The act of “social distancing,” or maintaining space between yourself and others around you, is one of the best tools we have to avoid exposure and slow the spread of COVID-19. According to the CDC, the recommended distance of separation to maintain is approximately 6 ft.
It is often said that the devil is in the details. And unfortunately, it is almost impossible to expect that everyone will follow these recommendations with the same attention to detail. So, what can you do to maintain that gap and prevent the virus from getting through?
If you’re either of these two gentlemen, the solution is clear— “Put something there.”
ACOUSTICAL “SOCIAL DISTANCING”
Surprisingly, the same issue can be found in multifamily construction. Sound control in floor/ceiling assemblies can easily fail to perform to expectations, particularly when attention to detail is not followed. In this case, we’re referring to the intersection of the vertical gypsum wall board (GWB) and the horizontal GWB ceiling.
In order to properly follow acoustical recommendations, there needs to be a 1/8” gap maintained between the two pieces of GWB, which eliminates any flanking vibration from passing through. Since walls and ceilings are not necessarily built perfectly square or level, you can be sure that parts of the wall are touching the ceiling in a number of places. Keep in mind, acoustical caulk cannot ensure this gap is maintained, as it is applied after the ceiling and wall installation. Therefore, it is difficult, if not impossible, to maintain this gap.
That is where Space Assurance™ from Keene Building Products provides the assurance in its name.
SPACE ASSURANCE™
Space Assurance™ is a ceiling perimeter isolation that is made up of a flexible, flame-resistant polyester fabric. It is used as a fastener line, virtually ensuring the proper detail between the wall & ceiling, eliminating one of the most common paths for noise flanking in multi-family construction and eliminating the need for acoustical caulk. Around the perimeter of all rooms, Space Assurance is installed with mechanical fasteners or spray adhesive. Space Assurance is installed prior to all ceiling elements; before resilient channel installation, Cylent Assurance™ Clips installation, and gypsum ceiling or wall installation. Space Assurance is approved in all UL L 500 series and M 500 series wood frame designs.
So for your next project, to ensure you achieve the sound performance you expect, start by paying close attention to the details and utilize Space Assurance, along with our other floor ceiling assembly solutions: Quiet Qurl® sound mats, GSL® Gypsum Concrete and our new Cylent Assurance Clip resilient channel isolator—We can guarantee they’ll be more effective than pool noodles.