Many architects believe that they know enough about building acoustics. They think that they do not need help from an acoustical engineers. Most university programs for architects include lessons about building acoustics. However, this course is not a substitute for an acoustical engineer's knowledge, an expert who specializes in building acoustics.
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Acoustical consultant has up to date knowledge of relevant literature. An acoustical consultant keeps current on the latest developments in building acoustics. He reads all relevant research articles and textbooks. Also, a big part of an acoustical engineer's business is helping clients to correct acoustical problems in finished buildings designed by architects.
When should architects engage an acoustical engineer?
Building acoustics expert at project requirements stage
The best time to engage a building acoustics consultant is at the initial stages of a project, at the requirements stage. An acoustical consultant will help the architect and his client to identify acoustically sensitive areas in the project. Architects can avoid many potential problems simply by proper building floor plan design. For example, noisy areas (mechanical room, gym) should not be adjacent to noise-sensitive spaces (residential apartments).
Acoustical consultant at project design stage
Acoustical consultants should also be involved in the design stage of a project. He can help in selecting acoustically adequate soundproof partitions between spaces that must be acoustically isolated from each other. For example a noisy HVAC system is an expensive problem to address when the project is completed. Acoustical engineer's participation at the HVAC system design stage can prevent soundproofing and mechanical noise problems.
Acoustical engineer at project construction stage
An acoustical consultant should also be involved during construction, inspecting details of partition construction and HVAC installation to ensure that mistakes are avoided. Quality control and installation details can have a big effect on the final acoustical performance of the building.
Acoustical consultant at project commissioning stage
It is also advisable to test newly constructed spaces for soundproofing and acoustical separation as early as possible. This will catch any problems early when remediation is much less expensive than when the project is completed.
In conclusion, by engaging an acoustical engineer early in the project and at every stage, many problems can be avoided. Customer and project stakeholders will be satisfied at a much lower cost then if problems need to be resolved after construction is completed.
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