Sound Control in Austin, TX
The project:
Vesper
Developer:
Pearlstone Partners
Architect:
STG-Austin
Builder:
AECOM Hunt
Tile installation:
Fabulous Floor
Date & location
2023 Austin, TX
About
The multi-family construction project at 84 East Avenue is a testament to the exceptional quality and efficiency that can be achieved through thoughtful material selection and expert guidance. This project consists of 283 meticulously designed condominium units that required comprehensive waterproofing solutions for all bathrooms, along with a robust method to minimize impact sound transmission between storeys.
Recognizing the success of DITRA-HEAT-DUO in a previous undertaking, tile installers Fabulous Floors opted to integrate the sound control membrane into the construction plans for the Vesper. Drawing upon their prior positive experiences with Schluter, the tile installers actively engaged with the manufacturer to ensure optimal outcomes.
Objective
The main goal of the project was to ensure complete and reliable waterproofing throughout the building and to significantly reduce noise transmission between floors, enhancing the overall living experience for residents.
Challenges
The project faced several key challenges, including implementing a comprehensive waterproofing system that met strict quality standards and minimizing impact sound transmission between storeys. Additionally, coordinating seamless installations in the complex environment of a high-rise structure, where efficient material handling and reduced labor coordination were essential, added to the project’s complexity.
Solutions
Collaboration between STG and Schluter proved crucial in addressing these challenges. Schluter representatives provided valuable insights and demonstrated an effective installation sequence that optimized efficiency and accelerated the project timeline. The comprehensive Schluter system, including KERDI bonded waterproofing and vapor-retardant membranes, KERDI-LINE linear drains, and DITRA-HEAT-DUO uncoupling membranes with integrated sound control, was installed in all bathrooms. The on-site support offered by Schluter led to successful flood tests, confirming the resilience and reliability of the waterproofing solutions.
An important aspect of the project was achieving superior sound control. The DITRA-HEAT-DUO system played a vital role in reducing impact sound transmission through floor-ceiling assemblies. This was evaluated by a tapping test following ASTM Test Method E1007-21, conducted by Riverbank Acoustical Laboratories. The test assessed sound transmission from a main bathroom (source) to the main bathroom directly below (receive) and yielded an Apparent Impact Insulation Class (AIIC) value of 64. This result is significantly higher than the typical building code requirement of 50 and surpasses high-end luxury condominium standards of 55, showcasing the effectiveness of the solution in providing a quieter environment for residents.
Result
The project successfully met its waterproofing and sound control objectives. All bathrooms passed flood tests, confirming the system’s durability and performance, which is backed by a lifetime warranty for property owners. Contractors from Fabulous Floors praised the DITRA-HEAT-DUO system for its straightforward installation process, which required minimal coordination with other trades and facilitated a smooth construction workflow. The impressive AIIC score of 64 underscored the enhanced sound control achieved in the units, ensuring that residents enjoy a quieter, more comfortable living space. As John Saye from Fabulous Floors noted, “Any high rise can be a real logistical nightmare. The need for efficiency, including loading out materials quickly, and ease of installation with respect to building products is a necessity. This makes things so much easier on the guys working.”
Products used
