Evaluation of the sound insulation of roofing systems

The transmission of noise from the outside environment into dwellings is often a concern for the inhabitants. However, the transmission of the noise through the roof is often overlooked when the sound insulation of the dwelling is being assessed unless the dwelling is located near an airport. The transmission of noise through the roof system depends not only on the performance of the roof cladding, but also on the structure-borne noise attenuation of the trusses, the ceiling and the ceiling insulation. In this investigation, the sound insulation of different configurations of roofing systems were evaluated in the laboratory. The configurations tested included variations in the cladding, the sarking installed under the cladding, the thickness of the insulation installed between the ceiling joists and the ceiling construction. The outcome of the study will help to improve the acoustic performance of roofing systems as well as to assist architects in the selection of roofing systems