Noise Control in the Concrete Jungle
In a city of nearly 8.5 million people, noise is inevitable. The constant buzz of traffic, construction, and people simply going about their daily lives creates a vibrant, exciting atmosphere that can lead to noise pollution. NYC has implemented various laws and regulations designed to minimize noise when possible. For example, residents must cover 80% of their floors to reduce the amount of sound they produce at home. Here’s what you need to know about managing and reducing noise pollution with flooring.
Noise Laws NYC
New York City laws classify noise into various categories, including residential, commercial, and construction. Specific regulations address each type of noise based on how the potential noise pollution affects those in the area. These laws are listed and defined in the New York City Noise Code.
Reducing Noise Pollution
You can reduce your contribution to the overall volume of the city in a few ways, but one of the most effective is through soundproofing. Soundproofing involves lessening noise transmission through walls, floors, and ceilings using sound-absorbing materials. At Blackrock Industrial, we can incorporate various materials and techniques to install your new floors, effectively reducing the overall sound level and keeping your space quiet and peaceful.
Concrete Flooring
You might not think of concrete when thinking of noise-absorbing materials. However, concrete is cost-effective and widely available, making it one of the more popular building materials. When sound hits a structure, the sound wave is reflected, transmitted, or absorbed. Sound absorption occurs when noise energy is converted to other types of energy. Lightweight porous materials are more likely to absorb sound than dense, heavyweight materials. However, concrete can be surprisingly insulative against noises. The right concrete can protect your space from noise pollution. We offer several concrete flooring options, including self-leveling concrete, stained and stamped concrete, and polished concrete. The experts at Blackrock Industrial can help you find the right concrete flooring for your needs.
Epoxy Flooring
Epoxy can be installed directly on top of concrete or other substrates. It’s long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance, and epoxy is cost-effective, too, making it an excellent choice for all flooring applications. The high-gloss finish is reflective, which can increase ambient lighting, and the seamless surface is easy to clean, reducing the risk of allergens and various microbes.
Another major benefit of epoxy flooring is its sound absorption. Epoxy is highly effective at absorbing sound and decreasing ambient noise for quieter work and living spaces.
At Blackrock Industrial, we are committed to providing you with a peaceful oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle. Our flooring experts can help you find the most effective solutions for your needs, maximizing light, ensuring safety, and minimizing noise. Contact us now to learn more about your options or to schedule a site visit with our team.