “If you can hear conversation then something is wrong with the wall,” he says. “Seal cracks and insulate areas such as electrical outlets. In the hallway, install thresholds and ask neighbors to add carpets and throw rugs if possible.” Most importantly, says Weeks, is to try something so that the resident understands that you care about the problem. To comment, e-mail diana.mosher@nielsen.com. For weekly product introductions, visit www.multi-housingnews.com/productgallery. For more information, visit www.multi-housingnews.com/productinfo 22 January 2009 | Multi-Housing News | Official Publication of Multi-Housing World http://www.multi-housingnews.com/productgallery http://www.multi-housingnews.com/productinfo

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Multi-Housing News - January 2009

Multi-Housing News - January 2009
Contents
From the Editor
Market Pulse
Executive Insight
Economic Forecast 2009: The Year Ahead
Apartment Market Outlook
Development & Design: Walkable Neighborhoods
Property Management: Handling Risk in a New Age
Directory: Top Brokers
Kitchen & Bath: Rehabs
Products: Noise Control
Technology: Property Management Software
Property Showcase: St. Regis, Bal Harbour

Multi-Housing News - January 2009