Everything About Noise Barriers and Outdoor Acoustics

Do you suffer from ambient noise in your yard or in your garden? Then read this tips page first, because in this article we will explain what a noise barrier is and, more importantly, how it functions!

How does a noise barrier function?
A well-functioning noise barrier ensures that ambient noise deriving from, for example, passing traffic or your neighbours has to travel a much longer distance before it reaches the receiver. This results in a seemingly longer distance between the sound source and its receiver, reducing the noise nuisance.

What requirements does a good noise barrier have to meet?
The most important properties of a well-functioning noise barrier at a glance:

• Sufficient height and length (size).
• A correct distance between the sound source, noise barrier and the receiver (placement).
• Insulation value and sturdiness (construction & shape).

Placement of a noise barrier
The placement of a noise barrier largely determines its effectiveness. If the distances between the noise barrier, sound source and the receiver are disproportional, the result will be limited, especially in case of a negative wind direction. A high screen containing absorption material placed close to the sound source ensures the best result.

Shape of a noise barrier
What kind of shape the noise barrier should have depends on the situation in terms of infrastructure. Noise barriers facing other screens or buildings must be placed in a slightly inclined angle, away from the source, preventing sound from reverberating between the two. In situations where an inclined angle is not possible, the screen should consist of curved shapes to avoid direct reflections, or the screen should be equipped with absorption material such as Stratocell Whisper.

Diagonal screens and absorption material reducing reflections

Noise barrier size
The size of a noise barrier, in particular its height, depends on the distance between the sound source and the barrier, and between the receiver and the noise barrier. The higher the barrier, the better the result. Within the built-up area, a barrier height of at least 2.5 meters is desirable.

Construction and (building) material
It goes without saying that a noise barrier should be storm-resistant and consist of a closed construction, ruling out constructions with openings (as is the case with fences that consist of staggered boards). The mass per square meter determines the insulation value: the higher the mass, the higher the insulation value of the barrier.

Sound absorning noise barrier
Noise barriers that are used against traffic noise or barriers that are placed towards other screens or buildings must contain an absorbent property on the side where the sound source is located. Without sound absorption, reflections between the sound source and the barrier will reduce the effect of the 'acoustic shade' (see image). We recommend equipping the noise barrier on the source or street side with an absorption material such as Stratocell Whisper. Do not cover Stratocell with hard materials, plants or bushes is fine, these let sound through so it can be absorbed.

The acoustic shade effect

What can the Acousticshop do for me?
Acousticshop.co.uk does not supply fences or noise barriers, we can however supply the sound absorbing products to ensure an optimal functioning of noise barriers. In such cases, the absorption material Stratocell Whisper deserves our preference. This product is moisture resistant, we do recommend finishing the ends of the panels with a rain seal, making sure the material remains as dry as possible. 

The Acousticshop.co.uk does not supply noise barriers nor fences, we offer outdoor acoustic sound absorbing materials for enhancing the effectiveness of noise barriers. The noise barrier or fence has to be taken care of by yourself.

How to improve outdoor acoustics
Look for more information about outdoor acoustic solutions on these tips pages:

• Sound-absorbing fences
  Reducing reverberation in your garden.
• Balcony acoustics
  Reducing traffic noise on your balcony.
• Courtyard acoustics
  Tips for improving the acoustics in a courtyard or city garden.

Request samples or advice
Would you like to receive a product sample or do you need advice on outdoor acoustics? Please fill in our contact form.