Building Acoustics: The Basics of Managing Sound and Noise

Whether it’s a passing train, a rumbling air-handling unit, or a coworker’s takeout order, unwanted sounds can disrupt work and learning; persistent noise can even affect our health. In schools and conference rooms, poor acoustics prevent people from hearing teachers and presenters.

Design strategies can optimize acoustic performance, and acoustical materials can provide further enhancements. Acoustic performance encompasses several issues, including: