Noise created by solid wood and laminate flooring has come under the microscope in the UK and Europe.
The European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF) has completed its Drum Sound Standard for laminate flooring, while a study by Edinburgh’s Napier University has concluded that walking on carpet is 22 decibels quieter than a wooden floor.
The EPLF’s new standard establishes, for the first time, uniform test procedures and measuring criteria for laminate flooring.
Based on a model floor with standard foam underlay, the drum sound classification uses four classes which can be used in companies’ technical sales material and shown on product packing.
The EPLF said:”All EPLF members acknowledge that their laminate floors will now be evaluated according to the parameters set out in norm [standard], and that the information will also feature in their advertising.”
Napier University’s report on wooden flooring noise was commissioned by the Scottish Executive and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs following a growing number of complaints made to environmental health officers. It suggests a guide be produced on wooden flooring use.
