Acoustical Design Guide for Residential Construction

Residences located near airports experience many economic and transportation benefits of the facility but are also, unfortunately, exposed to significant amounts of aircraft noise. Fortunately, the use of proper construction techniques and materials can minimize the impact of aircraft noise and reduce interference with regular indoor activities.

In 2003, Wyle Laboratories updated this New Construction Acoustical Design Guide to assist builders, planning officials, building inspectors, and homeowners in incorporating specific noise level reduction features into homes. These features will help to ensure that new homes in the Airport vicinity provide adequate noise level reduction to protect occupants from undesirable noise impacts.

To help give you an idea of what's included in the Design Guide, its Table of Contents is listed below:

Table Of Contents

1. Introduction

Background

How to Use This Guide

2. Noise Control Basics

Units Used in Acoustics

Aircraft Noise

Sound Insulation to Reduce Noise

Basic Sound Insulation Concepts

3. Building Elements

Evaluating Construction Materials and Methods

Sealing and Weatherstripping

Windows

Doors

Walls and Ceilings

Attics and Roofs

Floors, Basements, and Crawl Spaces

Ventilation

Miscellaneous

4. Material Selection Chart

5. Limitations

Appendices

Noise Level Reduction Design Requirements

Independent Certified Acoustical Testing Laboratories

Manufacturers of Acoustical Materials

Glossary