Sound/Vibration Control

Quiet Living and Working Spaces

Using reinforced concrete helps to reduce noise from adjacent compartments, be it in an office, apartment, or patient room. Insulated concrete sandwich wall panels (a layer of insulation embedded between two layers of concrete) can add additional sound-damping attributes to seal the exterior walls and reduce the chances from exterior noise such as vehicles, sirens, or other sources.

Concrete floors help keep airborne noise from penetrating spaces vertically, ensuring less intrusion on nearby spaces regardless of the building’s function. This can create a noticeable difference for owners, tenants and users that adds to their satisfaction and helps to market the building.

Impact noise, such as that produced from walking in high heels or moving furniture is difficult to control for any construction system. Minimizing transmission of impact noise should be evaluated and may be controlled through appropriate flooring materials.

Vibration Control

The inherent mass of reinforced concrete structures helps isolate and dampen vibrations. Structures using reinforced concrete can be designed so that vibrations from heavy equipment, whether manufacturing machinery or exercise equipment, won’t be felt in other portions of the building. This attribute provides a feeling of solidity and safety and eliminates a distraction while also ensuring sensitive equipment, sleeping patients, or other concerns aren’t disrupted.