Cinemas and theatres experience heavy foot traffic that can cross over into other rooms, from auditoriums to restaurants. Most cinemas and theatres aim to achieve NR 30 (a noise reduction level of 30 decibels) and acoustic floors help achieve this.
In order to achieve NR30, we typically recommend a floating floor within each auditorium, with the following specification:
- A minimum air gap of 50mm
- A minimum floated thickness of 100mm
In addition to these specifications, it’s crucial to use the right isolators. Sylomer SR850 isolators are a good choice. Rubber isolators or spring isolators can be specified, depending on the floating floor construction.
With this configuration, it is reasonable to expect natural frequencies to be reduced to 5Hz with significant reductions in reverberation.
Concrete Floating Floor Systems For Cinemas And Theatres
Concrete floating floors are the most common floated floors. Our systems allow for a ‘pour in place’ construction to reduce build complexity and build time. Concrete systems are high strength with minimum movement under live loading.
The key benefit to concrete systems from an engineering perspective is the formwork is built and then the concrete is poured in. The concrete is self-levelling, and the construction is ready for fitting out after only 24-hours.
Dry (wooden) Floating Floor Systems For Cinemas And Theatres
When it isn’t possible to install a concrete floating floor due to design and engineering complexities, such as weight limitations, we use a dry construction instead comprising layers of plywood, engineered timber and cement particleboard.
Although more layers are required for a dry floating floor system, it offers similar performance to a wet system. The benefit to dry systems is they can be installed on virtually any pre-existing floor with minimum structural work.
Standard Acoustic Floors
When a floating floor isn’t possible, layers of rubber/foam underlay and rubber or carpet flooring layers can be used instead. These won’t isolate sound and vibration, but they will at least improve the acoustic qualities of the existing floor.
Choosing The Right Acoustic Flooring System
The right acoustic flooring system for your cinema/theatre depends on to what extent you want to reduce sound transmission. NR 30 is a realistic goal for most cinemas, or you could go for NR 35 (used in libraries and schools).
We can recommend a flooring system on consultation. Feel free to reach out to us for free advice about your cinema/theatre acoustic requirements.
