Colorado Adopts 2021 IBC for Schools - includes Acoustic Requirements for Classrooms

Acoustics, Architectural Acoustics, News, Sound Isolation, SchoolsJeff KwolkoskiJuly 22, 2021Room Acoustics, Reverberation, Mechanical system noise, sound isolationComment

ASHRAE PMP Acoustical Testing

Setting benchmarks and measuring building performance is vital to designing successful “green” or high efficiency buildings. ASHRAE developed a set of Performance Measurement Protocols (PMP) to provide consistent test methods for the industry to measure energy, water, and indoor environmental quality performance of commercial buildings. The indoor environmental quality section...

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT: Acoustic Plasters

Acoustic plasters are troweled-on acoustic treatments that absorb sound, control reverberation, and reduce noise. They can be used in both exterior and interior applications. Plaster can be applied in different colors a variety of textures (degrees of smoothness). There is even an acoustically transparent shimmer effect that can sprayed directly onto the...

Acoustics, Architectural AcousticsAndrew KowalyshynFebruary 20, 2017acoustic materials, acoustic plasterComment

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT: Acoustic Stretch Fabric Systems for Room Absorption

Acoustic stretch systems are fabric or micro-perforated vinyl membranes stretched over plastic or metal frames with sound absorbing or sound blocking material behind. These treatments can cover larger areas with fewer seams than acoustic panels. Custom options can accommodate irregular shaped rooms, including curved walls and domes.

Featured Project: St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church

Wave Engineering recently had the pleasure of working with St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church in Greenwood Village to enhance the acoustics of their sanctuary. We used EASE acoustical modeling software to investigate changes to the surface finishes and shape of the room in order to...

Shooting Range Acoustic Consulting & Noise Control

Sound transmission from gun ranges has become a growing concern as shooting sports increase in popularity and firing ranges are built in close proximity to retail areas and residential districts. Wave Engineering works with developers, architects, engineers, and city planners to evaluate potential noise concerns from shooting facilities...

Are Your Video Conference Room Acoustics HD-Compatible? (Part Two)

In a previous post, we discussed ways that the acoustics of a conference room can affect the audio quality of the video conferencing system. Here in Part 2 we will go over some general recommendations on designing the room to get the best sound from the system.

Are Your Video Conference Room Acoustics HD-Compatible?

There are many market factors driving the growth of video conferencing, and manufacturers like Polycom and ClearOne have responded with better technology. These modern video conference systems offer bigger displays, higher resolution video, high definition audio quality, integration with mobile apps, and so on. However, if this advanced technology is installed in a poorly designed conference room, the results can be disappointing...

Spooky Halloween Sound Measurements!

Acoustic Testing, Acoustics, News, NoiseAndrew KowalyshynOctober 30, 2015noise monitoringComment

Sound Masking for Speech Privacy

Many open office areas employ sound masking systems to create an even distribution of background noise that is just loud enough to help mask distracting noises (particularly from other conversations) without being loud enough to be a nuisance. The system typically consists of special loudspeakers mounted in or above the ceiling and a head-end unit that generates and shapes the noise. Another useful application of sound masking is to improve speech privacy...

Beware the Gypsum Association Manual STC Ratings

Do you select Sound Transmission Class ratings from the Gypsum Association Fire Resistance Design Manual? The GA manual contains a lot of good information on fire and sound ratings. The sound ratings, however, must be used carefully. Knowledgeable acoustic consultants do not rely on the GA manual Sound Transmission Class ratings, but use laboratory test reports (multiple reports when available). We may also supplement the lab test reports with field test...

Cushioned Vinyl Floor Test - Time Lapse

Vinyl flooring options have expanded in recent years to include finishes that mimic the appearance of tile and hardwood. These materials have become popular in multifamily condominium and rental apartment markets, and hospital and healthcare facilities (long term care, hospice, etc.) due to the attractive cost and low maintenance. As acoustical consultants, we evaluate flooring materials as they relate to sounds in the room...

Avoid CrossFit Noise Complaints

High Impact workouts – such as CrossFit and other high intensity Boot Camp style strength and conditioning programs – are gaining in popularity throughout the country. Neighborhood gyms, which were once quiet retreats where clients worked out independently on treadmills with their headphones on, are now social hubs overflowing with people, activity, and loud music. These modern gyms have become one of the biggest sources of noise complaints we see in retail and multifamily buildings...

STC Testing to Evaluate Privacy Concerns

Wave Engineering explains the Sound Transmission Class STC rating.

Be Quiet! LEED v4 is here.

Noise experts at Wave Engineering discuss the new acoustic requirements of LEED v4. The acoustic requirements include criteria for reverberation, interior and exterior sound isolation, and mechanical background noise levels.