How many acoustic panels do you need? 5 key factors

Acoustic panels are crucial for controlling noise and improving acoustics in the various office spaces. Acoustic panels effectively absorb unwanted noise and (after) reverberation. And that contributes to a comfortable and functional environment to work in.

Determining the best acoustic solution for a room is a complex exercise and goes far beyond simply hanging an x number of acoustic panels. To properly determine what works best in your specific situation, it is wise to call in an acoustic specialist. They can do with a thorough inventory, possibly supplemented with a acoustic measurement, make a good diagnosis and suggest the best acoustic solution (s). Learn more about the Akoesta's approach.

In this article, we discuss five key factors that influence the best acoustic solution for optimal office acoustics.
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1 - Acoustic panel type:

Not all acoustic panels are the same and the composition of the panel has a major influence on sound absorption in a room. There are various variants, including fabric panels, wood panels or printed foam panels. The difference in thickness also has a lot of influence on the acoustic effect. Thicker panels generally offer better sound absorption, but are often more expensive and have a more complex installation. It's crucial to choose the type of panel that best suits the specific needs and budget of the space.

2 - Use of space:

The intended use of a space has a direct influence on the number of acoustic panels required. A recording studio, for example, requires precise sound control and is likely to require more panels than a conference room, where some ambient noise is acceptable. Similarly, a home theater may require a different panel configuration than a restaurant or office space. Defining the purpose of the space and the specific acoustic needs is very important in determining the number of acoustic panels required.

3 - Area and shape of the space:

The size and shape of the room largely determine the number of acoustic panels required. Larger spaces logically require more acoustic panels to achieve the desired level of sound absorption. In addition, irregularly shaped spaces or spaces with high ceilings are unique challenges in the field of acoustics. In such cases, additional panels or custom-made panels may be required to effectively control the sound.

4 - Surface materials in the room:

The materials used in the construction of the space, such as walls, floors and ceilings, have a major influence on the acoustics. Hard surfaces such as concrete, glass, and tiles tend to to reflect sound, which leads to reverberation and an increased need for acoustic panels. Conversely, softer materials such as carpets and curtains help absorb noise, reducing the need for additional acoustic panels.

5 - Position of the acoustic panels:

The position of the acoustic panels is just as important as the number of panels. Ideally, panels are strategically placed in the space to address specific problem areas. This may mean that, for example, there are panels on walls, ceilings, workstations or if room divider must be installed to achieve the desired noise control.

Enlisting the help of an acoustic professional is certainly recommended in determining the optimal acoustic plan. Determining the amount of sound-absorbing material for a room is an important step in creating a comfortable and functional environment. By taking into account the above 5 factors, together with an acoustic specialist, an informed decision can be made to achieve optimal noise control.

For more help choosing and installing acoustic panels, please contact Akoesta's expert team. We offer a wide range of acoustic solutions. Take today contact contact us for more information. Our acoustic specialists are here for you!

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