Sound Insulation: changes to the BCA

An important change has been made to the Building Code of Australia (BCA) with regards to sound insulation.

HERE'S WHAT HAS CHANGED:

Until May 2016, the BCA allowed a correctional factor (C1) to be incorporated into test results relating to the sound insulation performance of acoustic underlay. C1 is a value used to modify the measured impact sound pressure level: Ln,w or Ln,T,w. In simple terms, the value was used to simulate more closely the sound of footfall on a floor's surface.

Since May 2016, the correctional factor can no longer be incorporated into test results. The good news is that Regupol has never included the correctional factor into base test results. Regupol has always published results in a format similar to the following example:

WHAT DOES THE CHANGE MEAN?

The change to the BCA means that it's more important than ever to avoid low grade acoustic products. Inferior products are less likely to meet the impact sound insulation requirements of the BCA. Any product that has relied upon the correctional factor (C1) to achieve borderline compliance, is now likely to be categorized as unsuitable in accordance with BCA requirements.

If a flooring system doesn't comply with the BCA's requirements in multi-occupancy buildings, the forced removal and replacement can incur significant costs.

Regupol products are renowned worldwide for superior acoustic performance, and that's why they are so often specified for inclusion into high quality projects. Regupol conduct acoustic tests under laboratory conditions - the tests speak for themselves. For further information about Regupol acoustic test results, please contact ABS West.