Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard will help flooring manufacturers test the quietness of their products, ultimately helping people who want to buy quiet floor materials. The test method (soon to be published as E3133) was developed by ASTM’s committee on building and environmental acoustics (E33).

According to ASTM International member Jerry Lilly, president of JGL Acoustics, Inc., prior standards related to flooring noise have focused on noise radiated down into the floor below the space containing a floor product.  This new standard addresses the living space that actually contains the product.

The new test method determines the level of impact noise radiated by various flooring products mounted on a suitable substrate in a laboratory.

In addition to manufacturers using the standard to promote the quietness of their product, consumers and other buyers might use information from the tests to compare competitive products.

To purchase standards, contact ASTM International customer relations (tel +1.877.909.ASTM).