When to Consult With an Acoustical Engineer During Construction of a New Building

If you've decided to have any type of new building constructed, no doubt you've consulted with many different engineers and specialists to ensure the construction will be solid and safe for all occupants. An acoustical engineer is a professional who specializes in the study of noise and vibration and how these affect buildings and other construction. If you're having a new building constructed, note when it's good to consult with such an engineer for your project.

1. When there is construction or other excessive noise nearby

You may not think that road construction or the building of a new strip mall a few streets away from your new building is anything to worry about, but note that the vibrations from jackhammers, cranes and other such heavy-duty equipment can affect your building and its occupants. Acoustical consultants can determine if the noise and vibrations from construction projects, a production facility or even a busy roadway should be considered before or after your building is constructed. They may recommend ways to protect your building's construction process or noise insulating features that will keep your workers comfortable without distraction once your building is occupied.

2. If sound quality is important inside your building

If you're constructing a new church, community theatre or even a bar where you will feature live music, the sound quality inside your building will be important. This sound will need to carry to every corner of the building but also retain its quality so that everyone enjoys the music and can clearly hear the performers on stage. An acoustical engineer can advise you on the best design and materials to use to preserve sound quality in your building.

3. When noise needs to be contained inside the building

In schools, classrooms need to be quiet so students can pay attention without distraction. In hospitals, rest homes and other such medical facilities, patients also need quiet to rest easily. The same is true for hotels and motels, as you want to ensure each guest can enjoy peace and quiet in their own room or when lounging by the pool. You cannot take for granted that standard construction processes and materials will insulate each room or area of your new building so that sound is contained but should consult with an acoustical engineer. They can determine how to insulate sound as effectively as possible in each designated area of your building.


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