Trittschallmaß

Trittschallmaß is a German term that translates to "impact sound level" or "footfall sound level." It quantifies the sound generated by footsteps or other impacts on a floor structure. This measurement is crucial in building acoustics, particularly for multi-story buildings, as impact sound can be a significant source of noise disturbance for occupants on lower floors.

The Trittschallmaß is typically measured in decibels (dB) and is determined by standardized testing procedures. A standard impact sound source, often a "tapping machine" with small, weighted hammers, is used to create consistent impacts on the floor surface. Microphones are then placed in the room below to measure the sound pressure level produced. The resulting value, expressed as L'nT,w, is a weighted normalized impact sound pressure level and is a key indicator of a floor's impact sound insulation performance. Higher values indicate poorer insulation, meaning more impact sound is transmitted.

Building codes and standards often specify maximum permissible Trittschallmaß values to ensure acceptable acoustic comfort for residents. Improving Trittschallmaß typically involves using sound-absorbing materials, decoupling floor structures, or employing resilient underlayments. These measures help to dissipate the energy of impacts before they can effectively transmit through the building structure. Understanding and controlling Trittschallmaß is essential for creating comfortable and peaceful living and working environments.