Timber Construction

Mass timber construction is becoming an increasingly popular construction method because of the multiple advantages it can bring. Mass Timber is sustainable and reduces the carbon dioxide emissions in the building sector, cuts the waste and pollution during construction. As mass timber elements are lightweight and prefabricated, much shorter project timelines and safer construction sites are possible, making it a very cost-effective construction method. 

However, historically, wooden constructions have offered poor acoustic isolation levels; particularly at lower frequencies where the lightweight wall and floor panels transmit low frequency noise very efficiently and make it challenging to comply with local building regulations.

The demand for sustainable building materials in the construction industry is growing each year. The popularity of CLT can be partially explained by this growing trend. However, mass timber poses some rather unique challenges in terms of acoustics. Compared to more traditional building materials such as steel and concrete, it is lightweight and a relatively stiff material, which in terms of acoustics is a disadvantage as it allows for easy transmission of vibrations and noise. The use of a concrete floating slab on top of a CLT structure is an easy way to add mass to the overall construction and increase its stiffness. The extra mass does indeed help to improve the overall sound level, but it is far from the fastest and most sustainable option.

Visit Stravi-dB for more information on CLT-assemblies in combination with lightweight floating floors and learn how these are a worthy alternative to concrete to achieve satisfactory sound insulation. Various setups using mainly dry screeds, as these are a more sustainable solution, easier and quicker to install, and less dense than concrete screeds were tested.