Natural acoustic measurements (building sound classification) – after completion of construction work and acceptance of the building, the actual sound class of the building or parts thereof (A to E) must be determined. This test entails natural measurements and the identification of the sound class of the tested building.
The system of noise protection of residential buildings has been developed more than 50 years ago. Meanwhile, building noise protection is one of the European Union's requirements that must be met by a building. After Lithuania’s accession to the EU, our structures must also meet the relevant requirements. Acoustic tests often shows that older houses do not meet even the minimum requirements. Noise in them exceeds the norms. Sound measurement often indicates that the building needs additional sound insulation. This is shown by the building acoustic test.
The premises are subject to quite accurate acoustic requirements. Their implementation is carried out both during the design and construction of the building. Therefore, builders and designers are mostly guilty of excessive noise. Noise is a disorderly mix of sounds of varying strength, preventing the product of work, rest and detrimental to health. Building acoustics depends on the design of the house, the work of the builders, and the quality of materials used.
Types of noise to typically heard in buildings: hydraulic noise, air noise and structural noise. Hydraulic noise is the noise propagating in the liquids (water and heating systems). Structural noise is the noise spreading in solid bodies (such as building blocks, overlays, partitions, and other structures). Airborne noise are airborne sounds. Sound measurement helps to determine the noise level and to draw further conclusions about the acoustics of buildings and improvement of vapour insulation.
Reduction of noise in buildings is particularly important in order for them to be comfortably. Meanwhile, long-term noise can also cause health problems.