Navigate complex acoustic challenges with confidence through ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's comprehensive Architectural Acoustics Testing services. When noise pollution threatens building functionality or code compliance, our precise sound transmission (STC), absorption insulation (Rw) and on-site testing capabilities can help you deliver spaces with exceptional acoustic performance and occupant comfort—before construction even begins.

What is Architectural Acoustics Testing at ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ?

Architectural acoustics testing measures how building materials and assemblies perform in controlling sound transmission and absorption. At ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ, we provide laboratory and field testing services to quantify acoustic properties through industry-standard metrics like Sound Transmission Class (STC), Outdoor/Indoor Transmission Class (OITC), and Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC). Our data helps you verify compliance with building codes and deliver environments with optimal acoustic performance.

 

What Can ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ Offer You For Architectural Acoustics Testing?

Components and materials we test 
Our A2LA and UKAS-accredited laboratories test the full spectrum of building products that impact acoustic performance. From structural elements like walls and floor-ceiling assemblies to specialized acoustic materials such as insulation and panels, we provide the data you need to make informed decisions about product selection and design strategy.

  • Wall panels and assemblies
  • Doors and windows
  • Ceiling panels and systems
  • Acoustic insulation materials
  • Draperies and fabrics
  • Glass and glazing products
  • Highway and transportation barriers
  • Office partitions

Key tests offered
¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ delivers comprehensive acoustic performance evaluation through standardized testing methodologies that produce reliable, comparable results. Our testing capabilities cover both sound absorption and transmission properties, giving you a complete picture of your products' acoustic behavior.

  • Sound Absorption Testing (ASTM C423, E795, ISO 354)
  • Sound Transmission Loss Testing (ASTM E90, E423, E1332, AAMA 1801, ISO 10140)
  • Field Testing (ASTM E336, E966 & E1007, BS EN ISO 16283)
  • Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) determination
  • Sound Absorption Average (SAA) calculation
  • Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating
  • Outdoor/Indoor Transmission Class (OITC) rating

Cutting-edge equipment we use

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's advanced reverberation chambers and acoustic testing facilities provide the controlled environment needed for accurate, repeatable results. Our equipment is calibrated to meet the most stringent standards, ensuring your test data will be accepted by building officials, clients, and regulatory authorities.

Which labs offer this service 

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's St. Paul facility in the U.S. and Al-Futtaim ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ in Dubai feature a full-service product and materials lab with specialized architectural acoustics testing capabilities. Our laboratories provide comprehensive acoustic evaluation services for fenestration, building materials, and complete assemblies, supporting your projects with convenient access to expert testing.

Building elements and assemblies

  • Wall panels and assemblies
  • Floor-ceiling assemblies
  • Window systems
  • Door assemblies

Acoustic materials

  • Acoustic wall panels
  • Ceiling panels
  • Insulation materials
  • Baffles Interior finishes
  • Draperies
  • Fabrics
  • Window fashions

Exterior materials

  • Highway and transportation barriers
  • Facade elements
  • Glass and glazing systems

Commercial interiors

  • Office partitions
  • Room dividers
  • Workstation components
  • ASTM C423: Standard Test Method for Sound Absorption
  • ASTM E795: Standard Practices for Mounting Test Specimens
  • ISO 354: Acoustics - Measurement of sound absorption in a reverberation room
  • ASTM E90: Standard Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission
  • ASTM E423: Standard Test Method for Sound Absorption of the Noise Reduction Coefficient
  • ASTM E1332: Standard Classification for Rating Outdoor-Indoor Sound Attenuation
  • AAMA 1801: Voluntary Specification for the Acoustical Rating of Windows, Doors and Glazed Wall Sections
  • ISO 10140: Acoustics - Laboratory measurement of sound insulation of building elements
  • ASTM E336: Standard Test Method for Measurement of Airborne Sound Attenuation between Rooms
  • ASTM E1007: Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission
     

Methods and solutions offered
Our acoustic testing approach combines precision measurement with practical application. We measure sound absorption by determining decay rates in reverberation chambers, while transmission loss is evaluated through carefully calibrated test chambers. These controlled environments allow us to isolate and accurately quantify the acoustic properties that matter most for your application.

  • Reverberation chamber testing for sound absorption
  • Laboratory measurement of airborne sound transmission loss
  • On-site analysis of wall, ceiling, and floor assemblies
  • Evaluation of sound insulating properties
  • Impact sound isolation measurement between rooms

We offer the following methods and solutions as part of our acoustic testing services:

Sound Absorption Testing
Sound absorption testing evaluates how well building materials reduce reflected sound and lower noise levels. Our tests follow ASTM C423, E795, and ISO 354 standards. At our A2LA-accredited facility, our architectural acoustics experts use advanced reverberation chambers to assess the performance of various absorption materials. We measure sound absorption by analyzing the decay rate in a reverberation room. Each material receives two ratings:

  • Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): An average of sound absorption coefficients at 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz, rounded to the nearest multiple of 0.05.
  • Sound Absorption Average (SAA): A single-number rating that considers absorption coefficients from 200 to 2500 Hz, providing a more detailed measure of a material’s sound absorption capabilities.

Sound Transmission Loss Testing
Sound transmission loss testing measures how well building materials block sound. Our testing follows ASTM E90, E423, E1332, AAMA 1801, and ISO 10140 standards. We assess the airborne sound transmission loss of building elements and partitions and use two key ratings to evaluate sound transmission loss:

  • Sound Transmission Class (STC): A single-number rating based on transmission loss (TL) values, estimating how effectively a partition blocks sound.
  • Outdoor/Indoor Transmission Class (OITC): A rating that measures how well a material reduces noise from planes, trains, and cars, particularly for building facades and facade elements like windows and doors.

Field Testing
Beyond laboratory testing, we offer on-site analysis of wall, ceiling, and floor assemblies to evaluate real-world acoustical performance. These tests adhere to ASTM E336 and E1007 standards. Our field testing measures:

  • Airborne sound insulation of walls, ceilings, and floors
  • Impact sound isolation between rooms
  • These services help architects, building officials, and contractors ensure compliance with building code requirements.

Extended acoustic testing capabilities
Beyond ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's acoustic testing services, we are able to offer additional specialized testing through our sister company, Warringtonfire. Their laboratory provides sound insulation performance testing up to 58dB (Rw) or 73dB (Rw) according to BS EN ISO 10140 series standards for a wide range of building elements including door sets, windows, glazing systems, and partition systems. This extended capability ensures you can access comprehensive acoustic performance evaluation for virtually any building component through the ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ family of companies.

Acoustic Design Review Services
Via Al Futtaim ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ, our team offers Acoustic Design Review services to ensure optimal sound quality, regulatory compliance, and user comfort across all building types. We provide expert-led design and material reviews that prevent costly issues and enhance acoustic performance. Our team supports every stage of the project lifecycle, from concept to construction, while ensuring alignment with the UAE Federal Building Code, Al Sa’fat Green Building System, and international standards. Whether for commercial, residential, or mixed-use projects, we create environments where sound is a benefit, not a barrier.

 

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

your testing partner

Meeting strict building codes

Our architectural acoustics testing delivers the documentation you need to demonstrate compliance with building codes and standards, eliminating approval delays and preventing costly remediation work after construction.                                                

Controlling environmental noise pollution

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's testing quantifies the performance of your noise control solutions, helping you create environments that effectively shield occupants from disruptive external sounds like traffic, construction, and aircraft noise.

Verifying performance before installation

Our laboratory testing provides accurate acoustic performance data before construction begins, allowing you to select materials with confidence and avoid expensive modifications to correct acoustic issues after building completion.

Ensuring occupant satisfaction

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ's comprehensive acoustic testing helps you deliver spaces with the sound quality and privacy your clients expect, reducing complaints and enhancing reputation through environments with superior acoustic comfort.

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ Experts at your Service

Browse our experts by discipline and specialty, and explore their skills and experience.

Why Choose ¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ

Accredited testing facilities

Our A2LA and UKAS-accredited laboratories ensures your test results will be recognized by regulatory bodies and clients worldwide.

  

Comprehensive testing capabilities

From individual materials to complete assemblies, we test both sound absorption and transmission properties to give you complete acoustic performance data.

Laboratory and field verification

¹ú²ú͵ÅÄ×ÔÅÄ offers both controlled laboratory testing and on-site field verification to confirm real-world performance matches specifications.

Industry-specific expertise

Our team understands the unique acoustic challenges in your industry, whether you're developing new building materials or designing multi-unit residences.                       

Q: What's the difference between NRC and SAA ratings? 
A: Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) averages sound absorption at 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz frequencies, while Sound Absorption Average (SAA) provides a more detailed evaluation using twelve one-third octave bands from 200 through 2500 Hz. SAA typically offers a more comprehensive assessment of a material's sound absorption capabilities.

Q: When should I consider field testing versus laboratory testing?
A: Laboratory testing is ideal for product development and compliance verification before construction. Field testing becomes valuable after installation to confirm that assemblies perform as expected in actual buildings and to diagnose acoustic issues in existing structures.

 

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