Sound and Vibration in Mass Timber Buildings: A Practical Guide

Attendees will gain valuable insight into the unique acoustic properties of mass timber, covering direct and indirect sound transmission as well as sound absorption, offering a nuanced comparison to traditional materials like steel deck, wood joists, and concrete.

Following an introductory overview of building acoustics, the presenter will explore both airborne and impact sound transmission in mass timber buildings. While direct sound transmission (i.e., through floor/ceiling assemblies) has been thoroughly tested, indirect sound transmission (i.e., around wall or floor/ceiling assemblies) remains more of a challenge. To address this, the presenter will share findings from recent R&D initiatives aimed at helping maximize exposed mass timber while still adhering to code requirements.

This webinar will also examine the sound absorptive properties of mass timber, which play a critical role in environments such as schools, offices, and event spaces. Finally, we’ll conclude with specific design strategies to help prevent late-stage acoustical issues, especially when projects have progressed to a point where certain solutions are no longer feasible.

Gain familiarity with basic acoustic terminology and principles.

Understand how sound and vibration can transmit directly and indirectly through the mass timber structure.

Discover approaches to addressing sound and vibration transmission through continuous mass timber (CLT) panels.

Gain an appreciation of various design considerations affecting the control of noise in mass timber buildings.

Simon Edwards, M.Eng., P.Eng., ing., Senior Acoustical Engineer, Associate HGC NOISE VIBRATION ACOUSTICS

Simon is a member of HGC’s built environment division, with extensive experience in acoustical work across the permitting, design, construction, and post-occupancy phases of residential and commercial buildings. He has worked with poured concrete, hollow-core, wood-frame, and steel-deck structures and has particular expertise in mass timber projects, including Ontario’s first mass timber building, R-Town Vertical 6, and the acclaimed YW Supportive Housing project in Kitchener. Simon’s growing experience in designing and testing various CLT configurations has positioned him as a leader in mass timber acoustics.

Simon is also an expert on sound transmission, with a background in both theoretical calculations and experimental sound transmission testing (“Kij Testing”) to evaluate flanking transmission in line with ISO 12354 and ISO 10848. He is a member of both the ISO and ASTM Technical Committees on Building Acoustics and contributes to the development of standards for measurement and calculation methodologies across the industry.