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It’s a phenomenon as to why contractors and building owners specify floor to ceiling acoustic partitions yet leave an expansive void above the partition to save on initial construction costs. Even with the highest rated acoustic partition sound will leak over the top of partition freely because they are relying on the ceiling alone to block the transfer of sound.
The dB rating of an acoustic partition stops at the height of the underside of the ceiling. If the ceiling is suspended or acoustic ceiling panels with an open plenum this will compromise the acoustic integrity of the partition as the sound will simply travel over the top of the partition to the adjacent room. Acoustic ceiling panels are made of lightweight, porous, fibrous materials. Their surfaces are specifically engineered to allow sound to pass through into the core of the panel to get absorbed. The overall level of sound isolation often depends on the weakest link in the construction.
Sound travelling over the top of the partition to the adjacent room
When specifying an acoustic partition it is essential to adhere to the best construction techniques that will afford the best noise isolation. Ensuring a good sound proof baffle is extended from the floor to the underside of the deck above the ceiling. Anything less is likely to result in sound transmission problems and increase background noise levels
If you find your existing partition is not meeting your expectations your can lift the ceiling tiles and look above the ceiling. If sound leakage is an issue you can discuss your options with us further.