9.0 Troubleshooting
9.1 Acoustic design do’s and don’ts
Do
- Plan for acoustics as early as possible during the conceptual design stages
- Bring in the competence you need to do the job properly
- Learn the basics of sound behaviour and propagation in indoor spaces
- Follow the ABCDs of sound control
- Learn space acoustic requirements before beginning a project
- Specify the amount and performance of the material according to the intended and future purpose of the space
- Consider the acoustic impact of other material and objects in the space
- Understand the difference between absorbent and reflective materials
- Learn the basic types of acoustic treatment materials and what they do
- Remember to check the performance rating of treatment materials at the frequency range of interest
- Place acoustic panels symmetrically and spread them out to improve their effectiveness
- Consider the geometry and volume of the space you are treating
Don’t
- Sacrifice function for art when selecting and placing treatment material
- Forget to consider space planning
- Over or under specify the amount of treatment needed
- Forget to involve a professional acoustician if the pre-conditions are difficult or the client requirements are high
- Place acoustic treatment too high where sound will take a longer time to reach them
- Leave two parallel walls untreated
- Forget to comply with relevant codes of practice
