Dec. 09, 2024
Welcome to another edition of Frequently Asked Questions about Noise, Vibration, and Acoustics. In this video series, we answer the questions we hear most often from clients or through inquiries via our website.
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My name is Harry Cai, a project consultant at HGC. Today's question is: What are noise barriers, and how should they be implemented?
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Noise barriers are engineered solutions designed to control noise. They can take the form of fences, walls, earth berms, or a combination of these. The primary goal of a noise barrier is to reduce sound levels in sensitive areas, such as patios or bedroom windows. These barriers are particularly useful for addressing excessive noise from sources like busy highways or railroads.
There are two key scenarios where noise barriers prove to be most effective. First, barriers are often positioned close to the noise-sensitive area, such as when sound fences surround an outdoor amenity area.
Second, noise barriers can be found near the noise source, such as around loud rooftop ventilation fans.
It is vital to distinguish between noise fences and standard fences, like privacy fences. Privacy fences typically have gaps in their construction and are mainly designed to block sightlines. In contrast, a noise fence must be built to a precise standard with no gaps or cracks in order to effectively attenuate sound.
Furthermore, noise fences should be constructed from materials that possess sufficient mass to attenuate transmitted sound. Regulatory bodies often provide guidelines on the minimum surface density required for noise fence materials. For example, in Ontario, the Ministry of Environment mandates a minimum surface density of 20 kg per square meter for acoustic barriers. In specific situations, lower densities may be acceptable if technically justified.
How should noise barriers be implemented? Typically, acoustical consultants first specify these barriers. Specifications generally include the height and location of the barriers. The choice of materials and construction is at the discretion of the client, based on these specifications. Finally, the performance of the noise barriers needs to be verified, a step often required by regulatory bodies prior to building occupancy or the release of bonds from municipalities.
The following attributes of noise barriers should be verified: First, height. The barriers must be tall enough to achieve the required sound attenuation, which depends on the geometry of the area, namely the location of noise sources and sensitive areas, as well as the intervening topography.
Second, the specified location of the barriers is critical for adequate noise protection. Barriers are most effective when situated either close to noise-sensitive areas or close to the noise source. Lastly, the quality of construction, coupled with the materials used, must be confirmed. Noise fences should be built without gaps or cracks and from suitable materials.
A variety of materials can be used for constructing noise barriers, including wood, glass, precast concrete, and metal, as long as they meet the necessary material criteria. Additionally, noise fences can incorporate decorative elements, as seen with green noise walls, which are sound barriers enhanced with soil and plants.
In summary, noise barriers are specified by acoustical consultants, and their final designs and constructions should be thoroughly verified to ensure effective performance. We hope this information addresses your question. If you have further inquiries about noise fences or barriers, or any other questions you'd like us to answer in this video series, please feel free to reach out. Thank you, and goodbye for now.
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