A long, long, time ago…15 years ago to be exact, I wrote a post about a standard called ANSI-ASA S12.60 – Acoustical Performance Criteria, Design Requirements, and Guidelines for Schools. The standard was developed by the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) and included requirements related to the acoustical qualities needed to achieve a high degree of speech intelligibility in learning spaces.
At that time, several states and the US Department of Defense had reportedly adopted the standard for school construction projects and alterations. Regarding doors, the standard mandated STC ratings and the necessary sound gasketing, to enhance children’s ability to learn in a classroom setting.
My question for you is this: Is compliance with the ANSI-ASA S12.60 standard required for any school projects? What is the current practice for classroom doors? Sound gasketing? STC-rated assemblies?
WWYD?
You need to login or register to bookmark/favorite this content.
For a “typical” classroom not related to music, gym or the like, I have seen design teams in the budget phase call for STC 50+, and over the course of continuing design that becomes no STC rating, but added gasketing and a door bottom. Mainly do to the costs, and also other aspects that need to be taken into consideration such as opening hardening, or opening transparency.
Thanks for sharing your insight, Kurt!
– Lori