Unlock Acoustic Excellence

Design Strategies that Impact STC Ratings

April 2024
Sponsored by National Gypsum Company

Presented by Scott Hughes

Continuing Education

Use the following learning objectives to focus your study while reading this month’s Continuing Education article.

Learning Objectives - After reading this article, you will be able to:

  1. Examine key acoustical concepts and terminology such as sound transmission class (STC), decibels, hertz and frequency.   
  2. Explore how sound is transmitted through wall partitions.
  3. Review code requirements and industry guidelines for sound transmission between adjacent spaces. 
  4. Cover six concepts and design strategies that can influence the STC rating of a wall assembly and investigate product options to achieve STC performance criteria.  

In contemporary building design, the importance of sound management has never been more pronounced. It's essential to have a solid understanding of acoustical terms and the principles of sound transmission when designing wall partitions that meet project goals, comply with building codes, and match industry benchmarks. This course explores six key concepts that can impact Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings in wall assemblies, enabling the achievement of desired acoustic outcomes.

Cover

Photo courtesy of National Gypsum Company


Speaker

Scott Hughes, CSI, CDT is the Atlantic and Northeast Region Construction Design Manager for National Gypsum Company since 2006. He promotes National Gypsum’s architecturally specified products through education and technical consultation. Scott’s primary responsibilities are architectural specifications and presenting AIA approved education courses. He has been in the building products business for 26 years as an architectural sales representative in both the roofing and gypsum industry.