Noise from Neighbors – Why It Occurs and How to Reduce It?

In urban life, where walls separate us from the surrounding noise, noise from neighbors can become an unwanted companion of everyday life. Understanding where this sound comes from and how to reduce it becomes crucial for ensuring peace in our homes. In this article, we will delve into the topic of different types of sound, the norms required in the field of building acoustics, and present three effective methods to combat annoying noise.

Types of Sound: Airborne and Impact.

Two types that cannot be confused. They can occur independently or simultaneously.

Airborne Noise: These are sounds that travel through the air, such as conversations, music, or street noise. They pass through walls, windows, and even doors, creating disturbing disruptions in our private space.

Impact Noise: These are sounds that result from impacts or vibrations, such as footsteps or furniture dragging. These sounds travel through building structures, such as walls or ceilings, creating a specific type of noise. The best way to reduce them is to act directly at the point of their origin.

Acoustic Standards: Requirements That Shape Our Homes

In the field of building acoustics, there are standards regulating the permissible level of noise in dwellings. These limitations include both airborne and impact noise. According to Polish law, requirements regarding acoustic insulation are described in the Polish Standard – PN-B-02151-3. For example, the wall separating two apartments in a residential building should have a minimum sound insulation index R’A1 of 50 dB. Adhering to these standards ensures basic comfort in apartments. However, it should be noted that in the case of loud music from the neighboring wall or very loud conversations, these values do not guarantee complete silence. However, it is obligatory to meet the standard regarding acoustic insulation.

Acoustic Measurements: Check Compliance with Standards

If noise from neighbors becomes unbearable, acoustic measurements can provide precise information regarding the compliance of walls and ceilings with standards. These studies identify construction weaknesses, enabling targeted corrective actions. It’s worth conducting such studies, especially before moving into a new apartment, to check the acoustic comfort of the premises. If deviations are found, guidelines are issued to improve the acoustic conditions in the apartment. Furthermore, acoustic measurements can be an irrefutable argument if the issue of acoustics ends up in court.

Three Effective Ways to Reduce Noise from Neighbors

Floating Floors and Floating Layers: Using special flooring materials, such as anti-vibration underlayment, can reduce impact noise. This is an effective way to reduce the transmission of sound from footsteps or moving furniture. However, for the material to exhibit isolating properties, it must act literally like a spring – meaning it must return to its original state after being pressed, for example, by a finger. There are various methods of using floor insulation. They are most commonly used as a “standard” under the screed layer, but those used in today’s construction industry are rarely referred to as “acoustic.” If there is an opportunity to intervene in the construction project, it is worth consulting this issue with our experts and selecting the appropriate product. However, there are cases where the only option is to use a floating layer – a thin material placed just under the finishing layer of the floor (parquet, panels, or tiles). Then it is necessary to maximize the effectiveness of the solution while maintaining a slight thickness of the insulating layer.

Wall Isolation Systems and Suspended Ceilings: These solutions show the highest effectiveness in stopping airborne sounds. These are usually multi-layer systems composed of various materials, with properly selected order, thickness, and density. Each system isolates differently, so there is no one ideal solution. Each system isolates specific frequencies better or worse. Therefore, the solution to the problem of a noisy neighbor will be different from the solution to frequent parties with loud music next door. It is worth remembering that the effectiveness of isolation depends not only on the proper selection of materials but above all on the correctness of their installation.

Soundproof Doors and Windows: In addition to ensuring adequate insulation of ceilings and walls, it is essential not to forget about any breaks in partitions. It is through them that the greatest “amount” of noise from the street usually penetrates into the rooms. Investing in doors and windows with increased sound insulation is a step towards reducing airborne noise. Modern solutions allow you to enjoy peace without giving up access to natural light. If there is no possibility to intervene in windows or doors, it is essential to ensure the tightness of their installation. This may seem mundane, but choosing the right door seals can increase the insulation of doors or windows by up to 9-12 dB!

Bringing harmony to our homes requires an understanding of different types of sound and effective methods of their reduction. Remember that combating noise is an investment in our daily lives, positively influencing our health and living comfort. As a company specializing in this type of consultancy, we pay great attention to the materials used in construction, with particular emphasis on their impact on the quality of our acoustic comfort. Consult your issue with us to enjoy a quiet and friendly place to work and relax.