Sound Insulation Testing became mandatory in Approved Document E 2003. There are 2 main parts to a residential sound insulation test.
Airborne Test
The airborne test measures the resistance to the passage of airborne sound through a separating wall or floor. It is conducted using a high power multidirectional loudspeaker creating a steady sound level. A microphone is then used to measure the difference in this sound level between the source room (the room with the speaker in) and the receiver room (the room next to, below or above the source room). The results are given in DnT,w + Ctr.
Impact Test
The impact test measures the resistance to the passage of impact sound, using a tapping machine, which is a small machine containing 5 weights. Placed on the floor, these weights are then allowed to drop onto the floor. The sound level is then measured using a microphone in the room below the tapping machine. The results are given in LnT,w.
Should your test fail we are here to help you resolve the problem giving guidance and options on the methods available to achieve a pass.