We know that acoustic solutions can improve the attainment and creativity of our children in schools, so why aren’t more schools fixing the massive noise problem staring them right in the face? With mounting evidence in modern schools that poor acoustics are disadvantaging children across the UK, we think it’s time that educational spaces were improved with the addition of school acoustic panels.
If you are the decision-maker at a school and are in the consideration stage for implementing acoustic treatments, then this is the blog for you. We will run through all the different types of acoustic treatment you can implement to efficiently perfect your school’s acoustics.
The acoustic problems that arise in schools are often caused by a variety of issues. Therefore, the acoustic solution you choose should be unique to your school.
School acoustic panels for noise transmission reduction
For classrooms and spaces surrounded with noisy neighbouring classes or hallways, we recommend acoustic panels that block the transmission of noise. These soundproofing panels can protect your classrooms from external distractions and make sure your pupils can concentrate and excel in their lessons.
Many schools also suffer from extremely thin internal walls which will exacerbate the issue. That is why implementing noise blocking panels would be extremely useful.
At Sound Zero, we designed and installed acoustic panels for noise transmission reduction at Universal Music Group in order to enhance their office space and make sure the acoustic environment was perfect for their staff members who were struggling with focus during the day due to external distractions getting through.
For schools who are wanting to overcome noisy interruptions from external spaces, we recommend we first diagnose the noise source and then treat the problem area with layers of soundproofing material such as our Sound Zero Class O foam. A surface finish acoustic treatment from our acoustic wall panels range would further enhance the room acoustics. They are attractive but effective and can be strategically placed in rooms to improve sound quality and speech intelligibility.
An interesting and versatile addition to any classroom would also be eco wall panels such as our moss wall. It is perfect for absorbing sound as the porous nature of our natural moss wall can absorb up to 90% of background noise.
School acoustic panels for reverb control in large, open spaces
As highlighted in our previous blog as to why schools can benefit so strongly from school acoustic panels, large open spaces such as dining rooms, sports hall, stairwells, and large hallways can be a key issue for schools’ acoustic environment.
Implementing acoustic panels for reverb control in such spaces would require a unique approach. By identifying the main reflection points in a room this will allow you to effectively place acoustic treatment to avoid sound waves bouncing around the room. Unique solutions for each space means your school is perfectly soundproofed in order to enhance the learning and teaching environment for pupil and teacher.
At Sound Zero, we recommend ceiling acoustic treatment such as suspended panels or ceiling baffles. By using the largest empty space in a room (the ceiling), you can effectively treat a room’s acoustic issues while not interfering. Even lighting or theatre space light rigs can be worked around with the use of ceiling baffles.
In addition to the ceiling (or instead of ceiling treatment if it is not possible to install them on the ceiling) then acoustic wall panels are the secondary route for acoustic treatment. Panels can be made of a robust material or placed out of harm’s way to stop them being damaged. An acoustician from Sound Zero can advise you on placement.
Take a look at our work at The Kernel Brewery where we designed and installed a distinctive acoustic ceiling solution.
Conclusion: the best school acoustic panels
Acoustic solutions cut noise levels in classrooms, sports halls, and dining rooms so that students can hear, concentrate, learn, relax and play. They are a simple but effective way to gain massive improvements in your children’s learning, concentration, creativity and attainment as well as improve the teaching environment for your staff too.
Our team is available to discuss your school acoustics needs to ensure you select the right product from our line. We have a range of products that include moss walls, cork panels, insulation foam, acoustic foam, and wall panel pro. All of these acoustic panel options can be completely customised to your colour, size, fabric, and other product requests.
Whether you need maximum noise reduction or slight adjustments to your classroom acoustics, we can help. We have helped countless schools and organisations improve their school acoustics over the years. Please do not hesitate to contact us today to go over our unique acoustic panels for schools that can help your students achieve better focus and attainment.
