This article discusses acoustic underlay vinyl strata requirements, including why strata may require acoustic layers under vinyl flooring to reduce noise transmission.
Question: My strata management company insists I lay an acoustic layer underneath a woven vinyl floor covering that is laid over existing, undamaged tiles. Surely leaving the tiles as they are will be noisier for the apartment below than covering them over.
Answer: The acoustic underlay assists in reducing impact noise but can also have additional benefits such as moisture protection.
The Strata company would be requesting that you use an acoustic layer underneath the installation of a vinyl floor covering for noise reduction and to ensure adherence to a lot owners responsibility in regards to floor coverings. The acoustic underlay assists in reducing impact noise but can also have additional benefits such as moisture protection. Whilst tiles may have been the original flooring choice when built, they are prone to sound transfer and even when placing vinyl on top, depending on the quality and rating when placed on top of the tile (the original material), will influence sound absorption qualities.
Noise is one of the largest impacts in a strata complex and under Schedule 2 Conduct By-Laws the following is noted for Floor Coverings:
An Owner of a lot must ensure that all floor space within the lot (other than comprising kitchen, laundry, lavatory, or bathroom) is covered or otherwise treated to an extent sufficient to prevent the transmission therefrom of noise likely to disturb the peaceful enjoyment of an owner or occupier of another lot. By using an acoustic underlay you will not only reduce the noise to others but also within your own lot.
This post appears in Strata News #633.
Jamie Horner Empire Estate Agents E: JHorner@empireestateagents.com P: (08) 9262 0400