Comments on: Sound Transmission Class (STC) and Impact Insulation Class (IIC) Between Dwelling Units

By: Sean O'Hara

Sean O'Hara — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 18:15:02 +0000

Edward, I think you can specify that they use a laminate flooring and underlayment that a manufacturer has tested to provide an IIC of 50 or greater.

The underlayment choice is really key for sound insulation and like the cork manufacturer that I linked they'll typically have some sample tests. The cork provides an IIC of 60 with a wood finish over wood joists.

I'm sure that laminate manufacturers have preferred underlayments but the owner can generally choose. I've installed a couple laminate floors and there are many options. Here's a chart showing several products yielding IIC over 50.

http://www.woodsthebest.com/Flooring/underlay/noiseReductionUnderlayRatings.htm

By: Edward J Rusnak

Edward J Rusnak — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:56:08 +0000

We are rewriting our CCR's. The question I have, is there a IIC Standard for Condo Floor/Ceilings Assembly using wood laminate floor & underlay which is acceptable or equal to Carpet on a 6" concrete slab?

By: Sean O'Hara

Sean O'Hara — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 20:11:06 +0000

KG, it is my understanding that the 6mm cork underlayment generally solves this issue. I'm not sure if the sealed concrete is structural or a topping but a wood floor over cork over concrete should give you an IIC over 55. Here's a link to some manufacturer's data.

http://www.greenbuildingsupply.com/DocumentFiles/24.pdf

By: kevin gilheany

kevin gilheany — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:22:40 +0000

Does 1/4 inch cork generally meet the 55 iic acoustic qualifications set by condominium associations for installation over sealed concrete floors and under prefinished flooring? Thanks, KG