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Case Study:
Acoustic Insulation Assessment

Ensuring Compliance with Polish Acoustic Standards in Semi-Detached Housing Using SVANTEK Instruments

Introduction

Meeting Acoustic Regulations in Semi-Detached Residential Buildings

Modern residential construction in Poland increasingly favors semi-detached buildings due to their economic efficiency and optimal land use. However, these structures pose specific acoustic challenges, particularly in terms of noise transmission between adjoining units. With recent legislative updates requiring semi-detached homes to meet the same acoustic performance standards as multi-family buildings, a research team from the Silesian University of Technology conducted field measurements to evaluate airborne sound insulation between residential units.

Measurement Operator

Silesian University of Technology

The field tests were carried out by the Building Faculty team at the Silesian University of Technology under the supervision of Dr. Eng. Rafał Żuchowski. Using SVANTEK’s SVAN 979, a Class 1 sound level meter known for precision and ISO compliance, the team measured airborne sound insulation in accordance with PN-EN ISO 16283-1 and PN-EN ISO 717-1.

Challenge

Ensuring Sufficient Acoustic Separation Between Residential Units

The main challenge was to evaluate whether standard building designs could ensure sufficient sound insulation between two residential units in semi-detached houses. Specifically, the study tested whether both single and double wall configurations could meet the new requirement of R′A,1 ≥ 52 dB, as outlined in the Polish Building Regulation of October 27, 2023.

Layout of rooms and measurement point locations.

Technology Used

Class 1 Acoustic Instrumentation for Reliable Building Measurements

SVAN 979 – Sound and Vibration Analyzer

View of the measuring instruments.

Expert Insight

Reliable Field Testing Helps Architects Ensure Acoustic Compliance

“Accurate acoustic measurements during the construction phase help verify the effectiveness of wall designs before interior finishing begins. By using advanced tools like the SVAN 979, designers and investors can ensure regulatory compliance and improve residential comfort.”

Dr. Eng. Rafał Żuchowski, Silesian University of Technology

Result

The single 25 cm acoustic block wall achieved an airborne sound insulation value of R′A,1 = 55 dB.

The double wall with air gap and EPS insulation achieved a higher value of R′A,1 = 62 dB.

Both configurations exceeded the minimum legal requirement of 52 dB for twin-family housing.

Field measurements confirmed that well-designed partitions provide effective noise separation between units.

Results of the airborne sound insulation test.

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Case Study: Acoustic Insulation Assessment