Green Building - Not so Green?

A recent article suggests that current LEED buildings are not as energy efficient as traditional, non-LEED buildings. Findings suggest that the LEED rating system does not necessarily support construction of energy efficient buildings, and may in fact hinder this goal.

While the findings of this article are debatable, there is no question that "green washing" occurs in many industries, and that construction is not immune to this trend. Programs such as LEED try to balance many complicated factors that affect the environment, and unfortunately companies may choose the cheapest or most expedient means to achieve LEED points (and hence achieve LEED certification), which can cause building designers to overlook something as important as energy efficiency. An unintended consequence of playing the LEED points "game" may unfortunately include lower overall energy efficiency.

CCR ASSOCIATES has noticed that construction methods commonly used in LEED buildings may aversely affect office acoustics. As always, it seems that common sense should guide decision making. Do the math when it comes to energy loss and consumption, material costs, and the possible costs involved in remediation (acoustical or otherwise). Acoustic components, such as acoustic ceilings, panels, flooring, and sound masking systems, are all energy efficient as well as economical. Credits for acoustic components are available for certain LEED projects.

Comparing Sound Masking Systems - Direct Field and Plenum Based Systems

Sound Masking systems come in many shapes and sizes, and it can be difficult to decide upon the right system for your office environment. Over the next few blog posts we will be covering differing aspects of sound masking systems.

Choosing between Direct Field or Plenum Based sound masking systems

In a Direct Field system, sound masking speakers are pointed down, directly towards the targeted area. In most cases, this means the speakers are installed on the ceiling surface, broadcasting downward towards the office occupants. The speakers are generally a visible part of the ceiling, like a sprinkler system.

Plenum Based systems are installed behind acoustic ceiling tiles, or under the floor. The system is generally, though not always, invisible to occupants. The speakers in Plenum Based systems are installed pointing up, away from occupants, so that the sound masking signal can reflect off of the ceiling, walls, floor and other architectural features of the office.

Both field types provide increased privacy and reduced acoustical distractions. When deciding between the two types of systems, factors to consider would be: your office architecture, office size, aesthetics, and system cost. An acoustical consultant, such as CCR ASSOCIATES, will analyze the architecture of your office, and may recommend one or the other type of system, depending on the specific design of the office environment.